Content

• Steps
• Method 1 of 6: Basic styling for natural and chemically straightened hair
• Method 2 of 6: Working with chemically straightened hair
• Method 3 of 6: Hairstyles for African American Hair
• Method 4 of 6: Styling Tips for Men
• Method 5 of 6: Styling Tips for Kids
• Method 6 of 6: Tools, Accessories, and Other Tips to Improve Your Style
• Tips
• Warnings
• What do you need

Although everyone should take care of their hair, African American hair requires special care and attention. African American hair grows at a slower rate, contains less water, and breaks more easily than Caucasian and Asian hair. If you have natural or chemically treated hair, this article will show you how to properly care for and style your African American hair so that it always looks healthy and as good as possible.

Steps

Determine whether your hair is natural or processed (chemically straightened). Because both types have different grooming methods, it is important to choose the right products for your hair and do the treatments accordingly. If you are a man, there are some basic tips to follow as well.

Method 1 of 6: Basic styling for natural and chemically straightened hair

African American hair comes in a variety of textures, ranging from curly, coarse, to straight. Taking care of your natural hair is the basis for a healthy and beautiful hairstyle.

1. 1 Rinse and condition your hair using the highest quality products specially formulated for your hair and skin type.
2. 2 It is important to wash your hair every 10-14 days, as unhealthy bacteria can grow on the scalp and cause dandruff and scalp infections. Use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner to prevent moisture loss. Look for natural moisturizers on the ingredient list, such as olive oil, shea butter, and avocado, argan, coconut, and jojoba oils. If you have chemically treated hair, make sure you are using products for that particular hair type.
   • Avoid shampoos and conditioners that contain parabens, phthalates, or petrochemicals. Beware of ingredients such as sodium laurel sulfate or sodium laureth sulfate, as these are mainly detergents that will wick moisture out of your hair. These chemicals are not only harmful to hair health, but also, recently, students suggested that your body can absorb these toxins when it comes into contact with the scalp.
   • When washing your hair and applying conditioner, be careful not to tangle your hair. To do this, apply the shampoo to your head, not the strands, and let the shampoo wash down the entire length of your hair. Apply conditioner to your strands, not your scalp, to make sure it's rinsed thoroughly. Leave the conditioner on for 2-3 minutes (check the instructions on the bottle) to allow the hair to absorb all the nutrients.
3. 3 Never rub your hair with a towel. This will curl and damage them.Blot your hair gently with a towel to prevent dripping. Microfiber towels are best for this.
   • Comb your hair while damp with a wide-toothed comb. When the hair is damp / wet it is very fragile, so be careful when combing it. Use a spray from a water bottle to re-hydrate your hair as needed, as dry hair is more difficult to manage and brush.
   • Start at the back of the head and work towards the forehead, using the back of the comb to part the hair into 2-inch square sections. Comb each section carefully. Apply a small amount of your favorite hair oil to each section as you brush. The hair should be divided into 15-20 medium strands, depending on the thickness and length of the hair. Continue doing this with the rest of your hair, then let it dry or blow-dry.

Method 2 of 6: Working with chemically straightened hair

Perming or straightening or dyeing your hair will accentuate your style, but remember that chemicals weaken your hair. To ensure that your hair stays healthy, it is important to do some treatments to nourish and strengthen your hair.

1. 1
   • Don't over-process your hair. Sure, it's tempting to straighten your hair every time you visit the salon, but you need to wait 5-6 weeks before you go for the adjustment. Do not dye your hair the same day you straighten or curl, this will only weaken it.
2. 2 Limit the use of a hair dryer, tongs, or iron. Using these tools on a daily basis will weaken your hair follicles and your hair will lose its shine and become more brittle.
3. 3 Use a hair strengthening product (masks, restorative conditioners, or hair oil) to combat chemical and heat damage.

Method 3 of 6: Hairstyles for African American Hair

Look at fashion magazines and websites to choose the hairstyle you like and consult with your hairdresser. Make sure you find a hairdresser who specializes in your hair type and follow their recommendations to maintain your style. Some popular styles include:

1. 1Natural hair
2. 2 Dreadlocks are all the rage right now and they look great on both men and women. When caring for them, pay attention to the following tips:
   • Use shampoo and conditioner every three weeks, using only those designed for dreadlocks. To fight bacteria, wipe your dreadlocks and scalp with a cotton ball or cotton ball.
     • Do not use a comb! This will break, brush your strands with your fingers instead.
     • Moisturize your dreadlocks with oils or oil-based products. Wrap them in satin fabric while you sleep to keep them dry.
   • You can use artificial hair with your natural hair to enhance the appearance of your hair and protect it from damage. Hair extensions and braiding are done by professionals and can be completed on time. Braiding can completely change your look and can be done on short, medium, and long hair. Plus, it doesn't contain harmful chemicals and therefore won't damage your hair.
   • Natural and chemically treated hair
   • Pigtails. Braids are especially popular and will accentuate your natural hair (if you have straightened hair, consult a professional before braiding). There are many different styles that can be braided both at home and in the salon. Apply the oil to your hair once a week to protect it, and make regular adjustments at the salon to make your braids look better. Both men and women can wear braids. Some of the most popular styles are: tight braids, micro and afro braids, braided braids, plaits, kinky plaits.

