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Are you looking for edgy, daring and attention-grabbing hairstyles? Do you want to bring the heat into any room you step into with your hot girl magic? Well, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve cooked up a comprehensive list of the coolest female haircut styles in Nigeria right now.
Blonde-cut
It’s a fire look sure to get those hot girl compliments in the bag.
Slicked down with parting
The only bad thing about this style? You’ll need lots of gel. The good thing? You’ll be the hardest slayer in any room.
Simple low-cut with floral pattern
The star of this haircut is the floral side pattern.
Low-cut with double side parting
The double side parting is what takes this look from basic to hot as hell. Just make sure your barber has straight hands.
Clean shave
Considering how hot Nigeria’s weather is right now, there’s no better time to shave it all off. Don’t worry, it’s still a killer look
Blue waves cut with etched sides
If you’ve ever been suspected of being a water spirit, this look is how you confirm the rumours.
Clean shave with henna pattern
Want to give your clean shave more oomph? Consider getting a henna pattern of choice.
Curly pixie cut with side parting
There’s something about this cut that screams IJGB.
Classic pixie cut
The category is classy bad bitch.
Finger waves
This haircut works in a corporate or laid back setting. It’s like getting two for the price of one.
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Platinum pixie
This is a fun play on the classic pixie haircut.
Pink curls with side shaves
This tinted female haircut style works if you still want to keep a moderate portion of your hair. You can also change the colour to suit what you want.
Tapered buzz curls with hard part
Go for this haircut if you want something between soft girly and hard girly.
Pixie with etched sides
Useful when you want to add a dramatic twist to your pixie cut.
Buzz cut
This look is like a soft launch to your clean shave era.
The biggest women-only festival in Lagos is BACK. Get your tickets here for a day of fun, networking and partayyyyy
Thinking of where to debut your hot AF new haircut? HERtitude is the place to be on April 20. Zikoko is bringing all the hot babes to the yard for a day of premium fun and enjoyment.
There’ll be loads of games like money-winning scavenger hunt, karaoke, board games, Jenga and bouncing castle, and activities like paint and sip, candle-making, pottery, bracelet making and crochet. But that’s not all, you also get to enjoy spa sessions, tattoo booths, manicure and pedicure stations, a relaxation lounge, yoga and meditation sessions.
So get your tickets here if you haven’t already, and mark your calendars, hot babes.
Word on the street is that the girlies have added Brazilian wool to the list of things that take your hotness level from zero to 100. Now, if you’re out there for the hottest hairstyles to make with Brazilian wool, this piece is all you need.
Faux locs
Want to start your locs journey but don’t want to grow it from scratch? Say no more and let Brazilian wool do the job for you.
Distressed twists
The good thing about it is they can last up to a month or more, depending on how you maintain them.
Passion twists
Not a fan of hot babe compliments? You better run from this hairstyle that’ll have everyone gushing, and choose something basic.
The biggest women-only festival in Lagos is BACK. Get your tickets here for a day of fun, networking and partayyyyy
Butterfly locs
Similar to distressed locs, this version has curly loops added to it.
Knotless braids
If you’re a knotless braid girly looking to save costs on attachment in this Tinubu economy, Brazilian wool should be on radar.
Jumbo yarn twists
Where are my girlies who hate spending hours at the salon at? This twist style with Brazilian wool is lightweight, low maintenance and easy on your pocket.
Bantu knots
For when you want to get a lil traditional. Just make sure you funkify it with baby curls so you don’t give “Ancient of days”.
Braids with Bantu knot tips
Bored of all the different braid styles? You probably haven’t switched things up with this braids x bantu knots combo using Brazilian wool.
Medium braids with loose ends
Consider replacing the knots with loose ends. It sounds crazy, but this picture is all the evidence you need to convince yourself that it works.
Regular-degular twists
You can make this style short or long, depending on your lifestyle.
Do you love edgy, daring, super cool hairstyles? Do you want to get more creative with your hair? You’ve come to the right place. We predict these will be the top hair picks of 2024, so you’re welcome.
Bai
This not-so-popular haircut is inspired by the late Baingor Joiner, a young Nigerian multi-disciplinary artist. Bai is a form of self-expression that represents coolness, creativity, freedom and afrofuturism. Who wouldn’t want to embody these values in the new year?
Bai (left); VRSD (middle and right)
Blade
If you haven’t seen this OG Marvel franchise, featuring Wesley Snipes, then you aren’t as hip as you think. And if your barber isn’t skilled, what you’ll get is a violation instead of a stylish and confident don’t-fuck-with-me look.
Image source: CG Hero
de Lima
This radical haircut was football legend and ex-Brazilian striker, Ronaldo de Lima’s tactic to shift attention from his injury during the 2002 World Cup, and it worked. After he sported the cut, he (and his team) won the semi-final against Turkey and the final against Germany. This was the cut he had on as he lifted the 2002 World Cup and won the Golden Boot.
Image source: Sportsmanor
Prettyboy
Nigerian artist, Prettyboy D-O, is popular for his creative hairstyle. He dyes his hair in multi colours and patterns — sometimes, it’s wildfire, flowers or heart symbols. D-O is a walking canvas, and his style is for the vibrant risk-takers.
Instagram: @prettyboydo
AG Retro
Adekunle Gold had this haircut on for a promotional shoot in 2018. It’s a 90’s retro style, an Afro-fade with a part down the middle. If you rock vintage fashion, this is the perfect cut to cap it up.
