Short afro natural hair is versatile and beautiful, offering numerous styling options for those looking to embrace their natural texture. Whether you’re rocking a TWA (teeny weeny afro) or a slightly longer style, here are 17 stylish and practical ways to rock your short afro:
17 Styling Ideas for Short Afro Natural Hair
1. Afro Puff
Create a fluffy puff by gathering your hair at the crown or back of your head.
Use a soft bristle brush or your fingers to smooth the edges.
Secure with a hair tie or a satin scarf for a chic look.
2. Twist-Out
Section your hair and twist each section using a styling cream or butter.
Allow twists to dry completely before unraveling for defined curls.
Fluff and separate the twists gently for added volume and texture.
3. Bantu Knots
Divide your hair into small sections and twist each section tightly.
Wrap the twist around itself to form a small knot close to the scalp.
Secure with a bobby pin and repeat across your entire head for a stylish Bantu knot-out.
4. Finger Coils
Apply a curl-defining cream or gel to damp hair.
Coil small sections of hair around your finger to create defined coils.
Allow to air dry or use a diffuser on low heat for faster drying.
5. Frohawk
Create a narrow section of hair from front to back, leaving the sides short.
Use hairpins or small rubber bands to secure the central section into a row of mini puffs or a flat twist.
Fluff and shape the central section for a bold, edgy look.
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6. Defined Afro
Apply a curl-enhancing cream or mousse to damp hair.
Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to lift and separate curls as they dry.
Shake out your hair gently to add volume and achieve a defined afro shape.
7. Flat Twist Out
Part your hair into sections and flat twist each section close to the scalp.
Allow twists to dry completely before unraveling for a defined twist-out style.
Fluff and lift at the roots for added volume and dimension.
8. Faux Hawk
Create two or more rows of flat twists or cornrows along the sides of your head.
Leave the central section of hair loose and fluffy, resembling a Mohawk style.
Use edge control or gel to smooth edges for a polished finish.
9. Pineapple Updo
Gather all your hair towards the front or top of your head.
Secure with a loose hair tie or satin scarf to create a high ponytail or bun.
Allow your curls to cascade down for a playful and easy-to-achieve look.
10. Afro with Headband
Shape your afro using a pick or wide-tooth comb for volume.
Place a stylish headband or scarf around your head, positioning it just behind your hairline.
Adjust the headband for comfort and style, allowing your afro to frame your face beautifully.
11. Mini Twists
Part your hair into small sections and twist each section tightly from root to tip.
Apply a lightweight oil or twisting cream to seal in moisture and prevent frizz.
Wear mini twists as is or unravel them later for a twist-out style.
12. Finger Waves
Start with damp hair and apply a setting lotion or gel.
Use your fingers or a comb to create S-shaped waves along the hair shaft.
Allow the waves to set and dry, then gently separate them for a classic vintage look.
13. Wash and Go
Wash your hair with a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner designed for curls.
Apply a leave-in conditioner or curl cream to damp hair.
Scrunch hair upwards to encourage curl formation and allow to air dry or diffuse lightly.
14. Side Parted Afro
Create a deep side part with a comb or your fingers.
Use a pick or wide-tooth comb to shape and lift your afro on both sides of the part.
Define the part with a small amount of edge control or gel for a sleek finish.
15. Fro with Hair Jewelry
Shape your afro with a pick or fingers to achieve desired volume.
Adorn your hair with decorative hairpins, beads, or cuffs along the sides or throughout the afro.
Secure jewelry gently to avoid pulling or tangling your curls.
16. Chunky Twist-Out
Divide your hair into larger sections and twist each section loosely.
Allow twists to dry completely before unraveling for chunky, defined curls.
Separate the twists gently to add volume and texture to your style.
17. Afro with Color Accents
Add temporary color accents using hair chalk, temporary dyes, or colored extensions.
Apply color sparingly to sections of your afro for a fun and vibrant look.
Ensure colors are safe for natural hair and rinse out according to product instructions.
Conclusion
Styling short afro natural hair offers endless possibilities for creativity and self-expression. Whether you prefer defined curls, protective styles, or bold updos, these 17 styling ideas provide inspiration for showcasing your unique beauty and embracing your natural texture with confidence. Experiment with different techniques and products to discover which styles work best for your hair type and personal taste. Enjoy the journey of exploring and celebrating your natural hair journey!
FAQs
How to style short black afro hair?
Styling short black afro hair can be fun and versatile. Here are some tips:
Afro Puff: Gather your hair towards the crown or back of your head and secure it with a hair tie or scarf for a classic puff.
Finger Coils: Apply a curl-defining cream to damp hair and coil small sections around your finger to enhance natural curls.
Twist-Out: Section your hair, twist each section tightly, and allow them to dry before unraveling for defined curls.
Bantu Knots: Divide your hair into small sections, twist each section tightly, and wrap it around itself to form knots close to the scalp.
How to maintain short afro natural hair?
Maintaining short afro natural hair is essential for healthy, vibrant curls. Here’s how:
Moisturize: Use a leave-in conditioner or moisturizing cream daily to keep your hair hydrated and prevent dryness.
Protect at Night: Sleep with a satin or silk scarf or use a satin pillowcase to reduce friction and minimize frizz.
Regular Trims: Trim your hair every 6-8 weeks to maintain shape and remove split ends.
Avoid Heat: Minimize heat styling and opt for air drying or using a diffuser on low heat to preserve natural curl pattern.
Gentle Detangling: Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to detangle hair gently when wet and saturated with conditioner.
What is short afro hair called?
Short afro hair is commonly referred to as a “TWA,” which stands for Teeny Weeny Afro. It’s a term used to describe very short natural hair that is often newly grown out or recently cut.
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