If you’ve been blessed with thick wavy hair but struggle to find styles that flatter your face shape, you’re about to discover a world of transformative possibilities.
The right face-framing layers can work magic on thick wavy textures, creating the illusion of a slimmer, more contoured face while managing volume and enhancing your natural texture.
This comprehensive guide to 37 Face-Framing Layered Hairstyles for Thick Wavy Hair That Slim the Face will walk you through the most flattering cuts, styling techniques, and expert tips that professional hairstylists use to create dimension and movement.
Whether you have a round face, square jawline, or simply want to soften your features, these carefully curated hairstyles combine the beauty of layered cuts with strategic face-framing elements that draw the eye vertically and create the most flattering silhouette.
Get ready to transform your thick wavy hair from overwhelming to absolutely stunning with styles that work with your natural texture rather than against it.
1. Classic Long Layers with Curtain Bangs
Long layers combined with curtain bangs create an effortlessly chic look that’s particularly effective at slimming the face.
This timeless style works beautifully with thick wavy hair because the layers remove bulk while maintaining length, and the curtain bangs draw attention to the center of your face, creating a lengthening effect.
- The curtain bangs should start at cheekbone level and sweep gently to the sides, creating a soft frame around your face.
- Long layers should begin around the collarbone and continue downward, removing weight without sacrificing length.
- This style creates vertical lines that naturally slim the appearance of round or square faces.
- The waves add texture and movement, preventing the style from looking too flat or heavy.
- Ask your stylist to use point-cutting techniques to create soft, blended layers that enhance your natural wave pattern.
- Style with a diffuser to enhance waves and maintain volume at the roots while keeping ends soft.
- This cut requires minimal maintenance and grows out beautifully over several months.
2. Shaggy Bob with Textured Face-Framing
The modern shaggy bob brings edgy sophistication to thick wavy hair while creating a slimming effect through strategic layering.
This cut features heavily textured layers throughout, with shorter pieces around the face that create angles and dimension.
- The length typically falls between chin and shoulder level, creating an elongating effect on the face.
- Face-framing layers start at the cheekbone and graduate downward, creating diagonal lines that slim.
- Heavy texturizing removes bulk from thick hair while maintaining body and movement.
- The shaggy nature of this cut means it looks intentionally tousled, making styling easier.
- Waves enhance the piecey, textured appearance that defines this modern cut.
- Use a texturizing spray or sea salt spray to enhance the lived-in, effortless look.
- This style works exceptionally well for those who want a low-maintenance yet stylish option.
3. Butterfly Layers for Maximum Face-Slimming
Butterfly layers have taken the beauty world by storm, and for good reason—they’re specifically designed to frame the face beautifully.
This technique creates shorter layers around the face that gradually blend into longer layers, resembling the shape of butterfly wings.
- The shortest layers typically start around the cheekbone or chin level, creating immediate face-framing.
- Layers gradually increase in length as they move toward the back, creating a cascading effect.
- This technique is particularly effective at removing bulk from thick hair while maintaining fullness.
- The face-framing pieces naturally draw the eye inward and downward, creating a slimming illusion.
- Butterfly layers work with your natural wave pattern to create soft, romantic movement.
- This cut requires regular trims every 6-8 weeks to maintain the distinctive shape.
- Style by scrunching waves upward and allowing the face-framing pieces to air-dry naturally.
4. Long V-Cut with Side-Swept Layers
The V-cut creates a dramatic point at the back while incorporating side-swept layers that frame the face beautifully.
This style is ideal for those who want to maintain length while achieving a slimming effect through strategic layering.
- The V-shape at the back creates visual interest and removes weight from the densest part of thick hair.
- Side-swept layers begin at the front and angle backward, creating diagonal lines that slim the face.
- This cut maintains maximum length in the front while progressively shortening toward the back.
- The angular nature of the cut creates movement and prevents thick wavy hair from looking boxy.
- Waves follow the V-shape naturally, creating beautiful cascading movement.
- This style is perfect for those who love long hair but need to manage thickness.
- Deep condition regularly to keep the ends healthy and prevent the V-shape from looking sparse.
