Why You Should Try a TWA with Big Hoops

Sometimes doing the big chop means you have to cut your natural hair very short-- emphasis on the "very." However, that does not mean you cannot have a feminine look. The best way to accessorize your natural hair with a TWA is to focus on your type of jewelry, specifically earrings. Since TWAs are a short hairstyle, large hoop earrings (in either gold or silver) can compliment your look perfectly for a stylish touch. From decorative to simple and minimal, trying hoops with your TWA is a beautiful pairing.

Curl Sponge Tutorial for Natural Hair TWA

We posted about sponge coils in the past here and here, but it felt like it was time to do a much needed update. Since our initial posts, sponge coils has become wildly popular for men and women with shorter natural hair. For women with TWAs, sponge coils offers a way to style short natural hair while also giving it a feminine appearance with beautiful curls that accentuate the face.

How To: Use Flexi Rods on Short Natural Hair!

I think I have finally graduated from having a TWA to just a regular short fro. With that I’ve decided to take it back to one of my absolutely favorite hair styles from when I was transitioning, the Flexi Rod set!

How To Use Flex Rods for Curls on Natural Hair

We go through phases with our natural hair: Sometimes we're lazy, and a topknot or puff is all we have the energy to do. Other times, we spend hours braiding and twisting our curls for perfect definition. Then, there are times we want to rock large spiral curls similar to the roller sets we wore as a kid.

Getting perfectly formed ringlets requires the help of tools — and we're not talking about the curling wand. You can use flexi rods to curl your hair without risking heat damage from hot tools. (Although if you need to dry fast, you can sit under a hood dryer, which is less harsh on the hair.) The bendable rods come in different sizes that you can select based on the results you're seeking: the thinner the rod, the tighter the curl.

The technique of applying the bendy rods can be slightly intimidating for newbies. So to help you avoid a wash-day fail, we rounded up some of our favorite flexi-rod tutorials that'll get you the curls you've been dying for.

DIY Double-Sided Head Wrap Tutorial

LaTonya of A Beautiful Mess shows you how to sew your own head wrap, a perfect accessory for the transition between these last Winter days and the coming Spring.

Hi guys! LaTonya here with another easy and fun DIY to share with you all! I love wearing head wraps. It's something that has become a style comfort zone for me, and instantly brings a bit of color and happiness to my outfits. Wearing a head wrap can truly be a stylish addition to any wardrobe. Some head wraps are quite expensive to purchase, but with this DIY, you can make your own double-sided head wrap in just a few minutes. Half the cost, double the wear!

Tired of Your Natural Hair? Try Mini Twist for a Much Needed Break

We’ve all been there. You are tired of having to restyle your natural hair, or you are in desperate need of a winter protective hairstyle. 

Jenell of KinkyCurlyCoilyMe suggests Mini Twists as a solution and we agree! Watch the video below to learn more about her suggestions, then read our posts about Mini Twists for information about washing and general maintenance.

My Fair Hair Helpful Posts: 

How to Create Mini Twists: Video Tutorial

How To Detangle Finger Coils, Twists, Bantu Knots, and Rodsets

How to wash and condition hair extensions

Lookbook: Mini Twists Spring Outfits

10 More Stunning Natural Hair Pictorials

Last year we featured 10 of the Most Stunning Natural Pictorials. Since then, there have been many more hairstyle pictorials on Instagram and Pinterest. Here are our top ten choices for this year.

MyfroandI demonstrates how to create this super cute twisted updo. Get your bobby pins, satin scarf, spray bottle, and hands ready.

4 Natural Hair Professional Looks Great for Work and Interviews

Watch as natural hair blogger Tina a.k.a, missT1806 demonstrates professional natural hair styles that you can wear at the office and on your job interviews.

Tina says: "Natural hair is not professional" How many times have you heard that? In this video I share 4 quick and easy styles that are work appropriate and would also be perfect for polishing your look to nail that job interview. Enjoy!

Photo Series ‘Hairdo’ Celebrates Black Children’s Hair Texture

by  Annika Harris of UPTOWN

London-based photographer Emily Stein is hoping to eliminate the judgment and scrutiny Black children feel as a result of wearing their natural hair texture.

Stein was inspired by hairstyles and decided to take a closer look at the hairstyles of kids of Caribbean- and African-descent in her neighborhood, reports the New York Daily News. She features the intricate and often technical hairstyles worn by the children in her photo series Hairdo.

