20 Relaxed Hairstyles for Black Hair (Amazing Ideas)

Are you looking for relaxed hairstyles for black hair? If so, you are in the right place! Black hair is beautiful and versatile and there are plenty of relaxed black hairstyles that allow you to wear your hair in a variety of ways.

From braids to buns, curls to coils, there’s something for everyone when it comes to relaxed black hairstyles.

In this article, we will provide tips on how to maintain healthy relaxed black hair as well as ideas for different relaxed styles that can be achieved with various products and tools.

So if you’re ready to explore some new looks, read on!

Popular hairstyles for relaxed hair

Here we’ve rounded up some of the most popular hairstyles for relaxed hair. These looks can be achieved with minimal styling and upkeep, making them perfect for busy days or last-minute touchups.

1. Sleek Ponytail

Sleek Ponytail

Instagram/@_.stylezbyty

You probably already know how to rock a ponytail, but when it comes to relaxed hair, there’s an easy way to make it look extra sleek and chic. Start by evenly distributing tension throughout your scalp using a tail comb.

Then use a light gel serum like DevaCurl’s Shine Glaze Hair Serum for extra shine and smoothness as you brush your hair back into a low or high ponytail. Finish off with an elastic band that matches your hair color, if possible!

2. Wavy Bob

Wavy Bob

Instagram/@tandotson

If you’re looking for a timeless look that never goes out of style, the wavy bob is it. To create this look, start with a layered cut and use a light heat protectant spray before using either a flat iron or curling iron to add waves. Then finish off by spritzing some hairspray over your curls for extra hold and definition.

3. Natural Boho Braids

Natural Boho Braids

Instagram/@hername_.kayy

The boho braids look can be achieved with either wet or dry hair. Start by brushing out any tangles and parting your hair into three sections. Next, braid each section individually and secure them at the end with a small elastic band. Voila! You have perfect natural-looking braids that will easily take you from day to night.

4. Loose High Bun

Loose High Bun

Instagram/@kais_lacevault

This look is perfect for the days when you want to quickly pull your hair up and out of the way. To achieve this style, start by brushing your hair back into a high ponytail and secure it with an elastic band. Then wrap the ends of your hair around the base of the ponytail, creating a loose bun as you go. Finally, finish off with some bobby pins to keep things in place.

5. Textured Updo

Textured Updo

Instagram/@blendedbybrush

It starts off by brushing the hair upwards from the scalp and using an elastic band to secure it in place at the crown. The ends of your hair should be gently twisted or looped around in various directions towards the base of the ponytail to create texture and volume. To finish off the look, secure pieces of your hair with sparkly bobby pins or decorative clips to add even more glamour.

6. Butterfly Locs

Butterfly Locs

Instagram/@softlocsbygen

Butterfly locs are a type of relaxed hairstyle popular among black hair. It’s the best medium length relaxed hairstyles! To create this style, loose strands of human or synthetic hair are wrapped around small sections of one’s own natural hair and secured at the root with a knot.

This creates a seamless blend between one’s own hair and the extensions which results in an eye-catching mane. The butterfly locs can be worn in its original form, or can be accessorized with colorful beads for extra flair!

7. Face-Framing Braids

This style is perfect for those with long, relaxed locks looking to add some flair to their look. It involves braiding the hair near the temples and along the forehead in thin, uniform portions.

This can be done either with the addition of extensions or without, depending on your preference and desired effect. The end result is a sophisticated yet edgy look that will give you an instant boost of confidence.

8. Top Knot Bun

Top Knot Bun

Instagram/@iamhaire

It’s an easy style that takes just minutes to do but can have a dramatic impact. To create the look, simply gather your hair into a high ponytail at the crown of your head and secure with a hair tie.

Then, wrap the ends of your hair around the base of the ponytail, tucking them in and pinning them underneath to keep them in place. The result is a sleek top knot bun that looks chic and put together.

9. Sleek Long Braided Ponytail

Sleek long braided ponytail

Instagram/@fina_b_beauty

Start by sectioning off some hair at the top of your head, then create three separate strands that are approximately equal in size. Cross one strand over another as you interweave them together until you reach the ends of your hair. Secure with an elastic band or ribbon and you’re done!

10. Low Side Bun

Low Side Bun

Instagram/@manelistudios

To achieve this look, you will need a few simple tools like bobby pins, hairspray, and an elastic band. Begin by gathering all of your hair at one side of your head near the nape of the neck.

Secure it with an elastic band and smooth out any bumps or tangles with a comb or brush. Twist the hair in a counterclockwise direction until it forms into a coiled bun shape and secure it with several bobby pins.

Use hairspray to keep everything in place. If you want to add an extra touch of glamour, consider adding a sparkly hair accessory like a headband or barrette.

11. Classic Two-Strand Twists

The two-strand twist is created by taking two sections of hair and twisting them around each other, working from the root to the tip. To create this look, start with clean, detangled hair that’s been prepped with a light moisturizer.

Then divide your hair into sections and twist each section in opposite directions until you reach the ends. Secure the twists in place with small clips or an elastic band at the end.