5. Asymmetrical Lob with Deep Side Part
An asymmetrical lob (long bob) with a deep side part creates instant drama and face-slimming effects. The uneven lengths combined with a pronounced side part create diagonal lines that flatter virtually any face shape.
- One side is cut slightly longer than the other, typically with a 1-2 inch difference.
- A deep side part (positioned 2-3 inches from the center) creates asymmetry that slims.
- The longer side falls forward, covering part of the face and creating a narrowing effect.
- This cut works exceptionally well for square or round face shapes by creating angles.
- Thick wavy texture adds body to the shorter side while the longer side maintains weight.
- Style by directing waves away from the face on the shorter side and forward on the longer side.
- This edgy yet sophisticated style makes a statement while remaining professional and polished.
6. Wispy Face-Framing with Long Layers
Wispy face-framing layers create the softest, most romantic approach to slimming the face.
This technique involves creating very fine, feathered layers around the face that blend seamlessly into longer layers throughout the rest of the hair.
- Ultra-fine layers start at temple or cheekbone level and are cut with a razor or point-cutting technique.
- The wispy nature of these layers creates softness that contrasts beautifully with thick hair’s natural volume.
- These delicate pieces catch light and create dimension around the face.
- The feathered quality prevents harsh lines and creates a gentle, feminine frame.
- Longer layers throughout the rest of the hair maintain weight and prevent over-texturizing.
- This style requires a skilled stylist who understands how to create wisps without making them look too thin.
- Use a lightweight styling cream to define waves without weighing down the delicate face-framing pieces.
7. Razored Layers for Textured Movement
Razor-cut layers create incredible texture and movement in thick wavy hair while strategically slimming the face through softened, feathered edges. This cutting technique removes weight while creating a naturally pieced-out appearance.
- A razor is used instead of scissors to create softer, more graduated layers.
- This technique is particularly effective for thick hair as it removes bulk without creating blunt lines.
- Face-framing layers cut with a razor create soft, wispy edges that flatter the face.
- The textured nature of razor cuts enhances natural waves and creates a beachy, effortless look.
- Layers are strategically placed to remove weight while maintaining fullness where needed.
- This cut creates a lived-in appearance that requires minimal styling effort.
- Use anti-frizz products as razor-cut ends can be slightly more prone to fraying.
- Schedule regular trims every 6-8 weeks to maintain the textured, healthy appearance.
8. Graduated Bob with Stacked Layers
A graduated bob features shorter layers at the back that gradually increase in length toward the front, creating a stacked effect that adds volume where flattering while slimming the face with longer front pieces.
- The back is cut shorter and layered to create lift and remove bulk from thick hair.
- Front pieces are longest and angled toward the face, creating a slimming frame.
- This architectural cut creates a beautiful silhouette from every angle.
- The graduation removes significant weight from thick hair while maintaining style and shape.
- Waves add softness to what could otherwise be a severe geometric cut.
- This style is ideal for those wanting a bold, contemporary look with easy maintenance.
- The stacked back maintains its shape well between cuts, making it perfect for busy lifestyles.
9. Shoulder-Length Layers with Diagonal Framing
Shoulder-length hair with diagonal face-framing creates one of the most universally flattering combinations for thick wavy hair. The diagonal lines created by the face-framing layers visually slim and elongate the face.
- Hair is cut to hit right at or just below the shoulders, an inherently flattering length.
- Face-framing layers are cut at a diagonal angle, starting shorter at the front and lengthening toward the back.
- These diagonal lines create the optical illusion of a longer, slimmer face.
- Shoulder-length allows thick hair to maintain weight without becoming overwhelming.
- Natural waves create movement that prevents this length from looking too heavy or blunt.
- This versatile length can be worn down, half-up, or in updos for various occasions.
- The combination of length and layers makes this one of the easiest styles to maintain.
10. Choppy Layers with Piecey Bangs
Choppy layers throughout with piecey, textured bangs create an edgy, modern look that’s incredibly effective at framing and slimming the face. This style embraces texture and imperfection for a cool, effortless vibe.
- Layers are cut throughout at varying lengths to create a deliberately choppy, textured appearance.
