Here’s the truth. There’s a long-standing perception that Afro hair can be very hard to care for and maintain. In many African countries, including Kenya, there has historically been a lack of specialized Afro hair care, and for that reason, many Afrocentric people fear wearing their hair natural. The assumption is often that Afro hair is hard to style and maintain daily.
As a result, most people with Afro hair have resorted to tightly braided styles worn back-to-back, which can lead to traction alopecia (hair loss from repeated pulling of the hair). Others have turned to chemical treatments, which can also lead to hair loss if used with poor or unsustainable maintenance routines.
Types of African Hair
It’s easy to pick out African hair from a bunch. It features a remarkable, conspicuous pattern that can range from loose waves to tight coils. Just like in the image above. The most common Afro hair type is Type 4, characterized by tight, thick curls that are very delicate and prone to breakage. These variations alone already highlight how individual hair types may require specialized care and styling techniques. Doing this maintains their health and vibrancy, just like we do at Azariah Hair and Beauty Lounge.
Individuals with Type 1 Afro hair are the luckiest, characterized by fine, shiny, less curly hair that is less prone to breakage. Type 2 Afro hair has loose waves, medium thickness, and tends to frizz. Type 3, on the other hand, is voluminous, has well-defined curves, and is highly susceptible to dryness.
Given the unique characteristics of African hair types, it is important that Afrocentric people develop effective haircare routines. Fortunately for you, at our Salon in Hill Park Hotel location in Nairobi, our hair professionals can do a free Afro-hair care consultation service to help guide you on picking the right products, styling methods, and practices to enhance your hair’s natural beauty.
Unique Characteristics of African Hair Styles
African hair is quite unique from any other type of hair. And while there is a widespread misconception that it is harder to maintain, the truth is, most people (and sadly, some stylists) don’t know how to care for and maintain them for a full, vibrant, and natural look. For starters, Afro hair naturally shrinks. It is for this reason that coily hair often appears shorter than it actually is, as it naturally shrinks into tight curls.
Afro hair is also more prone to dryness than many other hair types – largely because of its unique structure. The tight curl patterns make it difficult for the natural oils produced at the scalp to travel down the hair shaft, leading to dryness. Over time, this can lead to breakage, brittleness, and a lack of natural luster. In addition, Afro hair has high porosity, meaning it absorbs moisture quickly – but unfortunately, it also loses the moisture just as easily.
The twists and turns in the hair shaft can easily snag and break or, worse, form knots when roughly handled. Poor untangling techniques, harsh styling methods, and a lack of moisture make it worse. Here’s the crazy part. Afro hair may also feature varying textures on the same head of hair. This, especially for inexperienced stylists, can make it quite challenging to achieve uniform styles and may require a mix of different care techniques and styling for the different hair textures.
African Hair Solutions in Nairobi
At Azariah Beauty Lounge, we understand the vast diversity of African hair types – and, as a result, our clients can enjoy and appreciate the beauty and complexity of Afro hair care. It is essential to note that each Afro hair subtype has unique needs and characteristics, making personalized hair care a key factor in maintaining its health and style.
Our staff at our Hill Park Hotel location in Nairobi has a deep understanding of these differences, as well as the tools, necessary experience, and skill to enhance your natural hair journey should you choose to include us.
If you haven’t figured out how to care for your Afro hair, or are simply having problems wearing your natural African hair, walk into our Hill Park Hotel location in Nairobi, or contact us at +254 725 691 240 to book a free consultation. Our staff will be more than happy to help you know your hair type, what products work well, and what Afro hair styles will work best for you.