“The purpose of the project was to celebrate charismatic kids with equally charismatic hairstyles,” Stein told the Daily News. “Children are bombarded by images on social media and this syncs into their psyche.”

Some of the hairstyles Stein snapped and included in the photo project are cornrows, Bantu knots, box braids, and buns, which were oftentimes adorned with plastic beads, barrettes, and bows.

After asking parents’ permission, Stein would photograph the children right on the street, with a piece of colored paper serving as backdrop. Since she wanted the children, ages 3 to 8, to be, well, natural, she would instruct them to move as they wished.

“I wanted the children to be in charge, so I asked them to move as they wanted, which resulted in them yawning, hiding, or lavishing in the moment,” Stein said to the Daily News.

The photographer has plans to use the images in a limited-edition photo magazine of 200 copies.

My Fair Hair comments: Hi Ladies, I wanted to share this article because one of the goals of My Fair Hair is to eliminate the idea that natural hair is unpolished and unprofessional. I think once we, as adults, understand this and demonstrate this idea, it will encourage children to love their hair as well. Enjoy!

Check out all the Hairdo images on Stein’s website.

Fall Lookbook | Box Braids and Curly Havana Twists

As the fall season gradually comes upon us, I will be previewing Fall Lookbooks. Here is some natural hairstyle inspiration in the form of Box Braids in a symmetrical bob cuts and curly Havana Twists.

As always, when styling braids or twists, make sure to braid or twist loosely, as to not strain or pull the hair. Never attach large quantities of hair extensions to your edges as this can result in hair strain. Also remember that hair extensions should not remain in your hair for longer than 4-6 weeks (4 weeks being the maximum, in my opinion).

Blogger Coily Bella showing off her chunky curly twists

Which look will you try?

How To Detangle Sponge Coils, Finger Coils, Twists, Bantu Knots, and Rodsets

I originally posted this article in June 2013, but seeing as I have received questions about how to take down sponge coils, I felt that re-posting this would be helpful. Coils created by finger coiling or by using a sponge are not permanent . Follow the instructions below to learn how to detangle coils without causing damage to your hair.

Wearing natural hair in finger coils, twists, bantu knots, and rod sets can make it a challenge to comb out and detangle, because the hair has been trained to coil or twist on itself.  If your hair is hard to comb out and detangle you will get breakage and hair loss. I have found these 5 steps to detangle natural hair after wearing finger coils, twists, bantu knots, and rod sets have helped me to minimize the damage.

Pre-poo your hair
1) Do a heavy oiling or pre-poo of your natural hair before you wash your hair. This will set the stage for your further detangling before you shampoo. Put your hair into several twists.

Finger detangle
2) Detangle with your fingers. Work on only one section at a time.  If you encounter any resistance, carefully pull the tangled hairs or knots apart.

3) When you feel you have adequately finger detangled, start to comb with a wide-tooth comb.  If you encounter any serious resistance, go back and finger detangle this spot again until you can comb it through easily.

4) If hair feels very dry and starts to break, add more oil, water, or even your favorite conditioner that has lots of slip.  Anything that will make the coils and knots release.

5) Be sure you have enough time (and patience) to do your entire head this way.  I have found when I feel rushed or I get tired, I rip through my hair and cause more breakage than usual.

After each section has been adequately detangled, proceed on to your hair washing.

Prevent breakage and hair loss and keep more of your hair on your head where it belongs with these 5 steps to detangle natural hair after wearing finger coils, twists, bantu knots, and rod sets.

courtesy of Alyce, blackhaircaretoday.com

More helpful articles:

Everything You Need To Know About Sponge Coils
How to Keep Your Sponge Coils Moisturized

Lookbook| 5 Natural Hair Summer Hairstyles You Can Try

Time to roll out a new lookbook with fresh natural hairstyles for the summer. Check out these natural hairstyles below for some inspiration.

Easy Summer Natural Hairstyles

Flexi Rods/Perm Rods
This is one look I HAVE to try this summer! As you can see from the photo below by Sumetra, flexi rods and perm rods each give different results.

Curly Afro Puff
This is a new take on the traditional afro puff. Position your afro puff forward towards the front of your hair to create curly bangs.

Flat Twist Out
Let's not forget the beauty of a simple flat twist out.