Image source: The NET
Micro puff-puff
Most recently seen on the late Mohbad, this eye-catching style requires your hair to be just long enough to twist into neat, tiny knots. This can be your prelude to full braids.
Image source: Nigezie Xtreme
Gorimapa
A skinned, shiny head will forever be popular among the people of earth. If you like breeze hitting your skull directly, getting random scalp rubs, or paying barbers simply disgust you, go for this cheap, simple and classic cut.
If you’ve ever had a hair lice infestation, you know how frustrating it gets. Lice are extremely irritating, contagious and can be difficult to treat with home remedies in Nigeria.
Image: Audrey Popov
But how does one even get lice, and how do you get rid of them permanently?
How does the lice problem start?
Lice are tiny parasitic insects that feed by drawing on blood from the scalp. They live in hair, and it’s extremely easy for them to jump from head to head in close contact. In Nigeria, they’re more common with children and can be contracted through school playgrounds or by sharing hair accessories.
You know there’s a lice infestation when the scalp is itchy, and it feels like something is running through your hair. In serious cases, you might find the insects dropping onto surfaces.
Lice also reproduce really fast in hair via eggs (or nits), which makes permanently getting rid of them a challenge, but it’s possible.
Here’s how you can remove lice permanently
Once a lice infestation is confirmed, the first step is to contain the problem. You don’t want to pass it on to others or have the lice on surfaces or hair tools where they can re-infect you.
Wash items that come in contact with the head with disinfectant and hot water to disinfect them. Then, try any of the following methods to remove the insects from the hair itself:
Wet combing
As the name implies, this method involves combing out the lice and eggs. It’s the easiest method for removing them. You’ll need to wash and detangle your hair with shampoo, and while your hair is damp, go in with a fine-toothed comb to remove the insects.
Something like this
If you have natural 4C hair, consider straightening it before this procedure to allow the comb to pass through. This method can be repeated several times till all the lice have been removed.
Jovanmandic/Getty Images
Onion juice
Image: Derma Essentia
Yes, onions. The acidic juice from onions is often used to kill lice. This method involves roughly blending an onion and rubbing it into the scalp. Let it rest for about 30-40 minutes, before going in with a fine-tooth comb to remove the dead lice and nits. Don’t forget to wash your hair after combing.
Neem oil
Image: Kapiva
Neem oil has antibacterial properties and a pungent smell that repels lice. You can apply this just as described for onion juice. For best results, wrap the hair after putting in the oil and sit under a dryer for about 30 minutes before rinsing and shampooing your hair. Finish the process by combing out any lice eggs remaining.
Tea tree oil
Image: Stylecraze
This essential oil also has an intense aroma that repels lice and can be used just like neem oil.
Relaxers
If you aren’t a naturalista, the chemicals in relaxers are also an option for treating lice. Ensure to apply the relaxer to the base of the hair strand to catch the lice eggs. As with other methods, don’t forget to go in with a fine tooth comb after washing to make sure every egg is removed.
How do you make sure it doesn’t come back?
Infestation starts at contact, so as much as possible, try to avoid sharing hair tools and accessories.
PS: Getting lice doesn’t mean you’re dirty. Lice actually prefer clean hair to lay eggs in. Whatever you do, don’t use insecticide on your hair as a treatment or preventive option.
It’s 2024, and while the girlies seem to be moving towards knotless French curls and micro kinky braids, we bring you 20 reasons why Ghana weaving should be at the top of your protective style list.
What do Ghana weaving styles look like?
Also called Ghana Braids, this style is a type of cornrow braiding that originated in Ghana. They require hair extensions and are usually braided straight back to achieve the signature dense look.
Image: @_jkimble on Instagram
Here are 20 of the hottest Ghana weaving styles you can easily recreate.
Braids in a high ponytail
Ghana braids ponytail. Image: Maboplus
If you love ponytails, this is perfect for you. You can switch this sleek high ponytail look up by braiding the ponytail into one large braid.
Micro Ghana weaving
Image: Kanyinz Blog
This look might have you spending more time at the hairdresser’s, but if style longevity is what you seek, try the micro-sized braids. Micro styles also offer versatility.
Criss-cross Ghana braids
Image: iamcreation_of_beautyyy on Instagram
For when you want to add a twist to the simple all-back braids.
The length of the braids will determine how full the bun will be. The longer the braids, the thicker the bun.
Side-swept Ghana braids
Image: Laadey.com
Why stick to a simple all-back look when you can try this side-swept beauty too? Again, this works for short and long braids.
Ghana braids with wavy partings
Image: braidsby_veronica on Instagram
One thing’s for sure; you’ll stand out with these wavy partings. They’re less common than the standard straight partings. And you don’t need to think too much about styling options because the partings are a whole lewk by themselves.
Half-up braids
Image: Israel Ribeiro
Save time by braiding only half of your hair and leaving the rest either as a curly or straight afro.
Braided bob
Image: Futibraids on Instagram
Not every time long braids, sometimes go short. This look is pretty straightforward, but definitely not boring. You can experiment with different colours, plus it’s really easy to style.
Jumbo feed-in braids
Image: Tantalstyles
For when you’re in the mood for a simple, no-frills look.
High curly bun
Image: Ghanabraidstyles
After styling your braids in a basic high bun, crochet in some curly extensions to add a twist.
Ghana stitch braids
Image: Savs styles
You can’t go wrong with classic stitch braids. You can style this look into a low bun or with the ends braided together into a single ponytail.
This style works great for a bold look. You can style the mohawk into an afro if you prefer a shorter style.
