The Mane Event, Hairstyles for Ethnic Hair

You, Your Ethnic Hair and Hairstyles

Working with ethnic hair requires experience because some of the concepts associated with it can be quite confusing. For example although the results are similar, the techniques used to achieve them can be vastly different. To simplify the process, here are some terms that used to describe some common hairstyles and techniques.

Let's Take A Look At Popular Ethnic Hair Styles

The Afro

The Afro is a style that is commonly associated with African American hair . However, it can be used for any kind of hair as long as the texture is tightly curled or kinky. In order to achieve this, your hair is styled in a way that it stands out from your scalp. The end result is usually a round silhouette although any kind of shape can be achieved. Afros became popular in the 60s and became a symbol of individuality.

In order to style your hair into an Afro, your hair must be clean and dry. Choosing a shampoo and conditioner for your type of hair will be the first step in assuring that your hair has been primed for an Afro with volume.

Spray on a light hair oil that might have ingredients of coconut, neem and jojoba and rosemary oil and massage it through your hair. This combination of oils is also found in traditional Indian hair oils. Use a hair pick to lift your hair from the scalp. One of the challenges of the afro hairstyle is that there is a tendency for the hair to break. Avoid this by working on the ends of your hair and work your way towards the scalp. Once all the hair strands have been lifted, use your hands to pat your hair into the desired shape.

A variation of the traditional Afro is the Afro puff. Instead of allowing your hair to stand up on its own, it is secured with a pin or elastic holder to create a larger puff. This is the easiest way to style natural hair and is recommended on children because it is a neat and fuss-free style.

Bantu or Zulu Knots

A favorite for those with ethnic hair is bantu or zulu knots. In order to do this, section your hair and twist it around to create tight coils. How your hair will be sectioned depends on the thickness or length of your hair. The shape of the sections can also be used to express individuality and they range from squares to triangles. The ends of your hair should then be tucked under the coil by using a hair clip to hold your hair in place.

Two-Strand Twist

Let's not forget the two-strand twist. This is when you take a section of your hair, typically a small square, divide your square in halves and twist it around each other forming an interweaving of your hair. This is how a lot of people begin their Loc journey.

Braids/Cornrows

Braids or cornrows are considered classics hair styles no matter what type of hair. Take three sections of your hair and weave them alternately. The ends can be allowed to hang loose or tied with elastic bands. This style is often worn by small children to manage their hair.  Cornrows or braids are also the preliminary stage for a well styled Afro.

You see when you take the cornrows out you now have a head of hair that has volume and an Afro that brings you a lot of attention.

Summing Things Up ...

Whether your hair is kinky, locked, relaxed or curly, you can always find a hair style that's befitting of its texture.

That's it for this week.  As always ..

Dedicated to Your Beauty,

Juliette Samuel, 

Esthetician/Author/Publisher 

Nyraju Skin Care