Afro

Category: no heat

  • Simple Everyday Styles For Afro Medium Hair

    So, you’ve got medium-length afro hair, and you’re curious about the unique way it behaves, right? Medium-length hair strikes that sweet spot: it’s long enough to show off some remarkable texture and shape, yet it’s short enough to be pretty manageable. It’s kind of like the best of both worlds. This length allows you to experiment with different styles without being overwhelmed by daily maintenance.

    Let’s talk benefits first. With medium-length hair, you’ve got versatility at your fingertips. Imagine having enough length for those gorgeous twists, braids, or even a casual afro puff, yet not so much that you feel like you’re wrestling your hair every morning. It’s flexible enough to play around with styles yet hassle-free when compared to longer lengths.

    But hey, surfacing some challenges here is essential too. Medium-length afro hair can sometimes be caught in that awkward phase – not quite short, not long enough for certain styles requiring heavier volume or weight. Tangles and dryness can still be an issue, especially if you forget a good moisturizing routine; afro hair needs consistent care to maintain its bounce and definition, irrespective of the length.

    Despite these little hiccups, medium-length afro hair is a gem. Its real beauty lies in how it can highlight your personal style and adapt to your mood swings – one day, it’s all curls and coils; the next, sleek and smooth. Embracing its dynamic nature unlocks a whole realm of styling possibilities.

    Essential Care Tips for Maintaining Medium Afro Hair

    Keeping medium-length afro hair in top condition is all about striking the right balance. You want your hair to shine and be full of life without spending your entire day fussing over it. Daily moisturizing is crucial. Afro hair tends to dry out quickly, leading to breakage, so applying a leave-in conditioner or moisturizing cream every morning can make a big difference. Simple, consistent hydration helps keep your curls bouncy and full of life.

    Choosing the right products can transform your hair care routine. Not all products work the same for medium-length afro hair, so it’s worth investing time in finding the ones that suit your hair’s specific needs. Look out for products free from sulfates and parabens, opting for those with natural oils like shea, coconut, or argan oil.

    Detangling might seem like a chore, but it doesn’t have to be a headache. Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to detangle hair when it’s damp and slathered with conditioner. This method ensures you’re not pulling and tugging, which could lead to unnecessary breakage.

    Healthy hair growth starts from the scalp, so don’t skip on scalp care. Regular massage can stimulate circulation, promoting healthier hair growth. Natural oils can also be great here, offering a soothing and nourishing experience that helps your roots stay strong.

    Regular trims are more than just a suggestion – they’re vital. Keeping those split ends at bay helps your hair look neat and healthy. Aim for a trim every 6 to 8 weeks, even if it’s just a little dusting to keep your ends tidy without losing length.

    Everyday Styles That Celebrate Your Afro

    Styling medium-length afro hair for everyday wear doesn’t have to be complicated at all. Afro puffs are an easy go-to that manages to look effortlessly chic, regardless of your outfit. Simply gather your hair into one or two puffs using a hairband, and you’ve got yourself a fun and stylish look that’s ready in minutes.

    Protective styles like twists or braids are excellent for daily wear. Not only do they look amazing, but they also help keep your hair from tangling and breaking. Plus, they offer a break from constant hair manipulation, which is always a good move for maintaining length and health.

    The half-up, half-down style is another versatile choice. It lets you mix up your style without committing to a fully tied back or entirely loose look. You can easily dress it up or keep it casual, depending on your vibe for the day.

    Accessories can totally elevate your hair game. Headbands, clips, and scarves aren’t just add-ons; they can be the star of your hairstyle. They let you express a unique personal style while keeping your hair neatly tucked away, minimizing fuss throughout the day.

    Transform Your Look with These Styling Techniques

    Experimenting with different styling techniques can add a whole new dimension to your medium-length afro hair. One approach to creating length and volume without heat is by using stretching techniques. Methods like banding, african threading, or twists allow your curls to extend and take on a new shape, all while keeping your hair’s health intact.

