THESE ARE 10 BEST OILS FOR CURLING HAIR: THE SECRET FOR LONG-LASTING LOOKS

For anyone with curls, you know the struggle of keeping them defined, bouncy, and frizz-free all day long. The good news is, there’s a secret weapon in your beauty arsenal: hair oil! These amazing elixirs can be the key to unlocking your hair’s full curling potential. Dive into the world of hair oils and discover the 10 best for luscious, long-lasting curls!

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BRIOGEO DON’T DESPAIR, REPAIR! STRENGTHENING TREATMENT OIL

Briogeo’s Don’t Despair, Repair! Strengthening Treatment Oil is a great option for those seeking to tame frizz and boost curl definition. This silicone-free formula is packed with repairing ceramides that target split ends and reinforce the hair cuticle. It also boasts intense moisture for a healthy shine, without weighing down your curls. A few drops applied to damp or dry hair, focusing on mid-lengths and ends, can transform your curls into a smooth, bouncy, and long-lasting style.

MIZANI 25 MIRACLE NOURISHING HAIR OIL

Mizani’s 25 Miracle Nourishing Hair Oil lives up to its name by offering a multitude of benefits in one product. This lightweight, multi-tasking oil is perfect for all hair types, including curly hair. Formulated with a blend of coconut, sunflower seed, and jojoba oils, it deeply moisturizes and softens hair, leaving it manageable and frizz-free. The key here is its lightweight nature. Unlike some heavier oils that can weigh down curls, 25 Miracle Nourishing Hair Oil absorbs quickly, adding shine and definition without sacrificing bounce.

PURA D’OR ORGANIC SWEET ALMOND OIL

Pura D’Or’s Organic Sweet Almond Oil is a versatile and gentle choice for curly hair. This all-natural oil, free from harsh chemicals and additives, is a great option for those with sensitive scalps. Rich in vitamin E and fatty acids, it provides lightweight moisture that absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue. Sweet almond oil can be used as a pre-styling treatment to tame frizz and boost shine, or as a post-styling refresher to revive curls and add definition. Its gentle nature also makes it perfect for use on dry cuticles and brittle ends, promoting overall hair health and curl manageability.

LIVING PROOF CURL MOISTURIZING SHINE OIL

Living Proof’s Curl Moisturizing Shine Oil stands out for its unique biomimetic approach. This silicone-free formula mimics the natural lipids found in healthy hair.  These natural oils work in harmony with your curls, smoothing and hydrating them for a boost of shine and frizz control.  The versatility of this oil is another plus. You can apply it before shampooing as a deep treatment, during styling to enhance definition, or even after styling to add a touch of shine and tame flyaways.  Living Proof’s Curl Moisturizing Shine Oil caters specifically to wavy, curly, and coily hair textures, making it a great choice for those seeking a curl-enhancing oil that integrates seamlessly with their hair’s natural chemistry.

OGX RENEWING + ARGAN OIL OF MOROCCO

If you’re looking for an affordable and luxurious option for your curls, OGX Renewing + Argan Oil of Morocco is a fantastic choice. This popular hair oil is enriched with nourishing Moroccan argan oil, a source of vitamin E and antioxidants. These ingredients work together to strengthen hair, improve elasticity, and combat frizz. OGX Renewing + Argan Oil of Morocco absorbs quickly, leaving your curls soft, shiny, and defined without feeling weighed down. Whether you apply it to damp hair before styling to enhance curl formation or use it on dry hair for a touch of frizz control and shine, this oil is a versatile option that can help you achieve your best curls.

PATTERN JOJOBA HAIR & SCALP OIL BLEND

Designed specifically for curly hair textures, PATTERN’s Jojoba Hair & Scalp Oil Blend is a lightweight, residue-free dream. This unique formula, created by actress Tracee Ellis Ross, blends jojoba oil with safflower, rosehip, and olive oil for a cocktail of nourishing goodness. The star ingredient, jojoba oil, mimics the scalp’s natural sebum, making it readily absorbed without clogging pores. This translates to deep moisture for your hair and scalp, promoting a healthy environment for curls to thrive. PATTERN’s Jojoba Hair & Scalp Oil Blend boasts additional benefits like reducing breakage and itchiness, perfect for those with low-porosity hair or a dry scalp. A few drops massaged into the scalp or smoothed through damp or dry hair can unlock your hair’s full curl potential, leaving it defined, bouncy, and beautifully hydrated.

