The blowout afro taper fade is a classic and stylish hairstyle that continues to make waves in the world of men’s grooming, especially among black men. It is is a timeless hairstyle that combines the boldness of an afro with the clean lines of a fade. But keeping it looking fresh takes a little TLC. Achieving and maintaining this look requires a combination of proper care, washing, blow-drying, and styling techniques.
So, here’s a guide on washing, blow-drying, and styling your blowout afro taper fade, along with DIY and professional styling options to help you achieve the perfect look.
Table of Contents
Maintaining the Blowout Afro Taper Fade
Washing:
- Frequency: Wash your hair every 3-5 days, depending on your scalp type and activity level. Over-washing can strip your hair of its natural oils.
- Products: Use a gentle shampoo and conditioner formulated for textured hair. Avoid harsh sulfates and alcohols that can dry out your curls.
- Technique: Apply shampoo to your scalp and massage gently. Rinse thoroughly. Apply conditioner to the mid-lengths and ends, detangling with a wide-tooth comb. Finish your wash with a cold water rinse to seal the hair cuticles and enhance shine.
Blow-drying:
- Prep: Towel-dry your hair gently to remove excess water. Apply a leave-in conditioner or heat protectant to prevent frizz and damage.
- Diffuser is your friend: Use a diffuser attachment on your blow-dryer to evenly distribute heat and prevent shrinkage. Start at the roots and hold the diffuser close to your scalp, moving it around to avoid overheating one spot.
- Low heat, high airflow: Use the lowest heat setting and highest airflow setting on your blow-dryer to minimize heat damage.
- Detangle your hair gently with a wide-tooth comb before blow-drying to minimize breakage.
- Shape as you dry: Gently lift and separate your curls with your fingers as you dry to achieve the desired volume and shape.
Styling:
- Pick it out: Once your hair is dry, use a wide-tooth comb or pick to gently detangle and define your curls. Be careful not to over-comb, as this can cause frizz.
- Product power: Use a styling product like a curl cream, gel, or mousse to add hold and definition to your curls. Apply sparingly to avoid weighing them down.
- Accessorize: Headbands, scarves, and hats can add a touch of flair to your blowout afro taper fade.
- Regularly visit a professional barber to maintain the taper fade aspect of your hairstyle for a polished and neat appearance.
Product recommendations for taper fade
Let’s delve deeper into the world of hair products specifically designed to enhance textured hair and keep your blowout afro taper fade on point. Here are some top picks, categorized by their function:
Shampoos & Conditioners:
Cantu Shea Butter Natural Hair Shampoo & Conditioner: This sulfate-free duo gently cleanses and nourishes textured hair, promoting curl definition and manageability. Its rich shea butter formula combats dryness and frizz, leaving your hair soft and healthy.
Aunt Jackie’s Grapeseed Butter Curl Nourishing Shampoo & Instant Leave-In Conditioner: This dynamic duo is infused with grapeseed butter and olive oil, offering intense moisture and shine to dry, brittle hair. The conditioner detangles effortlessly, leaving your curls bouncy and defined.
Leave-In Conditioners & Styling Products:
- SheaMoisture Coconut Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie: This leave-in conditioner is a curl lover’s dream! It defines and enhances your natural curls, fighting frizz and dryness with a blend of coconut oil, hibiscus, and shea butter.
- Bounce Curl Light Creme Gel: This versatile gel-cream provides strong hold without stiffness or crunch. It defines curls, combats frizz, and adds shine, making it ideal for both wash-and-go styles and blowouts.
Fade Maintenance:
- Black Ombre Hair Food Edge Control Wax: This edge control wax lays down flyaways and smooths your hairline, keeping your fade looking sharp and defined. It’s formulated with nourishing ingredients like avocado oil and shea butter to prevent dryness and breakage.
- 3M Wave Control Pomade: This pomade is a barber shop favorite for a reason. It provides strong hold and control for waves and fades, without leaving your hair greasy or stiff. It’s also water-resistant, so your style stays fresh all day long.
Remember, these are just a few suggestions, and the best products for you will depend on your specific hair type and needs. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for your unique blowout afro taper fade!
DIY vs. Professional Styling
DIY:
- Pros: It’s more affordable and convenient, especially if you’re on a budget. You can experiment with different styles and products to find what works best for you.
- Cons: Achieving a perfectly even fade and blowout can be challenging at home. It may take some practice to get the hang of it. Also, DIY may lack the precision of a professional haircut, particularly for intricate fades.
Professional:
- Pros: A skilled barber can give you a clean, precise fade and a perfectly blown-out afro. They can also recommend products and techniques for maintaining your style.
- Cons: It can be more expensive than doing it yourself. You may need to find a barber who specializes in textured hair. Furthermore, Visiting a barber requires scheduling appointments, which may not be convenient for everyone.
Ultimately, the choice between DIY and professional styling is up to you. Consider your budget, skill level, and desired results when making your decision.
Bonus tips:
- Deep condition your hair regularly to keep it hydrated and healthy.
- Trim your ends regularly to prevent split ends and maintain the shape of your fade.
- Avoid using heat styling tools too often, as this can damage your hair.
- Embrace your natural texture! The blowout afro taper fade is a versatile hairstyle that can be worn in many different ways.
With a little care and attention, you can keep your blowout afro taper fade looking fresh and fabulous. So go forth and rock your crown!
Conclusion:
Maintaining a flawless blowout afro taper fade involves a careful balance of washing, blow-drying, and styling. Whether you choose the DIY route or seek the expertise of a professional, understanding the pros and cons of each approach will help you achieve the perfect balance between style and convenience. Remember, consistency is key to keeping your blowout afro taper fade looking crisp and on point.
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