    When it comes to drying your hair, both blow drying and air drying have their own perks. Blow drying with a diffuser can help define curls, but air drying is definitely the gentler option, helping you maintain moisture and minimize heat damage. It’s all about what works best for your lifestyle and hair goals.

    If you’re aiming for those supremely defined curls, flexi-rods and curlformers are your friends. They’re a great way to add bounce and shape without needing heat. Simply apply them on damp hair, leave them in overnight, and voila – you’ve got those dreamy curls.

    Looking for a temporary color change to spice things up? There are plenty of options now, from colored gels to sprays that let you play around without the long-term commitment or risk of damage. It’s a perfect way to experiment with your style, adding a little splash of color to match your mood or outfit.

    What do you think about having a medium-length afro? write your thoughts down.

  • Creating Heat Free Curls With Flexi-rods

    I’m going to kick things off by talking about why heat-free hairstyling is catching on. We’ve all heard the warnings about heat damage from curling irons and hair straighteners, but it’s not just scare tactics. Excessive heat can seriously sap the strength and shine from your locks.

    Now what are flexi-rods? They’re simple tools for creating curls, designed to be gentle on hair. These bendable, foam rods come in various sizes and they’re game-changers for those who want to ditch heat. Choosing flexi-rods means you’re opting for a health-first approach to hairstyling.

    This isn’t just about avoiding damage; it’s also about embracing a healthier routine that promotes hair integrity over time. I’m here to guide you through the process of achieving bouncy, beautiful curls without the risk associated with heat styling.

    By the time you finish this article, you’re going to find out how to select the right flexi-rods for your hair and master the technique of creating heat-free curls that last. So let’s prepare to roll into the next section, where we’ll delve into choosing the perfect flexi-rods for your hair type.

    Choosing the Right Flexi-Rods for Your Hair Type

    If you’re eager to get started with flexi-rods, the first thing you’ll need to understand is that not all rods are created equal. They come in a variety of sizes, and each size serves a different purpose. So, I’m going to help you navigate the sea of options and choose the right flexi-rods for your unique hair type.

    Let’s talk about size for a moment. Flexi-rods range from about 7/16 of an inch to 7/8 of an inch in diameter. Generally, the narrower the rod, the tighter the curl. If it’s tight, springy curls you’re after, you’re going to want to go for the smaller sizes. On the flip side, for looser, beachy waves, the larger ones will be your best bet.

    Now, the texture and length of your hair play a big role in your flexi-rod choice. For those with fine or relaxed hair, smaller rods can create curls without much overlap, which can prevent tangles and breakage. Thick or coarse hair might need larger rods to handle the volume and weight of the hair. And if you have particularly long hair, you’ll want a flexi-rod that can take on the entire length without doubling up too much.

    If you’re a beginner, don’t worry too much about getting it perfect on the first try. It might take a couple of attempts to find the size that resonates with you. A good starting point is to grab a mixed pack of flexi-rods, available at most beauty supply stores or online. This way, you can experiment with different sizes and see what works best for your hair without committing to just one size.

    Next up, I’m going to walk you through the step-by-step process of actually using these flexi-rods to achieve beautiful curls. This includes everything from how to prepare your hair for the best results to the actual technique of wrapping your hair around the rods. So let’s move on to creating those gorgeous, heat-free curls.

    Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Curls with Flexi-Rods

    I’m going to walk you through creating bouncy, beautiful curls using flexi-rods, and no, you won’t need any heat at all. This method is gentle on your hair and can yield impressive results overnight or with a few hours’ patience.

    First things first, you’ll want to start with clean, damp hair. Why damp? Because it sets the stage for long-lasting curls. Just make sure it’s not sopping wet to avoid long drying times and potential discomfort.

    Sectioning your hair is crucial. Use clips to divide your hair into manageable parts, working with one section at a time. This ensures even coverage and uniform curl size. Aim for smaller sections for tighter curls and larger ones for looser waves.