SHEAMOISTURE 100% PURE ARGAN OIL

SheaMoisture’s 100% Pure Argan Oil offers a simple yet powerful solution for curly hair. This multi-tasking oil, derived from the Moroccan argan tree, is packed with essential fatty acids and vitamin E. These powerhouse ingredients work together to deeply nourish and soften dry, brittle curls. The lightweight formula absorbs quickly, avoiding the greasy residue that can weigh down your curls. SheaMoisture’s 100% Pure Argan Oil is a versatile product that can be used on both hair and skin. Apply a few drops to damp hair to enhance curl definition and add shine, or smooth it over dry hair to tame frizz and flyaways. You can even use it on your skin for a boost of hydration and a youthful glow.

AUSSIE MIRACLE CURLS CURL-DEFINING OIL

Aussie Miracle Curls Curl-Defining Oil is a budget-friendly option that packs a punch. Infused with coconut and Australian jojoba oil, this paraben-free formula promises to quench your curls’ thirst for moisture. The key ingredients work in tandem: coconut oil provides deep conditioning and shine, while jojoba oil mimics the scalp’s natural sebum, ensuring lightweight absorption that won’t weigh down your curls. Aussie Miracle Curls Curl-Defining Oil claims to instantly absorb and seal the hair cuticle, locking in hydration to combat frizz and promote long-lasting definition. Apply a few drops to damp or dry hair, focusing on mid-lengths and ends, to transform your curls into a smooth, bouncy, and manageable style.

KÉRASTASE ELIXIR ULTIME HYDRATING HAIR OIL SERUM

Kérastase’s Elixir Ultime Hydrating Hair Oil Serum is a luxurious option for those seeking a multi-benefit curl treatment. This blend of precious oils, including argan, camellia, and marula, nourishes and hydrates all hair types, with a special focus on taming frizz and boosting shine. The lightweight formula absorbs quickly, avoiding greasy buildup that can weigh down curls. Kérastase’s Elixir Ultime Hydrating Hair Oil Serum offers versatility in application. You can use it on damp hair before styling to enhance curl formation and manageability, or apply it to dry hair to smooth frizz and add a touch of luminous shine. This oil prioritizes hair health alongside curl definition, making it a great choice for those seeking a product that nourishes while promoting beautiful, long-lasting curls.

OUIDAD MONGONGO CURL TREATMENT OIL

Ouidad’s Mongongo Curl Treatment Oil is a curl-loving formula designed to address multiple concerns. This fast-absorbing oil, derived from the Mongongo nut native to Africa, is rich in essential fatty acids that provide deep nourishment and strengthen hair strands. It forms a protective barrier on the hair’s surface, locking in moisture to prevent frizz and damage from heat styling or UV rays. The result? Soft, shiny, and defined curls with long-lasting bounce. Whether you apply it to damp hair before styling to enhance curl formation or use it on dry hair for a touch of frizz control, Ouidad’s Mongongo Curl Treatment Oil can be a valuable tool in your quest for healthy, beautiful curls.

HOW HAIR OILS WORK

While all oils soften and nourish hair (they’re emollients!), they don’t directly add moisture. Think of them as sealing agents. They lock in moisture provided by conditioners, leave-in products, and creams that contain water and humectants. These hydrating products are key! Oils then create a protective barrier on the hair shaft, preventing that moisture from evaporating and keeping your curls frizz-free and defined for longer.

Here’s the takeaway: for the best results, use a conditioner or leave-in with hydrating ingredients first, then follow up with a hair oil to lock it all in. This combo will give your curls the moisture they crave and the definition you desire.

