Is Curly Hair Attractive? An Exploration of Curl Appeal

Curly hair is having a major moment right now. From runway models to TikTok, bouncy ringlets are everywhere. But is naturally curly hair actually considered attractive, or is it just a fleeting trend? Keep reading as we dive into the appeal of curls.

The Subjective Nature of Beauty

First, it’s important to acknowledge that beauty is subjective. What’s gorgeous to one person may not appeal to someone else. When it comes to curly hair, opinions vary widely based on individual taste. There is no definitive answer about curl attractiveness that applies to all.

Evidence That Curly Hair is Attractive

While perceptions vary, there are clear signs that curly hair is widely considered beautiful and desirable:

• Studies – Multiple surveys show both men and women tend to find curly hair more attractive than straight hair when shown photos.

• Curl perms – Non-curly folks pay good money to get salon perms and recreate ringlets, suggesting curls are coveted.

• Runway style – Top designers showcase models styled with voluminous, bouncy curls as the epitome of glamour.

• Social media – The recent viral #curlyhairchallenge on TikTok showed people embracing natural texture.

• Popularity – Curls are everywhere right now – it’s a noticeable trend showing major appeal.

So while some naysayers exist, evidence indicates curly hair is broadly considered very attractive.

Why Are Curls Considered So Appealing?

There are many reasons why curly hair is having such a big moment right now and is seen as so desirable:

Unique Texture

The springy, bouncy texture of curls provides volume and movement that static straight hair lacks. The eye is drawn to the dynamic, kinetic quality.

Body and Shape

The curl formation creates appealing shape, lift, and body. Well-defined curls have an intrinsically flattering silhouette.

Carefree Vibe

Curly hair conveys an effortless, carefree beauty. It suggests confidence and nonconformity rather than rigid perfectionism.

Unique Fingerprint

No two heads of curly hair are exactly alike. Curls are an expression of individuality.

Retro Charm

Current retro beauty trends mean voluminous curls reminiscent of the 60s, 70s, and 80s are back in vogue.

Diversity

Mainstream embrace of curls also shows growing appreciation of diverse hair textures rather than a single standard.

For these reasons and more, curly hair is having a major beauty moment right now. The appeal is multifaceted.

Do All Curl Types Get Equal Love?

While curly hair is broadly considered gorgeous, not all curl types necessarily get equal admiration. When it comes to mainstream pop culture and beauty standards, there tends to be favoritism toward looser curls over tight coils.

Bias Toward Looser Curls

Salon perms and celebrities often showcase bouncy ringlets in the Type 2 and looser Type 3 range. These curl sizes can achieve more hang and elongation. Tight curls are viewed as more difficult to style and maintain.

Less Representation for Coils

Natural coils and kinks in Type 4C/4D range lack representation in media and fashion. Looser curls fit European beauty ideals, while coils don’t align with those standards.

Assumption of Damage

Limited visibility means many assume ultra-tight curls result from heat damage rather than recognizing they are a natural texture.

Learning Curve on Coil Care

Since tighter curls are less common, there’s a general learning curve on proper care to bring out their beauty. They require more hydration and gentle handling.

While coils are equally gorgeous, they aren’t as widely celebrated or understood by the mainstream. But their appeal and versatility is undeniable.

Do Guys Like Curly Hair?

There’s a perception that men prefer straight, sleek hair. But surveys and anecdotes show that isn’t necessarily the case. Many men favor curly hair over straight styles.

Surveys Show Curl Preference

Studies where men compare photos of celebrities with straight vs. curly hair consistently show a preference for curls as sexier and more appealing.

Touchable Texture

Men enjoy being able to touch and play with curls. The springy, fluffy texture is more inviting than stiff, flat straight hair.

Dynamic Movement

The natural bounce and life of curls is eye catching. Static straight hair is just less dynamic.

Feminine Beauty

Bouncy curls are intrinsically associated with feminine beauty, while straight hair has a more severe look.

Retro Charm

Curls evoke a retro charm that recalls Hollywood glamour. That aesthetic appeals to many men.

While personal taste varies, it’s a myth that men dislike curly hair. Many perceive it as more beautiful and sexy than stick-straight styles.

Maximizing the Appeal of Your Curls

How can you make your curls as gorgeous as possible if you’re looking to highlight their beauty? Focus on proper maintenance and styling.

• Hydrate – Keep curls quenched with moisturizing shampoo, masques and creams. Stay away from drying ingredients.

• Detangle – Finger comb to smooth out snarls and clumps. Never brush curls when dry.

• Define – Use a good curl cream or gel to encourage springy, defined coil formation.

• Protect – Avoid damage from heat styling and processing that can undermine texture.

• Enhance Shape – Strategic trims every 8-12 weeks can maximize the attractive silhouette.

• Deep Condition – Weekly deep conditioning restores moisture and brings out shine.

Healthy, hydrated curls arranged to best accentuate your unique texture and face shape have limitless beauty potential.

The Takeaway

At the end of the day, curly hair is neither universally attractive nor unattractive. Beauty is truly in the eye of the beholder. But there are clear signs that lush ringlets and coils are having a major moment right now. Focus on maximizing the health and shape of your unique texture to let your curl beauty shine through. Turn heads with fabulous curls!