A black man’s hairstyle makes a bold statement about his personal style. If you’re a black man, with messy, unkempt or damaged hair will make a person perceive you as someone who doesn’t care about the way he looks. Dryness, fragility, style and hair loss are all real and viable concerns an African man faces.

Choose a style

Choose a hairstyle that speaks to you as a black man, that works with your face shape and that is easy to maintain with the type of hair that you have. 

Shampoo less

Shampooing too often can cause short, black hair to become dry and brittle. This is because most retail shampoos contain a chemical called sodium lauryl sulfate, or SLS. SLS is a detergent responsible for cleaning and bubbling the hair. Unfortunately, it can also strip the hair of natural oils that protect it, leaving it dried and prone to breakage, If possible, shampoo your hair only once or twice weekly to retain the natural oils in your hair or choose a shampoo that is SLS-free.

Moisturize daily

Your hair needs to be moisturized daily, whether shampooed or not, to replenish hydration that is lost through dry conditions or indoor heating. Simple oil can be applied to the roots of your hair to make your hair look softer and help you avoid flakes and dry scalp. Try sweet almond or coconut oil; apply a little to your fingertips and run your hands through your hair to distribute evenly. Apply a little oil each day, especially when your hair feels dry or brittle to the touch.

Product selection

Choosing products that are specifically made for black men can help you get healthier, better looking hair. Most retail products readily available in drugstores are formulated for the smoother hair shafts of a Caucasian individual. Your hair is generally brittle and kinky, which is why you need to use products specifically for black men, Look for products free of alcohol and other drying ingredients and rich in oils

    

Pomades

Pomades are incredibly versatile, offering a wet, shiny look while maintaining a pliable hold. Though not right for fine hair, they’re perfect for sleek, well-groomed styles or shorter, texturized styles. They also give shine and separation to long hair.

     

How to use

1. Apply a small amount to the palm of your hand and rub hands together until product warms.

2. Work product through slightly damp to dry hair, going from ends to root. moisturizers. 

Creams

Styling creams are often the best choice for men who need something in their hair, but don’t want to look like it. They offer a lighter finish; some shine and are quite adept at controlling fly a ways and helping to neaten shorter styles.

How to use:

1. Wash hair and smooth cream into wet or dry hair.

2. If you have fine hair, use a very small amount to avoid a greasy look.

Hair sprays 

Hair sprays are first-rate options for guys with thin or thinning hair. These sprays create the illusion of volume and can lock a style in place. The majority of men should avoid using heavy hairsprays that often weigh hair down -- and instead pick a lighter formula. 

How to use

Hold the bottle approximately six to eight inches from the head and lightly mist over hair.

2. Place hand over your forehead as though you are saluting a more-perfect version of yourself. This will help keep product away from the forehead and eyes.

3. Don’t put on a hat

Gels 

Gels are usually the best option to create a wet, sleek look. Quality gels will have “memory” once dry, enabling comb-through that can provide a structured, yet dry appearance. Cheap supermarket gels tend to break and flake off in the hair, so it’s important to get the good stuff.

Gels usually come in firm or light hold, so choosing the right gel is key. Since a firm hold gel will weigh down fine hair, “fine” men should use a light hold product. For thick, course hair, a light hold gel won’t offer enough control and thus a firm gel is the proper choice.

How to use:

1. Work into wet hair, comb and let dry naturally for a wet look.

2. Use on drier hair to hold a style in place.

3. Put in wet hair, blow dry and add more to lock strands in place.

4. Reactivate when needed by wetting hands and running through hair.