To add more definition and texture to your classic two-strand twist, you can use a styling cream or gel before twising your hair. This will help the twists last longer and keep them looking neat and polished throughout the day.

12. Hollywood Curls

Hollywood curls are a classic look that never goes out of style. To get started, use a curling iron or wand to curl sections of your hair in the same direction. Make sure to keep each curl tight and consistent for the best overall look.

When you’re finished curling all of your hair, let it cool completely before shaking out the curls with your fingers or a brush. You may also want to use hairspray to help set them in place.

13. Bangs

Bangs

Instagram/@luvlivehair

The most common way to get bangs is to section off the front area of your hair and cut it shorter than the rest of your locks. There are several techniques you can use to achieve this look, such as the basic framing technique.

The framing technique involves cutting the hair in layers around the face for an angled fringe that flows well with whatever length your hair is. To begin, part your hair down the middle and create two even sections.

Then, make a curved line from one temple to the other just above your brows and clip away all of the hair below that line. Make sure you’re leaving enough length on top so that when you brush it forward it will cover your forehead and frame your face nicely. Finish by trimming any straggly pieces until you achieve your desired shape.

14. Bubble Ponytail

Bubble Ponytail

Instagram/@crystalmaduka

To create this look start by brushing all hair back into a high ponytail at the crown of your head using an elastic band of choice. Once you have secured the ponytail in place, take a small section at the base of your ponytail and pull it out.

Using another elastic band, secure this small section away from the rest of the ponytail. Repeat this process until you have created as many bubbles or sections as desired.

Once all bubbles are separated, lightly backcomb each section to give extra texture and volume. Finish off with a spritz of strong-hold hairspray for long lasting hold.

15. Medium Length Braids With Beads

To get started, pull your hair into a medium length braid and secure it with an elastic band. Then, take thin sections of hair from each side of the braid and wrap them around small strands of beads or glitter while tying off at the end.

16. Pixie Cut

Pixie Cut

Instagram/@nutresshair

The pixie cut is characterized by short, choppy layers on top, with the sides and back kept shorter than the top. This style can be tailored to suit any face shape or hair texture, making it very versatile and universally flattering. Pixie cuts can range from bold and edgy to soft and feminine, depending on how you style it.

17. The Half Up Half Down Hairstyle

The half-up, half-down style gives you the best of both worlds; it’s a way to show off some length while keeping hair secure enough so that you don’t have to worry about flyaways throughout the day.

The look typically consists of separating the hair in two sections, with the top section pulled back away from the face and secured with an elastic band, pins, clips, or a headband. You then leave the bottom portion down to flow freely as desired.

18. Romantic Fishtail Braid

Fishtail Braid

Instagram/@hair_bylaurav

Start by brushing it out thoroughly before starting your fishtail braid. The smoother the strands are, the easier it will be for you to work with them as you create the braid. Gather all of your hair into one section at the nape of your neck and secure it with an elastic band or clip.

Divide this section into two parts of equal thickness. Take one strand from the outer edge of one section and cross over the top of the other section to join it.

Take a thin strand from the new outer edge of this joined section and repeat, crossing it over to join with the other side. Continue braiding until you reach the end of your hair or desired length, then secure with an elastic band or clip.

19. Micro Braids

Micro Braids

Instagram/@j.trancas_

The process of creating micro braids can take several hours depending on the size and number of braids desired. Hair must be sectioned and carefully woven into individual plaits that are held together with either beads or rubber bands.

Micro braids can last for several weeks if properly maintained with regular oil treatments, and they look great when styled in various updos or left down in loose waves.

20. The ’90s Flip

The ’90s Flip is characterized by a center part and loose, flipped ends that are slightly longer in front. To create this look, start off by blow-drying your hair upside down while using a round brush to create volume and texture at the roots.

Once your hair is dry, use a flat iron or curling wand to flip out the ends. No matter what kind of relaxed hair hairstyles you’re looking for, they are so versatile that there’s something for everyone!

With these easy-to-achieve looks, you’ll be sure to find something that fits your personal style. So go ahead and give them a try! You won’t regret it.

Black Relaxed Hairstyles – FAQ

What braids are best for relaxed hair?

The best braids for relaxed hair are twist-outs, micro braids, and fishtail braids. These styles will help protect your hair and keep it moisturized while allowing you to express your own unique style at the same time!

How do I add volume to my relaxed hair?

Adding volume to relaxed hair can be achieved by using a blow dryer on low heat settings and a round brush while blow drying. Backcombing each section of the hair before styling can also create extra lift and volume. Finally, using root-lifting products or mousse can give an extra boost.

African American Relaxed Hairstyles – Summary

Relaxed black hair is beautiful and can be worn in so many different ways. We’ve provided some general tips for maintaining your relaxed hair as well as a few popular hairstyles for relaxed African American hair that you can try out at home with minimal effort.

So don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun with your look! With the right products and tools, you’ll be able to create a style that reflects your unique personality and individual style.

Also read:

Allyson Carter

Ally is a professional hairstylist with more than 6 years of experience, but hair has been her passion since early childhood. Here, at Hair Spies, she blogs about all things hairdressing, hair tools, and everyday hair care. Read more about Allyson here.

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