Presenting: The 25 Prettiest (and Easiest) Hairstyles for 3b Hair (2024)

Sleek on the top and curly on the bottom, this look is always a winning combo for 3b hair. Load up on your favorite curl-defining gel or cream to really enhance your natural volume throughout your mid-lengths and ends.

Looking for a cute and easy replacement for your everyday bun? These high pigtails fit the damn bill, especially when you lay your baby hairs with a non-crunchy edge control. Bonus points for finishing off the whole look with a set of scrunchies.

There's something so pretty and simple about this claw clip hairstyle for 3b hair. Gather your curls above the nape of your neck, secure with a large clip, and leave out a few face-framing pieces to really bring the look home. I mean, the '90s are definitely back.

There's no reason to shy away from hair accessories when it comes to styling your 3b curls. Case in point: This cute headscarf look that's both easy and pretty. Extra-hydrated curls are key to recreating this look, so don't forget about your leave-ins and oils.

Here's a cute idea: Part your curls right down the middle and secure two baby knots on either side for the ultimate type-3 hairstyle. Play up your hair's natural shine by working a lightweight oil through your curls as the last step in your routine.

Sometimes all you need is a bit of definition to take your 3b hair to the next level. Look for a lightweight curl gel that defines your hair without feeling heavy, rake it through your wet hair, then, once your curls are totally dry, gently scrunch for extra volume.

If you're in need of a cute style for your long 3b curls, you can't go wrong with this simple half-up look. Just gather a small section of hair at the crown of your head and leave the rest of your curls long and loose.

Remember: Don't sleep on hair accessories when styling your 3b hair. This hair clip style is cute without feeling too over the top (and it's a fun excuse to play around with color). Just snap a couple clips on one side of your curls and you're good to go.

Thinking about trying bangs with your type-3 hair? Consider this pretty style your sign that you absolutely should (I mean, how cute is this brow-swimming length?). Scope our guide on cutting your own bangs at home before giving this look a go.

This high bun style is perfect for those days when you want to get your curls off your neck and still look cute. Just gather your hair at the top of your head (leave out a few face-framing pieces—or don't, your call) and you'll be set for the day.

Presenting, the easiest way to level up your go-to bandana or silk scarf style: Leave out one or two curls along the side of your face and play up your natural shine in the back with a lightweight oil. Cute, right?

Curly bangs + a high ponytail = the perfect year-round hairstyle for 3b hair. Look towards this one as a cute, low-effort option for day two (or three!) hair, and don't be afraid to play around with the positioning of your ponytail.

ICYM: The ombré trend isn't going away any time soon, and it looks especially pretty on 3b curls. Book an appointment with a professional colorist or play around with a gentle hair color wax (they're way less damaging and drying than box dyes).

When in doubt, braids are always an excellent choice for all curly hair types. Kick this style off by parting your hair down the middle, then go in with your usual leave-in conditioner or gel before you start braiding (think: you want your hair to be as soft and hydrated as possible).

According to Gomes, it's nonnegotiable to treat your 3b hair to a weekly hydrating mask—especially if you're going for a look that's as soft and bouncy as this. "Deep-conditioning treatments will help with frizz, moisture, everything," Gomes has said. Look for a formula that's spiked with hydrating oils, like the Ouidad Ultra-Nourishing Intense Hydrating Mask or the Tgin Honey Miracle Hair Mask Deep Conditioner.

Pineapples are a staple in any curly or coily styling routine, and this look for 3b hair is definitely no exception. The key here is gathering your hair at the top of your head and using a lightweight edge control to lay your baby hairs.

The coolest thing about these twists for type 3 curls? You can recreate them in five easy steps—just follow Curlydreia's lead (and while you're at it, grab a few cuffs or beads to bring it all together).

The next time you're looking for a three-minute hairstyle that isn't a bun or ponytail, go for this cute half-up style for 3b hair. All you need to do is twist a section of your hair into a knot at the top of your head, leave out a couple pieces, and let your curl-defining creams do the heavy lifting.

Gather your type-3 curls into a loose ponytail, tie on a scarf (or slip on a headband), and call it a day. Leave out a couple of loose curls in the front of your face for a subtle faux-bangs vibe.

If you're really in the mood to switch things up, it might be time to try a new hair color for your 3b hair. This bright-red hue is a great option, whether you go for something temporary at home or you book an appointment with a pro.