19 Medium Length Mens Hairstyles Thick Hair Guide

Finding the right haircut when you have thick hair can feel like a constant battle against excessive volume and stubborn frizz. While many men struggle to manage the sheer density of their locks, medium length styles offer the perfect balance of versatility and control. This 19 Medium Length Mens Hairstyles Thick Hair Guide explores the most sophisticated ways to embrace your natural texture without feeling overwhelmed by daily maintenance. By choosing the right cut, you can transform heavy strands into a stylish asset that commands attention in any setting. Dive in to discover modern trends that will redefine your grooming routine.

1. The Classic Pompadour

The classic pompadour remains a gold standard for men with thick hair because it utilizes natural volume to create a bold, structural silhouette. This style focuses on keeping the hair longer on top while sweeping it back and upward to create height at the forehead. Thick hair provides the necessary foundation to ensure the style stays upright throughout the day without collapsing under its own weight. It works exceptionally well for professionals who want a polished yet commanding presence in the workplace. To achieve this look, use a high-hold pomade and a blow dryer to direct the hair backward. You will find that the thickness adds a luxurious depth that thinner hair types simply cannot replicate. It is a timeless choice that celebrates your hair’s inherent strength and natural density. By embracing this height, you turn a grooming challenge into a definitive style statement.

2. Textured Quiff with Taper Fade

A textured quiff paired with a taper fade is an excellent way to remove bulk from the sides while showcasing volume on top. This hairstyle relies on internal layers to reduce the weight of thick hair, making it much easier to style every morning. The fade provides a clean, sharp contrast that draws the eye upward toward the messy, textured finish. It is ideal for men with active lifestyles who need a look that transitions easily from the gym to a dinner date. Using a matte clay or sea salt spray helps to define the individual strands without adding unnecessary shine. This specific approach ensures that the hair looks intentional and stylish rather than just unkempt or overly bushy. It offers a modern edge that highlights the best qualities of a thick mane. Most stylists recommend this for those seeking a youthful and energetic appearance.

3. Modern Side Part

The modern side part takes a traditional silhouette and updates it with contemporary layering to suit thicker hair textures. By creating a clear parting line, you provide structure to your hair that helps contain its natural tendency to expand outward. This style is perfect for those who want a clean-cut look that still allows for significant length on top. Thick hair ensures that the side-swept portion looks full and healthy, providing a classic “Old Hollywood” aesthetic that never goes out of style. You can opt for a hard part for more definition or a soft part for a more relaxed, natural feel. It works best for men with oval or square face shapes who want to emphasize their bone structure. A medium-shine pomade will help keep everything in place while adding a sophisticated finish. This cut proves that thickness is a major advantage when aiming for a refined and groomed appearance.

4. Messy Waves with Undercut

If you have thick, wavy hair, combining messy waves with an undercut is the ultimate solution for weight management. The undercut removes a significant amount of hair from the sides and back, preventing the dreaded “mushroom” shape that often plagues thick-haired men. This leaves the top free to move naturally, showcasing your waves without the burden of excessive heaviness. It is a fantastic choice for creative professionals or anyone who prefers a more relaxed, bohemian vibe. To maintain the look, simply apply a light curl cream to damp hair and let it air dry for maximum texture. The contrast between the shaved sides and the voluminous top creates a striking visual balance that is very trendy. This hairstyle is low-maintenance but high-impact, making it a favorite in the 19 Medium Length Mens Hairstyles Thick Hair Guide. You will enjoy the breathability and ease of styling this bold combination offers.

5. Slicked Back Mid-Length

Slicked back hair is a powerful look that relies heavily on the density of thick hair to look truly impressive. Unlike thinner hair, which can look flat when slicked back, thick hair retains a sense of body and substance that looks very masculine. This style works by combing the hair straight back from the forehead toward the crown of the head. It is a great option for formal events or high-stakes business meetings where you want to project confidence and authority. Using a high-quality wax or heavy-duty gel will ensure that the hair stays sleek throughout the entire day. For those with thick hair, this style also helps to keep unruly strands away from the face, providing a clean and unobstructed look. It highlights the natural shine of your hair while keeping the volume strictly controlled. This classic approach remains a staple for men who appreciate a sharp, tidy, and intentional grooming style.