Half-up braids and bun
Image: Pearl the stylist
For when you want to give your half-up braid style a different look. This works great for fun, casual settings.
Zig-zag braids
I know what you’re thinking; zig-zags are so 2010. But if fashion can go back to the days of belt-sized skirts and small handbags, why can’t this style make a comeback?
If you were outside your house (or maybe even inside) during Detty December 2022, you must’ve seen the knotless French curls sitting on someone’s head and parading around town.
French curls were at every house and beach party, club and traffic from Victoria Island to VGC. But if you thought it was just hair for December rocks, think again because we’re two months into 2023, and the girlies have refused to let the style go.
Curious, I caught up with some French curl baddies, and they gave us the lowdown on why this hairstyle is their new fave.
But before we get into it, shoutout to the OG French curl icon, Brandy AKA Miss Moesha Mitchell.
“I feel like a baddie with French curls”
— Vanessa
I got my French curls done in January when I was visiting Nigeria. I didn’t want basic knotless braids, so I looked for options on Pinterest before I found these curls that added an extra oomph. I used one pack of extensions, and everything, including the braiding, cost ₦15k in Abuja. Thanks to PHCN wahala, it took them six whole hours to finish braiding it.
I’m actually having the best time with my French curls because they’re incredibly versatile. I’m doing up-dos and clip styles. I feel like such a baddie (which I am) with them.
“I saw it on Ayra Star, so I knew I had to get them”
— Oro
The first time I saw French curl braids was on social media in 2021, but it wasn’t until Ayra Starr started doing that different versions started flooding my Instagram TL. She made the hair famous, no cap. When I wanted to get mine done, I heard some people paid ₦4k per bundle for the attachment. I have a big head and full hair, so omo, that was a no for me. I eventually found these Darling extensions for about ₦7k total and got my braids done for ₦5k in Warri.
The French curls were cute at first, but over time, they got tangled, and it was a hassle trying to keep them apart. I doubt it’ll still be popular by December 2023. Remember when everyone was drawing hearts with their braids? We move on fast.
“I typically wear braids for three weeks, but my French curls lasted for a whole month”
— Ngozi
I’ve done the layered version of the French curls twice — once in December and the other in January. I like messy hair and volume; this hairstyle gave me both at the same time. I also didn’t have to style my hair all the time, and as a lazy person, I appreciated that.
It took an average of eight hours to get it done because it was just one person braiding my hair. It was cheap at around ₦10 – 12k for the braiding and extensions because I made it in Apapa. I typically wear braids for three weeks, but I had it on for a month and got another one in a different colour as soon as I took it out. I’ve shaved my hair now, but I’d still do it again if I grow my hair out, even if it’s no longer popping. I stick to things a lot.
“Getting French curls took 10 hours and cost me ₦45k”
— Toju
I’ve only done the French curls once, and what won me over with the hairstyle was the bounce because I usually don’t like braids. I chose a shade of blonde that complimented my dark skin. For the braiding, I went to a salon in Lagos where it cost about ₦45k and took almost 6 hours to get it done.
I feel French curls will still be a hot trend next year because it’s really pretty.
“I can style them in so many different ways”
— Kulupsy
My friend was the first person I saw French curls on, and I thought it looked gorgeous, so I decided to get them too. Choosing the colour was the interesting part because there were many options. I had to find one that would match my skin and still pop, so I went with a mix of blonde, brown and black. Making the hair took about three hours and cost ₦35k at some salon my friend recommended.
I love how French curls look on me and how I can style them in a double bun or a mid-part. The style might go out of fashion before the next Detty December, but I have a feeling the attachment won’t go anywhere. It’s so soft.
“Regular box braids don’t look good on me, so I’m ready to try French curls”
— Gift
I haven’t gotten the French curls yet, but it’s the next hairstyle I’m trying. I saw it on this fine babe on Twitter, and I know shoulder-length curls suit my face. Regular box braids don’t work for me, so why not? I got the bundle for ₦3k, and the braiding will cost me ₦12 – 15k, depending on how tiny the braids are. That’s Lekki price sha. I could find a trenches salon that’ll do it for less, but I’m tender-headed and working from home, so I need some order in whichever salon I go to.
“French curls are comfortable and stylish enough for me to take on my trips”
— Simi
I’ve gotten French curls twice now — the first time was in 2021 and again in 2022. I saw it on Instagram and liked how light it looked on the girl who was wearing it. Then I did it the second time because I was travelling and wanted something comfortable and stylish to travel with.
Brown is my go-to colour for braids because it works with my skin tone. I’m not adventurous, but I want to change that, so I might go blonde or try grey the next time I make French curls.
We don’t know if it’s because mercury is in “lucozade” or just Nigeria showing us shege in one of its many creative ways, but the weather is crazy hot and humid these days, and naturalista babes are literally facing the heat.
Desperate times call for desperate measures, so here’s a list of quick and easy protective styles to save your tresses from this heatwave.
What’s not to love about bantu knots? They’re relatively easy to style, look stylish, and most importantly, they’ll keep your neck free from the plenty of sweating you’re bound to do this period.
Hot weather is lazy weather, so just throw on your favourite box or knotless braids and keep them in a permanent bun. You won’t have to worry about styling your hair and it’ll stay away from your face. Win-win.
Before you ask, “all-back?” Hear me out. There’s nothing better than being able to pour water on your head, especially at times like these. Plain cornrows will allow you do just that without the fear of ruining your hairdo.
This one has props for being hella cheap, and best believe you’ll stand out from the crowd. The best way to make this hairstyle is head bent between your local hairdresser’s legs. It’s the culture.
