Short afro hair is a versatile and stylish choice that allows for a wide range of looks. Whether you’re aiming for a bold and edgy appearance or a more polished and professional look, there are numerous ways to style short afro hair. This article will explore 9 distinct styling options, providing detailed descriptions and analyses of each.
1. Defined Curls
Overview
Defined curls are a classic and timeless way to showcase short afro hair. This style highlights the natural curl pattern and creates a well-organized and polished look.
How to Achieve Defined Curls
Wash and Condition: Start with freshly washed and conditioned hair. Use a sulfate-free shampoo and a moisturizing conditioner to keep your curls hydrated.
Apply Curl Cream or Gel: While your hair is still damp, apply a curl cream or gel evenly. Use a product that provides hold without making your hair crunchy.
Use a Diffuser: Dry your hair using a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer. This will help enhance the curl pattern without causing frizz.
Finger-Coiling: For more defined curls, use your fingers to coil small sections of hair. This technique helps to create a uniform curl pattern.
Benefits
Emphasizes Natural Texture: This style brings out the natural beauty of afro curls.
Versatile: Defined curls can be dressed up or down, suitable for both casual and formal settings.
Considerations
Product Build-Up: Regular use of styling products can lead to build-up. Ensure to clean your hair thoroughly to avoid this issue.
Maintenance: Defined curls require regular upkeep to maintain their shape and reduce frizz.
2. Twist-Out
Overview
The twist-out is a popular method to achieve a textured and voluminous look. It involves twisting the hair and then unraveling it to create a defined, curly style.
How to Achieve a Twist-Out
Prep Hair: Start with damp hair. Apply a leave-in conditioner or styling cream to ensure your twists are well-moisturized.
Section Hair: Divide your hair into small sections.
Twist: Take each section and twist it from root to tip. You can use two-strand twists or three-strand twists, depending on your preference.
Dry: Allow your twists to air dry or use a hooded dryer.
Unravel: Once dry, carefully unravel each twist. Use a light oil or serum to separate the curls and add shine.
Benefits
Volume and Definition: Twist-outs add volume and definition to short afro hair.
Low Heat: This method requires little to no heat, which is gentler on your hair.
Considerations
Time-Consuming: The twisting process can be time-consuming.
Frizz: If not dried properly, twist-outs can sometimes result in frizz.
3. Frohawk
Overview
The frohawk is a bold and edgy style that combines the traditional afro with a mohawk-inspired look. It involves shaving or cutting the sides of your hair while leaving the center longer and styled.
How to Achieve a Frohawk
Trim Sides: Use clippers to shave or cut the sides of your hair. The length can vary based on your preference.
Style the Top: Use a curl defining cream or gel to shape the longer hair in the center. You can either leave it in a natural fro shape or style it into a defined curl pattern.
Edge Control: Apply edge control or gel to smooth the edges and create a clean look.
Benefits
Unique Look: The frohawk is a striking style that stands out.
Low Maintenance: Shaving the sides reduces the need for regular styling.
Considerations
Regular Maintenance: You’ll need to regularly trim the sides to maintain the frohawk look.
Not for All Workplaces: This style might not be suitable for more conservative work environments.
4. Afro with Tapered Sides
Overview
An afro with tapered sides is a stylish way to balance volume and precision. The tapered sides create a clean and sharp contrast with the fuller top.
How to Achieve Afro with Tapered Sides
Cut the Sides: Visit a barber or use clippers to taper the sides of your hair. The taper can range from low to high, depending on your preference.
Shape the Afro: Use a pick or comb to shape the afro on top. Make sure the shape is even and well-defined.
Moisturize: Apply a moisturizer or curl cream to keep the afro looking its best.
Benefits
Clean Look: The tapered sides provide a neat and polished appearance.
Volume Control: Balances volume on top with a more controlled look on the sides.
Considerations
Regular Trimming: Requires regular visits to the barber or frequent maintenance to keep the tapered sides sharp.
Shape Management: Maintaining the shape of the afro requires consistent styling.
