21 Short Afro Hairstyles To Inspire Your Next Trip To The Salon

Taking care of your afro hair is all in the prep, and a deep conditioner like this one by Dizziak will leave your curls feeling hydrated and nourished. Enriched with quinoa protein and babassu, coconut and argan oils it is rich and fragrant, and really feels like your hair is being treated well. Don't forget the hydration wash to cleanse your hair, but not strip it of all its natural hair oils.
Pros: Natural ingredients, stylish packaging
Cons: Small tube for the price, scent is strong
Tried and tested by Deputy Commercial Content Editor, Natalie Corner: "I only have good things to say about Dizziak, it is so creamy and nourishing and I love the refreshing peppermint scent. I used this on an extended wash day to really treat my hair, and another conditioner throughout the week in between gym trips."

If you're planning on wearing your short crop in Bantu knots, after parting your conditioned hair, twist two strands into a knot using a styling gel or custard like this product from Cantu that will hold your style in place.
Pros: Holds curls and styles, doesn't weigh down hair
Cons: Use sparingly as it can leave a white crunchy cast, strong scent
Review: "I've read mixed reviews about this product so I'm guessing it's not compatible with everyone's hair - BUT it really impressed me. Makes my curls really defined and shiny, especially if I use a little heat from my hair dryer. I have had so many compliments about my hair since I started using it."

To keep your Bantu knots or other braided styles in place secure with mini black hair elastics, available from Amazon and other online stores.

If your short afro hair has had a texture release to create a slicked-back look, make sure it is well cared for. Using a product like hair oil and wrapping it before you sleep at night will keep any dry or damaged hair nourished and hydrated.
Pros: Excellent for dry/damaged hair
Cons: Strong scent
Review: "Smells awesome and a little goes a long way. Although it is an oil it doesn't make my hair feel greasy."

The key to starting any afro hair style is moisture, so make sure you have a handy water spray to freshen any curls and reactivate any product. A fine misting bottle like this one from Ruka will go a long way, and of course, you can refill it with a water and conditioner mix for the ultimate hydration.
Pros: Easy pump-action, know the direction the water is going
Cons: Large bottle

Keep your hard work under wrap for bed with this chic Slip hair turban. The pure silk will protect your hair from getting frizzy and keep any products like hair oils locked in.
Pros: Stays in place, three different colours, can be worn as a hat
Cons: Only one size
Review: "I just bought this, as my hair has been in need of some extra TLC. I have thick, coarse, wavy hair and a medium/large head. I found this fit comfortably around my head and it fit all my hair in without issue. When I took it off in the morning my hair was smoothed (flyaways and frizz gone overnight!) and my style was completely intact! Cannot wait to see how this works for me long term and if it helps with growing my hair out."

Ruka is a London-based hair brand set out to create hair and beauty solutions that truly work for black women. Ruka has the firm belief that everyone should start their styling day with the ultimate edit of products to shine, slick and smooth all types of hair (3a – 4c curl types). Their newest product the Save Me Serum is a lightweight protective serum that contains a combination of shea butter and sunflower oil that acts as an everyday gloss while also protecting hair from harmful UV rays.
Pros: UV protection, lightweight, for all curl types
Cons: Small bottle

You can still create a plenty of stunning short afro hairstyles, and if you desire a slicked finish an edge control get like this ORS one will complete your look. Wrap after you've shaped your edges and give them a quick blow-dry to set.
Pros: Tames hair, holds well
Cons: Product can build-up
Review: "Saw someone use this product on a tv show so thought I’d try it as an alternative to using lots of hairspray for taking the little hairs that stick up.  Love this product! You only need to use a very small amount otherwise hair will look greasy but it tames hair in seconds and holds very well. A new must-have product for me, wish I’d found it years ago."

This Living Proof Born To Be Curly set genuinely caters for people with curls, no false promises, it actually delivers. Don't be concerned if the shampoo doesn't lather as the product has less chemicals in it so it really is cleansing your hair and not stripping it. The conditioner is thick and creamy and will leave your hair feeling moisturised without any grease. And when your hair is still wet slather on the curl definer and twist your short curls into place to make them pop.
Pros: Sulfate-free, long-lasting product
Cons: Bottles are hard to squeeze
Tried and tested by Deputy Commercial Content Editor, Natalie Corner: "Not only are the bottles sitting pretty on my shelf, but the product inside is just as gorgeous. I carefully followed each step and can truly say my curls have never looked better. The curl definer stood out for me as my hair held its shape without going frizzy like it tends to do. But you can tell that Living Proof have made sure that all the products work well together to give you a fantastic end result."

If you have gone for a texture release or silk press, keep up your style with a Dyson Airwrap. Don't be fooled into thinking this is only for those with long hair, a short style will see as much benefit and it will make life easier when you're blow-drying those flyaways flat.
Pros: Promotes healthier hair, easy to use
Cons: Expensive, barrels are large for short hair
Review: "This is a great product, I’m two months in and already noticing the difference in the health of my hair. It is easy to use with lots of videos to show you ways to use the attachments. My only criticism would be that - having shorter hair, I’d have preferred the 20mm barrel as standard inclusion as the ones in there are too big to make my short hair curl!"

