Natural hair makeover | Easy, elegant updo by Hair Lounge

Charlotte Mensah from Hair Lounge gives our BBH reader a soigné updo that not only looks elegant, but protects the ends of her hair

The problem

“I’ve been natural for over 10 years now and I would like to learn how to create some updo styles. I love your work so much and if you could give me a new take on the updo that would be amazing.” 

The solution

“Ayanna has beautiful natural hair I will show her how to do a simple updo style with a brilliant quirky finish.” says Charlotte

The steps

The process

Step 1
Starting from the nape area Ayanna’s hair was first brushed out at the ends then gradually brushed down to the hair closest to the scalp, before washing with Moroccan Oil Moisture Repair Shampoo which gently revives the hair. Hair Lounge Shea Butter Mask was applied throughout the roots, mid-length and ends to infuse moisture back into the hair, then thoroughly rinsed off after 20 minutes.

Step 2
A small amount of Kera Care Silk n Seal was applied to the hair, this serum helps prevent breakage whilst blow-drying and adds incredible shine. Working in small sections, comb out each section and twist the hair loosely to keep it separated this will make the blow-drying process easier. Working in small sections use an Afro pick to dry the ends first, plucking at the hair until it’s dry and easy to pull the pick through. Then gradually working downwards to the hair closest to the scalp whilst stretching the hair outwards this will prevent the hot hair from burning the scalp area. After drying the natural hair is ready to be styled.

Step 3
Ayanna’s hair was brushed up into a high-side ponytail, wax was used to slick edges and smooth any fly-always.  The remainder of the hair was twisted into a giant two-strand twist. The ends were then wrapped around the base of the ponytail and secured with Kirby grips.   

The end result

Photography by Krystoff Krychik. Hair by Charlotte Mensah at Hair Lounge, 347 Portobello Road, London W10. Tel: 020 8969 9444. Make-up by Nana Yaa Grant. Styling by Charlotte Mensah