How to Style Long African American Hair

A well-maintained hairstyle can give you confidence and attract positive attention. Long hair is often regarded as desirable and vibrant. Although styling long African-American hair can be time-consuming, the end result is well worth the effort.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Detangling shampoo
• Conditioner
• Hair grease
• Wide-tooth comb
• Brush
• Hair rollers
• Hair dryer
• Flat iron

1. Wash and condition the hair. Use a detangling shampoo to help prevent knots and and excess breakage. Spread conditioner evenly throughout the hair using a wide tooth comb. Follow the conditioner's directions for proper removal.

2. Dry and moisturize the hair. Apply hair grease or cream to the hair to lock in moisture. Allow the hair to air dry or use light heat. Avoid overdrying the hair, which can lead to hair breakage and loss.

3. Brush the hair. Brushing the hair smooths it and allows further distribution of the moisturizing agents. Apply more hair grease or cream to achieve the desired luster.

4. Consider roller-setting the hair. Brush the hair to one side and secure it with a clip. Use a comb to make a square part in the unclipped side of the hair. Place a roller at the ends of the exposed hair and roll upward until no longer possible. Secure the roller and repeat until all hair is in rollers. Finish by unfastening the rollers and using your fingers to style the curls. Use heated rollers or a hair dryer to lock in the curls.

5. Create a sleek style. Use a wide-tooth comb to prepare the hair. Apply hair grease or cream while parting the hair into sections and clipping them out of the way. Unclip the desired hair section and use a flat iron to straighten the hair. Repeat until all hair has been flat ironed. Shape the hair to frame your face.

6. Choose a braided style. Part the hair into lengthwise sections and secure with a clip. Moisturize each section of hair before braiding to prevent breakage. Use the desired braiding technique to complete each section. Experiment by parting the hair into different patterns.

7. Ehance the hiar. Use weave tracks

Tips & Warnings

• Choose a hairstyle that suits your lifestyle. Some styles take more time to create and care for.
• Add accessories such as wooden beads or chopsticks to enhance your hairstyle.
• Avoid over-heating or over-processing your hair to prevent breakage and hair loss.

[brat011981]

on 9/27/2009 Please look up information on "hair grease" and how it does not benefit African American type hair at all. Petroleum products should be avoided because they clog the follicles.
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