18 Hairstyles For Frizzy Hair That Actually Work

Let me tell you something. I’ve spent years battling my frizzy mane, and I’m done pretending it’s a problem that needs fixing. It’s not.

Your frizzy hair isn’t broken. It doesn’t need to be “tamed” or “controlled” like some wild animal. What it needs is the right approach, the right cut, and honestly? A little love.

I’ve tried everything. From that expensive keratin treatment that left my hair flat and lifeless, to sleeping in a shower cap slathered with coconut oil (don’t ask). But here’s what I’ve learned: the best hairstyles for frizzy hair work with your texture, not against it.

So grab a coffee, get comfortable, and let’s talk about 18 styles that’ll change how you see your hair.

Understanding Your Frizzy Hair

Before we jump into styles, you might be wondering why your hair gets frizzy in the first place. It’s actually pretty simple. When your hair lacks moisture, the outer layer (called the cuticle) lifts up, trying to grab moisture from the air. That’s what creates that puffy, undefined look.

Now here’s where it gets interesting. Different types of frizz need different approaches. You’ve got your humidity frizz, damage frizz, and natural texture frizz. Each one behaves differently, and that’s okay.

In my experience, most people don’t have just one type. I’ve got a mix of natural wave pattern plus some heat damage from my straightening phase. Sound familiar?

Why Traditional Advice Often Fails

Let’s be honest about something. Most hair advice you’ll find online was written for perfectly smooth, straight hair. That whole “brush 100 strokes before bed” thing? Terrible for frizzy hair. It just creates more frizz and breakage.

What I love about the styles we’re covering today is they embrace reality. They’re designed for real hair that does real things, like expanding when it’s humid or refusing to lay flat no matter how much serum you use.

18 Hairstyles For Frizzy Hair

1. The Layered Curly Shag

This hairstyle for frizzy hair is having a major moment right now, and for good reason. The shag cut uses lots of choppy layers to distribute volume evenly throughout your hair. Instead of having all that frizz sitting on top of your head, it’s spread out in a way that looks intentional.

The key here is finding a stylist who understands curly cutting techniques. Not every hairdresser knows how to work with textured hair. Trust me on this. I once had someone cut my hair wet and straight, and it was a disaster when it dried.

What makes this style work is that it celebrates volume. Those flyaways? They’re not mistakes. They’re texture. Pair this with some curtain bangs that frame your face, and you’ve got yourself a look that screams effortless cool.

2. The Slicked-Back Low Bun

Here’s a style I reach for when I need to look polished but don’t have time for a full styling session. You’ll need a good gel or styling cream for this one. I like to apply it to damp hair, then brush everything back smoothly.

The beauty of this frizzy hair hairstyle is that a little frizz around the hairline actually adds to the look. It softens the style and keeps it from looking too severe. Don’t fight those baby hairs. Work with them.

For extra staying power, wrap your ponytail into a low bun and secure it with bobby pins. If a few pieces fall out during the day, that’s character. That’s personality.

3. Loose Beachy Waves

Now, I know what you’re thinking. “Beachy waves? But I’m trying to manage frizz!” Hear me out. This style works because you’re creating intentional texture that blends with your natural frizz.

Use a sea salt spray on damp hair and scrunch it upward. Let it air dry or diffuse on low heat. The result is tousled, lived-in waves that look like you spent the day at the beach. Any frizz just adds to that windswept vibe.

What I love about this approach is it takes about five minutes. Sometimes the best hairstyles for frizzy hair are the ones that require minimal effort.

4. The Textured Bob

Bobs are incredibly versatile for frizzy hair types. A blunt bob that hits around chin or shoulder length gives you enough weight to control volume, while still showing off your texture.

Ask your stylist for internal layers. These are layers cut underneath that you can’t see, but they remove bulk and make styling easier. The outer layer stays relatively blunt, giving you that polished silhouette.

Style it with a round brush while blow-drying, or embrace the natural texture and let it air dry. Either way, a bob is one of those classic hairstyles for frizzy hair that never goes out of style.

5. Half-Up Top Knot

This is my go-to for second or third-day hair. Take the top section of your hair, from temple to temple, and twist it into a messy bun on top of your head. Leave the rest down.

