best natural hair care

GUIDE TO BLACK HAIR TYPES AND HOW TO IDENTIFY THEM (WITH PICTURES)

In this vast and beautiful world, where everyone is unique, black hair comes in many textures, patterns, and styles, each as special as the person who has it. From tightly coiled curls that reach for the sky to smooth waves that flow like dark rivers, black hair carries a deep history and personal story just waiting to be told.

Each hair type tells a story, connected to culture, heritage, and self-expression. We’ll explore these different hair types, learning how to care for them, how to style them, and how to embrace the confidence that comes from loving your natural hair.

Whether it’s the amazing coils of Type 4 hair or the bouncy curls of Type 3, we’ll look at the challenges and joys that come with black hair. Along the way, we’ll bust some myths, celebrate inspiring figures, and encourage everyone to take pride in their beautiful, natural hair.

BLACK HAIR PALE SKIN

Black hair paired with pale skin creates a stunning and eye-catching contrast. The deep, rich tones of black hair against fair skin can enhance and highlight the distinct beauty of both. This contrast can give the skin a porcelain-like appearance, making its natural fairness stand out even more. The dark hair draws attention to facial features like the eyes and lips, resulting in a striking and dramatic look.

ORANGE AND BLACK HAIR

Orange and black hair is a bold, eye-catching combination that creates a unique and striking look. The warmth of orange paired with the richness of black forms a dynamic contrast that instantly draws attention. There are several ways to incorporate orange into black hair. One option is adding orange highlights or a balayage effect, where sections of the hair are dyed orange. This adds pops of color throughout the black, giving it depth and visual appeal.

HIGHLIGHTS ON BLACK HAIR

Highlights on black hair can create a beautiful contrast and add depth to the overall style. They’re a popular choice for those who want to enhance their natural color, add dimension, or create a distinct, personalized look. By adding lighter tones to sections of black hair, highlights create a rich, multidimensional effect.

BLACK HAIR WITH LAYERS

Layered black hair is a chic and versatile style that adds texture, movement, and depth to the beauty of black hair. This cutting technique involves trimming sections of hair at different lengths, creating layers that bring dimension and dynamic flow to the hairstyle.

ANIME BLACK HAIR

Black hair is a popular aesthetic in anime, frequently used for characters due to its versatility and cultural relevance. Since most people in Japan naturally have dark hair, black hair is commonly portrayed in Japanese animation, reflecting both tradition and style. Anime characters with black hair often feature a variety of styles, lengths, and textures. Whether it’s short and spiky or long and flowing, black hair in anime is portrayed in diverse ways to reflect the character’s personality, role, and overall design.

FELIX BLACK HAIR

Felix’s black hair is a key part of his look as an artist. It adds to his charm and stage presence, making his features stand out and helping him shine during performances. While K-pop idols often change their hairstyles and colors, Felix’s black hair is closely linked to his image. For Felix or anyone else, black hair is a classic choice that brings out confidence and style. It’s a versatile color that works with many skin tones and can be styled in various ways to fit personal preferences.

4 CC BLACK HAIR

Black women with 4C hair often celebrate their natural texture, valuing its distinctive beauty and versatility. It can be styled in many ways, such as twist-outs, braid-outs, wash-and-go looks, and protective styles like braids, twists, or locs. These styles not only highlight the beauty of 4C hair but also protect it, helping to maintain its health and length.

PURPLE AND BLACK HAIR

Purple and black hair is great because it can be styled in many different ways. The bold color mix looks amazing with various hairstyles, from sleek and straight to loose curls or fancy updos. Adding different styling techniques and accessories can make the purple and black colors stand out even more, giving a unique and personalized look. This striking combination blends the deep black with bright purple, allowing for a creative expression of personal style. It adds a touch of charm and individuality to your appearance.

BLACK HAIR PFP

A black hair profile picture (PFP) is an image that highlights black hair as the main feature. It can be a photo, drawing, or any digital image used as a profile picture on social media, forums, or other online sites. Choosing a black hair PFP can be a way to celebrate your natural hair, show your personal style, and express your identity. It can also reflect cultural heritage and diversity, as black hair has important cultural and historical meaning.

