Natural curly hair is versatile and beautiful, offering numerous styling options for medium-length locks. Whether you’re dressing up for a special event or refreshing your everyday look, we’ve got you covered. Discover 10 stunning curly hairstyles that will make your medium natural black hair shine.
1. Bouncy Twist-Outs
A twist-out is a classic natural hairstyle that defines curls and adds volume. After washing and conditioning your hair, apply a styling cream or gel, then divide your hair into sections. Twist each section and allow it to dry completely before unraveling the twists. This style gives your curls bounce and body while maintaining definition.
How to Maintain:
- Moisturize regularly to prevent frizz.
- Use a satin scarf or bonnet at night to preserve your curls.
2. Curly Afro
The curly afro is a timeless hairstyle that celebrates the beauty of natural curls. For medium-length hair, this style adds volume and gives a bold, confident look. The key to achieving the perfect curly afro is a great cut and proper hair care. Regular trimming helps maintain the shape, and a good leave-in conditioner keeps curls hydrated.
Best Products for Definition:
- Curl-enhancing creams and gels.
- Diffuser attachments on blow dryers to maintain volume without frizz.
3. Pineapple Updo
The pineapple updo is perfect for protecting your curls while maintaining style. To achieve this look, gather your hair at the top of your head, securing it with a loose band. This style lifts your curls and adds height, making it ideal for casual days or even an easy night-out look.
Pro Tip:
- This updo works best on second or third-day curls. You can refresh the curls by spritzing water or a light leave-in conditioner.
4. Flat Twist with Defined Curls
A flat twist is a protective style that gives your curls a structured yet soft look. Create flat twists along your scalp and leave the ends of your hair in loose curls. This look is not only stylish but also helps retain moisture in your hair.
Maintenance Tips:
- Oil your scalp to keep it hydrated.
- Cover your hair at night with a satin scarf or bonnet.
5. Wash-and-Go
The wash-and-go style is perfect for busy days when you want to embrace your natural curl pattern without much effort. After washing and conditioning, apply a leave-in conditioner followed by a curl-defining cream or gel. Let your curls air dry or use a diffuser to speed up the drying process.
How to Keep it Fresh:
- Refresh curls with a curl refresher spray.
- Avoid touching your hair too much to prevent frizz.
6. Curly Mohawk
The curly mohawk is a bold and edgy hairstyle that showcases your natural curls while creating a striking silhouette. To achieve this look, shave or braid the sides of your hair and leave the curls at the center to stand tall.
Styling Tips:
- Use a strong-hold gel to define the curls.
- Accessorize with hair cuffs or pins for added flair.
7. High Puff
The high puff is a stylish and easy-to-achieve updo that works great for medium-length natural hair. Gather your curls into a puff at the crown of your head for a quick yet chic look.
For Added Volume:
- Tease the roots slightly before securing your puff to make it look fuller.
8. Defined Bantu Knots
Bantu knots are a protective style that gives your curls a fresh, defined look. After sectioning your hair, twist each section into a small knot. Once the knots are set, you can either wear them as is or unravel them for a bantu knot-out style with bouncy, defined curls.
Perfect for:
- Any occasion, whether formal or casual.
9. Half-Up, Half-Down Curls
For a combination of structure and flow, the half-up, half-down style is a go-to. Pull the top section of your curls into a bun or ponytail while letting the rest of your curls cascade down your back. This style is both playful and elegant, making it perfect for a variety of settings.
Enhance the Look:
- Add hair accessories like headbands or clips to elevate the style.
10. Finger Coils
Finger coils are a method of styling where each curl is individually defined by coiling small sections of damp hair around your fingers. This style creates well-defined, long-lasting curls that can last for several days with proper care.
How to Make Them Last:
- Use a curl custard or gel to hold the coils.
- Sleep with a satin bonnet to maintain the shape.
Conclusion
These 10 curly hairstyles are not only beautiful but also practical for anyone with medium natural black hair. Whether you’re looking for a protective style or something bold and fun, there’s a curly hairstyle for every occasion and mood.
FAQs
- How can I keep my twist-out curly for longer? To make your twist-out last longer, use a good styling cream or gel and make sure your hair is completely dry before unraveling the twists. Also, sleep with a satin bonnet or scarf to reduce friction and frizz.
- What’s the best way to prevent frizz in a curly afro? To minimize frizz, keep your curls well-moisturized with leave-in conditioners or curl creams. Using a diffuser on a low heat setting when drying your hair can also help reduce frizz while maintaining volume.
- How can I refresh my curls between wash days? You can refresh your curls by spritzing them with water or using a light curl refresher spray. Adding a small amount of leave-in conditioner or curl cream can also revive your curls without needing a full wash.
- Are Bantu knots good for hair growth? Yes! Bantu knots are a great protective style that keeps your ends tucked away, reducing breakage and promoting hair growth. They also help lock in moisture, which is essential for healthy curls.
- What products should I use for finger coils? To achieve well-defined finger coils, use a curl custard or gel with a strong hold. This will help your coils last longer and maintain their shape. Don’t forget to moisturize regularly to keep your curls soft and bouncy.
