A few days ago, my daughter Tyra, who’s a professional hairstylist and colorist, told me, “Mom, it’s fall, time for a new hairdo!” Sometimes I swear she thinks she’s the mom, haha. She suggested we add some layers and try a new hair color. I haven’t dyed my hair in about 30 years, just never liked the upkeep, so I gave up on it. I don’t have much grey hair, but I’ve always embraced what little I have. But I have to admit, after taking her advice, the new look took at least 10 years off my appearance, and now I’m totally hooked and more open to experimenting with my hair.
Maintaining a trendy layered cut for Black hair requires specific care routines and products to keep layers healthy, defined, and full of volume. Here’s how to maintain the look:
1.Regular Trims: Keep the shape fresh with trims every 6-8 weeks. This helps prevent split ends and maintains the cut’s layered structure.
2.Hydrate and Moisturize: Black hair tends to be drier, so using a moisturizing shampoo and a rich conditioner is essential. Deep condition weekly to keep layers soft, hydrated, and defined.
3.Use a Leave-In Conditioner: A lightweight leave-in conditioner can add moisture without weighing down layers. Focus on applying it to the mid-lengths and ends for bounce and shine.
4.Emphasize Volume with Lightweight Oils or Creams: To enhance texture, use a small amount of lightweight oil (such as argan or jojoba) or a curl cream on damp hair. This helps define curls, coils, or waves in each layer without weighing them down.
5.Blow-Dry with a Diffuser or Stretching Technique: For defined layers, dry hair with a diffuser on low heat to maintain volume and reduce frizz. If you prefer a stretched look, try a low-heat blowout using the tension method to add length and shape to your layers.
6.Style with Wrapping or Bantu Knots: For curly or coily layered hair, try wrapping or Bantu knots before bed to keep layers defined and add volume in the morning. This helps layers hold their shape and avoids tangling or flattening overnight.
7.Refresh with a Spritz of Water or Leave-In Mist: Black hair often benefits from occasional misting to refresh layers between washes. Spritz with water or a light leave-in mist and fluff with your fingers for added bounce.
8.Protect at Night: Wrap your hair in a silk or satin scarf or use a satin bonnet to reduce friction and keep layers intact while you sleep. A satin pillowcase is also great for extra protection.
9.Avoid Heavy Styling Products: Heavy gels and thick creams can weigh down your layers and make the cut lose its shape. Opt for lightweight products like foaming mousses, curl enhancers, or light oils to maintain volume and movement.
These steps will help keep your layered cut for Black hair healthy, stylish, and full of bounce, whether you’re going for a natural, curly look or a more stretched style.