- Bangs are cut in pieces rather than a solid line, creating separation and movement.
- The piecey nature of the bangs draws attention to the center of the face while creating vertical lines.
- Choppy layers remove tremendous amounts of weight from thick hair without sacrificing volume.
- This cut looks intentionally undone, making it perfect for wash-and-go styling.
- Waves enhance the choppy, piecey texture that defines this cut.
- Use a texturizing paste or pomade to separate and define individual pieces.
11. Side-Part with Swooping Face-Framers
A dramatic side part combined with long, swooping face-framing layers creates Hollywood glamour while slimming the face. This classic technique never goes out of style because it’s simply so flattering.
- The side part should be positioned far to one side, typically 2-3 inches from center.
- Face-framing layers begin at the part and sweep dramatically across the face.
- These swooping pieces create diagonal lines that visually narrow and lengthen the face.
- The heavier side creates volume and drama while the lighter side reveals the face strategically.
- This style works beautifully for formal events or everyday glamour.
- Thick wavy hair provides the perfect amount of body to create the voluminous sweep.
- Set with a light-hold hairspray to maintain the sweep throughout the day.
12. Collarbone-Length Cut with Internal Layers
A collarbone-length cut with internal layers maintains a sleek perimeter while removing bulk from within the hair. This sophisticated approach creates face-slimming effects through strategic weight removal rather than obvious layering.
- The perimeter of the hair appears relatively blunt, creating a modern, polished look.
- Internal layers are cut within the hair to remove weight without affecting the outer appearance.
- This technique is perfect for thick hair as it dramatically reduces bulk while maintaining style.
- Collarbone length naturally frames the face and draws attention to the neck and jawline.
- Face-framing can be subtle or pronounced, depending on preference.
- Internal layering allows waves to form naturally without becoming too voluminous or triangular.
- This cut requires less frequent trims as the perimeter maintains its shape well.
13. Long Layers with Money Pieces
Money pieces—those face-framing highlights that have become a signature look—pair perfectly with long layers on thick wavy hair.
While primarily a coloring technique, the placement of these lightened pieces enhances the slimming effect of face-framing layers.
- Money pieces are the two front sections of hair that frame the face, typically lighter than the rest.
- These lighter pieces draw the eye vertically along the face, creating a slimming effect.
- Long layers throughout provide movement and reduce bulk in thick hair.
- The combination of strategic layering and highlighting creates maximum face-framing impact.
- Waves create beautiful dimension when combined with the lighter face-framing pieces.
- This style requires color maintenance but the cut itself is relatively low-maintenance.
- The contrast created by money pieces makes the face-framing effect even more pronounced.
14. Textured Midi Cut with Face-Framing
The midi length (mid-length between shoulders and chest) combined with heavy texturizing and face-framing creates a trendy, modern look that’s perfect for thick wavy hair. This length is having a major moment in hair fashion.
- Midi length typically falls between the collarbone and mid-chest, a fresh alternative to long or short.
- Heavy texturizing throughout removes weight while creating a modern, piecey appearance.
- Face-framing layers start at the cheekbone or chin and blend into the overall length.
- This length works particularly well for thick wavy hair as it’s not too heavy or too short.
- The textured nature of the cut embraces natural wave patterns for easy styling.
- This versatile length can be styled sleek, wavy, or in half-up styles.
- The midi cut is trending for good reason—it’s fresh, flattering, and surprisingly easy to maintain.
15. Soft Angled Bob with Face-Framing
A soft angled bob creates subtle graduation from back to front, with the front pieces being slightly longer to frame the face. This gentle angle creates face-slimming lines without the dramatic effect of a heavily angled bob.
- The angle is gentle, typically only 1-2 inches difference from back to front.
- Front pieces hit around jawline to collarbone length, creating a flattering frame.
- The soft angle prevents thick wavy hair from looking too boxy or square.
- This cut maintains enough weight to showcase waves while removing excess bulk.
- The angled nature creates movement and prevents the style from looking static.
- Face-framing effect is achieved through both the angle and any additional layering around the face.
- This professional, polished cut works for virtually any setting or occasion.
