30 Beautiful Afro Hairstyles

Afro hairstyles celebrate the natural beauty and versatility of textured hair. They carry cultural significance and have gained popularity as symbols of pride and self-expression. These hairstyles are adaptable and suitable for all hair lengths and curl patterns within the Afro community. They offer a wide range of styles, from bold statement looks to everyday protective options.

At Rush, we have stylists who specialise in textured hair, ensuring personalised styles that enhance your unique look.

What are Afro Hairstyles?

Afro hairstyles celebrate the natural curl pattern and volume of afro-textured hair, reflecting a rich cultural heritage. Popular styles include natural afros, which showcase the hair’s texture; twist-outs, where twisted sections are unravelled for defined curls; and braid-outs, which create waves from braids. Other favoured styles include bantu knots, small coiled buns, and cornrows, which are braided close to the scalp. Protective styles help minimise manipulation and reduce breakage, promoting healthier growth. Afro hair is beautiful and unique, offering a diverse range of textures and styles that allow for personal and cultural expression.

Key Considerations for Afro Hairstyles

Hair Texture and Length

Afro hair varies from tight coils to looser curls; understanding your texture helps you choose suitable styles.

Hair length and texture play a significant role in determining hairstyle options. For example, short tapered afros can create a sleek, modern look while longer styles such as braids and twists offer more versatility. Additionally, hair thickness and density will impact the overall volume and the ability to maintain different styles. Therefore, seeking personalised advice from a stylist is advised, as they can recommend styles specifically tailored to individual hair characteristics and preferences.

Protective Styling

Protective styles like braids, twists, and bantu knots can help reduce hair breakage and promote growth. It’s important to ensure that these styles are not too tight to prevent scalp damage or traction alopecia. Additionally, protective styles should allow for scalp moisturisation and easy access to the scalp.

Lifestyle and Maintenance

When selecting an afro hairstyle, it’s important to choose a style that fits your daily routine and the time you have available for styling. Low-maintenance options, such as wash-and-go styles and twist-outs, are great for those with a busy schedule. For longer-lasting styles, consider braids or cornrows. To take care of your hair at night, use satin scarves or pillowcases; this will help preserve your hairstyle and maintain moisture.

Scalp Health

A healthy scalp is essential for strong hair growth, and regular gentle cleansing plays a key role in maintaining scalp health. It’s important to use sulphate-free shampoos and to avoid harsh chemicals. Additionally, scalp massages using oils can help boost circulation and strengthen hair.

Product Choice

For afro hairstyles, it’s best to choose products that are moisturising and rich in natural ingredients, such as shea butter, coconut oil, and jojoba oil. Leave-in conditioners and curl creams are also excellent options, as they help define and enhance texture. Avoid products that contain drying alcohols and harsh sulfates.

Top 30 Afro Hairstyles

1. Classic Afro

A classic afro is a hairstyle where naturally curly or coily hair is styled to form a rounded, voluminous shape. It is achieved by combing out the natural hair or using products to temporarily define the curls into a spherical form. This hairstyle is often associated with a symbol of pride and cultural identity. Seen on celebrities such as Diana Ross.

Suitable Hair Types: Classic afro hair types are generally classified as type 4 hair, and are naturally coiled or curled with varying degrees of tightness and density. 

Styling Tips: Classic afros are often maintained with wide-toothed combs to gently separate and define the curls. 

2. Big Afro

A big afro is essentially a larger, more voluminous version of the classic afro hairstyle. The shape is still rounded, but the difference lies primarily in the degree of volume and overall size. A big afro is a more exaggerated version, taking the natural fullness and volume to a greater extreme. Seen on celebrities such as Solange Knowles. 

Suitable Hair Types: Hair types 4A, 4B and 4C are most naturally suited for achieving a big afro. While 4C types may require more effort due to their tendency to shrink, all three types can create a stunning, full afro with proper care and styling. 

Styling Tips: Focus on moisture, avoid heat and consider protective styles to maintain its health and shape. 

