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10 AMAZING NATURAL HAIR RULES YOU SHOULD FOLLOW YOUR INSTINCTS

Natural hair is fundamentally a lifestyle choice. Achieving your hair goals requires dedicated effort and a keen understanding of your unique hair type, porosity, density, and width. Think of your hair like a plant: the more you nourish it with quality products, hydrate it, and shield it from harsh conditions, the more it will thrive, grow, and transform. Here are the top 10 essential rules for maintaining healthy, vibrant natural hair!

SOLIDIFY YOUR WASH DAY ROUTINE

Your wash day is essential for maintaining healthy natural hair, as it all begins with proper moisture. Clarifying your hair is a crucial step in your wash day routine. If your hair is dirty, it won’t be able to absorb moisture effectively due to product buildup.

When it comes to shampoos, there are two key types every natural should have: moisturizing shampoos and clarifying shampoos.

Moisturizing shampoos feature gentle yet effective surfactants that cleanse the scalp by removing dirt and product buildup. These are perfect for regular use.

Clarifying shampoos, however, contain stronger cleansing agents designed to deeply cleanse your hair and eliminate hard-to-reach dirt, including mineral buildup. Shampoos with chelating ingredients are especially beneficial for low porosity hair, which often experiences quicker product accumulation.

Weekly deep conditioning is an essential rule in caring for natural hair. Its primary purpose is to condition, strengthen, and soften your hair, setting the stage for your leave-in products.

Always prioritize deep conditioning after shampooing to counteract any stripping effects from the shampoo. Opt for deep conditioners that feature emollients, fatty alcohols, and are packed with nourishing plant extracts.

USE MOISTURIZING LEAVE-IN STYLERS

Leave-in conditioners are crucial for all natural hair types, regardless of curl pattern, porosity, density, or width. These products not only offer moisture until your next wash day but also condition the hair and minimize friction.

Curly and coily hair often experiences curl interlocking, where curls and coils tangle together. This can lead to severe knots and tangles, resulting in increased breakage and shedding if not addressed.

Leave-in conditioners contain friction-reducing agents that help keep your curls manageable. They are definitely a staple in any natural hair routine. When paired with a plant-based botanical gel, your coils will stay tangle-free and frizz-free for days!

KNOW YOUR POROSITY

What’s the point of using all those expensive products if you don’t understand your hair’s absorption potential? Porosity is the most crucial rule to know about your hair. It determines how well your hair absorbs water and products, guiding you on what to use and how to apply it effectively.

Natural hair porosity refers to your hair’s ability to absorb moisture and products. Low porosity hair has a low absorption rate because its cuticles are tightly closed, making it challenging for moisture to penetrate. High porosity hair, on the other hand, has open cuticles, leading to a high absorption rate but difficulty in retaining moisture.

If you have low porosity hair, focus on enhancing moisture absorption. Because the cuticles are tight, products often sit on the surface. Choose lightweight formulas that promote absorption and include delivery agents to help penetrate the cuticle, especially for leave-in conditioners and styling products.

For high porosity hair, which has raised cuticles, moisture retention is key. Use products with ingredients that form moisture barriers and fill cuticle gaps to prevent moisture loss throughout the week.

BALANCE PROTEIN

Protein treatments are vital for addressing protein loss caused by mechanical damage (like detangling) and chemical damage (from heat tools, dyes, and relaxers), and they should be part of every natural hair routine.

However, excessive protein treatments can lead to dry, brittle hair—exactly what we want to avoid! It’s crucial to tailor your protein treatments according to your hair’s porosity and width to prevent overuse.

Smaller proteins, such as amino acids and peptides, can penetrate the hair cortex to strengthen it, making them suitable for all porosities and hair widths.

Conversely, larger proteins like hydrolyzed wheat and collagen function similarly to film-forming humectants, creating a protective barrier around the hair. These treatments are ideal for high porosity or fine to medium strands but can increase dryness in low porosity and coarse hair.

MAINTAIN A HEALTHY SCALP 

Scalp health is essential for a successful hair journey, regardless of hair type. Just as we care for our hair ends, we must prioritize our scalp.

Think of your scalp as the foundation of your hair; it deserves just as much attention. If our hair ends are like the wise elders, our scalp is the precious baby!