The genius of this style is it gets the frizziest part of your hair (the crown) secured and out of the way, while the bottom section can do whatever it wants. It’s casual, fun, and takes literally 30 seconds.

You can dress it up with some statement earrings or keep it casual for running errands. That’s the kind of versatility I’m looking for in a frizzy hair hairstyle.

6. Defined Ringlets

If you’ve got natural curl or wave pattern hiding under all that frizz, this style is for you. The trick is proper product application and technique.

On soaking wet hair, apply a leave-in conditioner, then a curl cream, then a gel. Yes, all three. This is called the LOC method (liquid, oil, cream), and it seals moisture into each strand. Scrunch your hair upward and let it dry without touching it.

Once it’s completely dry, scrunch out the gel cast. You’ll be left with defined, frizz-free ringlets that actually hold their shape. This might be the most transformative of all the hairstyles for frizzy hair we’re covering.

7. The French Twist

Here’s an elegant updo that works beautifully for special occasions. Brush your hair back (use a boar bristle brush if you have one), twist it upward along the back of your head, and secure with bobby pins.

Don’t stress about making it perfect. A slightly loose French twist with some wisps around the face looks romantic and sophisticated. It’s one of those frizzy hair hairstyles that benefits from a little imperfection.

Pro tip: use a light hairspray after styling, not before. This keeps the style flexible and natural-looking.

8. Braided Crown

Braids are absolute lifesavers for frizzy hair. They turn texture into an asset. For a braided crown, create two braids on either side of your head and pin them across the top like a headband.

The beauty here is that frizz adds volume and dimension to the braids. Sleek, perfect braids can look almost too done. Textured braids look effortless and bohemian.

This style works for medium to long hair and holds up incredibly well throughout the day. It’s protective, pretty, and practical. What more could you want from hairstyles for frizzy hair?

9. The Pineapple Ponytail

This style got its name because, well, it looks like a pineapple. Flip your head upside down and gather all your hair into a very high, loose ponytail right on top of your head.

This is primarily a sleeping style that preserves curls and waves overnight, but it also works as a cute casual daytime look. The high placement stretches out your curl pattern slightly, which can help with frizz control.

In my experience, sleeping with my hair in a pineapple has cut my morning styling time in half. It’s one of those hairstyles for frizzy hair that does double duty.

10. Side-Swept Hollywood Waves

Want to feel glamorous? This is your style. Create deep side part and use a large-barrel curling iron to create loose S-shaped waves. The key is to curl away from your face and use lots of clips to hold the waves in place while they cool.

Once everything cools down, remove the clips and brush through the waves gently with your fingers. Finish with a shine spray. The result is old Hollywood elegance that looks sophisticated, not frizzy.

Yes, this style requires heat styling, but when done correctly with heat protectant, it’s a stunning option for special events.

11. Messy Fishtail Braid

Fishtail braids look complicated but they’re actually easier than regular braids. Divide your hair into two sections and take small pieces from the outside of each section, crossing them over to the other side.

The messier, the better with this one. Pull gently on the edges of the braid to loosen it and create volume. This is definitely one of those frizzy hair hairstyles where imperfection is the goal.

I love wearing this to the gym or on casual weekends. It’s effortlessly cool and keeps your hair secure without looking too done.

12. The Voluminous Ponytail

Not all ponytails are created equal. For this one, you’ll create two ponytails stacked on top of each other to create the illusion of incredible length and volume.

First, create a half-up ponytail at the crown. Then gather the remaining hair into a second ponytail right below it. Tease both ponytails slightly for extra volume. You can wrap a small section of hair around each elastic to hide it.

This style takes your frizzy volume and channels it into intentional drama. It’s one of my favorite hairstyles for frizzy hair when I want to make a statement.

13. Twisted Low Chignon

This elegant updo is perfect for work or formal events. Create a low ponytail, then twist it around itself to form a bun at the nape of your neck. Secure with pins and pull out a few face-framing pieces.

The twist technique helps smooth down frizz while the low placement keeps the style secure. It’s polished without being uptight, which is exactly what I look for in professional frizzy hair hairstyles.

Add a decorative hair pin or clip for extra polish.

