The Afro Hair Lexicon
Dive into the essential vocabulary and specific terms related to afro hairstyles and natural hair care.
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- Bantu knotsSmall, spiraled knots created by twisting sections of hair and then coiling them tightly onto…
- Barrel twistsBarrel twists are a stylish variation of two-strand twists or locs, where multiple twisted…
- Big ChopThe 'Big Chop' is a significant haircut where all chemically straightened (relaxed) or damaged…
- Blow OutStretching natural hair using a blow dryer with a comb or brush attachment. It adds volume…
- Boho braidsA stylish variation of box braids or knotless braids, incorporating wavy or curly hair extensions…
- Box BraidsIndividual braids, created with or without extensions, typically medium to large in size.…
- Braid OutThe defined and voluminous curls achieved by carefully unraveling braids (a 'braid out') once…
- BraidsA general term referring to hair that has been interlaced or woven together. A basic braid…
- BunThe elegant and timeless bun is a versatile staple in Afro hair styling. Whether worn high,…
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- Faux LocsFaux locs are a popular protective hairstyle achieved by wrapping synthetic hair extensions…
- Finger CoilsFinger Coils are a minimalist yet artistic hairstyle that beautifully defines each curl with…
- Flat TwistsA protective style where hair is twisted flat against the scalp, similar in appearance to…
- Fulani braidsA traditional hairstyle inspired by Fulani women, featuring cornrows down the center and on…
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- Hair ExtensionsOften confused, these three terms (extensions, weaves, and bundles) refer to distinct techniques…
- Hair TransitionThe period during which an individual allows their natural hair to grow out without cutting…
- Havana twistHavana Twists are a chunkier, more voluminous take on traditional twists. This protective…
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- Sealing in MoistureThis technique involves locking moisture into your hair strands by applying an oil or butter…
- Senegalese twistsLong twists created using smooth hair extensions (often Kanekalon), tightly twisted for a…
- ShrinkageThe apparent reduction in the length of kinky, coily, or curly hair as it dries. This phenomenon…
- Silk pressA heat-based straightening technique for natural hair, utilizing a blow-dry and flat iron…
- SisterlocksSisterlocks offer a sophisticated take on traditional locs, achieved through a unique interlocking…
- Starting Your LocsStarting your locs is both a symbolic and technical milestone. It's the beginning of a unique…