You can do this with your natural hair alone or with kinky extensions. You don’t need to do much with them. But they’re great for multiple styles if you want your hair out of your neck, or just want to pour water on it.
Braided up-dos (AKA Shuku)
Image source: Instagram (@slayedinbraids)
Your hair might cause traffic in a cinema hall, but is it protected and safe from humidity? Hell, yes.
‘Fro ponytail
Image source: Getty images
There are days you’ll be too tired to do anything more than pack your hair in a ponytail, and that’s okay. Slap on a little edge control for cute baby hair — and pretend the heat won’t just melt it off in one hot minute — and you’re good to go.
As a Nigerian babe with a forehead that looks like it’s my brain’s headquarters, this article was necessary. Because I’m tired of running away from ponytails just because I fear my forehead will steal all the attention.
So, fellow forehead geng, I gat you. These are the best ponytail styles to rock.
Good ol’ bangs
Yes, I know. We’ve been there, done that and have the receipts. But bangs are just like your first ex. You’re tired of them, but you still find yourself going back. It’s worth it because it completely covers the forehead, if that’s what you’re going for.
Image source: Beahairs
The side swoop
For when you want to show off your exotic forehead, but also don’t want it to steal all the attention.
Image source: Honey bramble
Messy updo
The idea is to do styles that work for your face, not completely hide your gorgeous forehead. And this style just works — you get to stylishly draw attention away from your head, and get a cute style too.
With everyone rocking the same hairstyles these days, wouldn’t it be so great to stand out? So what if your hair stylist can’t pull off the styles on this list? That’s not the point. The point’s you’ll stand out, and that’s all that mattress. Don’t thank us just yet!
Sunny’s look from Torioko
No, tell me that this lewk is not achievable. Is hair dye expensive? Yes, will all your family members deny you outside? Also, yes, but you’ll look so original with your alté aesthetic. If you’re an ally for queer people, what’s wearing the rainbow on your head to you? Talk Valentina!
I know you might be thinking, what’s so special about a blonde afro? Well, this man’s hair is made of 24-karat gold. If you have that kind of gold, have you not made it? Just go to your mother’s dressing table, melt as many of her gold chains as possible, and carry them on your head. The best part is that no-one can even steal it because it’s on your head.
Umemiya’s rolls from Shaman King
Since all the styles from before the internet age are back in vogue, this should be a breeze. Just comb your hair up, look for a big hair roller and wrap your head around it like ₦2k shawarma. Add pins to keep it together, and you’re good to go. A trend setter, fashion extraordinaire.
Iris from Pokemon
Remember those days when your mum would pack your hair in a tight bun, and it’ll get loose because you kept touching it? That’s what this look is giving but with effortless styling that doubles as a pocket to hide things. Do you know the amount of food you can sneak in on an plane with hair like that?
Kenpachi’s look from Bleach
Imagine entering danfo with this look? The conductor will charge you extra for looking so fly! If your hair is not long enough, don’t worry, I got you. Remember how we used to wrap biscuit nylons into cones as kids? Do as many as possible, then take glue and stick it on your head. You can paint to your desired colour, and voila, a walking chuku ckuku.
Yasuhiro’s locs fromDanganronpa
If you people don’t rush this one, as a loc-head, I will beat you to it. Imagine walking around like this? People would be afraid to touch you because how did you do it? Your gel budget might be through the roof, but anything to look fly. Samson no do reach this one.
Quick question, how do you feel about becoming the poster child for the “Black kids with blonde hair” search results? Take inspo from the Velaryon family in House of the Dragon and see that it bangs. Relax your hair and bleach it and there you go! If you like, you can tie blonde hair extensions to your hair for length. There’s beauty in this life, but your beauty with this hairstyle will be discovery.
Franky from One Piece
Wow, look at this hair! If police stop you in traffic, you can just transform your hair into a cannon. I love it. You would be untouchable. You’d also be single because, come on, you can’t have your cake and eat it. No one will want to compete with your hair for attention.
Saitama from One-Punch Man
You know your hairstyle is that bitch when it ensures you’re added to the will. Imagine visiting your dad with a haircut like this in an age where everyone’s keeping an afro or locking their hair. He’d be so proud. This hair shows that you’re ready to own a sienna, prepared to wear a green shirt and purple trousers to your banker job and beg interns for their food. Indeed, a mark of good home training. You can’t go wrong with a good skin cut.
As a babe that absolutely loves knotless braids, it tends to feel like a waste of beauty when I just keep my braids in one or two styles for the entire duration I have them because, laziness. I did some research on how to style knotless braids and believe me when I say your style game is about to be elevated.
High bun with a side sweep
This style works great for when you have long braids, but the heat isn’t smiling at all. It’s easy too; just pack your hair in a regular bun, but leave out some braids in the front so you can sweep them to the side to add to the bun.
Image source: ariyohairr
Halfway double buns
For when you want to show everyone you took Beyoncé’s ALIEN SUPERSTAR to heart. For this style, part your braids into two horizontal halves, let the lower half flow free and then style the upper half into two buns.
Image source: daniisworld
Halfway double pigtails
If you think the halfway double bun is too dramatic, then you can just leave the buns as pigtails. Leave out one braid from each pigtail for a bonus look.
This look legit gives Fulani princess vibes. To style this, part your hair in two horizontal halves and style the top half into a tight bun.
