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Let's talk about summer hairstyles
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Time to read 3 min
Written by: Mimi Kone
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Time to read 3 min
The summer months are finally upon us, bringing warm weather, sunny days and a chance to switch up our hairstyles. As an afro-textured woman, the summer presents the perfect opportunity to experiment with fresh, stylish looks that celebrate your unique curls, coils and kinks.
Let me tell you a story.
Last summer, my friend Asha was feeling stuck in a hair rut. She had been rocking the same wash-and-go style for months and was craving a change. One sunny afternoon over brunch, I suggested she try out some protective styles to give her hair a break from daily manipulation. Asha was initially sceptical, but after seeing some inspiring photos, she decided to take the plunge with box braids.
The transformation was incredible! Asha's new braided look gave her hair a chance to breathe while also being trendy and low-maintenance for the summer. She was able to swim, exercise and enjoy holidays without worrying about her hair. By the time she took them out 6 weeks later, her hair felt revitalised and she had a new appreciation for protective styling.
Just like Asha, protective styles like box braids, Senegalese twists, faux locs and wigs can be a summer game-changer for afro hair. They minimise manipulation while protecting your delicate strands from sun, sweat, chlorine and other environmental stressors. Let's provide some step-by-step tutorials:
Box Braids
1. Part clean, detangled hair into square or diamond sections
2. Braid each section tightly against the scalp, adding hair as you go
3. Once all braids are complete, dip in hot water to seal the ends
Senegalese Twists
1. Split hair into sections and apply a twisting cream
2. Twist two strands down from the root to the ends, adding hair as you twist
3. Use perm rods or flexi-rods to curl the ends for extra style
Of course, not everyone wants to commit to a protective style for the whole summer. The classic wash-and-go will always be a warm-weather staple for afro hair. Here are some tips for perfecting yours:
The Perfect Wash-and-Go
1. Start with freshly washed, conditioned hair
2. Apply a curl-defining cream or gel from roots to ends
3. Scrunch hair towards your scalp to encourage curl formation
4. Allow hair to air dry or diffuse with a blow dryer
When the temperatures soar, there's nothing better than getting your hair up and off your face and neck. Try these hot weather-proof styles:
Stylish Updos & Ponytails
• Pineapple Pony: Gather hair into a high ponytail and let your curls flow freely
• Top Knot: Pile hair into a loose bun at the crown of your head
• Bantu Knot Out: Twist hair into Bantu knots, then unravel for a curly updo
While exploring new summer hairstyles, it's crucial to take extra care of your afro hair during this season. The sun, humidity, sweat and other elements can lead to dryness, brittleness and damage if you don't stay on top of moisturising treatments.
That's where Mimi et Mina's luxurious Hair and Scalp Oil Treatment comes in. This nourishing elixir is packed with natural oils and botanicals to hydrate and fortify your strands from root to tip. It's the perfect addition to your summer haircare routine, no matter which styles you choose to rock.
Use it as the one of the steps in your wash day regimen as a hot oil treatment, or for moisturising your scalp throughout the week. You can also apply it as a daily nourishing treatment to soften new growth and smooth your ends. The lightweight formula absorbs beautifully into afro hair without leaving any greasy residue behind.
So this summer, get ready to turn heads with fresh, stylish hairstyles while keeping your afro hair healthy and strong. With the right protective styles, wash-and-gos, updos and hair care like Mimi et Mina's Hair and Scalp Oil Treatment, you'll be set to slay all season long!
Until next time,
Bisou,
Mimi.
The Author: Mimi Kone
Mimi is the founder of a brand called "Mimi et Mina". She was born in Burkina Faso and later moved to France for her studies, where she briefly worked as a model. Afterward, she completed her education and moved to Geneva, Switzerland, where she lived before eventually relocating to London. She loves everything luxury, self development and meaningful friendships.