6. The Layered Bro Flow

The layered bro flow is all about embracing natural movement and allowing your thick hair to frame your face effortlessly. By incorporating long layers throughout the cut, your stylist can remove weight without sacrificing the appearance of length. This creates a relaxed, “surfer-chic” aesthetic that looks great on men with a slightly more casual personal style. It is particularly effective for thick hair because the layers prevent the hair from looking like a solid block of texture. To style it, you generally only need a bit of leave-in conditioner or a light grooming cream to keep frizz at bay. This look thrives on being slightly imperfect and touchable, making it a hit for those who dislike rigid hair products. It is the perfect choice for someone who wants to look stylish without appearing like they tried too hard. The bro flow is a versatile medium-length option that feels light and airy despite the hair’s density.

7. Curtains with Soft Taper

Revived from the 90s, modern curtains are a fantastic way to manage thick hair while staying on the cutting edge of fashion. This style involves a center or slightly off-center part that allows the hair to fall naturally on either side of the face. The soft taper at the back ensures that the look remains grounded and doesn’t become too overwhelming at the neckline. Thick hair is the ideal canvas for this look because it provides the volume needed to stop the “curtains” from hanging flat against the head. It is a very flattering style for men with prominent foreheads or strong cheekbones as it frames the face beautifully. Using a light mousse can help provide a bit of lift at the roots to ensure the style looks dynamic. This cut is perfect for younger men or those in creative industries who want a trendy, expressive look. It offers a nostalgic vibe that has been successfully modernized for today’s aesthetic.

8. Voluminous Faux Hawk

The voluminous faux hawk is a daring choice that turns the density of thick hair into a structural masterpiece. Unlike a traditional mohawk, the faux hawk keeps the sides tapered rather than completely shaved, offering a more wearable everyday version. The thick hair on top is styled upward and toward the center to create a peak that holds its shape with ease. This style is excellent for adding verticality to your look, making it a great choice for men who want to appear taller or have rounder faces. It requires a strong-hold wax to maintain the central peak, but the results are undeniably modern and edgy. Thick hair makes the peak look dense and substantial, which is the key to a successful faux hawk. It is a high-energy hairstyle that works well for those who want to stand out in a crowd. This style proves that medium length hair can be both adventurous and perfectly suited for thick textures.

9. The Shaggy Mop Top

For a more artistic and textured approach, the shaggy mop top utilizes the natural bulk of thick hair to create a full, rounded silhouette. This style features plenty of choppy layers and fringe that sits just above or across the eyebrows. It is a brilliant way to hide a receding hairline or simply to lean into a more youthful, indie-inspired aesthetic. Thick hair prevents the layers from looking thin or stringy, ensuring the “mop” looks intentional and healthy. You can style it with a bit of sea salt spray to enhance the natural “lived-in” texture of the cut. This look is very forgiving and doesn’t require precise styling, making it perfect for low-maintenance individuals. It provides a soft, approachable frame for the face while still looking masculine and cool. The shaggy mop top is a celebration of volume that feels comfortable and stylish for daily wear.

10. Angular Fringe with Textured Top

An angular fringe is a contemporary haircut that uses the weight of thick hair to create a sharp, directional look. The hair is cut shorter on the sides and back, while the top is left long enough to be swept forward into a diagonal fringe across the forehead. This style is particularly effective for thick hair because the density allows the fringe to look opaque and well-defined. It adds a modern, architectural element to your appearance that is sure to draw compliments. To maintain the texture on top, a matte paste is the best product to use, as it provides hold without making the hair look greasy. This style is great for balancing out longer face shapes by shortening the appearance of the forehead. It is a sophisticated choice for men who follow high-fashion trends and want a cut that reflects their personality. The angular fringe is a standout option in this 19 Medium Length Mens Hairstyles Thick Hair Guide.

11. Blowout with High Fade

The blowout with a high fade is a high-impact style that maximizes the natural lift and volume of thick hair. By fading the sides very short and high, all the focus is shifted to the voluminous hair on top which is styled to look “blown out” and airy. This look requires a blow dryer and a round brush to achieve the signature wind-swept height that makes it so distinctive. Thick hair is essential for this style because it has the internal structure to remain upright without falling flat. It is a bold, confident look that works incredibly well for night-outs or social events where you want to make an impression. Despite its dramatic appearance, it can be very tidy when the fade is maintained regularly by a professional barber. It offers a clean look around the ears while allowing for creative expression on top. This hairstyle is a testament to how thick hair can be sculpted into impressive, gravity-defying shapes.