3. Classic Afro Puff

A classic afro puff is where the hair is gathered into a rounded shape, often on the top or sides of the head, resembling a puff or a small afro. It is a simple, versatile and popular hairstyle, particularly among those with short or medium length textured hair. Seen on celebrities such as Blue Ivy Carter.

Suitable Hair Types: Most suited for hair types with naturally coily or curly textures, particularly those categorised as 3A to 4C hair types. 

Styling Tips: Use a light-hold hair spray to define the ends and keep frizz at bay. 

4. Sleek Afro Puff

A sleek afro puff is a hairstyle where the hair is gathered and secured into a rounded shape at the crown or back of the head, creating a smooth and polished look. It involves using a styling product and technique to minimise frizz and flyaways, resulting in a defined and voluminous puff. Seen on celebrities such as Alicia Keys.

Suitable Hair Types: Best suited for those with 4A, 4B or 4C hair types, as these hair types have a natural curl pattern that can be easily manipulated into a sleek, defined puff.

Styling Tips: Focus on smoothing and stretching the hair before styling. Use a gel to tame any frizz or flyaways.

5. Side-Swept Afro

A side-swept afro involves styling the hair so that it drapes or sweeps across the forehead to one side. It can be achieved with various lengths and textures of hair, and is a popular way to create a flattering frame around the face. Seen on celebrities such as Leigh-Anne Pinnock.

Suitable Hair Types: Best suited for naturally curly textured hair, especially those with a 3C curl pattern, as this type of hair forms tight, bouncy curls which are ideal for creating the volume and shape of a side-swept afro.

Styling Tips: For a more secure and intricate look, consider braiding a section of the hair on the side and then pinning it in place. 

6. Mohawk Curls

Mohawk curls are a style where the sides of the head are cut short, leaving a strip of longer curly hair down the centre of the head to resemble a traditional Mohawk. This style combines the edgy look of a mohawk with the natural texture and volume of curly hair. Seen on celebrities such as Rihanna.

Suitable Hair Types: Works best on hair that has natural texture, such as wavy or curly.

Styling Tips: Using curl-defining products like mousse, gel, or creams can help to hold the curls and maintain the style. 

7. Pinned Up Fro-Hawk

A pinned-up fro-hawk is where the hair is styled to resemble a mohawk but without shaving the sides. Instead, the hair on the sides is shorter, often faded or tapered, while the hair in the centre is left longer and styled upwards. The pinned-up aspect refers to using pins, such as hair clips, to secure and shape the longer central section of the hair into a mohawk-like form, often with a bit of a messy, voluminous look. Seen on celebrities such as Keke Palmer.

Suitable Hair Types: Works best on hair that has natural texture and volume, such as curly or coily hair. This texture helps the style hold its shape and allows for easier pinning. 

Styling Tips: If you prefer a more defined look, you can use hairspray or a styling product on each section before fluffing.

8. Wash and Go

A wash and go is a natural hairstyle that celebrates the hair’s natural curl pattern, achieved by applying styling products to wet hair and allowing it to dry without manipulating it. It is not just washing and leaving, but a deliberate styling process that defines and enhances curls. The key is to use products such as a gel or mousse to saturate the hair and define the curls, which are then allowed to dry naturally. Seen on celebrities such as Kerry Washington.

Suitable Hair Types: Can be achieved on various hair types, but generally work best for hair with a defined curl pattern, especially for those ranging from a 3A to 4C. 

Styling Tips: To achieve a great wash and go, focus on proper cleansing, conditioning, product application, and drying techniques. 

9. Twist-Out

A twist out is a natural hairstyle achieved by unravelling two-stranded twists, creating defined curls or waves. It is a popular protective style that can be done on wet hair and is known for adding volume and texture. Seen on celebrities such as Beyonce.

Suitable Hair Types: Twist-outs are a versatile style and can be achieved on a variety of natural hair types and are an effective method for defining and enhancing natural curl patterns, especially for 3C – 4C.   

Styling Tips: Ensure each twist is uniform in size and tension for consistent curl definition. 

10. Blowout Afro

A blowout afro refers to the result of a hairstyling technique where natural afro-textured hair is stretched and straightened using heat, typically from a hairdryer, to achieve a voluminous, rounded shape resembling a classic afro but with a blown-out appearance. It is a way to temporarily alter the hair’s natural curl pattern to create a different look and style it with ease. Seen on celebrities such as Jill Scott.

