The wash and go is an evergreen hairstyle loved by women with afro hair around the world. Over the years, it has proven to be a fast, easy, and reliable hairstyle, perfect for showcasing natural curls and coils in all their glory, while leaving the wearing looking as chic and classy as ever.
While the wash and go is a convenient and stylish option, achieving perfect definition can take some practice. This guide will walk you through the wash and go process for afro hair, incorporating tips and techniques used by popular YouTuber, Miss Kayy Amor. So, without further ado, let’s get into the tutorial!
Before beginning any natural hair style, it is important to make sure that you’re starting out on clean hair, preferably hair that is freshly washed, dried, and moisturized. Washing your hair before the styling process helps to keep your style lasting longer as there is less build up on the scalp and less chances of irritation or need for a wash.
Applying warm water to the strands is a good way to moisturize your hair before styling. This practice helps to soften the hair and open up the cuticles, giving any product you apply a better chance of penetrating the hair shaft, resulting in maximum definition overall. Take a spray bottle and fill it with warm to mildly hot water. Spritz sparingly on each section of hair before going in with your product.
When your strands are fully saturated, take a sizable amount of your leave-in conditioner, and generously apply to the section of hair you’re working with. Go in with your detangling brush and smooth out the section of hair before moving on to the next step.
Applying your curl cream is the first step to getting any significant definition on your strands.
Take a generous amount of your curl cream and rub between your palms. Smooth it into your strands by rubbing it on, or gently rake through the particular section of hair you’re working with.
Applying oil to your strands is the best way to lock in the much-needed moisture your hair has gotten from the warm water, leave-in conditioner, and curl cream you just applied. Take a generous amount on the palm of your hands, and gently rake it through your whole head of hair. Since you’re layering many products, a lightweight oil would be best for this practice.
While the curl cream is effective, it doesn’t always provide maximum definition for ladies with tighter, afro curls, and it doesn’t have that much of a strong hold either. If maximum definition and strong hold is what you’re going for, be sure to go in with your defining gel, and apply to your hair. Work in smaller sections for best results.
When you’re done styling, it is advised that you leave your hair to dry till it is at least 80% dry before going anywhere. For this step, you could use a diffuser, sit under a hooded dryer, or just let your hair do its thing and air dry naturally.
With a little practice and the right products, you can achieve a flawless wash and go that keeps your afro hair hydrated, defined, and looking its best. Remember, finding the perfect wash and go routine is a journey, so don’t be discouraged if it takes a few tries. Embrace your natural texture and enjoy the freedom and versatility a wash and go can offer. Happy styling!
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