Styling short natural hair can be a fun and creative process. With the right techniques and products, you can achieve a variety of looks that are both stylish and easy to manage. Here are 16 quick styles for short natural hair that you can try.
16 Quick Styles for Short Natural Hair
1. Twist Out
A twist out is a simple yet effective style for short natural hair. To achieve this look, start with freshly washed and conditioned hair. Apply a leave-in conditioner and a styling cream to your damp hair. Divide your hair into small sections and twist each section from root to tip. Allow your hair to dry completely, either air-drying or using a hooded dryer. Once your hair is dry, carefully unravel the twists and separate them with your fingers for added volume. This style gives you defined curls and lasts for several days with proper maintenance.
2. Bantu Knots
Bantu knots are a versatile style that can be worn as is or unraveled for a curly look. Begin with damp hair and apply a leave-in conditioner and a light styling gel. Section your hair into small parts and twist each section tightly into a small knot. Secure each knot with a bobby pin or a small hair tie. Allow your hair to dry completely. You can leave the knots in for a bold look or unravel them for a beautiful curly style.
3. Finger Coils
Finger coils are a great way to define your natural curls. Start with clean, damp hair and apply a curl-defining cream. Take small sections of your hair and wrap them around your finger, creating a coil. Continue this process until your entire head is coiled. Allow your hair to dry completely before separating the coils for added volume and definition. This style works well for all curl types and textures.
4. Puff
A puff is a quick and easy style that can be achieved in minutes. Gather your hair into a high ponytail and secure it with a hair tie or a puff cuff. Use a pick or your fingers to fluff out the ponytail, creating a full and voluminous puff. You can wear the puff high on your head or position it lower for a different look. This style is perfect for days when you want to keep your hair off your face and still look stylish.
5. Wash and Go
The wash and go is a classic style for natural hair. After washing and conditioning your hair, apply a leave-in conditioner and a curl-defining gel. Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to distribute the product evenly throughout your hair. Allow your hair to air dry or use a diffuser to speed up the process. Once your hair is dry, gently separate the curls with your fingers for added volume. This style highlights your natural curl pattern and is perfect for everyday wear.
6. Flat Twists
Flat twists are a protective style that can be worn for several days. Start with damp hair and apply a leave-in conditioner and a styling cream. Part your hair into small sections and twist each section close to your scalp, adding hair as you go along. Secure the ends with a small hair tie or bobby pin. Allow your hair to dry completely before unraveling the twists for a wavy look or leave them in for a sleek, protective style.
7. Frohawk
A frohawk is a bold and edgy style that is easy to achieve. Gather the sides of your hair and secure them with bobby pins or small hair ties, leaving the middle section free. Fluff out the middle section to create a voluminous mohawk. You can add hair accessories or colored clips for an extra pop of style. This look is perfect for special occasions or when you want to make a statement.
SEE ALSO: How to Do Yarn Braids on Short Hair: A Comprehensive Guide
8. TWA (Teeny Weeny Afro)
The TWA is a classic and timeless style for short natural hair. To achieve this look, simply wash and condition your hair, then apply a leave-in conditioner and a light styling gel. Use a pick to shape your hair into a rounded afro. This style is low-maintenance and can be easily refreshed with a spritz of water and a bit of leave-in conditioner.
9. Head Wrap
A head wrap is a stylish and practical option for days when you want to protect your hair or add a pop of color to your outfit. Choose a head wrap that complements your style and wrap it around your head, securing it in place with a knot or a bow. You can leave some of your hair out in the front for a different look or tuck it all in for a sleek and polished appearance.
10. Side Part
A side part is a simple way to change up your look. After washing and conditioning your hair, create a deep side part with a comb. Apply a leave-in conditioner and a light styling gel to define your curls. This style works well with various curl patterns and adds a touch of sophistication to your look.
11. Tapered Cut
A tapered cut is a stylish and modern option for short natural hair. This cut features shorter sides and a longer top, creating a flattering shape. To style a tapered cut, apply a leave-in conditioner and a curl-defining cream to damp hair. Use your fingers or a sponge brush to define your curls and shape the top section. This style is low-maintenance and can be easily refreshed with a bit of product.
12. Braided Crown
A braided crown is an elegant and timeless style that works well for special occasions. Begin with clean, damp hair and apply a leave-in conditioner and a light styling gel. Part your hair down the middle and braid each section along your hairline, creating two braids that meet at the back of your head. Secure the ends with bobby pins or small hair ties. This style keeps your hair off your face and adds a touch of elegance to your look.
13. Faux Hawk
A faux hawk is a fun and edgy style that is easy to achieve. Gather the sides of your hair and secure them with bobby pins or small hair ties, leaving the middle section free. Fluff out the middle section to create a voluminous faux hawk. You can add hair accessories or colored clips for an extra pop of style. This look is perfect for special occasions or when you want to make a statement.
14. Slicked Back
A slicked-back style is a sleek and polished option for short natural hair. Apply a leave-in conditioner and a light styling gel to damp hair. Use a brush to smooth your hair back, creating a sleek and polished look. Secure your hair with bobby pins or a hair tie. This style works well for formal events or when you want a sophisticated look.
15. Curly Bangs
Curly bangs are a fun and playful way to change up your look. After washing and conditioning your hair, apply a leave-in conditioner and a curl-defining cream to your bangs. Use your fingers or a small curling wand to define your curls. This style adds a youthful and fresh look to your overall appearance.
16. Mini Twists
Mini twists are a protective style that can be worn for several weeks. Start with clean, damp hair and apply a leave-in conditioner and a light styling gel. Divide your hair into small sections and twist each section from root to tip. Secure the ends with small hair ties or bobby pins. This style is low-maintenance and can be easily refreshed with a spritz of water and a bit of leave-in conditioner.
Tips for Maintaining Short Natural Hair
Maintaining short natural hair involves a few key steps to keep your hair healthy and looking its best. Here are some tips to help you care for your short natural hair:
Moisturize Regularly: Keeping your hair moisturized is essential for maintaining its health and preventing breakage. Use a leave-in conditioner and a light oil to lock in moisture.
Protect Your Hair at Night: Use a satin or silk pillowcase or wrap your hair in a satin scarf to protect your hair while you sleep. This helps to prevent frizz and breakage.
Avoid Heat Styling: Minimize the use of heat styling tools to prevent damage to your hair. If you must use heat, always apply a heat protectant and use the lowest heat setting possible.
Trim Regularly: Regular trims help to keep your hair healthy and prevent split ends. Aim to trim your hair every 6-8 weeks.
Deep Condition: Incorporate deep conditioning treatments into your hair care routine to keep your hair hydrated and strong. Use a deep conditioner once a week or as needed.
Be Gentle: Handle your hair with care to avoid breakage. Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to detangle your hair and avoid rough towel drying.
Conclusion
Styling short natural hair can be a fun and creative process with endless possibilities. These 16 quick styles for short natural hair offer a variety of looks that are easy to achieve and maintain. Whether you prefer a sleek and polished look or a bold and edgy style, there is something for everyone. Remember to take care of your hair by keeping it moisturized, protecting it at night, and avoiding heat styling. With the right techniques and products, you can keep your short natural hair looking its best.