    Now, you’re ready to roll – literally. Take a small section of hair, apply a styling product for hold, and wrap the end of your hair around the flexi-rod. Then, roll the rod up towards your scalp and bend the ends of the flexi-rod to secure it in place.

    It might take a couple of tries to get the hang of it, but don’t worry too much about perfection on your first go. Consistency comes with practice. Once all your hair is rolled up, you can either let it air dry or speed up the process with a hooded dryer on low heat, staying mindful that the goal is to avoid heat damage.

    Time is your friend when it comes to setting your curls. Leaving the flexi-rods in for at least five hours or overnight is ideal. Trust me, the wait is worth it for those heat-free, healthy curls.

    Maintaining Your Flexi-Rod Curls

    Once you’ve achieved those perfect curls without the heat, you’re going to want to make the most of them. Here’s how to keep those waves looking fresh and bouncy.

    First off, let’s talk about nighttime routines. The age-old pineapple method, where you loosely gather your curls at the top of your head, really does wonders. You might also consider a silk or satin bonnet – your curls will thank you for the reduced frizz and maintained moisture.

    Now, when it comes to products, choose wisely. A light holding spray can add longevity to your curls, but steer clear of anything that weighs them down. For touch-ups, a dab of hair oil on the ends will help to combat dryness without sacrificing the bounce.

    As for the dos and don’ts: DO sleep on a satin or silk pillowcase if you can. It’s a game-changer. DON’T disturb your curls too much when they’re set. Let them live their best life without too much manipulation.

    On the off chance your curls start to fall flat, revive them with a spritz of water and a little finger coiling. It’s a simple method that brings back definition and movement.

    That said, perfecting the upkeep of your curls is a journey. Some trial and error are involved, but don’t worry too much about getting everything right from the get-go. You can always tweak your approach as you learn what works best for your hair.

    Wrapping It Up: The Final Take on Flexi-Rod Curls

    I hope by now you’ve become a bit of a flexi-rod enthusiast. And why wouldn’t you? It’s a fantastic method for getting long-lasting curls without exposing your hair to heat damage. Practice, as they say, makes perfect, though you don’t need to strive for perfection. Even if your first few attempts aren’t flawless, the health of your hair will thank you for the effort.

    Remember, encountering a bump or two along your curling journey isn’t a cause for concern. Whether you’re dealing with uneven curls or the occasional rogue rod that won’t sit tight, it’s all part of the learning process. Adjust your approach as you go – you’ll find out that each time you do it, you’ll get better and quicker at it.

    Choose products that resonate with you, and don’t shy away from experimenting with different techniques. Everyone’s hair is unique, and the beauty of flexi-rods is that they can cater to a huge variety of hair types and desired styles. So go ahead and embrace the versatility they offer.

    I really hope that you feel confident in giving these heat-free wonders a whirl. Your hair is a canvas, and flexi-rods are just one more tool in your styling arsenal. Enjoy the curls, the compliments, and the satisfaction that comes from knowing you’re keeping your hair healthy. So my question to you today is, when are you planning to start your heat-free curl journey?

  • No heat year in 2020 – how I maintained it

    Can you live a year without heat on your hair especially when its afro 4C, extremely curly and difficult to manage. Well the answer to that will depend on the thickness of your hair, the porosity and also the surrounding individuals. This year, I managed to live most of it heat free. It has been challenging just enjoying my hair as it is in its curly state.

    Strategies for afro hair

    Now how did I survive you ma

    y wonder? Well each time I washed my hair after a wash day, I would try to air -dry it more than using a towel because I always felt that the towel just makes the hair get more tangled. Immediately I would get my wide-toothed comb and section it off, depending on the mood of the day, I would either put in twists or massive flat twists to save time. I also found that it helped to use moisturize on my hair to avoid it from getting too dry. This would mean that if I wanted to remove the twists or flat twists after some time, the hair will not be in its original state of shrinkage.