Suitable Hair Types: Hair types 4A, 4B and 4C and most naturally suited for achieving this look. While 4C types may require more effort due to their tendency to shrink, all three types can create a stunning, full afro with proper care and styling.

Styling Tips: Use medium heat setting to avoid excessive exposure and potential damage. 

11. Bantu Knots

Bantu knots are a traditional African hairstyle originating from Southern Africa. They are created by dividing hair into sections, twisting each section, and then wrapping it around itself to form a coiled bun or knot. This protective style not only shields the hair ends from breakage and moisture but also leaves behind beautiful, defined curls when unravelled. Seen on celebrities such as Zoe Kravitz. 

Suitable Hair Types: They work well on most natural, textured hair types, including 4C.

Styling Tips: Ensure that your hair is adequately moisturised before styling. This helps with manageability and prevents breakage. 

12. Flat Twists

Flat twists are a versatile and low-manipulation protective hairstyle where two strands of hair are twisted together against the scalp, similar to cornrows but with a two-strand twist technique. They offer a defined look while minimising breakage and retaining moisture, and can be worn alone or as a base for other styles like twist-outs. Seen on celebrities such as Jade Thirlwall.

Suitable Hair Types: A great option for naturally textured hair, especially those with tighter curl patterns (such as type 4), as they help to define curls and can be styled in various ways. 

Styling Tips: Flat twists can be styled with various partings, including straight, curved or zig-zag. 

13. Cornrow ‘Fro

A cornrow fro refers to a hairstyle where cornrows, which are braids tightly woven close to the scalp, are styled to create a natural voluminous fro-like shape. This style combines the neatness and protective qualities of cornrows with the fullness and texture of a fro. It is a way to achieve a natural hair look while managing length and promoting hair health. Seen on celebrities such as Zendaya.

Suitable Hair Types: Works best on curly and coily hair (Type 3 and 4) as these curl types naturally have a tighter curl pattern, which provides an excellent grip for cornrows, making them easier to style and longer lasting.

Styling Tips: To maintain the style, keep your scalp moisturised with lightweight oils or sprays, and protect your hair with a satin scarf or bonnet to prevent frizz and breakage.

14. Box Braids

Box braids are a protective hairstyle characterised by individual braids formed by dividing the hair into square-shaped sections and braiding each section, often with the addition of hair extensions, from the root to the ends. They are a popular choice for their versatility and ability to protect natural hair from daily wear and tear. Seen on celebrities such as Storm Reid. 

Suitable Hair Types: Box braids can be done on most hair types and textures, but the best results are often achieved on hair that is at least 1.5 inches and has some natural texture, like wavy, curly or coily hair.

Styling Tips: Use lightweight products that provide hold without weighing down the hair. Avoid heavy gels. 

15. Crochet Braids

Crochet braids are a protective hairstyle where hair extensions are attached to cornrows using a crochet hook. This technique involves looping the extension hair through the cornrows and securing it with a knot, often with the help of a crochet needle or similar tool. Seen on celebrities like Issa Rae.

Suitable Hair Types: Curly and coily textures tend to hold braids better, making them a good choice for a longer-lasting style.

Styling Tips: Regularly moisturise your hair and scalp to prevent dryness and breakage.

16. Locs

Locs are a hairstyle characterised by strands of matted or intertwined hair. They can form naturally, especially in curly hair, or be created through various methods like twisting, backcombing, braiding or palm rolling. Seen on celebrities such as Ciara.

Suitable Hair Types: The best hair types for locs are naturally curly or coily hair, specifically hair types 3C-4C. 

Styling Tips: keep your locs moisturised to prevent dryness and breakage.

17. Fulani Braids

Fulani braids are a distinctive braided hairstyle characterised by a central cornrow down the middle of the head, cornrows on either side, and a braid wrapped around the hairline. They often incorporate beads and other hair jewellery, and can be styled with various patterns and lengths. Seen on celebrities such as Cicely Tyson. 