16. Layered Lob with Curtain Fringe
The layered lob (long bob) combined with curtain fringe creates one of the most flattering combinations for slimming the face. This style has been a favorite among celebrities and everyday style enthusiasts alike.
- The lob length typically falls between chin and shoulders, an universally flattering length.
- Curtain fringe parts in the middle and sweeps to both sides, framing the face symmetrically.
- Layers throughout reduce bulk and create movement in thick wavy hair.
- The combination of lob length and curtain fringe creates vertical lines that lengthen the face.
- This style works for all face shapes and is particularly effective for round or square faces.
- Waves add texture and dimension to both the lob and the fringe.
- Style by blow-drying the fringe with a round brush, then allowing waves to air-dry or diffusing.
17. Long Shag with Heavy Face-Framing
The long shag brings 70s-inspired texture to modern styling, with heavy face-framing that’s incredibly effective at slimming the face. This bohemian-chic style works beautifully with thick wavy hair’s natural texture.
- The shag features layers throughout, starting relatively short at the crown and increasing in length.
- Face-framing layers are pronounced, starting at the cheekbone or higher.
- This cut removes significant weight from thick hair while creating tons of movement.
- The heavily layered nature embraces and enhances natural wave patterns.
- This style looks effortlessly cool and intentionally undone.
- Face-framing pieces create strong vertical lines that slim and lengthen the face.
- Minimal styling is required—the messier and more textured, the better.
18. Blunt Cut with Subtle Face-Framing
A blunt cut with subtle face-framing creates a modern, polished look while still providing slimming effects. This style is perfect for those who love the look of blunt cuts but have thick hair that needs some face-framing.
- The perimeter is cut bluntly at one length, creating a strong, modern line.
- Subtle face-framing layers are added only around the face, leaving the rest blunt.
- This approach provides face-slimming benefits without compromising the blunt aesthetic.
- The contrast between the blunt body and softer face-framing creates visual interest.
- Thick wavy hair provides body to a blunt cut without it looking too heavy.
- This style makes a statement while remaining professional and sophisticated.
- Regular trims every 6-8 weeks are essential to maintain the crisp blunt line.
19. Swoopy Side-Swept Layers
Swoopy side-swept layers create dramatic movement and face-slimming effects through exaggerated diagonal lines. This glamorous style works particularly well for special occasions or when you want to make an impact.
- Layers are cut to create a dramatic swooping effect when swept to one side.
- The deepest layers start near the face and graduate outward and downward.
- This style requires strategic styling to maintain the swooping movement.
- Side-swept layers create strong diagonal lines that visually slim the face.
- Thick wavy hair provides the body needed to create and maintain the voluminous sweep.
- This glamorous look is perfect for events, date nights, or when you want extra polish.
- Use a medium-hold styling product to maintain the sweep without looking stiff.
20. Feathered Layers Throughout
Feathered layers throughout the hair create a soft, romantic look that’s incredibly flattering for thick wavy hair. This technique involves creating layers with feathered, tapered ends that blend seamlessly together.
- Layers are cut using point-cutting or slide-cutting techniques to create feathered ends.
- Feathering removes weight while creating soft, blended transitions between layers.
- Face-framing layers are heavily feathered to create the softest possible frame around the face.
- This technique is ideal for thick hair as it removes bulk without creating harsh lines.
- Waves and feathering complement each other perfectly, creating fluid movement.
- The romantic, soft appearance works for both casual and formal occasions.
- This cut requires regular maintenance to keep the feathered edges looking fresh and healthy.
21. Asymmetrical Layers with Longer Front
Asymmetrical layers with longer front pieces create modern edge while providing excellent face-slimming effects. The intentional unevenness creates visual interest and flattering angles.
- One side features longer layers than the other, creating deliberate asymmetry.
- The front pieces on both sides are kept longer to frame the face.
- This modern cut removes weight strategically while creating a fashion-forward look.
- Asymmetry draws the eye and creates diagonal lines that slim the face.
- Thick wavy hair has enough body to showcase the intentional unevenness.
- This style makes a statement and shows confidence and personal style.