Looking to go bold with colour? SHRINE Drop It colour collection works well on afro hair. Of course for darker hair going lighter means opting for bleach, and we always recommend consulting a professional especially if your hair is already chemically damaged. Or you can try SHRINE's Better For Your Hair Bleach which has added plex within the powder which helps with anti-breakage and lightens hair without the damage. The unique ingredients will help to leave your hair strong and shiny. Then for the perfect clean base, the brand recommends using SHRINE White Blonde Toner first to even out any brassy tones and adding any colour on top once lightened. The latest on-trend hair colour like Drop It Copper will work depending on whether you would prefer a soft natural tone or intense auburn finish you can choose between 6 and 30 drops. 
Pros: Can alter the shade to your preference, unique to everyone,
Cons: Temporary colour, needs a lot of upkeep, bleach can damage afro hair if not used correctly
Tried and tested by Deputy Commercial Content Editor, Natalie Corner: "I have never done an at-home bleach before and the amount of hair I had meant I needed two boxes to lift the colour from black to blonde, but I was stunned at how well it worked and how my hair didn't feel dry or straw-like after using the bleach thanks to the plex. I used the Drop It Copper for the ginger look and I've had so many compliments on my new colour. I would say that to get the richer copper colour you need to use about 30 drops which is half the bottle so you may not get as many uses out of it but I haven't found another copper that is the perfect shade like Shrine!"

With any afro hair you also need to nourish the scalp, it's where those locks are growing from after all. With shorter hair your scalp will also be more exposed to the elements, build-up of product and dryness can all occur. If you are wearing a protective hairstyle like canerows then this can also cause some tension and caring for it with an oil or serum will help the skin.
Pro: Cooling sensation on application, easy drop applicator
Cons: Small bottle
Review: "It really helped my edges grow out. There's not enough product in the bottle."

If you have short hair and switch between that and wearing a wig, your hair still needs caring for while it's tucked away. Afrocenchix's gorgeous Under The Wig kit helps to keep your scalp and hair clean and moisturised to promote healthy hair growth. As well as the shampoo and conditioner, the kit also includes a moisturising hair spray,hair cream and scalp oil to revive, soften and relieve itchy scalps.
Pros: Gentle ingredients, great value set, defines curls
Cons: Strong scent
Review: "I love everything about these products! Since using these products I can see a massive difference in my hair- my hair feels great after washing and my curls are more defined in comparison to when I used other products before. I also love soothe and my husband uses it too. I give this 4.8 stars Thank you."

For a simple wash and go, all you need to style your hair is your faithful hair pick. Fluff out those short curls with one like this from PATTERN Beauty by Tracee Ellis Ross which has just launched at Boots. Make sure your 'do smells great by adding a spritz of the PATTERN Hydrating Mist.

Looking to create texture and twists on your short afro, get yourself a curl sponge. By gently brushing the sponge in circular motions over your moisturised, slightly damp hair, the big holes will help to twist your hair into beautiful rugged coils.
Pros: Cheap, does exactly what it says
Cons: Can leave longer hair tangled if not used correctly
Review: "I thought that the product would feel cheap, flimsy and weak. Happy to write that I was wrong. Used on my hair as soon as I received it and I like the results. Never press hard on your hair just gentle circular movements, if you move clockwise, remain clockwise for the whole of the hair, if it is anticlockwise the same thing. Don't alternate the movement as should you do this you won't get the desired results."

There's no need to be scared of applying heat to your afro, especially when it's done in the right way. As previously mentioned heat treatments are a super important step in maintaining the health of natural hair as it opens up follicles to ensure moisture can enter. A steam cap like this one or the Lava Cap is the easiest way to treat your hair at home.
Pros: Makes hair treatments accessible at home, affordable
Cons: Cap is not adjustable
Review: "I was worried it wouldn’t get hot enough but it does. It’s really helped with deep conditioning and pre-shampoo treatments (4C hair). Fits well over my normal conditioning cap and is extremely comfortable and easy to use. Heats up quite quickly as well which helps when I’m limited with my time."

You can do anything with a tub of ECO Style olive oil gel, it doesn't dry crusty, it slicks back and moisturises and is also perfect for reviving twists and curls.
Pros: Suitable for all hair types, moisturising, perfect for soft curls
Cons: Bigger tub is always sold out
Tried and tested by Deputy Commercial Content Editor, Natalie Corner: "This is my saviour, every type of hairstyle I reach for this gel. It tames any frizz if I have my hair slicked back and holds it for an entire day. But it brushes out without any build-up left over. Ideal."

Should your hair be long enough to twist, Bantu knots are statement making style with no heat required. Start with washed conditioned hair sectioned into small squares or triangles. Using a styling gel, curl cream or custard, divide each section into two strands, twist together almost like plaiting, and wrap the twist into a bun secured with a small band. Top tip: Using the two strand method as opposed to one will ease detangling.

