Face-framing layers are perfect for enhancing curls, defining facial features, and adding movement to curly hair. Whether you have tight coils, bouncy ringlets, or loose waves, layered cuts can help reduce bulk, create shape, and bring out natural texture.
Here are 10 gorgeous face-framing layered hairstyles for curly hair to inspire your next look!
1. Curly Layered Lob – Chic & Versatile
✔ Best for: Loose to medium curls
Why It Works:
- A shoulder-length lob adds volume while keeping curls lightweight.
- Layers frame the face without overwhelming the shape.
- Works well for all face shapes.
How to Style:
1️⃣ Use a curl-enhancing mousse or cream.
2️⃣ Diffuse or air-dry for natural definition.
3️⃣ Scrunch curls for extra bounce.
Best For: Anyone who wants a shorter style with movement.
2. Long Curly Layers with a Middle Part – Elegant & Soft
✔ Best for: Medium to long curly hair
Why It Works:
- Soft layers elongate the face and enhance curl definition.
- A middle part adds balance and symmetry.
- Works beautifully on oval and heart-shaped faces.
How to Style:
1️⃣ Apply a lightweight curl cream or leave-in conditioner.
2️⃣ Use a wide-tooth comb to define face-framing layers.
3️⃣ Diffuse upside down for maximum volume.
Best For: A timeless, effortlessly beautiful look.
3. Shoulder-Length Curly Layers with Bangs – Playful & Trendy
✔ Best for: Medium curls and wavy textures
Why It Works:
- Adds softness and bounce around the face.
- Works great with curtain bangs or wispy fringes.
- Creates a trendy, effortless vibe.
How to Style:
1️⃣ Blow-dry bangs with a round brush for softness.
2️⃣ Apply curl cream to the rest of the hair for definition.
3️⃣ Scrunch curls with a diffuser or air-dry naturally.
Best For: Those who love a curly, French-girl aesthetic.
4. Layered Curly Shag – Retro & Bold
✔ Best for: All curly hair types
Why It Works:
- A shag cut adds volume at the crown and texture throughout.
- Face-framing layers give movement without losing shape.
- Works well for thick curls that need weight removal.
How to Style:
1️⃣ Apply volumizing mousse for lift at the roots.
2️⃣ Use a diffuser to create soft, undone curls.
3️⃣ Add texturizing spray for a rockstar edge.
Best For: Those who love an edgy, carefree look.
5. Voluminous Layered Curls – Defined & Bouncy
✔ Best for: Thick, voluminous curls
Why It Works:
- Creates a rounded, balanced shape for high-volume hair.
- Layers prevent excess bulk while defining curls.
- Adds dimension and softness around the face.
How to Style:
1️⃣ Use a defining cream or gel for curl separation.
2️⃣ Scrunch hair upwards for maximum volume.
3️⃣ Let hair air-dry or diffuse for added bounce.
Best For: Anyone who loves big, statement curls.
6. Curly Wolf Cut with Face-Framing Bangs – Edgy & Modern
✔ Best for: Wavy to tight curls
Why It Works:
- A mix of shag and mullet for a bold, layered look.
- Face-framing bangs soften the structure.
- Works well for curly hair that loves volume.
How to Style:
1️⃣ Apply lightweight curl cream for movement.
2️⃣ Use a diffuser for maximum volume and shape.
3️⃣ Separate layers with your fingers for an undone effect.
Best For: Those who love a trendy, fashion-forward style.
7. Side-Parted Layered Curls – Soft & Romantic
✔ Best for: Medium to long curly hair
Why It Works:
- A deep side part adds volume and frames the face elegantly.
- Long layers enhance bounce and softness.
- Works well for round and square faces.
How to Style:
1️⃣ Part hair deeply on one side.
2️⃣ Use curl cream or mousse to enhance definition.
3️⃣ Scrunch curls and diffuse for a soft, voluminous look.
Best For: A classic, romantic curly style.
8. Curly Bob with Layered Bangs – Chic & Playful
✔ Best for: Short curly hair
Why It Works:
- A bob cut with layers enhances natural curl shape.
- Bangs add a playful, youthful touch.
- Works well for all curly textures.
How to Style:
1️⃣ Use a curl activator for definition.
2️⃣ Diffuse or air-dry to enhance volume.
3️⃣ Apply light-hold gel to keep bangs in place.
Best For: Those who love a short, lively curly look.
9. Soft Layered Curls with Wispy Ends – Natural & Effortless
✔ Best for: Loose waves to soft curls
Why It Works:
- Wispy ends create a natural, airy effect.
- Enhances movement and texture without losing shape.
- Great for those who want a subtle face-framing effect.
How to Style:
1️⃣ Use a lightweight mousse for volume.
2️⃣ Scrunch curls with a microfiber towel to enhance texture.
3️⃣ Let hair air-dry for a soft, effortless finish.
Best For: A laid-back, beachy curl style.
10. Layered Coily Afro with Defined Curls – Bold & Beautiful
✔ Best for: Tight curls and coils
Why It Works:
- Layers enhance volume and definition in coily hair.
- Creates a rounded, flattering shape for the face.
- Works beautifully for natural, protective styles.
How to Style:
– Apply a curl-defining cream or gel.
– Use the finger-coiling method to enhance curls.
– Let hair air-dry or use a hooded dryer for definition.
Best For: Those who love a full, structured curly look.
Final Tips for Face-Framing Layers on Curly Hair
✔ Hydrate Your Curls: Use deep conditioners and leave-ins to keep curls healthy.
✔ Avoid Heavy Products: Use lightweight creams and gels to avoid weighing curls down.
✔ Diffuse for Volume: A diffuser helps lift layers and create bouncier curls.
✔ Trim Regularly: Curly layers look best when trimmed every 6–8 weeks to maintain shape.
✔ Experiment with Parting: A middle, deep side, or asymmetrical part can completely change the look.
With these stunning face-framing layered hairstyles for curly hair, you can highlight your natural texture while adding shape, movement, and volume. Which one will you try next?