12. Wavy Comb Over

The wavy comb over is a sophisticated variation of the classic side part that specifically caters to men with natural texture. Instead of a flat, sleek finish, this style allows the thick waves to sit prominently on one side of the head. It provides a lot of visual interest and softens the overall appearance compared to a straight comb over. This is a perfect medium-length choice for men who need a professional look but don’t want to suppress their hair’s natural character. Thick hair ensures the “sweep” looks full and doesn’t show any patches of the scalp, which is a common issue for thinner hair. A light-hold cream will help define the waves while keeping them soft and touchable throughout the day. It is an elegant style that pairs perfectly with tailored suits or smart-casual attire. By working with your waves rather than against them, you achieve a look that is both easy to style and highly refined.

13. The Textured Crop

The textured crop is a versatile and modern haircut that relies on short-to-medium length layers to create a “choppy” appearance. This style is exceptionally good at thinning out thick hair through the use of point-cutting techniques, making the head feel much lighter. The fringe is typically cut straight across or slightly blunted, providing a sharp frame for the eyes. It is an ideal style for men who want a contemporary, urban look that is very easy to manage in the mornings. Just a small amount of styling powder or clay can emphasize the texture and provide a matte, effortless finish. Because it removes so much bulk, it is a very comfortable choice for the warmer summer months. This cut works well with almost all face shapes and can be customized with different fade lengths on the sides. It is a practical yet very stylish solution for those overwhelmed by thick hair.

14. Brushed Back Undercut

A brushed back undercut offers a sharp, disconnected look that is both aggressive and sophisticated. By shaving the sides and back completely, you eliminate all the weight that usually makes thick hair difficult to manage. The long hair on top is then brushed straight back, creating a sleek and streamlined silhouette. This style is perfect for showing off your facial features and jawline, as there is no hair on the sides to hide them. Thick hair provides a lush, dense look on top that creates a beautiful contrast against the skin-faded sides. It is a popular choice among celebrities and athletes because of its bold aesthetic and relatively simple styling requirements. You will need a strong-hold product to keep the hair in place, especially if your hair is particularly stubborn. This style is a definitive way to wear medium length hair while keeping things extremely tidy and modern.

15. Tapered Side Swept

The tapered side swept look is a softer, more traditional alternative to the undercut that still manages thick hair effectively. Instead of a sharp disconnection, the sides are gradually tapered down to the neck, providing a more conservative and classic finish. The hair on top is kept at a medium length and swept to the side, utilizing the natural volume of thick hair to create a healthy, full appearance. This is a great “everyman” haircut that looks appropriate in any setting, from the boardroom to a weekend barbecue. It is particularly flattering for men with square or rectangular face shapes as the side-swept hair adds a bit of softness. Styling is straightforward and usually only requires a bit of grooming cream and a comb. This cut is all about balance and ensures that your thick hair looks groomed rather than overgrown. It is a reliable and handsome choice for those who prefer a timeless aesthetic.

16. Curly Fringe with Shaved Sides

For men with thick, curly hair, a curly fringe with shaved sides is a brilliant way to showcase texture while maintaining a clean look. By keeping the sides very short, you prevent the hair from becoming too wide or “poofy” around the ears. The curls on top are left at a medium length to fall forward over the forehead, creating a dynamic and interesting focal point. This style celebrates the natural coil of your hair rather than trying to straighten it into submission. It is a youthful and energetic look that is very popular in modern streetwear culture. To keep the curls looking their best, a curl-defining cream or leave-in conditioner is essential to provide moisture and prevent frizz. This haircut is a great way to handle the challenges of thick, curly hair while looking incredibly trendy. It offers a high-contrast visual that is both functional and fashion-forward.

17. The Hollywood Sweep

The Hollywood sweep is a glamorous, medium-length style that looks best on men with thick, straight, or slightly wavy hair. It involves growing the hair long enough to be swept back and slightly to the side, creating a voluminous wave of hair. This style is often seen on the red carpet because it looks incredibly healthy, expensive, and well-cared-for. Thick hair is the secret ingredient here, as it provides the “heft” needed to make the sweep look luxurious. It requires regular trimming to ensure the ends stay healthy and the shape remains balanced. A medium-hold pomade with a bit of shine will help give it that classic movie-star finish. This look is perfect for men who are proud of their hair and want to show it off in the most sophisticated way possible. It is a high-maintenance style, but the aesthetic payoff is well worth the effort.

