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“The longer your hair, the higher the maintenance” is something we’ve all probably heard when considering whether or not we should opt for a bob. But I have to admit that as someone with Afro hair, I’ve always been under the impression that getting a bob would be more stress it’s worth.
The truth? Even the shortest of haircuts still requires a lot of upkeep, something that I’m sure low-maintenance girls like myself are heartbroken to hear. However, there are plenty of bob hairstyles around that are perfectly suited to naturally curly and coily hair and don’t require the hours of upkeep you might initially expect.
A few days ago, I sat down with professional hair stylist and brand founder, Charlotte Mensah, to get her honest thoughts on what bob haircuts are the best for Afro hair, as well as how to maintain your own bob at home. Here’s what she had to say…
What Is an Afro Bob Haircut?
Mensah says, “An Afro bob is a bob shaped specifically with textured hair in mind. It honours the density, movement and beauty of curls, coils or stretched natural hair, rather than forcing the hair into a shape designed for straighter textures. It can be sculpted soft and rounded, sharp and graphic, chin-length, shoulder-grazing or layered for lift and movement. The beauty of an Afro bob is that it celebrates shape.”
Do Bobs Suit Afro Hair?
“Absolutely! Bobs can be beautiful on Afro hair. In many ways, textured hair gives a bob more character, volume and presence. The key lies in tailoring the cut to your curl pattern, density, shrinkage and how you like to wear your hair day to day. A good bob should work with your texture, not against it”, says Mensah.
Tips for Getting a Bob with Afro Hair
- Book a consultation first and foremost so that you can speak to your stylist before doing anything. Understand the look you want to achieve, and talk through how your stylist will approach it. A lot can be uncovered in that conversation.
- Bring reference images to help communicate shape, fullness, length and finish, while giving your stylist something tangible to respond to. Come open-minded too, as the right bob should suit both your texture and your features.
- Wear your hair as you usually wear it so your stylist understands its natural behaviour. Talk about shrinkage, as a curly bob and a stretched bob can sit very differently. Be honest about maintenance, too. If you want ease, say so. If you enjoy styling, that opens up other possibilities.
- Face shape, neckline and the experience of the stylist all matter. A well-cut bob should frame you beautifully, and textured hair deserves someone who understands how to cut for shape.
The Best Bobs for Afro Hair
1. Blunt Bob
If you often blow-dry your hair, try opting for a one-length, also known as a blunt bob. It requires much lower upkeep than a traditional cut and less frequent trims, not to mention it looks sleek and intentional.
2. Layered Bob
If your hair has natural, different-length coils to it, embrace it in the form of a layered bob. This voluminous hairstyle will give your bob effortless structure and requires minimal styling to look chic.
3. Tapered Bob
(Image credit: Getty Images)
A tapered bob is longer on top and gradually gets shorter toward the nape of the neck, creating a clean, structured finish that looks put together. It perfectly balances feeling laid-back and looking elegant, and the bob will evolve nicely without any interference needed as it grows out.
4. Fringed Bob
If you want to add some character to your hair, a fringe is the way to go. It will give a bob the appearance of looking refined and well-looked-after, but actually requires minimal care apart from the odd trim.
5. Curtain-Bang Bob
Curtain bang bobs are a universally flattering way to frame the face and give it structure, as well as improve the appearance of volume on those of us with finer hair. It’s fuss-free, easy to look after, and looks incredibly cool, might I add.
6. Pixie Cut
(Image credit: Getty Images)
An ultra-short pixie cut will not only look extremely polished and put together, but it also allows for extended growing-out time, meaning you won’t find yourself in the salon for upkeep every week.
7. Braided Bob
Braids are the ultimate low-maintenance hairstyle for Afro hair throughout the warmer months, and a braided bob is a great way to try out different cuts, lengths and colours before you fully commit to one particular style.
How Do I Maintain a Bob with Afro Hair?
Mensah states that, “a bob thrives when the shape is preserved. I always say focus on moisture, shape and gentle upkeep.”
She recommends the following:
- A bob always looks its best when the hair is healthy.
- Regular trims help maintain the line, usually every eight to twelve weeks.
- Keep the hair hydrated, as dryness can make the shape harder to hold. Lightweight oils can help support softness and shine, while a nourishing styling pomade can be useful for defining shape and polishing the finish.
- Protect the hair at night with silk or satin, and avoid overloading it with product so the hair keeps its movement. For silk pressed or stretched bobs, wrapping or pin-curling at night helps preserve the style beautifully.
Best Products for Afro Bobs
Charlotte Mensah
Manketti Hair Oil
Nothing softens my hair like Charlotte Mensah’s Manketti hair oil.
Dyson
Supersonic Nural™ Hair Dryer – Curly + Coily
This is by far the quickest hair dryer I’ve ever used.
This will help to define your bob without looking or feeling to heavy on the hair.
Fenty Hair
The Side Stick Hair Thickening Edge Tool
Every cosmetics bag needs a good edge-control brush.
No Knot Co
Ultimate Detangler
This detangling brush was made with curly and coily hair in mind.
Olaplex
No. 7 Bonding Frizz Reduction and Heat Protection Hair Oil
This Olaplex oil will keep your bob looking shiny and healthy, and I’ve been using it for years.
Charlotte Mensah
Manketti Oil Hair Pomade
A pomade will help to tame flyaways without weighing your bob down.
Curlsmith
Hydro Style Flexi Jelly
This will keep your curls looking sleek and defined.
Color Wow
Style on Steroids Performance Enhancing Texture + Finishing Spray
Keracare
Curly Wash Day Bundle
This bundle will make wash days so much easier.
Cantu
Satin Sleep Tie Bonnet
A satin bonnet will help to reduce frizz, breakage and split ends.
