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9 Tips for Handling Natural Hair with Two or More Textures | Black ...
10 of the Most Gorgeous and Creative Chunky Twist Styles | Black ...
Fitgi // 3C/4A Natural Hair Style Icon | Black Girl with Long Hair

9 Tips for Handling Natural Hair with Two or More Textures | Black ...

Posted: 08 Jun 2014 07:43 AM PDT

Typically, when I talk about managing multiple textures, I'm referring to transitioning and the delicate dance between old, damaged hair and new growth. This time around, I'm talking about all natural hair– although some transitioners could surely stand to benefit. One of the limitations to the texture typing system (2a – 4c) is that it fails to take into account naturals that are challenged with managing multiple textures. It's really difficult to take a one size fits all approach to haircare, when on the same head you can have hair that ranges from 2c to 4b — and none of it is damaged!

Although texture typing can be useful in some instances, I'm hesitant to label myself because my textures are personally all over the place. The right side of my hair tends to curl,whereas the left side is more inclined to wave. The back half of my hair has a looser texture and less shrinkage (around 30%), while the front half shrinks at least 50 – 60%. In addition, the front/center has a tighter wave, and the crown is kinky and frizzy. If I had to label it, I'd say my hair is a mix of 3a,3b,3c, and 4a. I say all this to say, having several different textures on one head of hair is completely normal (although the picture-perfect selfies on Instagram would lead you to believe otherwise).

So how do you manage multiple textures on one head? It can get a little frustrating, but with some trial and error, and a little ingenuity, you will be able to work with what you've got and make the most of every style.

1. On Wash Day
When it comes to managing multiple textures on wash day, the same general information holds true. Handle with care. Cleanse gently, and deep condition often. For hair that is more coily and kinky than loosely curled, extra, extra gentle care is required. Each bend, whether it be zig-zag or spiral, is a structural weak point within the hair. So when detangling and working cleansers and conditioners through, take a little more time and use a little less force on those more tightly wound sections. Also, put your deep conditioner on those areas first, so they can remain on the hair the longest. The extra few minutes of deep conditioning will help soften, hydrate, and keep the hair pliable — which sets you up for great styling.

2. Styling

Hair pinned back to dry…

When it comes to managing multiple textures, finding styles that work all the way around can be a challenge. Texture blending styles like satin strip braidouts,and bantu knot outs can definitely be useful. but you shouldn't feel pressured to rely on those styles if you like to wear wash and go's. If you opt for a texture-blending style like those mentioned above, make sure your hair is 100% dry before take-down. To get more stretch from twist-outs, use Naptural85′s method and stretch them across your head to dry. If you're like me and really just don't have it in you to set up styles, the wash and go works perfectly fine with multi-textured hair. If I just wash, add product and go, my hair will shrink into a mushrooom-esque shape while it dries, because of my previously mentioned multi-textured struggles.So typically, for the first day or half day of my wash and go, I will wear the front/center sections pinned back to help stretch the roots and make that mushroom shape go away.

Other helpful styles and tools for multiple textures:

3. banding
4. large loose twists or braids
5. Curlformers
6. straw set
7. blowout
To help get a handle on uneven shrinkage, diffusing is also really helpful. Just be mindful of scrunching the diffuser full of hair up toward the scalp, which facilitates increased shrinkage. Instead, lay the diffuser flat against sections of hair, moving it around until the hair is dry to your preferred amount.

8. Nighttime Preservation

Banding + Pineappling
Nighttime routines are where things get a little tricky for managing multiple textures. Pineappling can result in uneven stretching, bonnets equal uneven smooshing, and sometimes satin pillowcase only is not an option. This is where creativity and really knowing your hair comes in handy. I know that if I scarf pineapple only, the back half of my hair will stretch more (thanks to where the knot is tied) while the front draws up into itself. This is problematic for me, because my mornings will inevitably result in even more uneven hair. To help combat this, some nights I sleep with the front/center of my hair banded, and the rest scarf pineappled. This method works great to help more shrinkage-prone areas of the hair "catch up" with the looser hair. For more on this approach, see my Nighttime Routine video. Preserve multiple texture blending styles by following the regular scarf pineapple, or tying the scarf over the head old-fashion styled.

9. Lastly, one of the biggest lessons I learned about managing multiple textures is to do as much as you can in the way of refreshing and moisturizing during your nighttime routine. Because the hair is going straight into preservation mode (via scarf, banding, etc.), there is less of a chance or opportunity for uneven shrinkage to occur. And in the morning, when you shake and fluff, you will have to add little to no product to your hair to get it right.

What are some tips and tricks you've picked up along the way to help manage your multiple textures of hair?

Christina Patrice

Born, raised, and living in Los Angeles, Christina is BGLH's resident transitioning expert and product junkie. In addition to loving all things hair, she is a fitness novice and advocate of wearing sandals year-round. For more information on transitioning, natural hair, and her own hair journey, visit maneobjective.com. Or, if you like pictures follow Christina on Instagram @maneobjective.

10 of the Most Gorgeous and Creative Chunky Twist Styles | Black ...

Posted: 10 Jun 2014 07:23 AM PDT

So, I have developed a "chunky twists" obsession that began a couple months ago. If you know me, you know I usually live in twists, but they are typically small or medium and rarely ever chunky. Now, back to a couple months ago; I don't know how, but the chunky twist bug bit me, so I went searching for some style inspiration online. There were so many gorgeous and creative looks that I thought I'd share some of my favorites with you all:

1. Top Knot Bun with a Twist

Top Bun with a Twist on Natural Hair

I don't know who this model is, but her twisted top knot is super cute! Here are instructions for the style found on DIY Natural Hair Care:

1. Secure your hair to the top of your head with a ponytail holder.
2. Twist the ends of your ponytail into chunky twists.
3. Pull the hair forward and tuck them under to the front.
4. Secure your hair with pins.
5. Add gel to the edges and brush lightly.