3 TYPES OF HAIR OIL

PENETRATING OILS

Penetrating oils are designed to sleep deeply into the hair shaft, nourishing it from the inside out. These oils typically have smaller molecular structures that allow them to pass through the hair’s cuticle layer. Examples include coconut oil, sunflower oil, and babassu oil. These oils are particularly effective for providing deep hydration, strengthening the hair, and preventing protein loss. They are ideal for use in pre-wash treatments and deep conditioning routines.

PENETRATING AND SEALING OILS

Some oils have the dual capability of both penetrating the hair shaft and sealing the cuticle. These versatile oils include castor oil, olive oil, avocado oil, grapeseed oil, sweet almond oil, argan oil, apricot kernel oil, and macadamia oil. They offer the best of both worlds: deep hydration and a protective barrier. These oils can enhance shine, improve elasticity, and lock in moisture, making them suitable for a variety of hair care applications, from leave-in conditioners to styling products.

SEALING OILS

Sealing oils are primarily used to coat the hair’s surface, creating a barrier that locks in moisture and protects the hair from environmental damage. These oils usually have larger molecular structures that prevent them from being absorbed deeply into the hair shaft. Examples include rice bran oil and jojoba oil. Sealing oils are excellent for smoothing the hair, reducing frizz, and adding a glossy finish. They are particularly beneficial when applied to the ends of the hair to prevent split ends and breakage.

WHICH OIL IS BEST FOR YOUR HAIR TYPE?

Choosing the best oil for your hair type depends on your specific needs and hair characteristics. Here’s a guide to help you select the right one:

FINE OR OILY HAIR

For fine or oily hair types, lightweight oils are best to avoid weighing down the hair or making it look greasy. Grapeseed oil and sweet almond oil are excellent choices as they are light and easily absorbed, providing moisture and shine without excess heaviness. These oils can help balance oil production and add a subtle sheen to your locks.

DRY OR DAMAGED HAIR

Dry or damaged hair benefits from heavier, more nourishing oils that can provide intense hydration and repair. Coconut oil, olive oil, and avocado oil are rich in fatty acids and vitamins that help to strengthen and moisturize the hair. These oils penetrate deeply, making them perfect for deep conditioning treatments to restore moisture and elasticity to brittle hair.

CURLY OR COARSE HAIR

Curly or coarse hair types often require thicker oils to maintain moisture and manageability. Castor oil and argan oil are ideal for these hair types as they offer deep hydration and help to define curls while reducing frizz. These oils also provide a protective barrier that locks in moisture, keeping your curls soft and bouncy.

COLOR-TREATED OR CHEMICALLY PROCESSED HAIR

For hair that has been color-treated or chemically processed, it’s essential to use oils that can help repair damage and maintain color vibrancy. Argan oil and apricot kernel oil are excellent options as they are rich in antioxidants and vitamins that help to strengthen and protect hair. These oils nourish the hair while helping to prolong the life of your color and adding a healthy shine.

NORMAL HAIR

If you have normal hair that doesn’t fall into any specific category, versatile oils like jojoba oil and macadamia oil are great all-rounders. Jojoba oil closely mimics the natural oils produced by your scalp, making it excellent for maintaining balanced moisture levels. Macadamia oil is also lightweight and nourishing, providing a nice balance of hydration and shine without being overly heavy.

CONCLUSION

Taming frizz, defining those gorgeous spirals, and achieving long-lasting hold – that’s the dream for anyone with curls. The good news is, hair oils are your secret weapon! With the right oil for your hair’s unique needs, you can unlock your hair’s full curling potential. From budget-friendly options to luxurious blends, there’s an oil out there waiting to transform your curls into a masterpiece of definition, shine, and bounce. So, ditch the frizz and embrace your curls with the power of hair oil!

25 ATTRACTIVE NATURAL BRAIDS IN THE FRONT OF NATURAL HAIR

Natural hair is a canvas for endless creativity, and braids are a powerful tool to express that. Framing your face with stunning braids adds instant style and versatility to your look, making them perfect for natural hair styles easy to achieve. Whether you’re searching for a bold statement or a touch of delicate detail, this guide explores 25 captivating braid styles designed specifically to grace the front of your natural hair, empowering you to embrace your unique beauty.