Image source: Jamilaxamal
Good ol’ high ponytail
Because laziness will always win. It’s a cute style so why not? Pop out your scrunchie and pain relievers (to handle the inevitable headache this style will cause) and you’re good to go.
Image source: Modelesque Nic
Side part
For when you want to rock your braids just as they are. This style works for a fun girls’ night out or when you just want to let loose.
Image source: Hottest haircuts
Beaded braids
Beads always work. For best results, use them with short to medium braids.
Image source: Black beauty bombshells
Side ponytail
This is styled like a regular ponytail, but just to the side.
Image source: Beauty by lau
Low bun
This style works with medium or long braids. Pack your hair close to the nape of your neck, style it into a bun and you’re done.
Image source: Britnee Dolce
Side braid
Add a new twist to the side part hairstyle by creating a simple side braid for a stylish, chic look.
Every naturalista knows that caring for natural hair is not beans. If you’re not going broke trying to buy the right products to control your mane, you’re figuring out how to style it without using up five working days. It’s a struggle.
These eight easy-to-recreate styling ideas will save you time:
Twist-outs
Image source: Hairstyle hub
Twist-outs are a natural hair staple because it involves relatively low effort. You can easily do a twist-out after wash day (and a full detangle) with little or no products. Get an easy tutorial to follow here.
Low bun
Image source: African American hairstyle videos
A low bun is another perfect simple hairstyle for the stress-hating naturalista. It’s great for both formal and casual occasions, and even if you have short hair, you can always include hair extensions yourself if you want a fuller look.
If you’re looking for a longer-lasting protective style, then you should try the fauxhawk. It’s a chic look for a fun night out or if you just want to switch up your style for a few weeks.
I found this tutorial, so you don’t have to try explaining this style to a hairdresser who will only end up doing something different.
The beautiful thing about bantu knots is that I’m yet to see anyone that doesn’t look good rocking them. You can do them with your hair or add some extensions if your hair isn’t long enough to make the knots.
This tutorial will show you how to style your bantu knots.
Double puffs
Image source: rayann410 (YouTube)
Tired of simple bun styles but still need to leave home in ten minutes? Then you should try double puffs. As promised, this won’t stress your life, and you can experiment as much as you want. Win-win.
Finger coils are easy to style, but be warned — this is one of the more tedious ones on this list, depending on your hair’s fullness. You’ll probably want to try finger coils during the weekend or when you have more free time.
The afro always works, and if you want to do something different with it, just add a top bun.
All you have to do for this style is section off the top part of your hair, moisturise and style it in a tight bun, then finger-comb the rest of your hair into an afro. This quick style works for casual and semi-formal occasions. Here’s a simple tutorial for reference.
High Puff
Image source: healthyafrohair
You can never go wrong with a simple high puff. For a little razzle-dazzle, style it with a cute head wrap, and you’re good to go.
If you have short hair, you’ll find this tutorial helpful.
Love it or hate it, braids are an intricate part of the Nigerian female beauty experience. Protective hairstyles are all the rave now. There’s something about not having to bother about styling your hair for weeks that makes up for all the stress of getting braided hairstyles.
What does it cost to get your favourite braid styles, though? We asked six ladies in six Nigerian cities.
Abuja
— Ortega, 23
People in this city spend crazy amounts of money on braids, but I never reach. I usually get regular box braids, which cost an average of ₦8k to ₦10k (including hair extensions and service charges) in a local saloon. But if you’re feeling bougie and you go to those fancy places, it can cost up to ₦20k — maybe ₦15k if they’re kind. Braiding natural hair is even more expensive.
I’m a knotless braids girl, and it costs me an average of ₦50k to braid my hair. My salon has fixed prices for everything, and here’s the breakdown: I usually get a hair treatment before braiding which costs about ₦20k, and the braids and hair extensions cost about ₦30k. I think it’s a reasonable price because they also take out my old braids, and the salon has a superb ambience.
I recently moved here, and while I don’t exactly love the city, I definitely can’t hate the budget-friendly hairstyling prices. I do all kinds of braids — kinky, cornrows, even ghana weaving and I typically spend between ₦7k to ₦8k, including hair extensions. Honestly, extensions take the bulk of the price because they’re more expensive here than in Lagos, but I can’t complain.
kinky braids
cornrows
ghana weaving
Ilorin
— Tope, 24
My go-to braid style is definitely knotless braids, and it costs me around ₦10k to get them done. I use two hair extensions that cost ₦2,200 each, and the service charge is usually within the range of ₦4k to ₦5k. This doesn’t include relaxer application or washing, though, as that can involve an additional ₦2k.
Osogbo
— Maria*, 31
I can’t be caught dead braiding my hair at a salon where I have to be “giving” the stylist hair extensions. So, I’m happy to shell out around ₦18k for simple cornrow braids (including hair extensions). It’s pretty expensive, but I’m paying for my comfort, so it’s worth it.
Ibadan
— Favour*, 22
I’m not much of a braids person. The most I’ve done is crochet braids, and that’s because I hate sitting in one place for too long. The price for every braid session varies depending on the type or number of hair extensions I use, but the service charge is always around ₦3k to ₦4k. If I factor in hair extensions of maybe ₦5k, my total budget would be around ₦8k to ₦9k.
kinky braids
*Some names have been changed for the sake of anonymity.
Whether you have relaxed hair or not, the question of how to wear your hair is almost always there. This question is what Eniola answers with her hair series, on Instagram.