Method 4 of 6: Styling Tips for Men

While men can use the same shampoo and conditioner as women, men's hair has different needs and care. African American men often have difficulty growing their hair out, as this type of hair is often dry, brittle and frizzy. However, here are some tips on how to take care of your hair.

1. 1 Avoid chemical treatments. Hair straighteners slow hair growth for African American men.
2. 2 Moisturize your hair every day and deep hydrate once a week. Remember to use warm or cold water, as hot water dries out your hair and makes it brittle.
3. 3 Stay out of the heat. Heat from hair dryers, irons, tongs and other appliances weakens hair. Avoid using them whenever possible and if you need to use them, make sure you apply protective and restorative products before and after the procedure.
4. 4 Follow your diet. Hair health comes from the inside out, and you need to make sure your diet includes B vitamins, folic acid, and protein - all of which help maintain healthy hair.
5. 5 Show off your healthy hair. Check with your hairdresser to find the right hairstyle.
6. 6 Try combing your afro well to achieve a vintage rock star look.
   • Short dreadlocks are easier to care for than long ones, and they look more trendy, urban and modern.
   • A clean-shaven head is also a good hairstyle that can look casual and sophisticated.
   • If you are confident enough, then shave your bald head to look sexy without worrying about keeping your hair out.

Method 5 of 6: Styling Tips for Kids

1. 1
   • Use age-appropriate styling products. Use gentle shampoos and conditioners that moisturize your hair and don't irritate your eyes.
2. 2 Leave your baby's hair natural. The chemicals are too harsh for kids, so here are some hairstyles that are suitable for kids.
3. 3 If you are styling for a child, then ribbons woven into a braid, or two tails on the sides of the head, look good.
   • If the child prefers a single ponytail, use a fabric-covered elastic band to secure it. Braid the ponytail and secure with a beautiful hairpin, flower or ribbon, the color of which matches the color of his clothes. Use a heated bangs curler to brighten up this hairstyle.

Method 6 of 6: Tools, Accessories, and Other Tips to Improve Your Style

1. 1
   • If you are styling your hair for an adult, then using a heated curler is a good way to style your hair. They come in a variety of sizes and lengths and can be purchased at your local beauty store. Styling with heated curlers can take about 20 minutes, so use them in the morning before starting the day. Use the back of the comb to separate part of the hair, and wind it according to the principle you like best.
2. 2 For longer hair, use curlers only at the ends, or for curling bangs.
   • For short hair, it is best to use curlers along the entire length of the hair. Place the curlers in a straight line from back to front. After the curlers have cooled, remove them and choose a style that suits you. Experiment with curlers until you get a nice and beautiful hairstyle.
   • The flat iron is another great styling tool for long hair. Before each use, make sure your hair is lightly oiled and moisturized. Start at the back of your head and work your way to the front of your head, gently parting your hair into 1 to 2 inch sections. After you have straightened all your hair, you can tie it in a ponytail, or use a heated curler to create smooth, soft waves at the ends.
3. 3 Use a hairdryer for short, medium, and long hair, but not often. This is a quick and easy way to dry your hair when you are on a time limit, and if you apply a protective oil first, it will soften your hair.
4. 4 Hair clips are ideal for styling hair that has been blown dry. Pin your hair with a hair clip in the front and braid the back. Alternatively, you can twist the ends with heated curlers. After drying your hair, you can collect it in a ponytail. For a more mature look, use a heated curler to curl the strands of hair around your ears.
5. 5 Bundles - Depending on the texture of your hair and the amount of time you have, you may want to braid your hair. Secure your hair while it is damp, blow-dry it or let it dry on its own overnight, and start twisting the bundles inward or outward to create small, coiled curls. Some harnesses can last up to two weeks (don't wear them for more than two weeks, otherwise they will turn into dreadlocks).
6. 6 If you like short hairstyles and afros, then use a variety of hairpins, decorative combs and fake flowers to highlight your style. Comb your hair back and secure with hairpins. You can also part your hair down the middle of your forehead, and comb it back, securing it with bobby pins and flowers. For an elegant and sophisticated look, use hair jewelry that matches the color of your clothes. For special occasions, Afro tiaras look good.
7. 7 When you sleep, wear a satin cap over your hair to prevent curls from frizzing or loosening. Leave it overnight. If you sweat a lot while wearing a hat, sleep on a satin pillowcase. These can be purchased in a variety of colors from the bedding section of any department store or beauty store.

Tips

• Use coconut oil to strengthen and moisturize your hair.
• Textured hair is very brittle, so be careful when styling.
• Avoid using gel. If you still need to use it, buy the one that is right for YOUR hair and not the cheapest to avoid hair loss and breakage.
• Dyeing the ends red, brown or blond will add a playful touch to your look.
• Use a hair cream to add shine.

Warnings

• Always chemically treat your hair in a salon, and always follow the advice of your hairdresser.
• If your hair has been chemically treated, always check with your hairdresser before trying new hair products and styling products.

What do you need

• Moisturizing shampoo and conditioner.
• Natural hair oil or oil-based hair styling products.
• Microfiber towel.
• Hair ornaments.
• Wide-toothed comb.
• Comb with a long handle.
• Scrunchy.
• Satin pillowcase or satin cap.