BEST BRAIDS IN THE FRONT OF NATURAL HAIR

SCALP BRAIDS AND CORKSCREW WAVES

Try out the charming combination of half cornrows and half weave for a chic vacation look. Long wavy curls beautifully complement the front cornrows, adding to their allure. This stunning style is a hit on Instagram too. Simply divide your natural hair from ear to ear as with most hairstyles. Secure the front section with clips or ties, then braid the back section only. Finish by tucking the braid ends and applying hair extensions or a wig for added flair.

BOX BRAIDS — WITH A BANG

Box braids are a timeless protective style that can be adorned with bangs for a touch of youthful flair. This combination offers versatility, allowing you to style the bangs to frame your face or sweep them to the side for a touch of mystery.

ZIGZAG STRAIGHT BACK CORNROWS

Zigzag straight back cornrows with a heart on the side offer a unique and eye-catching twist on the classic cornrow style. The zigzag parting adds a touch of playful dimension, while the heart design incorporated near the temple injects a sweet and romantic touch. This combination is perfect for those who want a protective style that’s both stylish and full of personality.

BEAD IT UP

“Bead it Up” hair refers to a vibrant and eye-catching hairstyle that incorporates beads throughout the braids. These beads can be made from various materials like wood, metal, or plastic, and come in a vast array of colors and sizes.

Adding beads to your braids takes your hairstyle to the next level, offering endless possibilities for personalization and expression. Whether you choose to accentuate specific sections or weave them throughout your entire style, the beads add a touch of cultural flair, texture, and a playful element to your natural hair.

CORNROW BRAIDS IN THE FRONT HIGH CURLY PONYTAIL IN THE BACK

Cornrow braids in the front with a high curly ponytail in the back is a stunning and versatile hairstyle. The cornrows offer a protective style for your natural hair, while the high ponytail adds volume and drama. This combination is perfect for those who want a look that’s both stylish and practical. The curly ponytail can be styled with your natural hair or with extensions, allowing you to play with different textures and lengths. This hairstyle is perfect for any occasion, from a casual day out to a special event.

FLIP OVER BRAIDS

Don’t let the intricate design fool you – flip-over braids are the hottest new box braid style, not a geometry test! While the combination of cornrows, box braids, and optional curly pieces creates a mesmerizing pattern, you don’t need a mathematical mind to rock this look. However, be prepared to seek out a skilled braider, as the technique requires expertise to achieve the stunning, eye-catching result.

SCALP BRAIDS WITH HIGH PUFF 

This cornrow braid hairstyle is a match made in Afro-heaven for black women, especially those with 4C hair. It celebrates the beauty of textured tresses, allowing you to showcase your cornrows in all their glory. For an extra touch of vibrancy, adorn your braids with beads and accessories, or incorporate colored hair extensions to add even more visual interest. This versatile style is surprisingly easy to achieve with human hair extensions, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a head-turning look that’s both protective and effortlessly chic.

BANTU KNOTS BRAIDS

Bantu knots braids offer a unique twist on the classic Bantu knot style. Instead of simply twisting the hair sections, intricate goddess cornrows are incorporated before forming the knots, resulting in a stunningly textured look. This fusion of braids and knots creates a protective hairstyle that’s both stylish and eye-catching, perfect for those who want to add a touch of personality to their natural hair.

CREATIVE CORNROW BRAIDS

While reminiscent of simplified lemonade braids, this style offers a unique twist. Instead of intricate cornrowing patterns, it features interlaced rows created by sectioning your natural hair from the center outwards. Braiding each section with hair extensions and incorporating gold cuffs during the process creates a stunning yet straightforward look. This style requires no long hair pieces or additional techniques, making it a beautiful and achievable option for those seeking a touch of elegance without the fuss.

CLAW CLIP IT UP

Claw-clipped braided hairstyles are taking TikTok by storm, and it’s easy to see why! This versatile trend combines the beauty of braids with the convenience and style of a trendy accessory. Simply choose your favorite claw clip and use it to secure your box braids into a chic bun or create a stylish half-up, half-down look. The possibilities are endless, and the best part? You can effortlessly match your claw clip to your outfit, making it a perfect way to add a touch of personality and flair.