Here are some best practices for maintaining scalp health:

  • Moisturize: Use skin-friendly products to keep your scalp hydrated. Remember, the scalp is skin too, so avoid harsh ingredients.
  • Scalp Massages: Every few days, massage your scalp with nourishing oils like olive, castor, or avocado oil. Adding rosemary oil can enhance blood circulation and keep the scalp well-lubricated.
  • Gentle Hairstyles: Avoid tight hairstyles to reduce the risk of follicle damage.
  • Stay Clean: Regularly cleanse your scalp to remove oil, dirt, bacteria, and product buildup.

PROTECT YOUR HAIR

Protective styling is crucial for maintaining a healthy natural hair routine. If you’re aiming for hair growth, protective styles help retain length while locking in moisture, supporting your growth goals. To avoid any drawbacks of protective styling, follow these best practices: ensure your style isn’t too tight to prevent follicle tension, and regularly take it down for clarifying and re-moisturizing.

LISTEN TO YOUR HAIR

Mastering the art of listening to your hair can be challenging, but it’s essential for your hair journey. For instance, some people with natural hair can go a week without moisturizing, while others may need to re-moisturize every two days. Both are perfectly normal!

Remember, everyone’s hair is unique. If your hair feels dry, clear away buildup and follow up with a deep conditioner and leave-in. Pay attention to what your hair is telling you—it will show its appreciation!

UP YOUR DIET AND EXERCISE ROUTINE AS NEEDED

This year, let’s acknowledge the important connection between diet, exercise, and beauty. The saying “you are what you eat” holds true for natural hair. Staying hydrated is essential for hair growth, but making key dietary changes—like eating a balanced diet and taking necessary supplements—is equally important. Regular exercise also plays a vital role.

To boost your hair growth, focus on incorporating plenty of leafy greens and fruits into your meals. Empower yourself by understanding your body—are you missing any essential nutrients? Nutrients like iron are crucial for the hair cycle, and deficiencies can show up in your hair.

Lastly, don’t underestimate the impact of exercise. Many people with natural hair report that moderate weekly workouts help enhance their hair growth cycle.

STOP COMPARING

They say comparison is the enemy of creativity, and I couldn’t agree more. Remember, pursuing any goal is a marathon, not a sprint. Despite what some natural hair influencers may claim, hair doesn’t grow overnight—anyone who says otherwise isn’t being truthful.

Avoid comparing your hair journey to others; you are unique, and there’s no need to emulate someone else. Instead, focus on the health of your hair. Healthy hair grows! By keeping it moisturized, protected, and happy, you’ll set yourself up for success on your hair growth journey.

ACKNOWLEDGE YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

We can be our own harshest critics, but your hair is beautiful just as it is right now. It’s important to take a moment to recognize your achievements, growth, and progress. Remember, your hair is always growing, and it deserves your gratitude!

CONCLUSION

These commandments are a foundational guide for healthy natural hair. While individual hair needs vary, following these science-based tips and adapting them to your specific hair type will help you achieve optimal results

45 TRENDY LAYERED HAIRCUTS FOR MEN

Layered haircuts are a great option for guys who want a look with volume, flow, and movement. Layering involves cutting hair at different lengths to create a smooth transition from long to short, adding dimension and body to your style.

If you’re thinking about a change, layered hairstyles are a versatile and stylish choice that works with any hair texture and length. Whether you like a short, choppy cut or a subtle, medium-length style, layers can give your haircut a fresh, trendy finish. Here are some cool examples of layered haircuts for men that add volume, texture, and natural flow to your look.

WAVY LAYERED HAIR WITH UNDERCUT

For a bold and trendy look, consider an undercut. This style is great for those who want versatility: the back and sides are kept short and even, while the top is left longer to show off waves and texture. Layers on top add movement and volume to complete the look.

THICK LAYERED BRUSH BACK

A thick, layered brush back is a classic choice for the modern gentleman who wants to flaunt his volume. The layers add texture without making the style feel too heavy. For a polished finish, use a blow dryer and a small round brush to style each strand.

THICK AND TEXTURED SHORT HAIR

Thick, textured short hairstyles with layers are a trendy and practical choice that simplifies styling without compromising on style. Ask your barber or stylist to add some light texture to the top to reduce density and request a high fade for added contrast. No product is needed for this look.