2. Chunky Flat Twist Updo with Side Pompadour

This model is Toni from Mynaturalsistas, and she never ceases to amaze me with her beautiful styles. Check out the Mynaturalsistas channel she shares with her sisters.

mynaturalsistas

3. Side Flat Twists into Side Braid

We first featured this look in our natural hairstyles section, and I just had to include it again with these additional angles. The model is Nik from LHDC-TV.

lhdc_tv

4. Pin-Curled Chunky Twists

This chunky twist style looks so elegant on AfricanExport. I love the vintage, Old Hollywood Glam vibe. How cute is this look!?!

AfricanExport

5. Chunky Flat Twist Updo with Side Part and Flower

This updo is just so gorgeous and is probably one of my favorites. You can find details for Natasha's style on Lovelyyoublog.com.

lovelyyoublog

6. Loose Flat Twist Updo

KinkyCurlyBeauty is rocking a fierce chunky twist style here. There are numerous style tutorials on her KinkyCurlyBeauty channel.

KinkyCurlyBeauty

7. Chunky Twist French Roll with Curls

Do you recognize this beautiful face wearing this beautiful do? It belongs to style icon, Natasha, who was featured on BGLH last year.

natasha

8. Flat Twist Updo into Pompadour

If you know to whom this gorgeous flat twist updo belongs, let us know. It is so classy and timeless!

flattwistupdo

9. Chunky Flat Twists with Marley Braid Hair

Denise is wearing this simple yet beautiful style with Marley braid hair added for fullness. Check out her tutorial on how to blend hair extensions to flat twists for a realistic look.

denisezakiya

10. Simple Flat Twist Chignon

Isn't this chunky flat twist chignon just adorable? They were styled by and on KP of NaturalUrbanista.

naturalurbanista

Ladies, which of these styles would you wear? Do you have any additional chunky twist styles you'd like to share?

Chinwe

Hails from a great city in the Midwest and will forever be a Bears fan.

Fitgi // 3C/4A Natural Hair Style Icon | Black Girl with Long Hair

Posted: 27 May 2014 06:00 AM PDT

Introduce yourself!
F: My Name is Fitgi Saint-Louis and I am from Long Island, New York. I currently live in the city.

Why did you make the decision to go natural?
F: While in college I started looking for ways to give my relaxed hair volume. I starting using different products and drying techniques to create waves and curls. I used to relax my hair 2-3 times a year and wanted a new look. Relaxing my hair only to struggle making it curly was counterproductive so I started growing out my hair only trimming the ends when needed. It was a fun process and I had one of my best friends transitioning at the same time, which was helpful. I've had natural hair now for 5 years!

How would you describe your texture?
F: My hair is evenly one texture between 3C and 4A. I have fine strands, however my hair is dense. My wash and go is tight and curly, but as days pass the curls start to fall. One night of twists will completely change my look the following day. Wind and humidity make my hair huge – think Chaka Khan in the 80's huge.

Describe your styling regimen over the course of the month.
F: Over the course of a month I first have my hair in twists after a wash, then I let my wavy hair out. Once it loses shape I go to my updos. I used to use a lot of hair ties, which started breaking my hair in the front, so I switched to only bobby pins to create different styles. In the summer, updos keeps my neck free to air and in the winter they work as a hat. I've been challenging myself to create a new updo every day. For dance class for example, I have four twists I put into a bun.

What does wash day look like for you?
F: I detangle my hair with either Organic Root Stimulator Olive Oil Moisturizing Hair Lotion, Shea Moisture Deep Treatment Masque, or organic coconut oil with some water and a wide tooth comb. If it's not too late I then wash my hair right after. I use the Shea Moisture Raw Shea Butter Moisture Retention Shampoo to wash then twist my hair into 8-16 sections using the Curl Enhancing Smoothie. I then let it air dry. Sometimes if my hair is not too tangled I will detangle in the shower. If I have a dance performance or want to change it up I'll blow dry my hair. I just purchased a CHI Hand Shot Ceramic Hair Dryer, which helps me finish in an hour. I really like it, except when the bothersome comb attachment falls off.

Describe your favorite go-to hairstyle for days when you don't have a lot of time to style.
F: My favorite easy style is a twisted updo. I pull all my ends above my head then turn the edges and pin to my scalp with 4-6 pins. The same technique can make a different style depending on the way I turn and where I place the ends. I love it!

How do you combat shrinkage?
F: I like to embrace shrinkage. I like the versatility of my hair being able to be above and below shoulder length. It seems like magic to some people and I enjoy their excitement.

What are some of your problem areas (if any) that require special care and attention?
F: My hair can go from soft, shiny and curly to dry and limp quickly. I have to constantly keep it moisturized with my go to products. I also keep my hair in twists at night to help with the dryness.

What are 2 do's for your texture?
F: Keep it moisturized and have fun with the versatility. There are so many possibilities.

What are 2 don'ts for your texture?
F: Try not to use too much heat and don't attempt to comb out curls without some product and water. Save yourself the pain.

Is there a blog/webpage where we can find you?
F: Check out my Instagram @GiveThemHair. I also have a Tumblr blog with different updo styles that is currently under construction at GiveThemHair.com.