Puffy Afro – Simple Tips on how to Control it

A black woman smiling while touching her afro curls

An afro can get boring after wearing it in the same style all the time. But regardless of your hair type, there is a styling technique available to help you change things up, like turning that gorgeous hair into defined curls. This week’s response to your beauty question is meant to help you get the curls you desire by going through the right hair care process.  

Q: I have pretty nice curls after I wash and condition my hair but they disappear once my hair dries, and become a big, puffy afro. Which products  can you recommend that I use to reduce the puff?

A: Since everyone’s curl pattern is so different, the ideal product for each person varies. Perfectly defined curls, however, start with effective shampooing and conditioning. When shampooing, make sure you are not balling up the hair into a clump. When conditioning, be sure to apply ample amounts of conditioner (preferably mixed with oil). When the hair is hydrated the curls are more defined; be sure to detangle while conditioner is in the hair using either a wide-toothed comb, a paddle brush or finger depending on your particular curl pattern.

Smooth hair downward and squeeze with palm of hands while rinsing in order not to disturb the curl pattern. Once the hair is rinsed, squeeze excess water with hands. Avoid using a towel as this may cause frizz.

Next, apply a moisturizing oil to hair section by section. Simply use your palms or finger it through but no comb or brush should be used.

Back to styling products. One product that seems to work for an array of curl patterns is the Eco Styler Gel. After hair has been oiled, apply the Eco gel section by section from roots to ends. Again, use only fingers to work through. After product is applied, allow hair to air dry. If you want to elongate the hair, hit the roots with some heat from a blow dryer to stretch out and dry the hair before shrinkage begins.

One last thing, as tempting as it is, do not touch or disturb the hair while it is drying because this leads to frizz.

Now you have all the information you need to create lusciously defined curls!