SPIKY HAIR WITH HIGH TAPER

A modern spiky hairstyle offers a bold, nostalgic appeal, perfect for any young guy looking to enhance his style with added texture for a fuller finish. The layered spikes bring depth and dimension, while a high taper keeps the look sharp and tidy without going too short.

LAYERED FRENCH CROP

A layered French crop is a stylish, textured choice for guys looking to add effortless volume and movement to their hair. Short layered sections give this classic cut a modern twist. Use a low-shine pomade to enhance dimension, and pair it with a medium fade for contrast, and you’ll be ready for anything.

BRUSH BACK WITH CLASSIC TAPER

The classic brush back style exudes elegance for men who appreciate texture and flow for a timeless finish. While fades are trending, a traditional taper is always a safe bet. By maintaining more weight on the back and sides and layering the top, you can achieve a fuller, distinguished look.

TEXTURED BLOWOUT WITH FADED SIDES AND LINE UP

Perfect for the guy who wants to make a statement, the blowout stands out with its impressive volume and a fade that keeps the back and sides sharp. A lineup adds a crisp, clean finish, while added texture on top brings movement and flair to the look.

LONGER SURFER STYLE

The surfer haircut is a relaxed, unstructured style perfect for the laidback guy who lives for morning waves. Ask your barber to add choppy layers for a bit of form and texture. Let your hair air dry after a shower to bring out your natural waves and complete the effortless look.

SHORT CUT WITH ASYMMETRICAL FRINGE

A textured short haircut with an asymmetrical fringe and faded sides can make a bold statement and set you apart as a trendsetter. The messy styling adds energy to the cropped cut, while the uneven bangs drape over the forehead for a daring twist. This edgy style offers a fresh alternative to the traditional blunt front, with layers that create depth and volume.

MOHAWK FADE

For the guy ready to elevate his faux hawk fade, the mohawk fade is the next level. Embracing its punk roots, the sides are disconnected from the top to form the hawk. Instead of going super short, this style uses a fade to add a clean, sharp finish and depth. For an extra touch of individuality, consider adding lines into the fade to showcase your unique style.

TEXTURED QUIFF WITH LAYERS

A textured quiff is an excellent choice for the younger gentleman. The layers add height to the style, creating a look that says you’re ready for a good time. Use a medium-hold product, like styling cream, to achieve a lasting, natural finish.

MODERN CAESAR CUT

The modern Caesar cut remains a short, easy-to-maintain style for any guy, just like the traditional version. Adding texture with a razor on top softens the fringe, giving it a more relaxed feel. For a messy, character-filled look, scrunch sections of your hair with styling clay.

MESSY LAYERED HAIR

A messy layered hairstyle is perfect for the busy professional who needs a low-maintenance look each morning. This cut works with or without product, and the layers only get better as they get messier. For an edgier, grungy vibe, skip the shampoo for a few days.

MESSY FRINGE WITH SHORT LAYERED TOP

The fringe is a classic choice for the guy who loves a fresh, clean-cut style. By keeping the top short and layered, you allow the natural messiness to stand out, while a taper adds a polished finish. For an extra touch of charm, tousle the bangs when styling to let them fall casually across your forehead.

LOOSE LAYERED COMB OVER

A modern twist on the classic comb over, many guys are now opting for layers on top to add texture and volume. For a timeless feel, ask your barber for tapered sides to give the style structure and definition. A small amount of pomade or gel can help bring out your rugged edge.

LONG STRAIGHT HAIR

Long, layered straight hair offers an effortlessly cool vibe for guys looking to add volume and movement to their flowing locks. This sleek, longer style is perfect for showcasing texture and embracing your inner playboy.

LONG SIDE SWEPT STYLE

Sweeping longer hair to the side is a fantastic way to highlight a man’s face while adding a touch of personality. Longer, layered hair can elevate a look from basic to trendy with minimal effort. A sea salt spray adds just the right amount of texture and grit without feeling dirty or heavy.

LONG AND FLOWING TWO BLOCK

The long and flowing two-block haircut is a stylish choice for a guy aiming for a youthful heartthrob look. This cut features a middle part, but layers on top allow the hair to cascade more freely over the sides, creating a relaxed and effortless vibe.