Tutorial by Afrophire

Video Tutorial by Sumetra Reed

Protective Summer Natural Hairstyles

"Crowing Glory" Flat Twist Crown
Simple, classy, and professional. The flat twist crown, also known as the "goddess" braid, can work as a workplace hairstyle.

By Janae

Video Tutorial by Yoli for Short Natural Hair

Flat Twist Crown and Bun

By Fret_

Which of these looks will you try?

3 Glamorous Styles for Prom and Wedding Season

by Curlynikki

Fiona writes:

As wedding season has now arrived and I too prepare for my big day this summer, I have put together a video and some looks for my potential big day 'do! I've decided to take the plunge and be a DIY bride so I hope these photos and video can inspire other naturals too.


If you have shorter or medium length natural hair, try using kinky hair extensions like Havana Hair to create the hairstyles shown in the video.

I have several helpful posts on choosing the right hair extension color, ways to create the best Havana Twists, and everything you need to know about Havana hair.

Hope your special day rocks! 

Were these looks helpful? What hairstyle are you thinking of wearing for your big day?

Lookbook | Natural Hair Wedding Inspired by Nature

I found these beautiful images and just had to share them with you! Continuing with our Wedding Lookbook for natural hair, this collection of photos styled by La mariée aux pieds nus and Made In You focuses on a naturesque feeling with the inclusion of garden flowers, an intricate lace wedding gown, and a more down-to-earth wedding vibe. Photography by Marion Heurteboust.

The model is wearing a simple twist out or wash n go with her wedding gown.

All of these photos create a picturesque feeling akin to a fairy tale wedding.

See more photos at Hello May Bridal Magazine. For more natural hair wedding inspiration visit my Pinterest Wedding board.

I do not own these photos. All credit goes to Marion Heurteboust Photography.

Have natural hair wedding photos you would like to share with us? Email me at lovenaturalsunshine@gmail.com

The Best Perm Rod Set Ever

A Perm Rod set is a natural hairstyle that can give your hair a curly or coily look using plastic perm rods. It is can ideal hairstyle for all hair types. Adjust your hair products according to your hair texture needs. This is a great hairstyle to try if you are looking to change up your look and to try something new!

The Best Perm Rod Set Ever Tutorial



Perm Rod Results & Styling Tutorial

If you ladies have questions about which products to use to achieve the perm rod set, let me know and I will do a post!

Lookbook | Natural Hair Wedding

Hello Ladies, the remainder of this week will focus on natural hair wedding season! You may have noticed my new Pinterest Wedding board. Use that board for inspiration as well. So let’s get started!

The first look is a simple, yet regal TWA (teeny, weenie, afro). These photos were part of a collection featured on Essence magazine by MUNALUCHI and KISS THE GROOM.

 Add a flourish with an elegant hair piece with tulle, flowers, or feathers.

Gorgeous!

Breathtaking!

I hope this provided some inspiration for current or future brides with natural hair! Stay tuned… (;

Lookbook | More Mini Twists & Spring Outfits

I promised that I would be back with more lookbooks for Mini Twists. Here they are! Style your Mini Twists and pair them with professional looks of teal and tan. With the addition of a blazer for the workplace or interviews or a chic clutch for church or a special occasion, you're sure to be the best dressed!

Mini Twists Hairstyle & Outfit

Mini Twists Hairstyle & Outfit

Model photos courtesy of Essence

What are your favorite colors for spring?

7 Things Every Big Chopper Needs

by NaturallyChelsea via Curlynikki.com

Cutting off all your hair can be the stuff nightmares are made of for most women. Despite that fact, more and more women are big chopping to join team natural.

As they should be! Going natural can be the most exhilarating, and according to many women, the best decision one can make. A little preparation will help to make the journey to natural as smooth as possible. Read on for a few must-haves you'll need in your big chopper arsenal.

Read More >>

Selecting The Correct Havana Hair Color – A Guide

Choosing the correct Havana hair color can be a tricky task, especially if you have color-treated or dyed hair. Although Finger Comber offers a hair color chart, it is outdated and does not always reflect the true color of their Havana hair colors. Read this guide before selecting your Havana hair to ensure that you have the right fit!

Understanding Color in Kinky Hair Extensions
Though Finger Comber compares their Havana hair colors to the hair color scale (1, 1b, 4, etc) that is used for straight-haired extensions, the rule of thumb to remember with Havana hair is that is always two shades darker than straight-hair extensions. Why? Like regular human hair, straight hair tends to reflect light making the color brighter and seemingly shiny, while kinky hair absorbs light, making the color darker and less shiny (Kong). This rule applies to extensions too. Whatever Havana color you choose, understand that it will be a darker, deeper tone than straight hair extensions with the same hair color number.

