Contrary to popular belief, your options when you have short curly hair aren’t limited. In fact, working with a shorter length provides you with the opportunity to flex those creative styling muscles.

“Short curly hair is fun, which makes it one of my favorites to style,” says celebrity hairstylist Lacy Redway. “You can really mold things in place and create sharp lines with products. You can play with shapes that add volume or are sleek to contour the head.”

The key to any hairstyle for your short natural curls is hydration. “Short curly hair may be low in length, but it’s high-maintenance when it comes to moisture,” explains Redway. “You want to cleanse gently, condition deeply, and style with purpose.”

Michelle O’Connor, a global artistic director at Matrix, agrees and recommends a layered shampoo and treatment approach. Opt for a sulfate-free shampoo and a nourishing conditioner weekly, rotating in a deep treatment mask every seven to 10 days. A leave-in treatment can also help and O’connor says you’ll want to find one that has bond-building benefits and can reinforce your curls. And go lightweight with the styling creams or foams so you won’t cause buildup followed up by a serum or oil to lock in moisture.

With that, the experts break down the 19 best ways to style short curly hair. Check out their favorites below.

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