The surfer hairstyle is all about looking cool, casual, and carefree. Inspired by sun, sea, and saltwater, this hairstyle gives off a natural, beachy vibe that’s perfect for guys who love a laid-back look. It features messy waves, tousled layers, and that effortless finish that makes it seem like you’ve just stepped off the sand.
You don’t have to be a surfer to rock the surfer hairstyle. With the right products and a few simple styling tricks, anyone can achieve this relaxed, textured look. Whether your hair is short, medium, or long, straight or curly, this style can work for you. In this guide, you’ll learn how to get the surfer hairstyle, how to maintain it, and which version suits your hair type and face shape best.
What Is a Surfer Hairstyle?
A true surfer hairstyle is purposefully messy. It often has long, layered hair with beach waves or curls. Natural sun and salt water give a faded look. Historically surfers from the 1950s made it famous with wind‑tousled, sun‑bleached locks.
Today, it’s updated with shorter, layered textures that appear relaxed yet styled. Texturizing sprays like sea salt spray or matte clay help craft that undone look. Whether you sport long locks, wavy tops with short sides, or a messy mid‑length shag, the key is effortless texture and natural flow.
Popular Surfer Hairstyle Types
Many men choose from these key variants of the surfer hairstyle. A brushed‑back flow with medium layers frames the face and lets hair move easily. A messy shag with fringe gives volume and softness around the forehead.
Long curly or wavy hair offers a bold beach vibe. Shorter styles like tousled crew cuts use salt sprays to mimic waves for low maintenance. Even man buns or dreadlocks fit into the surfer look when styled loosely and layered softly. Each type balances casual charm with texture and softness.
Surfer Hairstyle for Different Hair Types
The surfer hairstyle adapts well to various hair types, whether your hair is straight, wavy, or curly. For straight hair, creating texture is key. You can use sea salt sprays or texturizing mousse to add volume and mimic natural waves. Blow-drying while scrunching your hair helps to build that tousled, messy effect that defines the surfer look. This style lets you enjoy a relaxed, effortless appearance without needing natural curls or waves.
If your hair is naturally wavy or curly, the surfer hairstyle comes even more naturally. The waves give your hair volume and movement, which are essential for the style. To avoid frizz and keep the texture defined, use lightweight creams or curl-enhancing sprays. Let your hair air dry when possible to keep the natural flow intact. Overall, the surfer hairstyle celebrates your hair’s natural texture, making it look healthy, lively, and easy-going.
How to Get the Look at Home
Start with a volumizing shampoo and conditioner to avoid limp strands. On a towel‑dried hair, apply sea salt spray or mousse. Flip your hair upside down and scrunch while wet to form natural waves.
After scrunching, tousle roots with your fingers to lift texture. Let hair air dry or apply low heat to spread it. Once nearly dry, use a small amount of matte wax or clay through the mid lengths and ends for definition. Finish with light hairspray or re‑apply spray for hold.
Best Products for Surfer Hair
Choose texturizing sea salt sprays or curl creams for a matte beach effect. Matte clay or pomade helps define strands without heaviness. A light oil can add healthy shine or tame frizz for longer styles.
Dry shampoo helps refresh hair between washes. For heat styling, use a heat protectant to prevent damage. Brands often recommend mousse for volume, wax for hold, and styling sprays for finish.
Face Shape & Hair Length Guide
| Face Shape | Hair Length | Recommended Look |
| Oval | Medium to long | Shag or waves that frame face |
| Round | Mid-length layers | Volume at top to add height |
| Square | Tousled curls | Soft texture to soften angles |
| Heart-shaped | Brushed-back flow | Balanced look from forehead to chin |
| Short hair | Crew cut or undercut | Texture spray for messy finish |
This table shows how a surfer hairstyle works with your face. Choose length and cut that bring balance and texture to your natural shape.
Styling Tools & Tips
Utilize a blow-dryer’s diffuser to maintain waves and add volume. A microfiber towel gently dries hair without disturbing texture. A round brush helps shape layers if you want a polished flow.
Apply the product lightly; start small and build as needed. Scrunching gives structure while fingers keep the finish relaxed. Avoid brushing dry hair too much; it creates frizz or flattens waves. Trim only to shape layers; the style thrives on natural growth and movement.
Trend & Celebrity Inspiration
Surfer hair stays relevant thanks to its carefree aesthetic. Gen Z loves the “surfer curtain” style, a center or off‑center fringe with beach texture, inspired by Timothée Chalamet and other young stars.
Long flow styles recall icons like Kelly Slater, Brad Pitt, and Chris Hemsworth, who often sport loosely layered beachy waves. Celebs embrace natural highlights or lowlights to boost that sun‑faded surfer aesthetic too.
How to Maintain Your Surfer Hairstyle Daily
Maintaining a surfer hairstyle doesn’t mean spending hours in front of the mirror. The secret is to keep your hair healthy and let the natural texture shine. Regular washing with a gentle shampoo and conditioner designed for your hair type helps keep your locks fresh without stripping away natural oils. You may maintain the beachy texture and revitalize your waves by using a sea salt spray every day.
On days when your hair feels flat or oily, dry shampoo is a great tool to refresh your style without washing. Avoid washing your hair and scalp too often as this can cause dryness. Split ends are avoided and your haircut remains sleek when you trim it every six to eight weeks. With simple care and the right products, your surfer hairstyle will stay fresh, textured, and effortlessly cool every day.
Conclusion
The surfer hairstyle is more than just a haircut, it’s a lifestyle. With its relaxed, windswept texture and natural waves, it gives off a carefree, beach-ready vibe that never goes out of style. Whether your hair is long, medium, or short, this look is easy to achieve with the right products and simple styling steps.
What makes the surfer hairstyle so popular is its effortless charm. It works for different face shapes, hair types, and personal styles. With minimal upkeep and a natural finish, this hairstyle lets you look good without trying too hard. If you want a look that’s stylish, low-maintenance, and full of personality, the surfer hairstyle is the perfect wave to ride.
FAQs
What is the surfer haircut?
A casual, textured style with loose waves or layers that looks natural and beach-ready.
What hairstyle do surfers have?
Messy, wind-swept hair with natural waves and a relaxed, carefree look.
How to do a surfer hairstyle?
Use sea salt spray on damp hair, scrunch to create waves, and let it air dry or diffuse.
What is a beachy hairstyle?
Hair that looks naturally wavy, sun-kissed, and effortlessly messy.
Why is wavy hair beautiful?
Wavy hair adds volume and movement, giving a soft, natural, and stylish look.
Welcome to my grooming corner! I’m Ahsan Ijaz, a passionate hairstylist and grooming specialist dedicated to helping you look and feel your best. With years of hands-on experience in modern haircuts, beard styling, and personal care, I bring a fresh and confident approach to men’s grooming.