Suitable Hair Types: The best hair types for fulani braids are naturally curly or coily hair, specifically hair types 3C-4C. 

Styling Tips: You can experiment with different cornrow patterns and placements for a personalised touch.

18. Bubble Braids

Bubble braids are a fun, trendy hairstyle that creates the illusion of bubbles along a ponytail or pigtails. Instead of traditional braiding, this style uses a series of hair elastics to section off hair, which is then gently pulled outwards to create a rounded bubble-like shape. This creates a playful, voluminous look that is relatively easy to achieve. Seen on celebrities such as Doja Cat.

Suitable Hair Types: Bubble braids are very versatile and can be styled on various hair types and textures. 

Styling Tips: Try layering smaller bubble braids over larger ones for a multi-dimensional look. 

19. Goddess Braids

Goddess braids are a type of protective hairstyle that combines traditional box braids with loose curly hair extensions to create a fuller, more textured look. They are essentially an elevated version of box braids, often featuring larger braids with curly pieces woven in, particularly at the ends and can be styled in various ways. Seen on celebrities such as Kelly Rowland.

Suitable Hair Types: While goddess braids can be done on various hair types, they particularly enhance the beauty of natural hair with texture, as the loose hair at the ends blends seamlessly.

Styling Tips: Ensure that the extensions are not too heavy, as they can create scalp strain, especially with longer styles.

20. Invisible Locs

Invisible locs are a protective hairstyle that mimics the look of traditional locs but is achieved with twists and extensions, offering a lightweight and natural-looking alternative to faux locs. They are created by twisting or braiding small sections of hair, often with extensions and securing them with a wrapped knot at the end. Seen on celebrities such as Chloe Bailey.

Suitable Hair Types: The best hair types for invisible locs are naturally curly or coily hair, specifically hair types 3C-4C. 

Styling Tips: Invisible locs offer versatility in styling. You can keep them simple with a half-up, half-down style or create more intricate looks like messy buns or even incorporate them into braids 

21. Island Braids

Island braids are a type of two-strand twist hairstyle that incorporates curly hair extensions throughout the twists at the end, creating a bohemian, textured look. The curly hair and loose, free-flowing nature of the twists create a relaxed, natural and textured appearance. Seen on celebrities such as Gabrielle Union.

Suitable Hair Types: is best suited for naturally curly or coily hair, specifically hair types 3C-4C.

Styling Tips: Play with length and colour combinations to create a unique style.

22. All Back Stitched Cornrows

All back-stitched up cornrows are a type of cornrow where the braids are created with precise, horizontal ‘sticches’ or sections of hair, resulting in a distinctive segmented look. Unlike traditional cornrows, stitch braids have a more defined and polished appearance due to the meticulous parting and braiding technique. Seen on celebrities such as Mel B.

Suitable Hair Types: Works best on curly and coily hair (Type 3 and 4) as these curl types naturally have a tighter curl pattern, which provides an excellent grip for cornrows, making them easier to style and longer lasting.

Styling Tips: Focus on neat parts, consistent stitch size, and adding hair evenly. 

23. Colourful Knotless Braids

Colourful knotless braids are a type of braided hairstyle where extensions are seamlessly blended into natural hair, creating a look that is both protective and striking. Unlike traditional box braids, knotless braids do not have a knot at the base where the extensions begin, which makes them more comfortable and less damaging to the scalp and edges. Adding colour to knotless braids involves incorporating vibrant or multicoloured extensions into the braiding process, resulting in a playful and eye-catching look. Seen on celebrities such as Willow Smith.

Suitable Hair Types: This style is best suited for naturally curly or coily hair, specifically hair types 3C-4C.

Styling Tips: Apply a small amount of mousse or gel to frizzy areas and smooth them down with a soft brush.

24. Bob Length Knotless Braids

Bob length knotless braids are a stylish and protective hairstyle where braids are installed without knots at the root, using a feed-in method, and are styled at bob-length, typically chin or shoulder length. Seen on celebrities such as Jhene Aiko.

Suitable Hair Types: The best hair types for bob length knotless braids are naturally curly or coily hair, specifically hair types 3C-4C.