     

    Embrace the afro

    I soon learned to embrace my afro in its most natural state, without manipulation, I would just put oil and let it dry. This took some time to get used to, I will let you know why. Firstly, I grew up with this idea that your hair cannot be in the afro state at all. If it is in that state you must do something about it. Secondly, I remember some comments I would get with my hair in this state, none of them were compliments so this really plays with your mind. Thirdly, there is this idea that we always had when we were younger that if an individual’s hair is just in its original state, then it is unkempt.

    I had to acknowledge that these ideas were not right because I always wash my hair every single week. I always make sure to detangle and deep condition in order to keep my hair in good condition. Learning to just embrace my afro helped me to view these ideas as completely foreign and know that sometimes you have to love everything about you, regardless of what anyone thinks. This was a lesson for me and now when I view myself, I don’t acknowledge those negative views anymore.

    Care for the afro

    I realize how fragile and deprived my hair was because it get’s dry every 3 days. I had to learn how to moisturize it often. My scalp was quite sensitive and it really needed nourishment to minimize it from getting dry. I learned how to work in maintaining it, moisture and my hair are friends. I have low-porosity hair, that means that most times when I use a cream or some type of butter, it will just stay on my hair and take a long time to absorb. This meant that I had to start utilizing more light oils on my scalp like jojoba and argan oil. I also started minimizing the use of coconut on my hair although my hair certainly likes it, the only problem I get is when it solidifies.

    Maintenance

    With my hair, I would make sure that I wrap it up before going to bed. This is something that is necessary for maintenance of afro hair. When its neglected it tends to dry and becomes a lot more brittle and difficult to manage. I would also use my little bottle that had water should I want to add moisture to it. Any individual would think that the process is cumbersome, however if you want to maintain natural hair, unless you have other products that can keep it in good condition, this is necessary.

    It  made me think about all the things that were done to natural hair way before products came up. Although a few years back I was always looking for the next new product. I stopped getting a lot of products after realizing how some would not get used. I am also quite particular about what I use on my hair so I stopped getting the next new thing and just worked with all the items that I had.

    What do I use?

    When I wash my hair, I discovered Maui, I really love it. Although it can be costly, I got it on sale.

    I really like how wonderful it feels on my hair. I usually use this and most times just a shampoo that does not contain sulfates. I find with these types of shampoo’s I get fewer tangles and it also get’s well moisturized.

    Once I am done I normally get my conditioner which is mostly jojoba and sometimes coconut.

    I also put some oil on my scalp just to keep it from drying up, mostly shea butter. Which does not have much of a smell and does melt on the scalp.

    This process takes a shorter time as before this I used to spend at least half a day on my scalp, now after I wash it its quite a quick process, I just wash and put moisturizer and I am on my way.

    Deep Conditioning

    I use deep conditioning at least every month, although I want to experiment with that every week to see what will happen to the hair. I think especially in summer it would work, however in winter I would probably keep it to once a month.

    The deep conditioning that I use is Garner although this changed as I was only using henna conditioner.

    The main thing I find with deep conditioner, is that most of them can be used as they are mostly moisturizing to the hair. The amount of time you use it on your head depends, however the longer the better. I normally make sure that I have it on my head when I know that I will not be running too many errands, although even if you are running errands, there are so many options now to used to cover your head.

    The only challenge at the moment is that I certainly need a trim to make sure that my afro is in good condition.

    As I reflect on this year, firstly I would like to mention that although it has been difficult, I believe that there is a lot that I have learned and one thing I have learned to embrace is my hair. The best part of the journey has been learning just to embrace it as it is.

  • Straightening your hair with minimal damage

    Sometimes changing up your hairstyle can be exciting. Especially when you have special occasions or celebrations of any nature where you want to look your best. Now this does not mean that straight hair is the only style that makes you look great. Straightening your hair comes with its advantages and disadvantages. I honestly believe that it is a lot safer to have it relaxed if you want it straight than use a hair straightener. The main reason is that straighteners tend to make afro hair more damaged in general. You also have to make sure that you use the right products in order to minimize hair damage. However, there are ways you can straighten your hair without causing a lot of damage. One of the methods you can use is a silk press.

