Afro Puff
Afro & Wash-and-Go Family
Illustration -- About our illustrations
An Afro puff gathers natural hair into a soft band or tie, usually at the crown or the back of the head, so the loose textured hair blooms into a rounded puff. Two puffs, one on each side, are a favourite for children and adults alike.
Distinguishing characteristics
The hair is gathered rather than braided or twisted: the band controls the base and the puff is fluffed and shaped above it. Edges are often smoothed with a brush and gel.
Advantages
Quick, cute and works on most lengths of natural hair, including children's hair.
Considerations
A tight band worn in the same place every day can stress the hairline and cause breakage.
Warning signs
Tenderness, bumps or thinning at the hairline or temples mean the puff is too tight.
Preparation
Stretched or moisturised hair gathers more easily. Use a soft, snag-free tie, a satin scrunchie or a stretched-out stocking, rather than a tight rubber band.
Daily Care
Re-moisturise the puff and avoid pulling the band tighter each day.
Night Care
Take the band out or move it loosely higher, and sleep in a satin bonnet.
Washing
Wash on your usual schedule; a puff is easy to re-create after a wash-and-go or twist-out.
Scalp Care
Change the position of the puff from day to day so the same spot is not under constant tension.
Refreshing
Mist the puff, fluff it with fingers and smooth the edges.
Styling tips
Try a high puff, a low puff, two puffs, or a puff with front twists. Ribbons and scarves suit children's styles.
At a glance
- Looks
- 4 looks
Looks
- High Afro Puff
- Low Afro Puff
- Double Afro Puffs
- Children's Double Puffs with Ribbons
FAQs
- Can wearing an afro puff every day damage my edges?
It can. A tight band worn in the same place every day stresses the hairline and can cause breakage. Use a soft tie, keep it loose enough to be comfortable and change the height of the puff from day to day.