This is the Finger Comber chart of Havana hair colors found on their website. Even still, with this Finger Comber chart it is difficult to determine the hair color.

This is a chart I made to reflect my interpretation of the Havana hair colors in relation to straight hair extensions.

Notice the difference. The straight hair colors are brighter, while the Havana hair colors are deeper toned. As you can also see, the Havana hair colors Onyx, Chestnut Black, and Darkest Expresso are very similar. (In fact, I remember suggesting to my sister that she buy Darkest Expresso when Chestnut Black was out of stock. She found that the colors were similar and that the difference was not very noticeable).

I ordered this redish-brown color of “Sangria” Havana hair. Finger Comber's website says that this “Sangria” hair is similar to #33 straight hair extensions. You can see, however, how much deeper toned the Havana hair is. The true color is only brighter in natural lighting.

I hope this chart is helpful to you as you select your Havana hair color. This is also a chart you can refer back to when purchasing other types of kinky hair.

Remember to moisturize and regularly take care of your hair and scalp even while it is in extensions. Using hair sprays or scalp massages are good ways to do this. Also, do not keep your extensions in longer than 3 weeks at a time. And always give your hair a rest before adding extensions back in. Your hair is healthiest and happiest when it is out on its own, so let it be extension-free for longer periods of time!

Let me know if you have any questions and I’d be happy to help!

Disclaimer: I have not bought all the shades of Havana hair. I made this chart off of my best judgment after buying the Sangria, Chestnut Black, Darkest Expresso, and Dark Hazelnut colors.

Source: Going Natural: How to Fall in Love with Nappy Hair by Mireille Liong-A-Kong

What is your favorite Havana hair color?

5 Do’s and Don’ts of Braid Extensions

by Natural Hair Rules

It’s widely believed that braid extensions help to “grow” hair, which in part can be true. While they are certainly a great protective style that helps you retain length, here are 5 Do’s and Don’ts of Braid Extensions to keep in mind:

1. Braids don’t “make” or “promote” hair growth instead they help with length retention.  Every time you style and detangle there’s a risk of breakage.  It just happens. When your hair is braided, you dodge the risk of mechanical breakage from manipulation.  This is why braids are a great protective style.

2. Wearing Braids Long-Term (more than 4-6 weeks without touch-ups) Can Decrease Length Retention. “Six weeks is the maximum I would recommend [leaving in extensions],” says Natural Hairstylist Diane Bailey. For many this is around the time that the hair begins to lock or mat.  Leaving them in longer makes it difficult to detangle. It’s also good to throughly clean your hair and scalp without the extension to prevent infection and other conditions of the scalp.

My Fair Hair Suggestion: I would advise not keeping extensions longer than 3 weeks at a time for optimum hair health.

3. For those who have sensitive and thinning edges, you have a higher chance of experiencing traction alopecia or increased hair loss in those areas.  Its best that you avoid any and all tugging and tightness in this area.  This is a concern if you continuously wear braids back to back without any breaks. If you already have an issue with thinning or sensitive edges braid extensions may not be the best thing for your hair.

Read: Oils Best for Regrowing Thinning Edges

4. Keep Them Loose. During my last trip to the braiding salon there were so many beautiful braided styles being created around me. But I couldn’t help but notice that many of these women were victims of traction alopecia. If you feel that your hair is being pulled too tightly kindly ask your stylist to reduce the tension that is being applied.

Read Prevent and Treat Female Pattern Baldness 

5. I know they look pretty but the small teeny braids (micros) put a lot of tension on the hair. This isn’t to say that you can never wear micro braids if you want, but constantly wearing them may lead to thinning hair rather than healthy length retention. Plus, its not fun taking all those tiny braids down. Which if you don’t have the patience, micro braids might not be for you. In order for your protective styling to be beneficial it must protect your hair and scalp from breakage. Otherwise, if you rough house with your hair, all of the length that you retained can easily break off.

What are your tips for wearing braid extensions?

Photo credit: Instagram


Suffering from Alopeica (Hair Loss)? Unsure of which type? Read about Traction Alopecia HERE and CCCA Alopecia HERE.