Here are a few ways to style your natural hair according to style queen, Eniola Hu.
source: @eniolahu (Instagram)
1. In good ol’ cornrows
You can never go wrong with cornrows. They always work. According to my mummy, it brings out your face.
source: @eniolahu (Instagram)
2. Afin Oba (King/Ruler’s Palace)
In the centre, we have the ruler and the rows facing down are the subjects. The style is also called “basket” in some states and it’s a hit. Just look how glorious she looks.
source: @eniolahu (Instagram)
3. Thread
Yes, my dear, thread. This is 2021. We are smashing colonial norms. Who told you thread can’t be stylish? Think again. The beauty of thread is that you can style it any way you want and lowkey, we’ve been doing a version of thread — you know those Brazilian wool hairstyles that reigned in 2018? You’re welcome.
source: @eniolahu (Instagram)
4. Morinmo
This hairstyle is a variation of thread. In Yoruba, the word Morinmo is a sexual act lmao. Maybe that’s why it looks so gorgeous. Who knows? All I know is that I definitely want to try it.
source: @eniolahu (Instagram)
5. In a bun
There is bun and there is bun. You can do anyone you like and they all look good.
source: @eniolahu (Instagram)
6. Fly the hair
This one is always a hit. Whether it’s relaxed hair or not, black hair is always a beauty to behold.
source: @eniolahu (Instagram)
Don’t forget to tag us and @eniolahu when you try these hairstyles.
Before you read this article, here’s a fact: Zikoko never lies. Everything you see in this article is true. After studying Nigerian men for years, we can finally publish tell what their hairstyles say about them.
Go ahead, see for yourself.
1. Curls
You have been serially heartbroken. The beard? You started growing it when they shattered your heart even though you thought you were nice. The hair? You kept it as a result of the heartbreak that almost ran you mad. Now? You’re turning your heartbreak into beauty and babes are calling you handsome. Hmm, they don’t know.
2. This fine boy cut
You’re a Christian brother who is starting to become a child of the world and this is the first step. Small time, you’ll do full dada.
3. Travis Scott
You think you’re a musician— the best in Nigeria. These other artists don’t understand you and they can’t come near you. You have five mixtapes, but you’ve not dropped them because the world isn’t ready for your music. Your guys, they don’t like your music too. But you’re not worried. They’re the ones with bad taste.
4. Low cut
You cheat— or at least you try to. Your wife knows you cheat but there’s nothing she can do about it. The people you’re trying to move to always air your messages, but the one time you get lucky, all your friends will hear about it nonstop. You don’t think you should be in Nigeria. You think you should be in the USA. That’s why you watch the NBA and not that smelling thing called football. You have a Camry.
5. Coloured hair
This one is not even about the hairstyle. It’s the colour. You want to be a marlian and a bad boy, but you aren’t fully there yet. The only thing that motivates you is peer pressure, but you also don’t want to disappoint your parents. You have an iPhone 8 Plus with a broken screen.
You went to the UK one time when you were 4 and now we won’t hear word again. It’s always “bruv” or “innit”. Mayowa, tell me, where did you get “innit” from?
8. Dreads
Sometimes, you’re a creative, other times, you’re a tech bro. When you’re not being harrassed by they police because they think you’re a criminal, we can catch you listening to Frank Ocean’s Blonde for the millionth time, and feeling like you’re the coolest person in the room. You’re single, and we know why.
9. Ladder ladder ladder ladder
If this is your hairstyle, we don’t have anything to say to you. Please leave here, because you’re a very unserious fellow.
10. Plain baldness
You have seen a lot of things in this life. You don’t have time for such things as hair and fashion anymore. You still have to pay school fees, pay your employees and all that. Hair? Nope.
There are certain braided hairstyles for girls that are so awesome, they can never go out of style. Here are seven of them. If you’re ever at the salon, stuck on which hairstyle to go with, pick one of these. You’re welcome.
1. Twisted Mohawk
This is a beautiful natural hairstyle for girls. It leaves no hair no hair on your face and is twisted to protect the hair. Best of all, it always comes out looking beautiful.
2. Braided Pigtails
This is easily one of the most protective hairstyles for girls. It is a fun twist to regular pigtails and can be styled in different ways with cute hair accessories.
3. Ghanaian Cornrows
Cornrows are in right now for black girls, and to be honest, they never went out of style. This style has thick rows with really tiny ones in between. One thing that will make this hairstyle pop is colourful threads.
4. High Ponytails
This hairstyle is as adorable as they come. To achieve this, cornrows are braided higher in a protective style so that it stays out of the face. Make sure the braids are not too tight to avoid hair bumps.
5. Dutch Braids
For little girls who don’t like sitting still for long, this is a good hairstyle. You can add hair extensions if you want but it is better with natural hair.
6. Short Box Braids
It is always fun to switch things up. Box braids are a fun hairstyle for girls especially when you add colourful beads to the tips.
7. Knotless Curly Tipped Braids
This is a fun and easy hairstyle older girls should try. The braids are loose and curled at the tips. It can be styled in fishtails, high ponytails, buns, etc.
8. Braided Mohawk
This look is very unique and it will have your kids looking confident. It consists of thin and thick cornrows pulled away from their hairline and braided with extensions to form a chunky Mohawk bun. Your kids will love this.
9. Top Bun with Cornrows
Kids love hairstyles that allow them accessories. Make sure the cornrows are not too tight and be sure to condition her hair and wrap it up in a silk scarf so that it stays smooth for a long time.
10. Braided crowns
Braided crowns are a very special hairstyle for girls that makes them feel like princesses. Cornrows are fun but turning it into a crown makes it twice as fun. The best part is that it is easy to maintain.