MEDIUM LENGTH BLACK HAIR

Medium-length black hair is a stylish and flexible choice that blends the beauty of black hair with a manageable length. Falling between the shoulders and collarbone, this length offers a good balance between elegance and practicality, making it easy to style in different ways. The natural shine and depth of black hair at this length highlight its beauty. Medium-length black hair looks sleek and polished, giving a timeless elegance that can be kept up with proper care and styling.

BRAIDS FOR BLACK HAIR

Braids for black hair are a classic and versatile style that celebrates the beauty and culture of black hair. With many different braiding techniques and designs, braids offer endless creative options and are great for protecting the hair. Besides looking great, braids have cultural meaning and connect to ancestral traditions. They’ve been passed down through generations, carrying stories and cultural identity. Wearing braids allows people to enjoy a beautiful hairstyle while honoring the rich history and diversity of black hair.

CHERRY BLACK HAIR COLOR

Cherry black hair color is a bold and eye-catching shade that mixes the richness of black hair with deep red or cherry tones. This combination creates a unique look that stands out from regular black hair colors. The cherry hues add warmth and brightness to the dark black base, giving it a multi-dimensional effect. Depending on how intense you want the color, the cherry tones can be subtle, showing up in certain lighting, or more noticeable in different settings.

BLACK HAIR WITH ASH HIGHLIGHTS

Black hair with ash highlights is a stylish and modern look that combines the deep richness of black hair with cool, ash-colored highlights. This mix creates a striking contrast and adds depth and dimension. The ash highlights can range from soft, subtle gray tones to bolder, more noticeable colors. This allows for a customized look that fits different skin tones and personal styles, adding a touch of sophistication and a modern edge to black hair.

BLACK HAIR WITH BLONDE FRONT PIECES

Black hair with blonde front pieces is a stylish look that mixes deep black hair with bright blonde highlights at the front. This contrast creates a beautiful effect, adding a touch of golden light around the face. The blonde highlights can be softly blended into the black hair or placed more clearly at the front to frame the face. This combination of dark black hair with vibrant blonde pieces adds depth and dimension to the overall look.

CONCLUSION

Understanding your hair type is essential for finding the right products and care routines. By identifying your black hair type, you can tailor your hair care regimen to suit your specific needs, promote healthy hair growth, and achieve your desired style.

Remember: Hair typing is a helpful tool, but it’s not a definitive rule. Your hair may exhibit characteristics of multiple types, and your hair type can change over time. The most important thing is to experiment and find what works best for you.

12 STYLISH HAIR TWISTS FOR MEN IN 2024

Twists remain a popular and practical choice for men with afro-textured hair. Offering a stylish appearance while minimizing maintenance, twists are a versatile hairstyle that can be worn on both short and long hair.

This protective style falls into three main categories:

  • Dreadlock Twists: For those seeking a more textured and defined look.
  • Loose Hair Twists: Suitable for both thick and thin hair, offering a variety of styles.
  • Sponge Twists: A popular option for short hair, creating a defined and textured appearance.

TRIANGLE TWISTS

While boxes are the traditional parting system for twists and braids, triangle parts offer a distinctive and visually appealing alternative. 

The twisting technique remains the same, with the key difference being in the placement of the roots.

Triangle parts create a unique and noticeable style that sets them apart from traditional box-part twists.

SPONGE TWISTS

Twists aren’t just for those with long hair. Men with shorter hair can also achieve this stylish look using a sponge twisting technique.

The sponge, designed with multiple holes, is ideal for curling and twisting natural hair. For short hair, this is a great way to achieve a desired style. Remember to start with damp hair, apply a leave-in conditioner, and rotate the sponge throughout your hair.

Pairing short hair twists with a taper fade or shape-up can create a modern and sophisticated look.

