African Hair Traditions
African hair traditions
Across Africa, hair has long shown who you are: your people, your age, whether you are married, what you are celebrating. Here are ten traditions our customers are proud of, with the products to wear the styles today.
Threading and shuku
Threading, called irun kiko in Yoruba, wraps sections of hair tightly with thread so they stand in shapes. Shuku gathers braids up into a crown or ridge on top of the head.
Braiding hair for shuku, a strong gel, a tail comb to part, and edge wax to finish. We do not list thread for threading online, so call us before you travel.
Ghana braids
Thick cornrows where extra hair is fed in as you braid, so each one starts thin at the hairline and grows fuller. Often braided in curves and zigzags.
Pre-stretched braiding hair, a braiding gel for grip, a tail comb, and a braid spray for the scalp afterwards.
Fulani braids
A braid down the centre of the head, braids that frame the face, and beads, cowrie shells or amber worked in. The Fulani live across many countries, from Senegal to Nigeria and Cameroon.
Braiding hair, beads to thread on, and small elastic bands to hold them.
Senegalese twists
Smooth two-strand rope twists, named after Senegal and now worn all over the world. A protective style that lasts several weeks.
Twist hair, a light oil for the scalp and a sheen spray to finish.
Shuruba
Fine cornrows that run back from the forehead and loosen into a fuller finish at the back. Often worn for religious holidays, weddings and celebrations.
An edge gel, a fine tail comb and a moisturiser for the loose ends.
Bantu knots
Small coiled knots across the head, named after the Bantu-speaking peoples of central and southern Africa. Worn as a style or undone the next day for a knot-out.
A curl cream or custard to twist with, and a satin bonnet to protect the knots overnight.
Otjize braids
Himba women coat their braids in otjize, a paste of red ochre and butterfat. Styles change with age and marriage, so a hairstyle tells others about the wearer.
We do not sell otjize. If you like a rich butter routine, shea butter is the closest everyday choice.
Warrior braids
Traditionally the opposite of what many expect: young Maasai warriors grow long, ochre-coloured braids, while many women keep their heads shaved and decorate them with beadwork.
A tradition we share for its history, not a style to buy for.
The Mangbetu crown
A historic style where the hair was built up over a woven frame into a tall, fanned shape. It became one of the best-known images of Central African style.
A tradition we share for its history.
Locs
Worn in many cultures, and central to Rastafari faith and Caribbean identity. Locs take time to form and deserve proper care. More Caribbean styles are on our Caribbean hair traditions page.
Faux locs for the look, or a twist and loc butter and a loc tube for your own.
One country, many traditions
Most African countries are home to many peoples, each with their own styles, so no single style speaks for a whole country. If your tradition is missing, tell us and we will add it.
See also Caribbean hair traditions, our celebrations calendar and Afro-Caribbean heritage. Call 0113 249 5562.