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Top ten hairstyles for dark-skinned women trending now in Africa
29th July 2024
African hairstyles are more than just beauty statements—they’re a blend of culture, tradition, and personal style. For Gen Z women considering a new look, choosing the right hairstyle can be both exciting and daunting. Whether you want something classic or cutting-edge, understanding each hairstyle’s impact, maintenance, and cost is crucial.
In this guide, we explore ten of the most popular hairstyles for dark-skinned women across Africa. From the timeless dreadlocks to the chic braided buns, each style is examined in detail. We’ll discuss how each look enhances your features, its best uses, and how to maintain it within your budget.
Dreadlocks Bun
A dreadlocks bun offers a polished yet carefree look. This hairstyle can give you a taller and more elegant appearance, highlighting high cheekbones and a slender neck. It's ideal for both casual and formal settings and can be enhanced with color for an added chic bohemian vibe.
Maintenance is low, making it a popular choice for busy women. In Nairobi, the style costs about 2,500 KES. In Johannesburg, it's around 400 ZAR, and in Lagos, it's approximately 12,000 NGN. This style can last for several weeks with minimal upkeep.
Afro Puffs
Afro puffs bring back a fun, retro 70s chic vibe and are perfect for casual outings or themed parties. This style can make your face look more youthful and give a playful, energetic look, accentuating your natural beauty and adding a touch of nostalgia.
Maintenance involves regular moisturizing to keep the hair soft and manageable. The cost in Nairobi is about 1,500 KES, in Johannesburg, it's around 250 ZAR, and in Lagos, it’s about 7,500 NGN. This hairstyle can last up to two weeks.
Bantu Knots
Bantu knots are a popular choice for keeping hair neat, polished, and chic. This hairstyle can make your face look more structured and defined, perfect for both professional and casual settings. The perfectly curled hair strands on the side add a stylish touch that grabs attention.
Maintenance is minimal, involving regular moisturizing. In Nairobi, it costs about 2,000 KES. In Johannesburg, expect to pay around 350 ZAR, and in Lagos, it's about 10,000 NGN. This style can last up to two weeks before needing a redo.
Double Dutch Box Braids
Double Dutch box braids offer a feminine look, ideal for women experimenting with different braid styles. This hairstyle can make your hair look thicker and fuller, giving you a youthful and vibrant appearance. It's suitable for casual outings and can be worn for formal events too.
Maintenance is low, requiring occasional oiling to keep the braids shiny and healthy. The cost in Nairobi is about 4,000 KES, in Johannesburg, it’s around 600 ZAR, and in Lagos, it’s approximately 20,000 NGN. This hairstyle can last up to six weeks.
Crown Braids
Crown braids keep hair off the face while maintaining a sophisticated and ladylike appearance. This hairstyle can make you look more regal and elegant, emphasizing your natural grace and poise. It's perfect for formal events, weddings, or any occasion where a touch of elegance is needed.
Maintenance involves keeping the braids neat and occasionally re-braiding loose strands. In Nairobi, the cost is about 3,500 KES. In Johannesburg, it’s around 500 ZAR, and in Lagos, it’s about 15,000 NGN. This style can last up to three weeks before requiring a touch-up.
Sleek and Straight
A sleek and straight hairstyle can give you a modern, polished look that highlights your facial features, such as high cheekbones. It’s a great choice for formal occasions or when you want to make a strong impression. This style can elongate your face, making you look more refined and sophisticated.
To maintain sleek and straight hair, regular straightening is needed to keep it smooth and glossy. In Nairobi, this hairstyle costs about 3,000 KES, in Johannesburg, it’s around 500 ZAR, and in Lagos, it’s approximately 12,000 NGN. This look can last up to two weeks before needing a redo.
Faux Hawk Pixie
The faux hawk pixie is an edgy and confident choice, ideal for those who want to stand out. This hairstyle can accentuate your facial features, making you look bold and charismatic. It’s a great option for those who enjoy experimenting with their look and want a style that commands attention.
Maintenance is relatively low, with regular trims needed to keep the style sharp. In Nairobi, it costs about 2,500 KES, in Johannesburg, it’s around 400 ZAR, and in Lagos, it’s about 10,000 NGN. This hairstyle can last up to six weeks before requiring a refresh.
Braided Bun
A braided bun is a classic and sophisticated style, perfect for brides or formal events. It can give you a graceful and polished look, highlighting your elegant features. This style combines the best of both worlds—classy and grounded in traditional braiding techniques.
Maintenance involves keeping the braids neat and ensuring the bun is securely fastened. In Nairobi, the cost is about 4,000 KES, in Johannesburg, it’s around 600 ZAR, and in Lagos, it’s about 18,000 NGN. This style can last up to a month with proper care.
Black Ponytail
The black ponytail is a glamorous and versatile style that works for both everyday wear and special occasions. It can add volume to your hair and create a sleek, elegant look. This hairstyle can make you appear taller and more refined, ideal for both casual outings and formal events.
Maintaining a black ponytail involves regular moisturizing and touch-ups to keep the weave secure. In Nairobi, it costs about 2,500 KES, in Johannesburg, it’s around 400 ZAR, and in Lagos, it’s approximately 12,000 NGN. This style can last up to three weeks before needing maintenance.
These hairstyles are trending across Africa, each offering a unique way to showcase personal style while reflecting cultural pride. Whether you're looking for something playful, sophisticated, or bold, these styles cater to a range of preferences and occasions.