CORNROW BRAIDS INTO HIGH LOOSE BUN 

For those mornings when you want a gorgeous hairstyle without the fuss, look no further than the stunning combination of cornrow braids, a high loose bun, and a touch of beads. This style is perfect for 4C hair, as it allows you to embrace your natural texture while achieving a polished look. The cornrows offer protection, the high bun adds volume and style, and the beads provide a touch of personalization, all without requiring the intricate braiding techniques of other styles. This quick and easy hairstyle is a lifesaver for busy mornings and guarantees a head-turning look.

HALF UP BRAIDS

Feeling stuck in a hairstyle rut? Spice things up with a timeless classic: the half-up, half-down look. This versatile style works wonders with braided hair, allowing you to experiment with different options. Whether you gather half your braids into a chic top knot or opt for a playful, messy bun with loose curls, the half-up, half-down look is guaranteed to refresh your style and turn heads.

JUMBO CORNROWS

While jumbo cornrows might resemble dutch braids, they offer a distinct and eye-catching twist. Unlike dutch braids which result in two prominent braids, jumbo cornrows create multiple, thick braids that frame the face beautifully. These chunky braids not only save you precious styling and maintenance time but also offer a low-maintenance, effortless look that suits various occasions.

SIMPLE FULANI BRAIDS

Simple Fulani braids are a stylish and easy-to-create hairstyle that originates from the Fulani people of West Africa. These braids typically feature a central cornrow or braided line running from the front to the back of the head, with smaller cornrows or braids on either side. They often incorporate decorative elements such as beads, cowrie shells, or colorful thread for added flair. Fulani braids are versatile and can be adapted to suit different hair lengths and textures. This classic yet trendy hairstyle is popular for its cultural significance and eye-catching aesthetic, making it a favorite choice for many people seeking a chic and distinctive look.

ASYMMETRICAL LOB

The asymmetrical lob is a modern and stylish haircut that’s shorter in the back and longer in the front. “Lob” stands for “long bob.” This trendy hairstyle adds an edgy twist to the classic bob haircut, giving it a contemporary and dynamic look. The asymmetrical cut creates a flattering frame for the face, drawing attention to the features while providing a sense of movement and dimension. It’s a versatile style that can be customized to suit different face shapes and hair textures. Whether worn sleek and straight or with textured waves, the asymmetrical lob offers a chic and fashionable option for those looking to switch up their look with a touch of flair.

MESSY BUN

The messy bun reigns supreme as a timeless and universally flattering hairstyle. Its effortless charm lies in its relaxed and textured look, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you have long, flowing locks or shorter, layered hair, a messy bun can be easily achieved and styled to your preference. The beauty of the messy bun lies in its simplicity. It requires minimal effort and styling products, making it a go-to option for busy mornings or lazy days. This hairstyle boasts incredible versatility, allowing you to dress it up or down depending on your needs.

HALF CORNROWS HALF CURLS WITH BEADS

Half cornrows, half curls with beads is a hairstyle that consistently reigns supreme in the world of trendy looks. The captivating combination of intricate cornrow patterns framing the face seamlessly blends into long, flowing natural waves, creating a stunning visual contrast. Adding beads to the braids injects a touch of personality and flair, making the style even more eye-catching. For an extra touch of charm, the curls can be further styled into soft locs, adding a playful and joyful dimension to the overall look. This hairstyle is guaranteed to turn heads and garner appreciation for its unique blend of beauty and versatility.

JUMBO BRAID

For a simple yet impactful hairstyle, consider gathering your box braids into a single giant plait. Whether you choose a side-swept or a bundled-back look, this style offers two major benefits: Firstly, it instantly elevates your look with a touch of main-character energy. Secondly, it keeps your braids neatly tucked away from your face, making it perfect for days when you want to highlight your features without the distraction of loose strands.

