How to Do Pin Curls on Afro Textured Hair

Get your hair under control without damaging chemicals or styling tools.

Pin curls were a trendy hairstyle for women with hair of many textures in the 1940s, and have recently regained popularity. Creating curls without having to use heated styling tools that dry out and damage your hair, pin curls are an ideal way to eliminate frizz and get your hair under control. This can be especially helpful for Afro textured hair, as pin curls will give your hair definition and style without the hassle of a beauty parlor or the harmful effects of harsh chemicals.

Things You'll Need

• Moisturizing shampoo
• Towel
• Leave-in conditioner
• Wide-tooth comb
• Hair wax
• Metal hair clips

Instructions

1. Wash your hair with moisturizing shampoo specifically made for dry or Afro textured hair.

2. Pat your hair dry delicately with a towel. Rubbing your hair will cause excessive frizz, so be gentle with it.

3. Condition your hair with leave-in conditioner. This will not only add moisture to your hair for an extended amount of time, but will make it easier to comb through and separate the curls.

4. Comb your hair with a wide-toothed comb to eliminate knots and tangles.

5. Create a part in your hair wherever you like. It can be in the center or off to the side.

6. Section off a 1/2-inch piece of hair. Apply a small amount of wax, about half the size of a dime, to the section of hair.

7. Twist the section of hair while wrapping it around your index finger of your other hand. Wrap the curl all the way around your finger. Remove your finger, tuck the end of the hair into the curl, and clip the curl close to your head.

8. Repeat this process, making 1/2-inch sections in a regular pattern.

9. Blow dry your hair if you want the curls to dry quickly, or allow your hair to air dry. In either case, your curls should be completely dry before you unclip them, otherwise the curl may not be fully formed.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid brushing your hair after you have let out the curls; brushing will turn your curls into poof and frizz.

References

• Beauty and the Bath: Black Hairstyles The Beauty Of The Natural Curl
• Hair Boutique; Creating Pin Curls - Detailed Steps; Karen Marie Shelton; June 17, 2006