Styling Tips: Use a gentle edge control gel to keep the hairline neat and smooth.

25. Flat Twist Updo

A flat twist updo involves creating a series of two-strand twists that lie flat against the scalp, with a similar appearance to cornrows. The twists are then styled into an updo, such as a bun, for a stylish and elevated look. Seen on celebrities such as Lupita Nyong’o.

Suitable Hair Types: It’s best suited for naturally curly or coily hair, specifically hair types 3C-4C.

Styling Tips: You can refresh your twists with a water-based leave-in spray or oil.

26. Half Up Half Down

A half-up, half-down involves sectioning the hair, with the top half gathered and styled into a ponytail, bun or other updo, while the bottom half is left to flow freely. It is a versatile style that combines the elegance of an updo with the natural beauty of textured hair. Seen on celebrities such as Elle Varner.

Suitable Hair Types: Best suited for those with 4A, 4B or 4C hair types.

Styling Tips: Add hairpins, scarves or other accessories to complement the style.

27. Curly Pixie

A curly pixie is a short hairstyle that combines the cropped length of a pixie cut with texture and volume. It typically features short sides and back with slightly longer curls on top, creating an edgy look. Seen on celebrities such as Halle Berry.

Suitable Hair Types: Works best on hair that has natural texture, such as wavy or curly.

Styling Tips: For maintenance, incorporate regular trims.

28. Space Buns

Space buns are a playful style that incorporates elements of texture and volume for a dynamic and whimsical look. Seen on celebrities such as Kylie Jenner.

Suitable Hair Types: Works best on hair that has natural texture.

Styling Tips: Styling baby hairs and edges around the face can also add a touch of texture and personality to the look.

29. Low Ponytail

A low ponytail is where the hair is gathered and secured at the nape of the neck, with added volume and texture. This style can be dressed up or down, making it suitable for various occasions. Seen on celebrities such as Kim Kardashian.

Suitable Hair Types: Very versatile and can be styled on various textures.

Styling Tips: Use a shine spray, hairspray or lightweight hair oil to tame any flyaways. 

30. Twist Braids

Twist braids are a protective hairstyle that features a soft, bohemian look. They are characterised by their unique twist pattern and the use of wavy braiding hair, which creates a natural, textured appearance with plenty of movement and flow. Seen on celebrities such as Tessa Thomson.

Suitable Hair Types: This style is best suited for naturally curly or coily hair, specifically hair types 3C-4C.

Styling Tips: Ensure the size of your twists complements your face shape and hair length for a balanced look.

Styling Tips for Afro Hairstyles

Techniques to Define Curls

To achieve well-defined, elongated curls, try using twist-outs or braid-outs. Finger coiling on damp hair can also provide extra curl definition. Alternatively, you can choose wash-and-go styles with curl-enhancing products to highlight your natural texture. 

Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to gently detangle your hair and minimise breakage.

Recommended Styling Products

To keep hair moisturised and manageable, apply a leave-in conditioner. You can also use curl cream or curl enhancers to define and hold curls without making them stiff. Lightweight gels or mousses are great alternatives for providing long-lasting hold while maintaining softness. Finally, seal in moisture with natural oils such as jojoba, argan, or castor oil to help reduce frizz.

Styling Tips for Protective Hairstyles

To keep your hair moisturised under braids or twists, regularly apply light oils. Avoid styles that are too tight to prevent scalp irritation or traction alopecia. You can also refresh your styles with a light spritz of water and leave-in conditioner. 

Protect your hairstyles at night by using satin scarves or a bonnet to minimise friction and frizz.

Experimenting with Volume and Shape

Use pick combs or wide-tooth combs at the roots to add volume without disturbing the curl pattern. You can also experiment with different partings, such as middle, side, or zigzag, to change your overall look, or consider layering your afro or tapered cut to create a flattering shape and reduce bulk. 

You can also have fun with stylish accessories, such as headbands and scarves, to personalise your appearance.

Book Your Afro Hairstyle Appointment at Rush

To find the perfect afro hairstyle, book an appointment with a textured hair specialist at your nearest RUSH Hair and Beauty. Let our expert stylist create a look just for you.