- Styling can emphasize the asymmetry or soften it depending on your mood.
22. Disconnected Layers for Modern Texture
Disconnected layers feature visible separation between layer lengths, creating a modern, editorial look. This cutting technique is particularly effective for thick wavy hair as it removes significant weight while creating dramatic texture.
- Layers are intentionally separated rather than blended, creating visible gaps in length.
- This technique removes enormous amounts of weight from thick hair.
- Face-framing layers can be dramatically disconnected from the rest of the hair.
- The modern, edgy appearance is perfect for fashion-forward individuals.
- Waves add texture that emphasizes the disconnected nature of the layers.
- This cut requires confidence as it’s definitely a statement style.
- Work with a stylist experienced in modern cutting techniques for best results.
23. Graduated Face-Framing with Layers
Graduated face-framing features layers that progressively increase in length as they move away from the face, creating a cascading effect that’s incredibly flattering. This technique ensures smooth transitions while maintaining face-slimming effects.
- Shortest layers start at the face and gradually increase in length moving back.
- The graduation creates a waterfall or cascading effect that’s visually appealing.
- This technique ensures no harsh lines or obvious layer demarcation.
- Face-framing is maximized as the shortest pieces are at the face where they have most impact.
- Graduated layering works exceptionally well for thick hair’s bulk distribution.
- Waves flow naturally through the graduated layers, creating beautiful movement.
- This classic technique remains popular because it’s reliably flattering and long-lasting.
24. Center-Part with Balanced Face-Framing
A center part with balanced face-framing on both sides creates symmetry that’s inherently pleasing while providing slimming effects through vertical lines. This classic approach works for virtually any face shape.
- Hair is parted directly down the center, creating perfect symmetry.
- Face-framing layers are cut identically on both sides for balanced effect.
- The center part creates a strong vertical line that lengthens the appearance of the face.
- Balanced framing ensures the face is slimmed evenly on both sides.
- This classic approach never goes out of style and works for any occasion.
- Thick wavy hair provides body on both sides without looking flat.
- This versatile style can be worn casual or dressed up with styling.
25. Textured Ends with Soft Face-Framing
Heavily textured ends combined with soft face-framing creates a contemporary look that manages thick hair’s weight beautifully. The textured ends prevent bluntness while face-framing slims.
- Ends are heavily textured using point-cutting, razor, or slide-cutting techniques.
- Textured ends remove weight where thick hair is often heaviest.
- Face-framing layers are kept soft and subtle, contrasting with the textured ends.
- This combination creates visual interest and prevents the style from looking bottom-heavy.
- Waves are enhanced by the textured ends, which allow them to form more naturally.
- This modern approach keeps thick hair manageable without sacrificing style.
- Use texturizing products to enhance and define the piecey ends.
26. Long Layers with Dramatic Side Pieces
Long layers throughout with dramatically shorter side pieces create bold face-framing that’s impossible to ignore. This style makes a statement while providing excellent slimming effects.
- The majority of hair is kept long with gentle layers throughout.
- Side pieces are cut dramatically shorter, typically 3-6 inches shorter than the rest.
- These bold side pieces create strong vertical lines that frame and slim the face.
- The contrast between long body and shorter sides creates visual drama.
- This edgy style requires confidence and regular maintenance of the dramatic pieces.
- Thick wavy hair maintains volume even with the shorter side sections.
- Style the side pieces forward to maximize face-framing effect.
27. Layered Cut with Angled Perimeter
A layered cut with an angled perimeter combines internal layering with external angles, creating multi-dimensional slimming effects. This sophisticated technique offers the best of both approaches.
- The perimeter is cut at an angle, typically shorter in back and longer in front.
- Internal layers throughout remove bulk and create movement.
- The combination provides face-slimming from both the angle and the layering.
- This technique is ideal for thick hair as it addresses both weight and shape.
- The angled perimeter prevents the style from looking too square or boxy.
- Waves follow the angles naturally, creating beautiful flowing movement.
- This versatile cut works for both professional and casual settings.
