40 professional black male hairstyles that make you look put together

40 professional black male hairstyles that make you look put together

Black men's haircuts are vibrant, varied, and culturally rich, essential to their identity. The fashion industry offers a variety of textures and styles, from historical classics to the latest trends. The article below shares some of the professional black male hairstyles to try.

360 waves (L), Taper fade (C), Side-cut haircuts (R)
360 waves (L), Taper fade (C), and Side-cut haircuts (R) are among the professional black male hairstyles. Photo: @skip_dabarber, @smashthalegend, @benucuts on Instagram (modified by author)
Source: Instagram

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Black hair is a symbol of identity, culture, and history. It has gained recognition in mainstream media due to stylists and barbers collaborating with Hollywood's top men to showcase its flexibility in movies and TV shows.

Professional black male hairstyles

Every personality and way of living can be complemented by a distinct cut that combines simplicity or polished professionalism with a powerful statement. These professional black male hairstyles will make you think about fades, locks, and twists.

1. Low fade

Low fade
Low fade creates a striking, professional look, offering structure and control. Photo: @marquinhos_afrohair on Instagram (modified by author)
Source: Instagram

The low fade offers a sleek, clean appearance that tapers down towards the neck. It is adaptable to various hairstyles, like curls and waves, and gradually transitions from longer to shorter hair.

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2. Afro curly low fade

Afro curly low fade
Afro curly low fade is a great way to embrace your natural hair texture. Photo: @nastybarbers, @shawn_barbz on Instagram (modified by author)
Source: Instagram

This Black men's haircut is a popular choice for the effortlessly stylish. Use curl cream to keep your curls looking great, and enjoy the sleek fade's carefree vibe. It's the perfect balance of simplicity and style. 

3. High-top fade

High-top fade
High-top fade's subtle charm makes it a preferred choice for professional business styles. Photo: @max_dossantos, @eazyfadez on Instagram (modified by author)
Source: Instagram

An iconic style from the 1980s and 1990s, the high-top fade has a tall, flat top with fading on the sides. It is ideal for males with thick, dense hair. Regular shaping maintains the top's definition and sharpness.

4. Baby afro

Baby Afro
Baby Afro is simple yet elegant, a classic afro that gives you a youthful look. Photo:@afromenhaircut on Instagram (modified by author)
Source: Instagram

This afro haircut is ideal for men who desire length but have no time to style their hair. It maintains some natural flair while keeping your head cool and prepared for the job. It is pretty simple to maintain; trim it once a month.

5. Temple fade

Temple fade
Temple fade gives a sharp and clean look. Photo: @barbarianstyle.net on Facebook (modified by author)
Source: Facebook

The temple fade is one of the trendy fade haircuts. This style leaves the rest of the hair longer while tapering the hair around the temples. It is a timeless classic praised for its elegant form and clean lines. It offers a polished appearance with little maintenance, making it perfect for the modern man on the go.

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6. Dreadlocks

You'll feel cool with this style, and as long as you maintain your hair growth, it will always seem put together. Long dreads can be worn loosely or in a ponytail down. It is one of the classic professional black male hairstyles with long hair.

7. Burst fade mohawk

Burst fade mohawk
Burst fade haircut is a modern and trendy variation of the classic Mohawk. Photo: @marquinhos_afrohair, @zeke_the_barber on Instagram (modified by author)
Source: Instagram

This style has a mohawk down the middle and a burst fade around the ears. The contrast between the thicker hair and the tight fade gives the appearance of movement and edge. It is ideal for males who wish to stand out with a fashionable look.

8. 360 waves

360 waves
360 waves haircut is a cool, versatile haircut that exudes confidence and shows off your style. Photo: @__taythebarbe, @phdinwaves on Instagram (modified by author)
Source: Instagram

360 waves hairstyle helps a man attain a professional look while remaining stylish. Short, uniformly trimmed hair is combed into 360-degree waves, which encircle the entire head. Pomade and regular brushing are needed to keep the waves in this look. It's a classic style that highlights black hair's inherent texture.