18. Mullet-Inspired Shag

The modern mullet-inspired shag is a trendy and rebellious way to handle a lot of thick hair. Unlike the extreme mullets of the past, this version is more blended and features a lot of internal texture and shaggy layers. It keeps some length at the back of the neck while maintaining a medium length on top and sides for a cohesive look. This style is perfect for thick hair because the layers prevent it from looking too heavy or dated. It is a very expressive haircut that suits men with a strong sense of personal style and a love for retro aesthetics. You can style it with a bit of clay to give it a “gritty,” lived-in feel that looks effortlessly cool. This cut is a great way to experiment with different lengths without committing to a single uniform style. It is a bold statement piece that turns thick hair into a medium-length work of art.

19. Relaxed Surfer Hair

Relaxed surfer hair is the ultimate low-effort style for men with thick, medium-length hair. This look relies on the sun-kissed, salt-textured appearance of hair that has spent time at the beach. It features long, loose layers that allow the hair to move freely and fall where it may. Thick hair is perfect for this because it doesn’t get weighed down by the length, remaining voluminous and full of life. To achieve this look without the ocean, use a sea salt spray on damp hair and scrunch it with your fingers as it dries. It is a very approachable and friendly look that is perfect for casual environments and outdoor activities. This style is all about embracing the natural chaos of thick hair and making it look intentional. It provides a youthful, relaxed vibe that is always in style during the warmer months.

How do I stop thick hair from looking poofy at medium length?

The best way to prevent thick hair from looking “poofy” is to ask your barber for internal layering or thinning. These techniques remove weight from the inside of the haircut without sacrificing the overall length or appearance. Additionally, using heavier styling products like clays or waxes can help compress the hair and keep it from expanding outward. Avoiding blow-drying on high heat can also prevent excessive frizz and unwanted volume.

What products are best for thick medium hair?

For thick hair, you generally want products with a medium to high hold to keep the strands in place. Matte clays and pastes are excellent for textured, messy looks because they provide control without the greasiness. If you prefer a sleek look, high-quality pomades are ideal as they offer the strength needed to hold dense hair back. For those with waves or curls, a moisturizing curl cream is essential to define the hair and prevent it from becoming a frizzy mess.

How often should I trim thick medium hair?

Thick hair tends to lose its shape faster than thin hair because the growth adds significant bulk very quickly. To keep a medium-length style looking sharp, you should aim for a trim every 4 to 6 weeks. This allows your barber to maintain the layers and thin out any new growth that might be making the style feel heavy. Regular maintenance also prevents split ends, ensuring your hair looks healthy and vibrant as it grows.

Does thinning shears help with medium length thick hair?

Thinning shears can be a very helpful tool when used correctly by a professional. They are designed to remove a percentage of the hair bulk without changing the actual length of the cut. This makes the hair much more manageable and allows it to lay flatter against the head. However, it is important not to over-thin, as this can lead to a frizzy appearance at the ends. Always trust a skilled barber to decide how much thinning your specific hair type requires.

Can I pull off a messy look with thick hair?

Absolutely, thick hair is actually one of the best hair types for a messy look because it has natural volume. Styles like the textured quiff or the shaggy mop top rely on the density of the hair to look full and intentional. The key is to use the right product—usually a sea salt spray or a matte paste—to give the hair definition so it looks “styled messy” rather than “just woke up.” Thick hair ensures the messy look doesn’t appear thin or patchy.

Is a fade necessary for medium length styles?

A fade is not strictly necessary, but it is highly recommended for men with very thick hair. By fading the sides and back, you remove a large portion of the hair that usually causes the most trouble with bulk and “mushrooming.” This contrast makes the medium length on top stand out more and gives the overall hairstyle a cleaner, more modern finish. If you prefer a more traditional look, a soft taper is a good alternative to a high fade.

1. The Classic Pompadour

2. Textured Quiff with Taper Fade

3. Modern Side Part

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4. Messy Waves with Undercut

5. Slicked Back Mid-Length

6. The Layered Bro Flow

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7. Curtains with Soft Taper

8. Voluminous Faux Hawk

9. The Shaggy Mop Top

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10. Angular Fringe with Textured Top

11. Blowout with High Fade

12. Wavy Comb Over

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13. The Textured Crop

14. Brushed Back Undercut

15. Tapered Side Swept

16. Curly Fringe with Shaved Sides

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17. The Hollywood Sweep

18. Mullet-Inspired Shag

19. Relaxed Surfer Hair

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How do I stop thick hair from looking poofy at medium length?

What products are best for thick medium hair?

How often should I trim thick medium hair?

Does thinning shears help with medium length thick hair?

Can I pull off a messy look with thick hair?

Is a fade necessary for medium length styles?