    Silk Press

    A silk press is the process of using specific products to make your hair bone straight like you have a relaxer. It has become quite popular nowadays and is a great way to change up your hair routine if you want. The process of getting a silk press is that initially, you have you wash your hair. Any type of shampoo or conditioner will do, however there are some products that are ideal for silk press such as Keracare and chi. After you wash the hair, make sure that it is detangled with a brush. If you want to get the best results, it’s best to use the range in order to get the result you want. Once the wash and blow dry has been done, you blow dry your hair. You can use any type of blow-dryer but your hair must not be wet at all (always make sure to use heat protectant). After the process of blow drying you have to add the silk press no matter which one it is. Once you complete the process, you will get a straightener your hair will just glide through and get really bone straight. When you pass through the straightener it should only be one or two passes. This process works for mostly afro hair types.

    If you get a well done silk press, you hair should revert back to its original state once it is washed. A silk press can last up to 2 weeks depending on how active you are and how well you look after it. If you are active, then it’s something that will only last a shorter period for you. Is it worth it, I guess it all depends on what type of occasion you are attending.

    Flat Iron

    This is another method of straightening your hair. Again it may seem similar to the silk press, however with the flat iron, you don’t use the products for a silk press, more likely a serum. The process of straightening is exactly the same. Make sure that you wash your hair. Again any shampoo or conditioner will do. Make sure before you blow dry that you detangle your hair with a brush. Then you can put the serum before you blow dry your hair. Once your hair has been blow dryed, then section it into four depending on the thickness of your hair. Then when you straighten, make sure you use the tail comb as that will help with the process of straightening. It does take some time to get this done, however if you want results this is one of the best methods.

    Now it may seem like the silk-press and flat-iron would be exactly the same processes however there are a few differences.

    Straightening – No heat method

    This one can be quite tricky especially if your hair is quite kinky and thick, however it works if you have some type of hair dryer. I have tried the method however I find that because my hair is curly, it dries and still has the curls so the tip is making sure that when you brush it, before you put the rollers, it’s a lot smoother. I would advise that after you wash your hair, just stretch your hair if it’s curly, you can braid it or use the threading method which will help in straightening it without any heat. Make sure that you put moisturizer during this process so that when you have take out your thread or braid it’s straightened as naturally as possible. Once you start the process of the rollers, you can use any oils that work well on your hair. This process is time-consuming however once you get it done, you may have to keep the rollers in your hair for some time. If you have the hair dryer, the process can be shortened.

    Once you take out your rollers, you will find that your hair has a great style and you can comb it to your satisfaction, depending on the style that you want. This is a heat free way of straightening your hair and making sure that it is in good condition.

    Banding method

    Depending on the length of your hair, the banding method is a great way to straighten your hair if you want to straighten it without heat. If you want results like the silk-press or flat-iron type, then you will be disappointed. This will help elongate your hair if you don’t want it in the shrunken state. Make sure that when you part it, that the bottom is not too tight. If you want it to look neater, you can use some edge control if you want, however depending on your hair-type, it may not be necessary.

    Your hair does not have to be dry it’s a good idea to moisturize it as well. This is a more comfortable method if you don’t want to sleep with rollers on your head and it will still straighten your hair with little to no damage at all. You can actually comb out your hair without any struggle.

    At the end of the day you have to make sure that you are not damaging your hair. I would recommend a silk press or flat iron once a year or even every six months and also for use when you want to trim your hair. These should not me methods that you use all the time. If you want a constant silk press look like I mentioned at the beginning, it’s best then to think of relaxing your hair because that would be a better option for you. I have kept my hair relaxer free for more than 10 years now and I know that some individuals cannot do that, however if you want to keep it natural you need to learn how to look after it. If you don’t have time to experiment then try to find something that works for it. It may be braids, weaves or wigs. The options are endless.

