New Year New Fro 2024: Curl Expert's Afro Hair Predictions

Jennie Roberts, afro hair expert at SheaMoisture predicts the styles curly girls will be wearing in 2024

“With the natural hair community growing and beauty standards changing, I’m seeing more and more women with CCW (Curly, Coily, Wavy) hair embracing their natural hair texture. This year, we can expect more colourful fun cuts and an overall celebration of curls in the textured hair community.

To stay ahead of the hair game, I have compiled a list of the ultimate curly hairstyles for 2024, that we can expect to be popular this year.” – Jennie Roberts, afro hair expert at SheaMoisture

Afro Wigs

Source: Ruka Hair

Not everyone has enough time to style their natural hair, and instead opt to wear wigs for the versatility it offers. I am seeing more and more women wearing wigs that represent their natural hair texture and heritage from brands such as Ruka Hair. This is a great trend as it sends out a strong message about where they are on their natural hair journey.

This versatile hairstyle not only provides a range of diverse styles for self-expression and celebration of the beauty of Afro hair. It’s the ability to switch between different textures, highlighting the flexibility and individuality that comes with it – CCW hair comes in different forms.

How to prepare Afro hair for a non-lace front pull on wig

Prepping hair is crucial to protect it while it’s under cover.

1. Washing

Start with a sulphate-free shampoo to gently cleanse the hair such as the SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Shampoo, which provides hair with significant moisture and nourishment.
Focus on the scalp to remove dirt and product buildup.
Rinse thoroughly to ensure no residue remains.

2. Conditioning

Apply a hydrating conditioner like the SheaMoistureJamaican Black Castor Oil Conditioner to the lengths and ends, detangling with a wide-tooth comb or detangling brush. This conditioner is perfect for softening and detangling hair, leaving curls feeling healthy and hydrated.
Let the conditioner sit for a few minutes to enhance moisture absorption.

3. Treatment

Consider a deep conditioning treatment such as SheaMoisture Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil Mask to nourish and strengthen the hair.
Use a protein treatment if your hair needs extra reinforcement.

4. Moisturising

Apply a leave-in conditioner like the SheaMoisture 100% Coconut Oil Leave-in Treatment, a lightweight treatment aimed to soften curls and maintain hydration.
Focus on the ends, which are prone to dryness.

5. Scalp Care

Apply a light scalp oil to maintain a healthy scalp.

By following this routine, you’re setting the stage for a healthy foundation under your pull-on wig, promoting both the health of your natural hair and the longevity of the protective style.

Curly Pixie Haircuts

Source: Instagram

Curls can enjoy Pixie haircuts too!

The Pixie cut is making a major comeback, and it’s not just limited to straight hair. I think a pixie with texture looks cute and effortless and looks better as the days go by. The latest trend is to pair the pixie cut with looser curls, and loose Afro hair, adding bangs for extra cuteness. The shorter length of the pixie cut blends seamlessly with soft, flowing curls, while the inclusion of bangs adds a playful and stylish element.

You can experiment with a round pom-pom shape graduated into the back and sides (I call this a soft ‘fro!) or opt for shorter on the top and longer into the neck like a curly shag and looks great with soft afro curls. This combination creates a dynamic and chic look, perfect for embracing the natural beauty of loose curls or soft Afro curls with a touch of modern sophistication. Add some blonde and caramel colours for more fun.

You can style this hair by using a light leave-in conditioner and layer with a gel to define curls into smooth clumps.

You can use the SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie, which is a great styling cream which leaves your curly hair silky-soft and gleaming.
Dry with a diffuser on slow speed and low heat. Make sure you focus on the roots as wet roots mean collapsed shape.
Shake out at the roots when completely dry, and give a gentle head massage to break up texture and create volume. Pick out your roots with an afro comb for more volume and texture.

TWA – Tweeny Weeny Afro

Source: Naturalborncurls.com

Tapered sides and back. Top heavy, square or round TWA, also known as Tweeny Weeny Afro. Woman with CCW hair are embracing easy-to-maintain hairstyles with their natural texture that suits their lifestyle. It’s powerful, and the natural hair movement is gaining momentum with women feeling empowered and confident in their skin. Go and make friends with your local barber!

Looking after your TWA

Maintaining natural Afro hair involves a balance of cleansing and moisture retention.

1. Washing Frequency

Wash your hair regularly with SheaMoisture Avocado & Moringa Shampoo, a gentle cleanser that nourishes and moisturises the hair to improve the overall appearance of the hair – the frequency depends on your hair type, lifestyle, and personal preferences. You can also use a sulphate-free shampoo like SheaMoistureJamaican Black Castor Oil Shampoo to gently cleanse the scalp and hair.
Generally, I would recommend washing your hair once a week or every 10 days. However, if you’re leaving your wash day for up to two weeks, make sure you’re constantly hydrating hair with water and applying leave-in products to keep your curls healthy.

2. Conditioning

Use a hydrating conditioner like SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Conditioner to detangle and moisturise the hair.
Allow the conditioner to sit for a few minutes before rinsing.

3. Protective Styling

Opt for protective styles like twists or braids to minimise manipulation and promote hair health. You can use the SheaMoistureJamaican Black Castor Oil Styling Lotion to style your hair. This oil-based lotion restores moisture and gloss to dull, damaged, or chemically treated hair.

4. Night Routine

Protect your hair at night by using a satin bonnet, silk scarf or pillowcase to reduce friction and retain moisture.

5. Trimming

Schedule regular trims with your hair stylist to prevent split ends and maintain the overall health of your Afro hair.

The key is to strike a balance that keeps your hair clean while retaining essential moisture and the SheaMoisture Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil range is also great for intense hydration, especially for dry and dull hair. Adjust your routine based on your hair’s needs and environmental factors.

Faux Butterfly Locs

Source: onlybells__ | IG

Bohemian rhapsody

Confidence amongst women with curly hair is growing and women are looking to experiment with their natural texture and styles beyond the traditional neatly styled cornrows. Texture is being embraced at all levels and that includes braids and locs. Butterfly locs are here to stay for 2024. Thanks to Halle Bailey and Zendaya for normalising and wearing them on the red carpet has led to acceptance of the bohemian look and interesting textures created

Faux butterfly locs are a cool styling option for Afro hair, with a distressed appearance creating a bohemian and textured look. Cornrowing the hair and crocheting pre-bought butterfly locs creates an instant look. It’s best to go to a professional braider if you’re not skilled at braiding your hair.

To maintain faux butterfly locs for Afro hair, consider these tips:

1. Gentle Cleansing

Use a mild, sulphate-free shampoo like the SheaMoistureJamaican Black Castor Oil Shampoo to cleanse the scalp and locs without stripping away natural oils.

2. Hydration

Keep the locs moisturised by applying a lightweight water-based moisturiser or use the SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Leave-in Conditioner to prevent dryness. This leave-in conditioner softens and detangles hair.

3. Scalp Care