14. The Modern Shag with Bangs

Bangs and frizzy hair can absolutely coexist. A textured shag with wispy bangs is incredibly flattering and low-maintenance.

The layers in a shag cut remove weight and add movement. The bangs give you something to style and focus on, while the rest of your hair can embrace its natural texture. It’s basically designed for frizzy hair.

Style with a texturizing spray and scrunch with your hands. The more undone it looks, the more current and fresh.

15. Bubble Ponytail

This trendy style is taking over social media, and it’s actually perfect for frizzy hair. Create a high or low ponytail, then add elastics down the length of the ponytail at regular intervals. Gently pull on each section to create “bubbles.”

The structure of this style contains frizz while still showing off volume and texture. It’s playful, modern, and surprisingly versatile. You can dress it up or down depending on the occasion.

Plus, it’s one of those hairstyles for frizzy hair that looks way more complicated than it actually is.

16. Slicked-Back Pixie

Short hair doesn’t mean you can’t deal with frizz. A pixie cut can be incredibly flattering for frizzy hair types, especially if you style it with intention.

Use a strong-hold gel or pomade to slick the sides back, leaving some texture on top. This creates a sharp, editorial look that’s both bold and manageable.

The key with short frizzy hair hairstyles is keeping the edges clean while letting the top have personality. It’s a balance, but when you nail it, it looks amazing.

17. Dutch Braid Bun

Start with a Dutch braid (where you braid under instead of over) beginning at your hairline and working back. When you reach the nape of your neck, gather the remaining hair with the braid and twist everything into a bun.

This style is secure, attractive, and perfect for active days. The braid keeps your front sections smooth while the bun contains all that volume at the back. It’s functional frizzy hair styling at its finest.

I wear this to yoga, to work, basically anywhere I need my hair completely out of my face.

18. Natural Air-Dried Texture

Sometimes the best style is no style at all. Apply your leave-in products to soaking wet hair, scrunch upward, and just let it do its thing.

This works especially well if you’ve got a good cut that’s designed to look great with natural texture. It’s accepting your hair exactly as it is, which is honestly the most freeing of all the hairstyles for frizzy hair on this list.

Not every day needs to be a styled day. Some days, natural is perfect.

Styling Tips That Actually Make a Difference

Now that we’ve covered the styles, let’s talk about the techniques that tie everything together. These are the little things that separate okay hair days from great ones.

First up: product application matters more than the products themselves. Apply styling products to soaking wet hair, not damp. This helps distribute everything evenly and seals in moisture.

Second, ditch the terry cloth towel. Use a cotton t-shirt or microfiber towel instead. Regular towels create friction and roughen up your cuticle, leading to more frizz.

Third, learn to love diffusing. If you blow-dry your hair, use a diffuser attachment and keep the heat on medium or low. High heat might dry your hair faster, but it causes damage and frizz.

Product Recommendations for Managing Frizz

You don’t need a million products, but you do need the right ones. Here’s what actually works for frizzy hair:

Leave-in conditioner: This is non-negotiable. It provides the moisture base that prevents frizz from forming in the first place.

Curl cream or styling cream: Defines your natural texture and adds hold without crunch.

Light oil or serum: Seals everything in and adds shine. Apply this last, focusing on the ends.

Strong-hold gel: For slicked-back styles or defined curls. Don’t be scared of gel. Modern formulas don’t leave your hair crunchy if you use them correctly.

The Best Haircuts for Frizzy Hair Types

Hair Length	Best Cut Style	Why It Works	Maintenance Level
Short	Pixie or Tapered Cut	Removes bulk, easy to style with products	Low
Medium	Layered Lob or Shag	Distributes volume, adds movement	Medium
Long	Long Layers or U-Shape	Weight controls frizz, versatile styling	Medium-High
Any Length	Curly Cut (Dry Cutting)	Cuts hair in its natural state for better shape	Medium

The right cut is honestly half the battle with frizzy hair hairstyles. A good cut makes styling easier and helps your hair fall naturally in a flattering way.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Let me save you from some mistakes I’ve made over the years. First, stop touching your hair while it dries. Every time you touch it, you disrupt the curl pattern and create frizz. Just leave it alone.

