We’ve seen it and loved it. The 1960s introduced the Afro hairstyle to the public, and it reached its peak in the 70s. In the 21st century, the style is already considered a classic. It hasn’t lost its charm, and a lot of people are still seen sporting a glorious crown of kinky hair. What’s with the afro hairstyle that makes people adore it so much? If you are curious, here’s what you need to know.
What is an Afro Hairstyle?
Afro is a hairstyle that is mostly worn by people with naturally kinky hair. This style is characterized by a mass of hair formed like a huge round-shaped ball. It can be naturally worn by African-American men and women. However, for those who don’t have kinky hair, achieving the Afro hairstyle will take a visit to the salon.
For those with natural curly or kinky hair, they need only to use gels, creams, or any other solidifying agents.
Maintaining this hairstyle would normally require a wide-toothed comb or an Afro pick. With their long and thick teeth, the combs can retain the ball-shape of the hair.
What Makes the Hairstyle Popular?
The hairstyle was popularized by groups of black jazz singers and dancers. These artists and their followers managed to detach themselves from what was conventional in the community. Instead of straightening their hair, they walked the streets with their natural curls. They felt that they were able to express their racial pride by doing this. Ultimately, this became more and more popular and others followed the trend. Thus making this hairstyle the fashion that it is today.
Despite the ridicule, the Afro hairstyle was continually used as a representation of the black society. During the 70s, the hairstyle became an epitome of the Black is Beautiful Movement. Its popularity spread throughout the globe. Thus, the Afro hairstyle is not only a stylish beauty trend, but it is also a symbol that holds a significant degree of meaning.
How to Get One?
The Afro hairstyle will always be present for as long as there are people with naturally kinky hair. After all, it’s a symbolic style that is loved by the black community and adored by other cultures. Fortunately, anyone can achieve this look if you follow the right steps. Even if you have straight hair, you can style your hair in this fashion.
Here’s how:
Step 1
Thoroughly wash your hair with shampoo. Rinse it well and towel-dry until it’s not dripping any more. If you have straight hair, apply a considerable amount of volumizing product to your locks. If you have curly hair, dab or spray some oil onto your curls. Wait until your hair completely dries before proceeding to step 2.
Step 2
If you already have kinky hair, skip this step because this part of the process requires you to curl your tresses. For those with straight hair, use a curling iron or tongs to achieve kinky or curly hair. Make sure that every inch of your hair is made curly.
Step 3
With an Afro pick, separate your curls, so that it creates a voluminous effect. You can also backcomb each lock of your hair to have a kinkier texture. Keep combing until you’re satisfied with how full it looks.
Step 4
To fully separate your curls, you can also use a fine-toothed comb. Slide it along your tresses to make the hair wider.
Step 5
Pat your fluffy hair into a ball shape or whatever style you prefer. Get a hairspray, and apply it all over the hair to maintain this effect.
Final Thoughts
Afro hair is one of the most highly demanding hairstyles today. If you don’t have the patience to sport and maintain it, then it’s best that you don’t attempt this style. However, if you think you can handle this glorious crown of kinky hair, then rock it, embrace it, and enjoy it!