You need to pass a message with the hairstyle you wear on a first date. Just like your accessories, your hairstyle also speaks volumes. These hairstyle options are strictly for women who date men.
1. The Machine hairstyle
I am not sure if it is a jet, or a bicycle or an aeroplane. The point is to let him know that you’ll be out of his life at the first sign of discomfort. All you’ll need to get out of that date is a wheel from your hair.
2. The ‘two sides of a coin’ hairstyle.
He can see crazy, he can see sweet. It’s entirely up to him. You are already letting him see your different sides, so you don’t catch him by surprise when the relationship starts.
3. The gateway hairstyle.
You are already planning to forget everything about the date – in case the date goes wrong. You can open and close your ears so the foolish things he might say don’t make it to your brain. Seems like a perfect and important hairstyle to me sha.
4. The ‘I don’t need your problems’ hairstyle.
He needs to know that you already have the weight of the world on your shoulders – and the last thing you need is stress from a Nigerian man. He either takes the weight off your shoulders or leaves you alone. His reaction to your hairstyle will determine if you’ll see him again. You just have to hope and pray that he doesn’t have things weighing him down too.
5. The ‘voice on my head’ hairstyle.
This hairstyle will instil the fear of god(s) into him – no one is going to tell him not to mess with you.
6. A Barrister’s wig
You need to pass judgement once the date is over.
7. The ‘baba dudu’ hairstyle.
You are already coming to the date looking like a snack. You can also put some baba Dudu in your hair, in case the food at the date is not sweet, he’ll have the option of two snacks.
The Nigerian society can be quite conservative. While the majority of older Nigerians struggle to enforce these religious and colonial-era dictates, a new crop of men is questioning the norm by wearing hairstyles outside the usual low-cut and cleanshaven look. I spoke to five of those men about their experiences going against the grain in a conservative society like Nigeria.
Godwin
A pastor’s kid with a church leadership role who graduated from Covenant Univerisity is the last person anyone would expect to start wearing dreadlocks, but I did it anyway. It started during my internship break from uni. It was against school rules to keep a full head of hair or facial hair, so the first time I got the chance to do it was during my internship break. That was six months of fights with my mom, with her always saying “Your hair is too full, I don’t like it. It doesn’t look good.”
Fast forward to last year. After the lockdown, I twisted my hair for the first time and hid from my parents for some time until they saw a picture of me and called me “Gospel Naira Marley.” I knew I’d have to step down from church leadership.
My mother and I had several rounds of arguments, which I usually won by saying, “You did what you wanted during your youth. This is my time, and this is what I want.” My dad shouted and shouted. I followed him to church with the hair, with the whole congregation staring at me.
I think they’ve come to terms with it. At least, I haven’t been disowned yet. I’ve just fixed my locs and I’m going home for Easter. Let’s see if they’ve truly accepted my style [laughs].
Sometimes, I still have to wear a beanie to unfamiliar places to avoid scrutiny, especially when I’m likely to encounter the police. We all know how quickly that can go left.
Zurk
I knew what I was getting myself into when I started wearing locs, but I didn’t mind. To be honest, I revel in it. One of the funniest things is how people call me “Marlian” when they can’t figure out my name.
The downside is I’m not in contact with over half of my family because of my hair. It’s a deeply religious family and if anything is out of line with the “bible”, it’s all-out war. It’s more about going against tradition than religion because those two concepts have become mixed up.
There’s an uncle who I hadn’t seen in a long time and the first thing he says when he sees me was to go on a tirade. “Does this look responsible on you?” he kept yelling. I just smiled, because I’m all out of my quota of fucks to give.
Now, I stay as far away from my extended family. I live with my mom and she has no problem with it. I’m a student and a freelance writer so there’s not much friction on that end. I’ve had multiple incidents with the police. One time, they stopped me at Sabo, pushed me into their minibus and drove me around while going through my phone and questioning me. They eventually let me out at Yaba.
Early
My hair has been in twists since 2019. It’s grown a lot since then and I find it’s been mostly women telling me how much they love it and asking about my haircare routine. I get the occasional glare from strangers, but for the most part, people don’t act weird around me.
I get a lot of suggestions about it too. Some people think I should loc it while my boss at work wants me to add some colour to it. Most men tell me they’re inspired to grow theirs like mine. I’m always interested in hearing their stories and I gladly share any tips I can. The other day, my Uber driver asked if my hair was real and told me how he wanted to grow his out as well. It’s always a great conversation starter. Then again, I’m not sure if that’s mostly because I’m a pretty man.
Quizzzy
I wear locs and not just because I’m a musician but because of how it looks on my head. It’s twisted and styled to sit like a crown on my head. It’s quite the sight. I’ve had it for six years so you can only imagine the length when I let my hair down. Whenever I’m walking down the road or in a cab, I see people staring at me like an alien that just arrived on earth in a UFO.
It’s not all bad. Sometimes, I get compliments, mostly from women. I’ve even made strong friendships from conversations that started over my hair. Other people go out of their way to make me feel uncomfortable by giving me condescending looks. You can literally feel the disdain in their eyes.
As neat and nicely packed as it looks, I’ve accepted the fact that I can’t work in a bank or corporate office. You should have seen the look on HR’s face when I showed up for my first interview at an architecture firm. That’s fine though. I’m a brand/motion graphics designer so who needs a corporate office anyway?