HALF-CORNROWS HALF-BRAIDS UPDO

The half-cornrows half-braids updo is a stylish and creative hairstyle that combines two different braiding techniques. In this hairstyle, the top section of the hair is styled into cornrows, while the bottom section is braided. This unique combination creates a striking contrast and adds visual interest to the hairdo. The cornrows can be arranged in various patterns, such as straight back or zigzag, while the braids at the bottom can be left loose or gathered into an updo. This versatile hairstyle is perfect for both casual and formal occasions, and it can be customized with accessories like beads or hair cuffs for added flair. Overall, the half-cornrows half-braids updo offers a trendy and eye-catching look that is sure to turn heads.

SKY HIGH PONYTAIL

The sky-high ponytail is a fun and trendy hairstyle where the hair is pulled up high on the head, creating a sleek and dramatic look. This style involves gathering all the hair together and securing it with an elastic band at the crown of the head, lifting the ponytail upward towards the sky. The key to achieving this hairstyle is to smooth out any bumps or lumps in the hair and use hairspray or gel to keep it sleek and polished. The sky-high ponytail adds height and volume to the hair, making it a bold and statement-making choice for any occasion. Whether worn casually or dressed up for a special event, this hairstyle is sure to make a striking impression.

SCALP CORNROWS WITH HIGH CURLY PONYTAIL

Check out this stylish combination of cornrow braids, a high curly ponytail, and two front side pieces! These adorable cornrow braids leading into a high ponytail are simple to create, even if you’re doing it yourself. You can opt to braid the ponytail itself, giving it a fun protective style, or leave some strands of hair loose on the sides for a playful touch. This look adds a youthful and pretty vibe to your overall appearance, perfect for any occasion!

CURLY PONYTAIL

LOW PONYTAIL FOR STITCH CORNROWS

The low ponytail for stitch cornrows is a stylish and practical hairstyle that combines the sleekness of stitch cornrows with the simplicity of a low ponytail. In this hairstyle, the hair is braided into neat and tight stitch cornrows close to the scalp. Once the cornrows are complete, the remaining hair is gathered and secured into a ponytail positioned low at the nape of the neck. This hairstyle is not only chic and trendy but also functional, keeping the hair out of the face and off the neck. It’s a versatile look that can be worn for various occasions, from casual outings to more formal events. Plus, it’s easy to maintain and can last for several days, making it a convenient choice for those with busy schedules.

SIDE PART BRAIDS

Side part braids are a stylish and easy-to-create hairstyle that adds flair to your look. In this hairstyle, the hair is parted on one side of the head, creating a distinct and asymmetrical appearance. From there, small sections of hair are braided neatly and tightly, either hanging freely or gathered into a ponytail or bun. Side part braids are versatile and can be customized to suit different hair lengths and textures. They are perfect for various occasions, from casual days out to special events, adding a touch of sophistication and elegance to your overall style. Plus, they are a practical choice for keeping hair out of your face while still looking fashionable.

CORNROWS IN DIFFERENT SIZES

Cornrows in different sizes offer a stylish and versatile way to braid your hair. With this hairstyle, you can mix and match various sizes of cornrows to create a unique and eye-catching look. Some cornrows can be thin and close together, while others can be thicker and spaced farther apart. This variation adds texture and visual interest to your hairdo, allowing you to express your individual style. Whether you prefer a simple and subtle appearance or a more bold and intricate design, cornrows in different sizes can be tailored to suit your preferences. This hairstyle is suitable for various occasions and can be adorned with beads, cuffs, or other accessories for added flair. Overall, cornrows in different sizes are a fun and creative way to showcase your personality through your hair.

CONCLUSION

With a diverse range of 25 stunning braids designed specifically to flatter the front of your natural hair, the possibilities for self-expression are endless. From intricate braids and goddess braids to playful half-up, half-down hairstyles and protective updos, these hairstyles offer the perfect combination of beauty, versatility, and practicality. Feel free to get creative with your hairstyle, as hair masks for curly hair and products are here to help enhance your look. So next time you’re looking for a new hairstyle, remember the transformative power of braids – the perfect accessory to showcase your natural beauty in a whole new light.