28. Choppy Lob with Micro-Bangs
A choppy lob combined with micro-bangs creates an ultra-modern, fashion-forward look. While micro-bangs are bold, they create strong horizontal lines that can actually complement face-slimming layers beautifully.
- The lob is cut with choppy, textured layers throughout for a modern feel.
- Micro-bangs sit well above the eyebrows, creating a bold statement.
- Face-framing layers start just below the bangs and angle downward.
- This daring style removes significant weight from thick hair through heavy texturizing.
- Waves add softness to what could otherwise be a harsh, severe cut.
- This look is perfect for fashion-forward individuals who love making bold choices.
- Be prepared for commitment—micro-bangs require frequent trims and can’t be easily hidden.
29. Soft U-Shape with Graduated Layers
A soft U-shaped cut creates gentle curves at the back while graduated layers provide face-framing and weight removal. This feminine, romantic style works beautifully with thick wavy hair.
- The back is cut in a gentle U-shape rather than straight across or V-shaped.
- Graduated layers throughout blend seamlessly from shorter to longer.
- Face-framing layers create the slimming effect while the U-shape maintains romantic softness.
- This cut removes weight from the back where thick hair can become heaviest.
- The curved shape looks beautiful from the back while layers provide front interest.
- Waves flow naturally with the U-shape, creating organic, beautiful movement.
- This feminine style appeals to those wanting romance and elegance in their cut.
30. Heavily Layered with Shorter Crown
Heavy layering throughout with shorter layers at the crown creates lift and volume on top while removing weight overall. Face-framing layers complete the slimming effect.
- The crown features shorter layers that create lift and prevent flatness.
- Layers throughout are more pronounced than in subtle layered cuts.
- Face-framing layers work in conjunction with the overall layering for maximum slimming.
- This technique removes enormous amounts of weight, making thick hair more manageable.
- Crown volume draws the eye upward, elongating the face visually.
- Waves gain more defined shape and movement with the heavy layering.
- This cut requires regular maintenance but offers maximum manageability for thick hair.
31. Side-Swept Bob with Undercut
A side-swept bob combined with an undercut provides dramatic weight removal while creating strong face-framing angles. This edgy style is perfect for those wanting low-maintenance with high impact.
- The underneath section is cut very short or shaved, removing significant bulk.
- The top section is kept longer and swept dramatically to one side.
- This creates extreme diagonal lines that slim the face dramatically.
- The undercut makes thick hair much more manageable and lightweight.
- Face-framing effect is achieved through the dramatic side sweep.
- This bold style requires confidence and regular undercut maintenance.
- The contrast between the shaved and longer sections makes a powerful statement.
32. Textured Midi with Wispy Face-Framing
A textured midi-length cut with wispy, delicate face-framing combines modern length with soft, romantic details. This style beautifully balances structure and softness.
, delicate wispy pieces around face, textured layers throughout, soft romantic yet contemporary appearance
- Midi length provides a fresh, modern alternative to long or short options.
- Heavy texturizing throughout removes weight and creates contemporary appeal.
- Wispy face-framing pieces are delicate and feathered, creating soft contrast.
- The combination of structural length and soft framing is inherently flattering.
- Thick wavy hair gains manageability through the texturizing while maintaining body.
- This versatile style works for multiple occasions and styling approaches.
- The wispy face-framing requires gentle handling to avoid breakage.
33. Long Layers with Piece-y Front Sections
Long layers throughout with intentionally piece-y front sections create a modern, lived-in look with excellent face-slimming properties. This style embraces texture and imperfection.
- Long layers throughout maintain length while removing bulk from thick hair.
- Front sections are cut and styled to create piece-y, separated strands.
- The piece-y nature draws attention to vertical lines along the face.
- This intentionally undone style looks effortlessly cool and modern.
- Texturizing products are key to achieving and maintaining the piece-y appearance.
- Waves add dimension to the separated pieces, preventing them from looking too thin.
- This low-maintenance style improves as it grows out, requiring fewer salon visits.
34. Dimensional Layers with Balayage Face-Framing
While primarily focusing on cut, adding balayage to face-framing layers creates dimensional color that enhances the slimming effect. Lighter pieces around the face draw the eye and create visual interest.