Let’s not even get into the times I’ve been profiled and randomly searched by the police. One particular encounter was jarring. I had just finished a studio session and was on my way home in an Uber. They stopped the driver and started asking me questions. They went through my phone to try to find something incriminating but they found nothing. The officers kept calling me names and said they would kill me there and nothing would happen. I was scared for my life. Even though they couldn’t pin anything on me, they collected 10,000 from me before letting me go.
On the family front, it’s a bit of a mixed bag. My mom and siblings like it, but I have a step-sister I haven’t seen in years because she threatened to cut it off while I sleep the next time we see. I posted a picture on Facebook and one of my cousins commented that I had better cut my hair before she comes to Lagos. I blocked her immediately.
Jerry
I’ve had five different hairstyles. I started with curls last year, which caused a lot of trouble with my mom, the extended family and nosy family friends, mostly because of my religious background. I moved on to twists and pierced my nose and was trying to live with it lowkey. Going to work was no problem as my boss was fine with all of that.
It was going fine until someone (I later discovered was my cousin) sent my picture to my mom on the day of NYSC POP. I received a very angry call from my mom and then my older brother who said if I got myself arrested for looking like a thug, it’s on me. My mom’s friend who was a pastor called and threatened to report me to God. I got sick of it all. My mom made me comb out the twist when I went home.
The most annoying part of it all is the questions I’m asked all the time. “This one that you pierced your noses, are you sure you’re straight?” Why are you making your hair, are you gay?” “Why do you do a manicure?” “Why are your nails painted?” I just ignore all the questions because they’ll never understand.
Dunsin
Since I was a child, I always loved keeping an afro. I saw pictures of rappers and told my mom I was going to keep an afro but she wasn’t having any of that. After secondary school, I was old enough to stand my ground, so my mom would call an extended family meeting and they would plead with me to cut my hair. Most times, I declined. One time, it nearly became a physical altercation.
In uni, I was finally free to do what I wanted and I was wearing an afro every time. This wasn’t an issue until my final year when a lecturer said no boy with an afro would be allowed to present their research topic. This made no sense, as the lecturer was a supposedly educated and exposed one. Why should it matter what style I’m wearing? Eventually, I cut my hair short for the last time.
After graduation, I moved to plait my hair and surprisingly, it didn’t attract too much attention from the police as I feared. I like growing my hair. It can be tedious sometimes, but when you step out, the compliments you get makes it feel like it was worth it. I run an agency and my clients love it. It’s a great conversation starter.
This is a complete example of everything a hairdresser should never do. Because really, how can they commit this atrocity on someone’s head and still go to bed with no worries at all?
Being an unofficial ambassador for African hair can be quite appealing, especially when you wow people with your kinky afro and cute hairstyles.
But everything has a downside to it, and the struggle and pain associated with maintaining natural hair is something you wish you didn’t have to deal with.
Here are 10 struggles you’ll relate with if you’re a naturalista:
1) The pain of combing:
Haircare day is always torture for because you know you can’t just pat your hair and be going like you’ve been doing for a couple of weeks.
So you wield that brush like a battle-ax and prepare yourself to cry while combing, which will leave your scalp feeling raw because of how coarse your hair is. And to make matters worse, your hair cuts too!
2) People think you’re broke because you decided to have natural hair:
If only they knew how expensive it is to maintain your natural hair. You had a few hair products when your hair was relaxed, but now you have a truckload and you keep buying more.
3) People advise you to stop looking like a madwoman:
The general agreement is that you look unkempt when you wear your hair naturally, so they never stop asking when you’re gonna have your hair done.
4) Annoying people who touch your hair without an invitation:
Who is this person that thinks you’re a puppy that loves being stroked by everybody without your consent?
5) Your hair shrinks like mad:
You were deluded enough to think you’ll have an afro as big as Erykah Badu’s…
…alas, that’s not the case because hair shrinkage is a real struggle for you.
6) Your hair always looks dry no matter the amount of moisture you apply:
Even if you pour a barrel of oil and moisturizer on your hair, it refuses to shine. Let’s not forget how yucky it feels when the oil starts dripping onto your face.
7) You’ve been tempted to start relaxing your hair again.
Because you’re just tired of the whole naturalista thing sef.
8) You’re very picky about the kind of hair salons you go to.
You used to pop into any salon before your naturalista days, but now you can’t because the hairstylists in most of the salons don’t know how to give your natural hair the TLC it needs.
You end up going back home with ruined edges and a sore head if you choose the wrong hairstylist.
9) Trying to figure out your hair type.
You didn’t even know this was a thing until you went natural, and now it’s all so confusing. Err, you’re not sure if your hair is a type 4a, 4b or 4c, you just know its natural.
10) Thinking of the best protective hairstyle that suits your face is stressful.
There are so many natural hairstyles out there you don’t know which one to choose. You eventually end up packing it in a bun and maybe tie a scarf to make it look cute.
African women have different traditional hairstyles to celebrate different occasions.
Sadly, beauty and hairstyles will be the last thing on the minds of anybody fleeing their home countries due to crisis.
These Nigerian women were photographed in a variety of African hairstyles by award-winning Sicilian photographer, Salvatore Di Gregorio.
The women who reside in a female only refugee camp at Mirabella Imbaccari with 5000 other women fled their home countries for various reasons and are currently being processed by the Italian government.
The photoshoot themed “Tales of Beauty” was done with the aim of showcasing the wealth of African culture through beauty and different hairstyles.
More so, the photographer felt the need to portray the strength and beauty of these women who risked their lives for a chance at happiness and freedom.
Meet Ghanaian-born Nigerian, Rosewood Addo wearing the Sewakoto hair and makeup from Ghana.