LAYERED WAVY HAIR

Wavy hair can be both enviable and effortless for those who are naturally blessed with it. Adding layers enhances the waves and adds body to the style. Depending on the occasion, you can either use a comb and some product for a polished look or let your waves flow naturally for a more relaxed vibe.

LAYERED TWO BLOCK

Popularized by South Korean boy bands, the two-block hairstyle has become a global trend that’s here to stay. This modern look features a distinct center part and incorporates texture for added bounce and volume. A light styling product can help maintain the style without overwhelming it.

SLICK BACK UNDERCUT

For a red carpet-ready look, the slick back undercut is the way to go. The undercut keeps the back and sides neatly trimmed close to the scalp, while layering the top provides smooth flow and sharp definition. Simply slick the top back with some pomade, and you’ve got a stylish, polished finish that’s easy to achieve.

MOP TOP

A layered mop top is a charming, shaggy hairstyle that blends a tousled look with added volume and texture for a stylish finish. Whether your hair is straight or wavy, a longer mop top with subtle layers enhances movement and dimension. Apply a light styling cream to boost flow and make a standout impression.

MOHAWK WITH LOW SKIN FADE

The mohawk remains a bold choice, and layering it adds texture and flow to a style that would typically be held straight up with gel. This version features a low skin fade, adding depth and interest without the extreme edge of the classic mohawk. With a bit of time using a blow dryer and pomade, you’ll be all set to rock your look.

MODERN MULLET

The modern mullet is a bold and edgy hairstyle that can dramatically change your look. With long hair in the back and short sides, layering the longer sections adds lightness and sleekness. The mullet fade delivers a striking, trendy appearance, ideal for those ready to embrace the latest styles.

LAYERED MIDDLE PART

The middle part is currently trending in pop culture, making it the perfect time to give it a try. Ideal for guys who prefer a balance between long and short hair, this style features a central part that keeps hair neatly away from the face. Adding layers softens the part and brings vitality to a look that might otherwise seem a bit dull.

IVY LEAGUE

If you’re looking for a tidy cut that requires minimal effort, the Ivy League is a great choice. Similar to the Caesar, this iconic style features a longer top compared to the back and sides. Adding layers introduces a touch of flair and revitalizes the look.

FRINGE

Timeless and stylish, the fringe is a classic cut that highlights a rugged jawline. Whether left to hang over your forehead or cropped shorter for convenience, this versatile style adapts to your needs. For a go-to cut that remains effortlessly sexy over time, the fringe is a perfect choice.

LAYERED SIDE SWEPT

The side-swept style is a sleek, low-maintenance cut with clipped back and sides, while the top is left longer for a refined finish. Layers enhance the flow, allowing the hair to drape smoothly over the sides. This versatile look is ideal for the guy who’s prepared for any occasion.

LAYERED QUIFF

The layered quiff is a standout cut that allows men with thicker hair to showcase their natural volume, even at longer lengths. Layers soften the look and offer greater styling versatility. Whether you need a polished appearance for a work event or a relaxed style for a night out, this cut excels in every situation.

LAYERED POMPADOUR FADE

For a contemporary twist on a classic look, the pompadour fade is a stylish choice to discuss with your barber. Maintain length at the front and keep the back slightly shorter to highlight the pompadour. Use a blow dryer and a small round brush to lift and shape the hair, creating the signature bump. Layering the hair will make it easier to manage, and finishing with pomade will ensure the style stays in place. This is exactly what pomade is designed for!

PART WITH BANGS

A part with bangs is a stylish choice for any guy looking to stay ahead of the trends. Combining the best elements of a side part and a fringe, this look offers a handsome, casual, and timeless appeal. Best suited for longer hair, the layers ensure the cut remains light and dynamic, rather than looking blocky. For added hold throughout the day, you can use some mousse to keep your style in place.

FAUX HAWK FADE

The faux hawk fade is a timeless, layered style that maintains its edgy, punk appeal without the commitment of a full mohawk. By layering the top, you achieve a lighter, fuller appearance that keeps the look bold yet manageable. Finish with some gel or clay, and you’ll be the most daring guy at the club.

CURLY HAIR FADE

A layered curly hair fade is a trendy style that makes a strong statement. While curly hair might seem challenging to manage, its versatility is a real asset. Textured, short curly styles with layers often appear bouncier and less bulky. For a low-maintenance option, request a fade to keep the look sharp and tidy.