BLEACHED TWISTS

For those seeking to make a statement, bleached twists offer a bold and attention-grabbing variation of this hairstyle.

There are several bleaching options to consider:

  • Bleaching the Ends: A subtle yet stylish way to add a touch of color.
  • Bleaching a Few Strands: A more textured look with strategically placed highlights.
  • Bleaching the Whole Head: A dramatic and eye-catching transformation.

While bleaching can be done at home, it’s highly recommended to entrust this process to a professional hairstylist. This will help prevent damage to your hair and ensure optimal results.

THICK TWISTS

To create thick twists, simply use more hair than usual when starting the twisting process. This will result in a fuller and more voluminous look.

Thick twists are a versatile style that suits a wide range of hair types and textures. They are also relatively easy to achieve, making them accessible to most people with basic braiding skills.

One of the advantages of using more hair for twists is that the braiding process is often quicker than with thinner twists.

TWO STRAND TWISTS (ON DREADLOCKS)

Two strand twists have become a staple hairstyle for men with afro-textured hair, renowned for their simplicity, protective qualities, and distinctive rope-like appearance. This style offers the convenience of lasting up to six weeks, making it a popular choice for busy individuals.

Rappers like Lil Durk and Lil Wayne have played a significant role in popularizing two strand twists, incorporating them into their signature looks.

Often used as a post-wash styling technique for dreadlocks, two strand twists involve taking two locs and wrapping them around each other, securing the ends with rubber bands. It’s important to note that this style can cause hair shrinkage, so the final length may not accurately reflect the true length of your hair.

TWIST OUT (ON DREADLOCKS)

One of the many benefits of two strand twists is the stunning twist out that results when you unravel your dreadlocks. This style is achieved by tightly twisting your hair for several weeks and then allowing it to unravel, creating a voluminous and textured look. The video above showcases a beautiful twist out achieved after a six-week period.

The twist out typically lasts for four to five days before requiring restyling. This versatile style is a favorite among men with afro-textured hair.

If your hair is long enough, you have the flexibility to wear it up or down, allowing you to customize your look to your preference.

TWO STRAND TWISTS (ON LOOSE CURLY HAIR)

While two strand twists are commonly associated with dreadlocks, they can also be a stylish option for loose curly hair. The main difference is that the hair may not appear as long as it would on dreads. However, you have the flexibility to style these twists thick or thin to suit your preference.

For optimal results, it’s recommended to consult with a hairstylist who can provide personalized guidance and ensure proper technique.

If you’re looking for a quick tutorial, follow these steps:

  1. Prepare Your Hair: Wash and condition your hair thoroughly for a smooth process.
  2. Section Your Hair: Part your hair in the middle and divide it into four equal sections. Secure the unused sections with hair pins.
  3. Damp Hair is Essential: Ensure your hair is damp before starting the twisting process.
  4. Twist Two Strands: Take two strands of hair and twist them around each other.
  5. Continue Twisting: Continue twisting all the way to the ends of your hair and secure them with a rubber band.
  6. Set with Spray: Lightly spritz your hair with a setting spray to help the twists hold.

For more detailed instructions and visual demonstrations, we recommend watching tutorials on YouTube or consulting with a professional hairstylist.

TWIST OUT ON LOOSE CURLY HAIR

After keeping your two strand twists in your loose curly hair for a period of time, you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful twist out.

To begin, gently dampen your hair before carefully unraveling the twists, starting from the ends. As you work your way up, you’ll notice your hair forming a curly pattern. This is a direct result of the twisting process. For tighter curls, unravel each coil only slightly.

To expedite the process and add volume, you can use a comb to gently lift the roots. This will enhance the definition and fullness of your curls.

HIGH-TOP TWISTS

The high-top hairstyle, characterized by its shaved sides and long top, is instantly recognizable. Adding twists to this classic style creates a truly unique and eye-catching look.

To create high-top twists, slightly dampen your hair with hairspray and use a sponge to rotate it around your hair. The level of aggression you use will determine the thickness of your twists. This technique is often used as a starting point for dreadlocks.