Second, don’t brush dry hair. If you need to detangle, do it in the shower with conditioner in your hair. Brushing dry, frizzy hair is asking for breakage and more frizz.

Third, sulfate shampoos are not your friend. They strip away natural oils that your hair desperately needs. Switch to a sulfate-free formula and your hair will thank you.

How to Sleep on Frizzy Hair

Nighttime routine matters just as much as your morning one. The way you treat your hair while you sleep affects how it looks the next day.

Try sleeping on a silk or satin pillowcase. These fabrics create less friction than cotton, which means less frizz and breakage. If you can’t switch your pillowcase, wrap your hair in a silk scarf.

For longer hair, try the pineapple method we mentioned earlier. For shorter hair, a silk bonnet works wonders. I know it’s not glamorous, but it’s effective.

Dealing with Humidity

Humidity is the enemy of smooth hair, but it doesn’t have to ruin your day. The key is anti-humidity products that create a barrier between your hair and the moisture in the air.

Look for products with ingredients like silicones or certain polymers that seal the cuticle. Apply them to dry hair before heading out into humid weather.

Also, updo hairstyles for frizzy hair are your best friend on humid days. When in doubt, pull it up and embrace the messy elegance.

Why Protein Matters

Here’s something most people don’t talk about enough. Your hair needs both moisture and protein to stay healthy and manageable. Too much moisture without protein leads to limp, undefined frizz. Too much protein without moisture leads to brittle, breaking hair.

If your hair feels mushy when wet or won’t hold a style, you need more protein. Look for products with hydrolyzed wheat protein, keratin, or amino acids.

If your hair feels dry and straw-like, you need more moisture. Deep condition regularly and use hydrating leave-ins.

The Truth About Heat Styling

I’m not going to tell you to never use heat tools. That’s unrealistic. But I will tell you to always, always use heat protectant.

Heat protectant creates a barrier between your hair and the hot tool, minimizing damage. Apply it to damp hair before blow-drying or to dry hair before using a flat iron or curling iron.

Keep your tools on medium heat when possible. Higher heat doesn’t work better, it just damages faster. And limit heat styling to 2-3 times per week if you can.

Embracing Your Natural Texture

The most important thing I’ve learned about frizzy hair is that fighting it makes everything harder. When I started working with my texture instead of against it, my hair became healthier and styling became easier.

Your frizz is often just undefined curl or wave pattern. With the right products and techniques, you can turn that frizz into beautiful, defined texture.

Not every day will be perfect. Some days your hair will do weird things for no apparent reason. That’s normal. That’s hair being hair.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I wash frizzy hair?

It depends on your scalp, but generally 2-3 times per week works well. Over-washing strips natural oils that help control frizz. If your scalp gets oily, use dry shampoo between washes.

Can I color frizzy hair?

Yes, but choose your colorist carefully. Color can add texture and dimension, but it also causes damage if not done correctly. Deep condition regularly if you color your hair.

Do layers help with frizz?

Absolutely. Layers remove bulk and distribute volume more evenly. They’re essential for most hairstyles for frizzy hair because they create shape and movement.

Should I use oil on frizzy hair?

Yes, but timing matters. Apply oil to wet hair to seal in moisture, or use a tiny amount on dry hair for shine. Too much oil on dry hair can look greasy.

Can frizzy hair become smooth?

With the right routine, yes. It takes consistency with hydrating products, minimal heat styling, and protective sleeping methods. Your hair won’t ever be naturally pin-straight if that’s not your hair type, but it can be smooth and defined.

Final Thoughts

Listen, managing frizzy hair isn’t about fighting your natural texture. It’s about understanding it, working with it, and finding hairstyles for frizzy hair that make you feel confident.

Some days you’ll want to embrace your natural texture fully. Other days you’ll want to slick it back or curl it or braid it. That’s the beauty of having options.

The 18 hairstyles for frizzy hair we’ve covered give you a starting point. Experiment with them, modify them to suit your personal style, and most importantly, be patient with yourself and your hair.

Your frizzy hair isn’t a problem to solve. It’s a feature to celebrate. Once you shift that mindset, everything else falls into place.

Now go try that shag cut you’ve been eyeing. Trust me on this one.