From Relaxed Hair to an Afro
A: You can absolutely get that modern afro look with relaxed hair! Yaya’s style is a great example. It’s full, defined, and effortlessly chic. The best way to achieve it? A braid-out. This technique adds volume and texture without heat, keeping your hair healthy while giving you that gorgeous, bouncy shape.
Start with slightly damp hair. Not soaking wet, just moist enough to work with. Divide your hair into small sections (about half an inch wide for tighter curls, or larger if you prefer looser waves).
• Apply a leave-in conditioner or styling cream to each section to lock in moisture and prevent frizz.
• Braid each section tightly, starting as close to the scalp as possible for maximum volume. Secure the ends with a snag-free elastic.
Step 2: Setting the Style
Once all your hair is braided, apply a styling product (like a curl-defining lotion or diluted gel) to each braid. This helps hold the texture without stiffness.
• Let your hair air-dry completely (4–8 hours). If you’re short on time, use a diffuser on low heat, but avoid disturbing the braids.
• For extra definition, blast the dried braids with warm air, then let them cool before taking them down.
Step 3: The Big Reveal
Once your braids are fully dry and cool, carefully remove the elastics.
• Gently unravel each braid from the bottom up, separating the strands with your fingers.
• For maximum volume, use a wide-tooth comb or pick to fluff the roots and shape your afro.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
• Lightly mist with a flexible-hold hairspray to set the style.
• Scrunch your hair with your hands to enhance the texture.
Pro Tips:
• Smaller braids = tighter curls & more volume (perfect for a bold afro).
• Larger braids = looser waves (great for a softer look).
• For a more uniform curl pattern, try perm rods instead of braids.
With a little patience, you’ll have a gorgeous, modern afro that’s full of life!
See also:
How does one get his afro looking soft like the West Indies locks?
African-American hair care