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9. Twist out

Twist out
Twist-out hairstyle makes you look excellent and feel very comfortable. Photo: @chacezie_ (modified by author)
Source: Instagram

The twist out creates a textured, full-bodied look by twisting the hair into pieces and then untangling them. Although you must twist your hair frequently to maintain this style, it is worth the effort.

10. Afro

Afro male hairstyle
Afro-male cut brings out the relaxed and textured look. Photo: @shekenkut on Instagram (modified by author)
Source: Instagram

The afro features thick, natural hair that is uniformly spaced out. It represents Black pride and culture. Kinky or coily textures work well with it. It needs to be moisturized frequently to stay soft and healthy. This striking look creates a strong impression.

11. Buzz cut

Buzz cut
Buzz cut is a popular short men's haircut that looks classy. Photo: @famos, @smashthalegend on Instagram (modified by author)
Source: Instagram

The buzz cut is a close-cropped, low-maintenance haircut that is simple to keep up. Men who prefer a sleek, uncomplicated style with little to no styling will love it. All hair types look good in this style. It gives off a clean, sharp vibe.

12. Taper fade

This is one of the simplest and most desired hairstyles for fade-cut lovers. The slow taper fades smoothly and transitions long hair to short hair. It gives off a polished, clean-cut appearance and can be combined with curly, twisted, or waved hairstyles. This look is ideal for professional black male hairstyles with short hair. 

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13. Short locs with fade

Short locs with fade
Short locs is one of the most trendy haircuts. Photo: @luabandeiraa, @famos on Instagram (modified by author)
Source: Instagram

Short, faded dreads combine crisp fading on the sides with locs on the top. This style is ideal for males who prefer the look of locs without committing to longer lengths. The fade provides a crisp, clear contrast to the textured dreads.

14. Flat top

Flat top
Flat top haircut stands out with its distinctive sharp transition. Photo: @max_dossantos, @smashthalegend on Instagram (modified by author)
Source: Instagram

This is a stylish afro hairstyle with differences in hair length and lines. It honours traditional afro styles while adding a contemporary touch by blending sharp lines of different lengths. It is a popular choice for people looking for a fusion of fashion, tradition, and individual expression.

15. Textured Afro

Textured Afro
Textured Afro haircut brings out the edgy look for men who want a unique look with attitude. Photo: @smashthalegend (modified by author)
Source: Instagram

The textured afro is a modern haircut style. It incorporates curls or layers to simplify the basic afro. With additional volume and shape, it's a contemporary twist on a classic look. Men who prefer a broader, more defined appearance would like this style.

16. Clean shave

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The shaved head has a neat, basic appearance and requires no upkeep. It's perfect for males who like a sleek, carefree look. All face shapes look good with this style, which can be paired with facial hair. It is one of the ideal professional black male hairstyles with a beard.

17. Box braids

Box braids
An organic hair product can be used to maintain the box braids. Photo: @boxbraidsmens_ on Instagram (modified by author)
Source: Instagram

In addition to being incredibly stylish, these men's braids require little maintenance, especially when combined with a sleek medium fade. This protective style is ideal for achieving longer, healthier hair. It allows your hair to grow stress-free.

18. Side part

Side part
The side part cut is a timeless men's hairstyle. Photo: @eddiefinestcutz, @tahj_cut_it on Instagram (modified by author)
Source: Instagram

Any hairstyle is made more classic and sophisticated with a side part. This style is effective when the part is defined, and the sides are kept clean, like with fades or taper cuts. Formal events and professional situations are perfect for the side part and create a contemporary look.

19. Curly taper

Curly taper
Curls provide some additional confidence and independence. Photo: @criztofferson, @patty_cuts on Instagram (modified by author)
Source: Instagram

While gently tapering the sides of the hair down to the neck, the curly taper keeps the top of the hair curly. Natural curls give a tidy, clean appearance with this style. Men who seek a professional look and have medium-length curly hair will love it.

