Joshua Dobbs' hair is a mid-length head of soft, defined natural curls, and getting the look is mostly about hydration, gentle cleansing and letting the curls do their thing. The NFL quarterback wears his curls loose and healthy, framing the face without heavy product. To recreate it, keep some length, cleanse with a sulfate-free curl shampoo, lock in moisture with a curl conditioner, and define with a light cream rather than a stiff gel. Here is the full routine, step by step.

What is Joshua Dobbs' hairstyle?

Dobbs wears mid-length curls that sit with natural volume and movement. The style reads as effortless because it works with his curl pattern rather than fighting it. The curls are soft and defined rather than tight and crunchy, which is the sign of a routine built around moisture and gentle handling. It is a versatile look that suits game day or everyday, and it flatters most face shapes because the volume adds height and frames the face.

How do you get the cut?

Length is what makes this style work, so resist cutting too short. Ask your barber to:

• Keep length on top so the curls have room to form and fall.
• Shape, not thin. Ask them to shape the curls with scissors and avoid over-thinning, which causes frizz.
• Tidy the edges with a light line-up if you want a sharper finish.

Trim every six to eight weeks to remove split ends, which is what keeps curls springy and defined.

Why does curly hair need a different routine?

Curly and coily hair is naturally drier than straight hair because the natural scalp oils struggle to travel down the bends of each curl. That is why curls can look dull or frizzy when they are thirsty. The fix is a moisture-first routine and gentle handling. Our complete guide on the best products for afro and curly hair growth goes deeper, and how to make afro and curly hair grow faster covers the full care system.

How do you style curls like Joshua Dobbs, step by step?

1. Cleanse gently. Use a sulfate-free shampoo so you clean the scalp without stripping the moisture curls need. Learn why sulfate-free shampoo matters.
2. Condition generously. Work a rich conditioner through mid-lengths and ends, then detangle with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb while the conditioner is in.
3. Apply product to soaking wet hair. Smooth a curl cream through wet curls to lock in moisture and define the pattern.
4. Dry with care. Air dry, or use a diffuser on low heat. Scrunch upward to encourage curl and avoid a towel that causes frizz.
5. Finish and refresh. A drop of light oil adds shine and tames frizz. Between washes, refresh with a little water and cream.

Which products help you get the look?

For curly and coily hair, the cleanse-and-condition step is the foundation of the whole style. A matched curl set takes the guesswork out.

Curly Hair Shampoo & Curl Definition Conditioner Set, £24.95

A cleanse-and-condition duo made for curls and coils: a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo plus a rich curl definition conditioner to hydrate, define and reduce frizz. Vegan and made in the UK.

View the Curly Hair Set

To seal in shine and fight frizz on styling day, a light finishing oil is the perfect last step.

Camellia & Black Castor Hair & Body Oil, £24.95

A lightweight oil rich in black castor and camellia to smooth frizz, add shine and define curls without weighing them down. Perfect as a finishing touch or a pre-wash treatment.

View the Hair Oil

How do you keep curls healthy long term?

• Trim regularly. Every six to eight weeks stops split ends travelling up the curl.
• Stay hydrated inside and out. Drink water and keep a moisture-rich routine.
• Protect from heat. Skip daily hot tools, and use protection when you do style with heat.
• Eat for your hair. Protein, iron, omega-3s and vitamins all support strong growth.
• Manage stress and sleep well. Both affect the hair cycle over time.

If you are ever worried about unusual shedding rather than styling, losing some hair daily is normal, but see a doctor if you notice sudden or patchy loss.

Frequently asked questions

How do I keep my curls defined all day?

Apply curl cream to soaking wet hair, dry with a diffuser or air dry without touching, and set with a light oil. Avoid running your fingers through the curls once they are dry.

Do I need to condition curly hair every day?

Not every day, but curly hair loves moisture. Use a rich conditioner every wash, and consider a leave-in or co-wash between full washes if your curls feel dry.

How often should I wash curly hair?

Many people with curls wash once or twice a week to avoid stripping natural oils. Refresh with water and product on non-wash days.

What is the best way to dry curly hair?

Air dry, or use a diffuser on low heat and low speed. Scrunch upward and avoid rough towel drying, which causes frizz. A microfibre towel or cotton t-shirt is gentler.

Can I straighten my curls sometimes?

Yes, occasionally, but always use a heat protectant and keep the temperature moderate. Frequent heat straightening can loosen your curl pattern over time.

Should I worry about hair loss?

Losing 50 to 100 hairs a day is normal. If you notice excessive shedding, patchy loss or a receding hairline, speak to a doctor to find the cause.