CREW CUT

The crew cut is a timeless, short hairstyle for men seeking a straightforward and masculine look. A layered crew cut adds direction to your hair while maintaining a sharp, rugged appeal. Skip the product and let the natural texture shine for a clean, effortless finish.

CAESAR CUT

This cut, famously sported by George Clooney, is popular for a reason: it’s short, easy to maintain, full of character, and simple to achieve. Featuring a horizontal fringe, it accentuates your features and adds depth to your look. Using pomade will enhance the style, ensuring you stand out and capture attention.

HARD SIDE PART WITH FADE

The hard side part fade is a sleek haircut for the modern man looking to showcase his style and edge. This eye-catching variation features a sharp low skin fade for contrast and includes a shaved line where the hair naturally parts, adding visual impact. Finish with your favorite pomade or gel to ensure every strand stays perfectly in place.

BRUSH UP WITH FADE

This cut is ideal for those seeking an edgy yet approachable style. Like the brush back, the brush up maintains longer hair at the front to add height, but instead of combing it back, it’s styled upwards with clay or another strong-hold product. A mid-skin fade provides essential contrast, making each element of the cut stand out.

LAYERED BRUSHED BACK COMB OVER

For the gentleman who prefers to keep their hair long yet manageable, the brushed-back comb-over style is a stylish and contemporary choice. Layering the top highlights the texture while preserving length, and disconnecting the sides allows the top to flow seamlessly over the faded sides. This sleek cut is perfect for any occasion.

LAYERED BLOWOUT FADE

If you’re drawn to the dramatic effect of wind-swept hair, the blowout fade might be your ideal style. Characterized by its impressive height and structure, this cut offers gravity-defying volume. With the back and sides trimmed close to the skin, you can maintain control and shape with pomade or gel to keep your hair perfectly in place.

LAYERED LONG HAIR

Long layered hairstyles offer an effortlessly chic and elegant look for men who want to highlight their hair’s texture, fullness, and body. Longer layers enhance your style by adding flow and reducing weight, which can otherwise make the look feel heavy. If you’re fortunate enough to have beautiful hair, layering it will elevate your style to the next level.

LAYERED AND CHOPPY

The layered and choppy look is a great choice for guys who prefer a laid-back, subtle, and trendy aesthetic. This intentionally unstructured style features short, crisp back and sides, which lets the texture on top take center stage. Use a high-hold clay to enhance and maintain the choppy effect, ensuring your look stays sharp and defined.

HIGH VOLUME LAYERED STYLE

The high-volume layered look is perfect for the easygoing gentleman, reminiscent of a surfer with a relaxed vibe who spends his days riding the waves. Achieve this style by applying a bit of sea salt spray to damp hair for added texture and grit. Use a blow dryer to give your hair an extra boost and lock in that voluminous effect, and you’ll be ready to rock this effortlessly cool look.

BRUSH BACK WITH FADE

A brush back with a fade is a versatile and stylish layered haircut that offers both volume and flexibility for a standout look. This style harks back to the classic characters from TV shows you grew up watching, capturing a timeless appeal. With longer length at the front and shorter sides, it creates a windswept illusion and enhances volume. Adding a fade accentuates the texture and shape, making it a perfect choice for those looking to embrace a youthful and attractive appearance.

LAYERED BRO FLOW

The bro flow is a sought-after long layered haircut for men who want to showcase volume, movement, and fullness. This iconic style is perfect for those who prefer to keep their hair on the longer side. By adding texture throughout, the layers provide shape while maintaining a rugged edge. Whether you’re aiming for a bad boy look or a more approachable vibe, the versatility of the bro flow will enhance your masculinity and effortlessly complement your style.

CLASSIC LAYERED FLOW BACK

The classic flow back is a timeless and confident style for the man who prefers a smooth, layered look. This straightforward cut involves brushing the hair back and allowing it to fall naturally. For a polished finish, let your hair air dry or apply a small amount of pomade to enhance your inner heartthrob.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, layered haircuts have become a popular choice for men seeking stylish and versatile hairstyles. With a variety of options to suit different hair types and preferences, these cuts offer a combination of texture, movement, and personality. Whether you’re looking for a low-maintenance look or a bold statement, layered haircuts provide a trendy and timeless solution.