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20. Blowout fade

Blowout fade
Blowout is a trendy work of art that is easy to maintain and pleasing. Photo: @marquinhos_afrohair (modified by author)
Source: Instagram

The sides of the blowout fade are tapered down or faded, while the top is expansive. This style is all about texture and volume. It is ideal for males who like to highlight their height and have thick, curly hair.

21. Cornrows and skin fade

Cornrows and skin fade
Cornrows and skin fade are styled into braids. Photo: @zeke_the_barber, @herb_the_barber on Instagram (modified by author)
Source: Instagram

This style is easy to install and safe for coily curls. It gracefully displays how versatile naturally curly hair can be. Cornrows are a popular choice for people who value their ancestry and individual style because they provide a striking look that blends tradition and modern elegance when matched with a buzz cut.

22. Skin fade with waves

Skin fade with waves
Skin fade haircut creates contrast and a clean-cut look. Photo: @nastybarbers (modified by author)
Source: Instagram

Your hair's natural swag with a dash of slick is showcased by this cut, which makes those kinky coils sparkle. It's the ideal balance of formal and informal, demonstrating that you can maintain your edge without losing it. You need a brush and a little pomade to control those waves.

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23. Faux hawk

Faux hawk
Faux Hawk is a hairstyle with a hippie vibe. Photo: @pjabreu (modified by author)
Source: Instagram

The faux hawk resembles a mohawk but doesn't have its sides shaved. Instead, the hair is arranged with shorter sides and the centre upward. Without requiring the complete commitment of a mohawk, this style delivers a striking, edgy look.

24. Skin fade

Skin fade
Skin fade cut is easy to maintain. Photo: @nastybarbers (modified by author)
Source: Instagram

The skin around the ears and at the nape of the neck is where the skin fades and tapers down. This style goes nicely with any haircut on top and gives off a crisp, tidy appearance. For males who like to look shiny and new, it's ideal.

25. Sponge twists

Sponge twists are formed by tiny, textured coils using a twisting sponge. Short to medium-length hair looks fantastic in this style, giving the hair a fun, organic feel. It is easy to maintain and works well for males who prefer a laid-back, carefree style.

26. Frohawk

Frohawk
Frohawk is known for its edgy, artistic and messy look. Photo: @zeke_the_barber, @cool_cutz (modified by author)
Source: Instagram

The frohawk is a hybrid of a mohawk and an Afro, having a thicker, textured portion throughout the middle and short or faded sides. For males with medium to long hair, this style gives the Afro a contemporary touch.

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27. Ceasar cut

Ceasar cut
Ceasar cut features a thick top with a natural texture and sleek, faded sides. Photo: @halloffades (modified by author)
Source: Instagram

Above all, black males are most likely to choose Caesar cuts. This cut's amazing dark and low fade techniques also accentuate hair with a wavy structure.

28. Angled top with fade

Try incorporating an angle for a sharper, high-top appearance. This appearance is particularly unique and fashionable due to its exact cut. Make sure to indicate the angle you want for this appearance to the barber. Aim for an angle that maintains proportion while demonstrating the style.

29. Full afro with lineup

Full afro
Full afro is a stylish choice that emphasizes the front of the head while allowing versatility on top. Photo: @marquinhos_afrohair (modified by author)
Source: Instagram

The natural afro will always be popular among classicists. Consistent conditioning is the most important responsibility that comes with wearing an afro. You can prevent frizz and maintain the bounce and definition of your spirals by spritzing them with a leave-in conditioner.

30. Low fade with a beard

When worn with a thick beard, low fades look exceptionally fresh. Although the fade may require little care, you should buy quality beard oil to nourish and condition your beard for a more controlled, softer, and fuller appearance.

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31. Dapper fade

Dapper fade
Dapper fade is a modern yet low-maintenance hairstyle. Photo: @cutsbycameron (modified by author)
Source: Instagram

This is a stylish option if you want a handsome fade haircut and have thick, curly hair. Its dramatic contrast of a shorter side cut and a longer top cut accentuates your natural curls. You can customize your haircut with high, mid, or low skin fades.