THIN TWISTS

In contrast to thick twists, thin twists require significantly more patience and precision. The process is time-consuming but ultimately rewarding.

While thin twists may demand more maintenance than thicker styles, they offer a visually appealing alternative that can provide a refreshing break from the bulkier look.

FLAT TWISTS

Flat twists combine the elements of two strand twists and cornrows into a single hairstyle. To achieve this look, two strands of hair are twisted together and then laid flat against the scalp, creating a rope-like braid.

Unlike traditional two strand twists, which are typically performed off the scalp, flat twists are installed directly on the scalp, hence the name. This style offers a refreshing alternative to traditional cornrows.

TWISTS WITH UNDERCUT

Similar to high-top twists, undercut twists feature a distinctive contrast between long hair on top and shorter hair on the sides and back. However, the undercut style involves a more dramatic cut, with the hair on the sides and back gradually tapering down to nothing around the ears and neck. This creates a noticeable difference between the top and sides.

The undercut haircut provides a foundation for natural, curly hair, adding length and volume. By incorporating twists into this style, you can create a completely unique and eye-catching look. Twists can be two-strand, three-strand, twist-outs, or sponge twists, allowing you to choose the style that best suits your preferences.

HOW TO TWIST HAIR

While visuals can be helpful, here’s a written guide to assist you in twisting medium or long hair:

  1. Part Your Hair: Divide your hair into four equal sections by parting it in the middle and across.
  2. Secure Sections: Secure the sections you’re not working on with hair pins.
  3. Dampen Your Hair: Lightly spritz your hair with a liquid spray to dampen it.
  4. Start Twisting: Begin twisting two strands of hair around each other in a hand-over-hand motion. Continue until each strand resembles a rope.
  5. Complete the Twists: Twist all the way down to the ends of your hair and secure them with rubber bands. Note that fine hair may unravel more easily due to its lack of grip.
  6. Set with Spray: Once you’ve completed all the twists, lightly spritz your hair with a setting spray to help them hold.

HOW TWISTS FOR MEN SHOULD BE MAINTAINED

Twists are a fantastic protective hairstyle that can last up to six weeks. To maximize their duration and ensure your hair remains healthy, it’s essential to follow a proper maintenance routine. Here are some simple tips to keep your twists looking great and minimize damage:

  • Make sure Twists aren’t too tight

If you experience pain from tight twists, consider it a warning sign from your scalp. Tight twists can lead to damage, bumps, infected follicles, and even temporary or permanent hair loss. While it’s normal for twists to feel slightly tight initially, persistent or worsening tightness is a cause for concern. If you notice this, it’s important to loosen or redo your twists to avoid potential complications.

  • Moisturize your scalp

Even with a protective hairstyle like twists, moisturizing your scalp remains essential. Proper scalp care helps maintain defined, healthy, and hydrated twists.

The market offers a wide range of natural hair products, so take the time to find one that best suits your hair’s needs. Regular moisturizing will contribute to the overall health and longevity of your twists.

  • Oil your Scalp

Regular scalp oiling offers numerous benefits, including preventing breakage, reducing growth fatigue, restoring moisture, protecting strands, and improving blood circulation. These factors contribute to a healthy scalp, which is essential for optimal hair growth.

To reap these benefits, incorporate weekly scalp massages into your hair care routine. This simple practice can stimulate the scalp and promote healthy hair growth.

  • Protect your twists while at Night

Sleeping with your hair unwrapped can expose it to friction from your pillowcase, leading to breakage and dryness. For those with afro-textured hair, using a head wrap or durag at night is a common and effective way to protect your twists and maintain their health.

  • Ensure you take your Hair out every 6 Weeks

While twists offer a protective style, it’s essential to remember that your hair still needs to breathe. Washing your twists every six weeks is a recommended practice for maintaining good hygiene.

Over time, your twists will be exposed to dirt and environmental factors, making regular cleaning necessary. This can be done at home or by a professional hairstylist.