Treated with care, relaxing your hair for short periods can switch up your style. Always be sure to see a specialist for the chemical application, and protein treatments and intensely moisturising conditioners are your best friend. To avoid breakage opt for heatless styling tricks such as applying a hair oil and wrapping hair before you sleep, for the smooth, slicked back look as seen on Ciara, Rihanna and Alek Wek.

If you'd rather not relax your hair, texturisers work by loosening your natural curl pattern without completely straightening it. Give extra dimension to a pixie cut with the layers and shape of your own natural curls, blown out and finished with gloss or putty.

A classic reinvented, shape finger waves by applying a generous amount of gel to hair and smoothing down with a soft bristle brush. Once the hair is slicked down, work in in rows starting from the top, shaping hair with a tail comb and finger to create a 'C' shape and repeating along the row. Once the whole head is complete, gently wrap with a breathable wrap and blow dry to set.

A modern take on the high top, the platinum blonde colour adds Cynthia Erivo edge to this graphic style. Before bleaching always consult a professional colourist who has worked with textured hair so as not to compromise your curl pattern and cause long term damage.

Even on shorter hair, small amounts of braid in extensions can be added to achieve perfect cornrows. And for in between appointments? "After having your hair tucked away for a few weeks, you need to give yourself a good scalp massage" recommends Rose. "Weekly scalp massages are great to add to your hair routine. Your edges may need some TLC if they've had tension on them all summer. Rest your edges, they can recover if you give them rest! Hot oil treatments and scalp massages are great for stimulating the scalp for healthy hair growth. Also, avoid tension on the hair when wearing protective styles as this can lead to issues like traction alopecia over time".

A mini version of the larger than life, iconic seventies style, blow dry and brush out your curls into a soft, fluffy roughly round shape, and a stylist can trim into the perfect, spherical cut.

Simple but effective, finish hair with a curling cream, sectioning first to make sure the product is evenly applied and maximising curl definition (curl strands around your finger for extra bounce). Then simply side part hair, locking into place with an edge gel with extra hold, and blast quickly with a hairdryer to set.

Alternatively, shaving a fine line to act as a side part will save you time in the morning as your hair will be ready to go, no styling required. (It even looks good on the men too).

Let's face it, anything Michaela Coel touches turns to gold, and this look is no exception. From Andi Oliver to Black Panther, Jada Pinkett Smith to Adwoa Aboah, women have been rocking the skin shave, the ultimate hair statement that lets your face do the talking.

A style so ingenious it requires its own lingo, the faux fro-hawk is an amalgamation of cornrows, an afro leave out and of course the mohawk. Rather than committing to shaving the sides like a traditional mohican, braiding them flat to the head creates the same illusion while adding extra detail. A pretty take on the edgy cut.

Mint green, dusty lilac or candyfloss pink, pastel dyes are a flattering way to experiment with colour on very short afro styles for men.

If you've ever thought that hairbands aren't for short afro hair, think again. Spritz hair with leave in conditioner let down with a little water, and tie a scarf firmly around your forehead. Pushing it back to the middle of your head will slick back hair, secure with grips at the side if necessary, the tighter you tie, the more firm the pull back and hold.

The clever height in this cut draws the eye out and upwards. creating an instant facelift that highlights the cheekbones. As Vernon Franois shows on Lupita Nyongo, leaving the natural texture rather than slicking down creates a softer, romantic finish to an androgynous cut.

For a blonde afro to compliment your skin tone, opt for warm shades of honey and caramel that will help you glow. Purple toned shampoos are designed to tone down yellow and take out brassiness, so try a pigmented shampoo like Davine's Alchemic Shampoo in Golden, £19.50, to keep colour a warm honey.

Once blonde has already been laid down, temporary colours can switch up your day to day. A simple wash in wash out colour can act as an artistic highlight on a sculptural cut. Red afro hairstyles are also possible without bleaching as even black hair can have naturally warm, red undertones.

Last but not least, the simple wash and go, because your natural curl pattern deserves to be celebrated in its untampered form. After washing and conditioning, apply an oil treatment and heated cap for best penetration. Allow the excess to air dry rather than blowing out curls, comb through with a wide tooth comb for a final detangle. We love the simplicity of this style, but also the versatility - dress up with flowers or hair accessories for events or parties for a little extra touch.

Keep box braids short for a twist on the classic bob. This style takes almost no styling or effort in the morning, and is perfect for those wanting to give damaged hair a chance to grow longer and stronger.

Short hair can still do a dip dye! Highlight your tips with a pop of colour, or choose a natural shade of lighter brown for an ombré effect.

Simple dreadlocks can be done with a twisting method. Section hair into small squares and comb through, before adding a small amount of loc gel to a section, inserting the comb at the root and twisting while pulling down. Repeated the twisting process before allowing to dry thoroughly (this will take a few hours) and do not be tempted to unravel! Those looking for a shorter term solution should try faux locs, these can be crocheted into your natural hair,

Close cropped, but with plenty of texture, the teeny weeny afro or twa, is all about defined curls without the length. Whether you're transitioning from relaxed hair or simply growing out after the big chop, this natural hair style celebrates your unprocessed curl pattern without the need for overuse of heated tools. Simply, wash, deep condition, detangle and allow to air dry for ringlet curls.