32. Bald cut with a long beard

Bald cut with a long beard
Bald cut with a long beard, professional black male hairstyles. Photo: @marquinhos_afrohair (modified by author)
Source: Instagram

A bald cut with a faded beard requires low maintenance. It suits distinguished black men or those naturally thinning in the crown area. Consult an expert for shave methods and growth patterns.

33. Slicked back

The slicked-back style involves combing the hair with pomade or gel for a glossy, professional appearance. This is appropriate for professional and informal settings and looks great with a fade or taper. For males with relaxed or naturally straight hair, it's a fantastic style.

34. Comb over fade

A sharp style known as a "comb over fade" involves parting the hair and brushing it to one side, leaving the other sides fading. It's a timeless style that may be worn on professional and informal occasions. Both straight and slightly wavy hair look good in this style.

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35. Box fade

Box fade
Box fade looks most advantageous on thick and dark hair. Photo: @cresswellbarberco (modified by author)
Source: Instagram

This is one of the best hairstyles. The box fade has faded sides and a square top with well-defined edges. This look gives the haircut a geometric, structured touch and is reminiscent of the 1990s. It is ideal for men who like a striking, bold appearance.

36. Line up

Many black males prefer this undefeated cut, also called shape-up, by black barbers worldwide. Lineups are designed to keep your hairline more defined and prepare you for any style you want to achieve.

37. High and tight

High and tight
High and tight is a stylish way to look neat and sharp. Photo: @3_dstylezbarbershop on Instagram (modified by author)
Source: Instagram

The military-inspired high and tight has a longer top and very short sides. This appearance is sleek and polished and requires little upkeep. For males who prefer a clean, trim haircut, it is perfect.

38. Twists with fades

Twists with fades
Twists with fades combine long afro hair and low fade sides. Photo: @hairsurgery1 on Instagram (modified by author)
Source: Instagram

Coiled twists on top and a crisp fade on the sides are combined in twists with a fade. For males with medium-length hair, twists are a low-maintenance alternative because they may be kept in place for several days.

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39. Pompadour with temple fade

Pompadour with temple fade
Pompadour with temple fade gives you a pompadour appearance. Photo: @nastybarbers (modified by author)
Source: Instagram

A pompadour with a temple fade is the ideal combination of vintage charm and contemporary style for anyone looking to enhance their hair game. To keep that crisp fade, keep it fresh with a quick lineup and a dab of moisturizer.

40. Afro curly undercut

The afro curly undercut is a style that combines a sleek undercut with bold curls, showcasing natural texture. It's ideal for those who want to draw attention to their curls and maintain a polished look.

African men's naturally thick hair offers possibilities and ancestry monuments. Choose an ideal look that complements your appearance and expresses values from the professional black male hairstyles from the list above. 

Legit.ng recently published an article on slick stitch braids. Stitch braids give you a unique, stylish appearance that will turn heads. Because of the feed-in technique used to create these braids, you can add additional hair to the design as you make a cornrow. 

Stitch braids are a modern hairstyle that adds length and volume by braiding hair with synthetic extensions. These extensions are available in various colours and styles and are easy to maintain.

Source: Legit.ng

Authors:
Isaac Wangethi avatar

Isaac Wangethi (Lifestyle writer) Isaac Wangethi has been a content writer at Legit since September 2021. He has gained valuable experience working on various projects, such as celebrity biographies, lifestyle, news and many more. Isaac won the Writer of the Year Award on Legit in 2023. He earned a Bsc. of Science in Information Technology in 2017 from the University of Nairobi and a Higher Diploma in Computer Software Engineering from Gretsa University in 2021. In 2023, Isaac finished the AFP course on Digital Investigation Techniques. In March 2024, he completed the Google News Initiative course. Email: Wangethin@gmail.com

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