u/P4TY

I’ve had long hair for about 8 years now. The second photo is from when I was growing it out about 9 years ago.

I’m tired of the length and looking to cut most of it off, but I still want to keep more hair than your average dude—so “long” hair by typical male standards, but way shorter than the first pic.

The problem is, the last time I had short hair I didn’t even realize it was curly! So I really have no guess for how it will look when I actually take good care of it at a shorter length. Since my hair texture is definitely on the “fine” side, I’m particularly worried that the curls will get very tight and go “out” instead of “down” without the length to pull them down.

I’m really anxious about this large change, since long hair has pretty much been a core part of my identity. But I’m tired of the routine since I’m training for some endurance sports and have to wash it all the time.

Really looking for some insight on how this hair might look at a shorter length—suggestions, photo inspiration, ideas. I would prefer the length to still be at least a 3-5 inches of curls if I had to put a number on it.

I do use a stylist that only does curly hair cuts. She’s great, and of course I’ll involve her in this discussion.

First photo is recent, I’ve been using the innersense product line—color awakening hair bath, color conditioner, I create volume for a gel cast. Air dry, then scrunch.

Second photo is 9 years ago and i probably used 5 in 1 with some water to wet the front in the photo.