- Layers are cut strategically to frame the face at various lengths.
- Balayage (hand-painted highlights) is concentrated around the face-framing layers.
- Lighter colors around the face create additional dimension and draw attention.
- The combination of strategic cutting and coloring maximizes face-slimming effects.
- Thick wavy hair displays color dimension beautifully through its natural texture.
- This approach requires both cutting and coloring expertise for optimal results.
- Color maintenance is necessary, but the cut remains flattering as it grows.
35. Layered Cut with Eyebrow-Skimming Bangs
A layered cut with bangs that skim the eyebrows creates classic appeal while providing excellent face-framing. This timeless combination remains popular because it’s simply flattering.
- Bangs are cut to just skim or sit at the eyebrows, creating horizontal interest.
- Layers throughout remove bulk and create movement in thick hair.
- Face-framing layers start at the bangs and gradually increase in length.
- The combination of bangs and layers provides multi-dimensional face-framing.
- This classic style works for most face shapes and has stood the test of time.
- Thick wavy hair provides body to the bangs without requiring excessive styling.
- Regular bang trims (every 3-4 weeks) maintain the eyebrow-skimming length.
36. Modern Mullet with Face-Framing
The modern mullet—shorter in front and on top, longer in back—combined with strategic face-framing creates an edgy, contemporary look. This resurgence of a classic cut offers unique face-slimming properties.
- The top and front sections are cut shorter, typically above shoulders.
- The back is kept longer, creating the distinctive mullet shape.
- Face-framing layers at the front create vertical lines that slim the face.
- This bold style removes weight from the front while maintaining length in back.
- Thick wavy hair adds texture and softness to the mullet structure.
- The modern mullet is far more refined and stylish than its 1980s predecessor.
- This statement style requires confidence and works best with professional styling.
37. Combination of Multiple Face-Framing Techniques
The ultimate approach combines multiple face-framing techniques—curtain bangs, money pieces, graduated layers, and strategic texturizing—for maximum face-slimming effect. This comprehensive approach addresses thick wavy hair from every angle.
- Curtain bangs provide immediate face-framing at the forehead and cheekbone level.
- Money pieces (lighter highlights) are added to the face-framing sections for dimension.
- Graduated layers throughout remove bulk and create cascading movement.
- Strategic texturizing at the ends prevents bottom-heaviness in thick hair.
- This multi-faceted approach provides the most comprehensive face-slimming effects possible.
- Each technique works in harmony with the others for optimal results.
- While this requires a skilled stylist and regular maintenance, the results are transformative.
- The combination of cutting and coloring techniques creates maximum dimension and flattery.
Styling Tips for Face-Framing Layers on Thick Wavy Hair
| Styling Goal | Technique | Products to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Enhance Natural Waves | Scrunch while damp, air dry or diffuse | Sea salt spray, curl cream |
| Sleek Face-Framing | Blow dry with round brush, flat iron face-framing pieces | Heat protectant, smoothing serum |
| Maximum Volume | Blow dry upside down, use volumizing products at roots | Mousse, root lifting spray |
| Defined Layers | Use styling products to separate and define | Texturizing spray, pomade |
| Soft Romantic Waves | Large barrel curling iron on mid-lengths to ends | Heat protectant, light hold hairspray |
| Beachy Texture | Braid damp hair overnight or use diffuser with scrunching | Sea salt spray, texture spray |
- Always apply heat protectant before using hot tools on thick wavy hair to prevent damage.
- Thick hair benefits from leave-in conditioners and smoothing serums to manage frizz.
- Use a diffuser attachment when blow-drying to enhance and define natural waves.
- Face-framing layers should be styled first, directing them toward or away from the face as desired.
- Don’t over-wash thick wavy hair—2-3 times per week is typically sufficient.
- Deep condition regularly to keep layers healthy and prevent dry, frizzy ends.
- Experiment with different partings to change up your look and maximize face-slimming effects.
- Sleeping on silk or satin pillowcases helps maintain the style and reduces frizz.
Maintenance and Care for Layered Thick Wavy Hair
- Schedule regular trims every 6-8 weeks to maintain the shape and health of your layered cut.