5. Flat Twist-Updo
Overview
The flat twist-updo is a sophisticated and elegant style that works well for formal events or professional settings. It involves flat twisting sections of hair and pinning them up.
How to Achieve a Flat Twist-Updo
Moisturize: Apply a leave-in conditioner or styling cream to damp hair.
Flat Twist: Divide your hair into sections and flat twist each section towards the back of your head.
Pin Up: Once all sections are twisted, pin them up using bobby pins or clips.Secure: Use a light-hold hairspray to secure the style and reduce frizz.
Benefits
Elegant and Professional: Suitable for formal events or professional settings.
Protective Style: Keeps the ends of your hair tucked away, which can reduce breakage.
Considerations
Time-Consuming: Requires a bit more time to complete.
Skill Level: May require some practice to achieve the desired look.
6. Pompadour
Overview
The pompadour is a retro-inspired style that adds height and drama to short afro hair. It involves styling the top section of hair to stand up and back while keeping the sides neat.
How to Achieve a Pompadour
Apply Product: Use a styling cream or pomade on damp hair.
Blow-Dry: Blow-dry the top section of your hair upwards and back using a brush.
Shape: Use a comb to shape the pompadour and ensure it has the desired volume.
Set: Finish with a strong-hold hairspray to maintain the style throughout the day.
Benefits
Bold and Eye-Catching: Adds a dramatic flair to short afro hair.
Versatile: Can be adapted for both casual and formal occasions.
Considerations
Frequent Touch-Ups: May require regular touch-ups to maintain the shape and volume.
Product Build-Up: Heavy use of styling products can lead to build-up.
7. Bantu Knots
Overview
Bantu knots are a fun and playful style that involves sectioning the hair and twisting it into small, knotted buns. They create a unique and textured look.
How to Achieve Bantu Knots
Dampen Hair: Start with damp hair. Apply a leave-in conditioner or styling cream.
Section Hair: Divide your hair into small sections.
Twist and Knot: Twist each section and coil it into a small knot. Secure with a bobby pin or small hair tie.
Dry: Allow the knots to dry completely before unraveling them.
Benefits
Textured Look: Creates a unique texture and volume.
Protective Style: Keeps the ends of your hair protected and can reduce breakage.
Considerations
Time-Consuming: Requires time to create and unravel.
Can Be Tight: Ensure knots are not too tight to avoid tension on the scalp.
See Also: How To Twist Dreads Short Hair
8. Half and Half Style
Overview
The half-and-half style involves styling half of your hair in one way and leaving the other half in its natural state. It creates a dynamic and balanced look.
How to Achieve the Half and Half Style
Divide Hair: Split your hair into two sections—one for styling and one to leave natural.
Style One Side: Choose a style for one side, such as defined curls or a twist-out.
Leave the Other Side Natural: Let the other half of your hair remain in its natural state.
Balance: Ensure that both sections are well-balanced and complement each other.
Benefits
Dynamic Look: Offers a unique contrast and visual interest.
Versatile: Can be customized to suit various occasions.
Considerations
Requires Balance: Both sides need to be balanced for the best effect.
Frequent Styling: May require frequent touch-ups to maintain the look.
9. Finger-Coiled Fro
Overview
The finger-coiled fro is a method that involves using your fingers to coil small sections of hair to create a well-defined and textured afro.
How to Achieve a Finger-Coiled Fro
Prep Hair: Start with damp hair and apply a curl defining cream or gel.
Section Hair: Divide your hair into small sections.
Coil: Use your fingers to coil each section of hair from root to tip.
Dry: Allow the coils to dry completely, either air-drying or using a diffuser.
Benefits
Defined Curls: Creates a well-defined and textured afro.
Natural Look: Emphasizes the natural curl pattern of afro hair.
Considerations
Time-Consuming: Requires time and patience to coil each section.
Maintenance: May need regular upkeep to maintain the definition.
Conclusion
Each of these styles offers a unique way to embrace and showcase short afro hair. Whether you prefer a classic defined curl or a bold frohawk, there’s a style to suit every occasion and personal preference. By experimenting with these techniques, you can find the perfect look that enhances your natural beauty and suits your lifestyle.