    What method of hair straightening have you tried? I tried the silk-press once, it looked great however after a few months I needed to cut most of my hair as I actually got some heats damage. I have not attempted to straighten my hair in a long time, but that was something I had to learn over the process of looking after my hair. If you want maximum growth, you have to really be patient and consistent with your routine. It’s not easy but if you develop a habit, then it becomes as easy as breathing.

  • Wash and Go Styling for naturally curly hair

    Wash and Go

    Wash and Go, let’s just say this particular style took me a long time to adopt to. Well first of all getting used to the texture of your hair and allowing it just to stay as it is was a great learning curve for me. The fact that you grow up in a society where the afro is looked down upon, it took a really long time before I started getting comfortable with it. In my previous post I spoke about self-love and how it has an impact on how you look after yourself.  When I had to begin the process of accepting everything about myself including my hair, it took a long time. I was always using a blow dryer and I noticed everytime I used it my ends were thinning. It was quite terrible. I remember at that time I was still trying to figure out what to do with my hair and I discovered a really interesting source of information. I used a few products to help my curls get less frizzy due to the fact I had been addicted to relaxer and now I still had that need to have my hair more manageable.

    I ended up using clay as a treatment.

    Clay treatment

    This was amazing for me because I found that it was really safe on the hair and felt good when used on your head.
    As I was looking for various resources to assist me during this time, I came across a product known as Kinky curly. To say that this product was one of the best things that happened in my life would be an understatement. I started using it a long time before it became popular and loved how it worked on my hair. I remember being at University at that time, so the cost was a bit of an issue for me but I remember using it on every member of the family and letting them know how it would solve their hair woes.

    In terms of my hair type, it’s a mix between 4b and 4c texture. It’s not quite tough and when it’s blowdried it get’s quite soft. Most of the time people think I have used product to make it a certain way. I can only imagine what would happen if I was more consistent with products.

    Products

    One things I got to discover during the wash and go journey is that we don’t need to use too many products on our hair. I would have been a product junkie if I had access to many of the products that are in the market today, however I try to keep it simple because I think getting a product for $ 24 per item can tend to be alot and imagine if you are a student that can be  way too much money for it. So when I started this site, I thought if I was a student again, what would I tell my younger self? I would probably say, don’t spend too much on products and keep it simple, which is what I do today.

    In saying all this, does it mean that I always moisturise or stick to a consistent strategy. Well ever since I got my son I can say it’s a challenge, however when I had all the time in the world to fix my hair I was absolutely committed. I think it’s also great to be around individuals that are positive about themselves as that can assist you in learning how to be happy with yourself. I think with the information nowadays we have a great opportunity to meet with other like-minded individuals online. I do remember being part of some groups at that time, but it still took me a very long time to accept myself.

    How things change

    I find it extremely fascinating that the natural hair journey became a thing when I had been natural for over 10 years. I have finally found the confidence to be myself and not apologize for anything. I know how to look after my hair although I don’t spend too much time like I want to. I always make sure that I wash it every week as it’s curly and use products that are sulfate free such as GIOVANNI Tea Tree  . This particular shampoo makes my hair feel amazing. However if the cost seems a bit much I find that using the more natural soaps such as Himalaya Protein Shampoo for Dry,, It’s much cheaper and you can easily get a hold of it.

    There are a lot of products nowadays that cater to natural hair, however sometimes when they start becoming too commercialized sometimes you wonder if it still has the same impact. A few years ago the Keratin treatment became a really popular and I even considered doing it. I just think when you learn how to manager your hair in a certain way and then get to revert back to your original texture. It is a challenge. To this day I have friends that probably don’t know the texture of their hair because of the relaxers that they are used to and I can’t judge them because I know the struggle I had and I think everyone is on a different journey when it comes to natural hair.

    I can conclude that for me at this point in my life I have finally learnt to accept myself through the good hair days and bad hair days. I think I have learnt how to cope with each situation and this blog made me realise I should probably start getting back to the creative individual I once was. I have accepted my hair for what it is and would not change it for the world.

    What do you think of your natural hair and how has your journey been so far?