- Heavily layered cuts may require more frequent trims than subtle layering.
- Use sulfate-free shampoos that won’t strip natural oils from thick wavy hair.
- Apply deep conditioning masks weekly to keep layers soft, smooth, and manageable.
- Face-framing layers, especially wispy ones, need extra care to prevent breakage.
- Consider using a wide-tooth comb rather than a brush on wavy hair to preserve texture.
- Apply products from mid-lengths to ends, avoiding roots to prevent weighing down thick hair.
- If you have color-treated face-framing (like money pieces), use color-safe products.
- Protect hair from heat damage by limiting hot tool use and always using protectants.
- Refresh waves between washes with a spray bottle of water and styling product.
- Regular scalp massages promote healthy hair growth and improve overall hair health.
- Invest in quality hair care products—thick wavy hair requires proper nourishment.
Choosing the Right Face-Framing Style for Your Face Shape
For Round Faces:
- Opt for longer face-framing layers that extend past the chin to elongate.
- Avoid layers that end at the fullest part of your cheeks.
- Side parts work better than center parts for creating asymmetry.
- Dramatic diagonal lines and swooping layers are particularly flattering.
For Square Faces:
- Choose soft, wispy face-framing to soften strong jawlines.
- Layers that hit at the jawline and below are most flattering.
- Avoid blunt cuts that emphasize the square shape.
- Soft waves add necessary softness to angular features.
For Oval Faces:
- Nearly any face-framing style works well with oval face shapes.
- Experiment with different layer lengths to find your favorite look.
- Both center and side parts are flattering options.
- Feel free to try bolder, more dramatic styles.
For Heart-Shaped Faces:
- Face-framing layers at chin level balance a wider forehead.
- Avoid too much volume at the crown which emphasizes the heart shape.
- Curtain bangs work beautifully to balance proportions.
- Layers that add width at the jawline create balance.
For Long/Oblong Faces:
- Horizontal elements like bangs help shorten the appearance of long faces.
- Avoid styles that are too long without any layers breaking up the length.
- Width at the sides rather than length is most flattering.
- Layers at multiple levels create the illusion of a shorter face.
Professional vs. DIY: Getting the Perfect Cut
- Face-framing layers for thick wavy hair should ideally be cut by a professional stylist.
- Thick hair requires expertise to layer properly without creating too much volume or removing too much weight.
- A skilled stylist understands how to work with your natural wave pattern for optimal results.
- DIY cutting of face-framing layers risks creating uneven, unflattering results.
- If you must trim at home, only dust the ends—never attempt to create new layers yourself.
- Finding a stylist experienced with thick, wavy hair is essential for achieving the looks described here.
- Bring reference photos to your appointment to clearly communicate your desired style.
- Be open to your stylist’s suggestions—they may recommend modifications based on your specific hair.
- Ask your stylist to show you how to style your new cut before you leave the salon.
- A great cut should look good even when air-dried with minimal styling.
- Investment in a quality cut pays off in daily styling ease and overall appearance.
- Don’t be afraid to try a new stylist if you’re not satisfied with your current results.
conclusion
If you’ve been searching for the perfect way to manage your thick wavy hair while creating a more flattering, slimmer-looking face, these 37 Face-Framing Layered Hairstyles for Thick Wavy Hair That Slim the Face offer endless inspiration and practical solutions.
From classic long layers with curtain bangs to bold modern mullets with strategic face-framing, there’s a style here for every personality, face shape, and lifestyle.
The beauty of these cuts lies in their ability to work with your natural texture rather than fighting against it, removing bulk where needed while maintaining the gorgeous volume and movement that makes wavy hair so enviable.
Remember that the key to success with any of these styles is finding a skilled stylist who understands how to layer thick hair properly, regular maintenance to keep your cut looking fresh, and using the right products to enhance your natural waves.
Whether you choose subtle, romantic face-framing or bold, dramatic layers, you now have the knowledge to make an informed decision about your next haircut.
Your thick wavy hair is an asset, and with the right face-framing layers, it can become your most flattering and confidence-boosting feature.
