Keep your African hairstyles tight and secured with affordable hair products that are effective.
Reviewed by Christine Mbithuka African Hairstyles Specialist
Edited by Natalie Tayo, Certified Skin Care Coach
Fact-checked by Natasha Atieno •
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When it comes to styling black hair, the options are endless. From twist-outs to braids, there are numerous techniques that can enhance the natural beauty and texture of black hair. One popular and versatile braid style is the waterfall braid, which has gained popularity in recent years for its intricate and elegant appearance. However, achieving a perfect waterfall braid can be challenging, especially for those with black hair. The thickness and texture of black hair require the use of specific products to ensure the braid holds its shape and stays in place. With so many products on the market, it can be overwhelming to find the best ones for creating and maintaining a flawless waterfall braid on black hair.
That’s why we have compiled a list of the top products specifically designed for black hair to help you achieve the perfect waterfall braid every time. From moisturizing creams to edge control gels, get ready to elevate your waterfall braid game with these tried and tested products.
Best moisturizer for braids
1.Mielle Organics Mongongo & Honey Hydrating Milk Leave-In Conditioner
This leave-in conditioner is a great option for all hair types, but it is especially beneficial for braided hair. It contains hydrating ingredients like mongongo oil, honey, and aloe vera that help to keep hair moisturized and prevent breakage. The formula is also lightweight and non-greasy, so it will not weigh hair down.
2.SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus FrizzFree Curl Mousse
This mousse is a great way to add definition and control to braids while also providing moisture. It contains coconut oil, hibiscus flower extract, and shea butter that help to hydrate and nourish hair. The formula is also alcohol-free, so it will not dry out hair.
3.Pantene Gold Series Triple Care Braid Cream
This braid cream is a great all-around product that helps to hydrate, protect, and style braids. It contains argan oil, provitamin B5, and vitamin E that help to keep hair healthy and prevent breakage. The formula is also thick and creamy, so it will provide long-lasting hold.
4.Aunt Jackie’s Miracle Leave In Conditioner
This leave-in conditioner is a great option for natural hair, including braided hair. It contains shea butter, coconut oil, and olive oil that help to keep hair moisturized and prevent frizz. The formula is also lightweight and non-greasy, so it will not weigh hair down.
Best products for braiding natural hair
1.Aunt Jackie’s Grapeseed Style & Shine Recipes POWER WASH Intense Moisture Clarifying Shampoo
Aunt Jackie’s Grapeseed Style & Shine Recipes POWER WASH Intense Moisture Clarifying Shampoo: This shampoo is a great way to prep your hair for braids by removing buildup and dirt. It contains grapeseed oil, which helps to hydrate and nourish hair, and aloe vera, which helps to soothe and calm the scalp.
2.African Pride Black Castor Miracle Braid & Scalp Cleansing Rinse
African Pride Black Castor Miracle Braid & Scalp Cleansing Rinse: This leave-in conditioner is a great way to keep your braids moisturized and prevent them from drying out. It contains castor oil, which is known for its ability to promote hair growth, and peppermint oil, which helps to stimulate the scalp and promote blood flow.
3.Aunt Jackie’s Curls & Coils Curl La La Defining Curl Custard
Aunt Jackie’s Curls & Coils Curl La La Defining Curl Custard: This curl custard is a great way to define and style your braids. It contains shea butter, coconut oil, and olive oil, which help to hydrate and nourish hair, and flaxseed gel, which helps to provide hold and definition.
4.SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie
SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie: This curl smoothie is a great way to add moisture and definition to your braids. It contains coconut oil, hibiscus flower extract, and shea butter, which help to hydrate and nourish hair, and cocoa butter, which helps to add shine and softness.
Best products to keep bra
- African Pride Braid Sheen Spray:
African Pride Braid Sheen Spray: This braid sheen spray is a cult favorite for a reason. It helps to add shine and prevent frizz, and it also has a soothing and refreshing effect on the scalp.
Mielle Organics Mongongo & Honey Hydrating Milk LeaveIn Conditioner
Mielle Organics Mongongo & Honey Hydrating Milk Leave-In Conditioner: This leave-in conditioner is lightweight and non-greasy, so it won’t weigh your braids down. It contains mongongo oil, honey, and aloe vera that help to keep hair moisturized and prevent frizz.
SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus FrizzFree Curl Mousse
SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Frizz-Free Curl Mousse: This mousse is a great way to add definition and control to braids while also providing moisture. It contains coconut oil, hibiscus flower extract, and shea butter that help to hydrate and nourish hair. The formula is also alcohol-free, so it will not dry out hair
Pantene Gold Series Triple Care Braid Cream
Pantene Gold Series Triple Care Braid Cream: This braid cream is a thick and creamy formula that provides long-lasting hold. It contains argan oil, provitamin B5, and vitamin E that help to keep hair healthy and prevent breakage.
Best braid products for black hair
1.Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Leave-In Conditioner
This leave-in conditioner is lightweight yet moisturizing. It is formulated with shea butter, coconut oil and vanilla to hydrate and nourish hair. It helps to prevent breakage and frizz. It is also a good product for use on protective styles like braids and twists.
2.Cantu Shea Butter Natural Hair Cream
This shea butter natural hair cream is a great all-purpose product. It can be used to moisturize, style, and protect hair. It is formulated with shea butter, coconut oil, and honey to hydrate and nourish hair. It helps to prevent breakage and frizz. It is also a good product for use on natural hair that has been straightened, relaxed, or chemically processed.
3.Aunt Jackie’s & Daughter’s Curl & Shine Clarifying Shampoo
This clarifying shampoo is a good option for removing dirt, buildup, and product residue from hair and scalp. It is formulated with shea butter, coconut oil, and peppermint oil to hydrate, nourish, and soothe scalp. It also helps to promote hair growth and prevent breakage.
4.ORS Olive Oil Maximum Moisture Hair Food
This hair food is a good deep conditioner for natural hair. It is formulated with olive oil, shea butter, and cocoa butter to deeply hydrate and nourish dry hair. It helps to prevent breakage and frizz, restore elasticity and improve shine. It is also a good product for use on natural hair that has been straightened, relaxed, or chemically processed.
Best products for braiding hair.
Nourish hair with hydrating oils.
Properly nourishing and hydrating your hair is essential for maintaining its health and vitality. One effective way to achieve this is by incorporating hydrating oils into your hair care routine. These oils, such as argan oil, coconut oil, and jojoba oil, are rich in essential fatty acids and vitamins that penetrate the hair shaft, providing deep hydration and nourishment.
Not only do these oils help to moisturize dry and brittle hair, but they also help to seal in moisture, preventing further damage and promoting overall hair health. Regularly incorporating hydrating oils into your hair care regimen can result in softer, shinier, and more manageable hair, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enhance their hair’s natural beauty.
Use a detangling brush first.
When it comes to styling your hair, especially for intricate styles like the waterfall braid, it’s crucial to start with detangled hair. Using a detangling brush is an essential first step to ensure smooth and manageable hair before attempting any elaborate hairstyles. A detangling brush has specially designed bristles that gently glide through the hair, removing knots and tangles without causing further damage or breakage.
By using a detangling brush first, you not only make the styling process easier, but you also minimize the risk of hair breakage and ensure a polished and flawless finished look. Incorporating a detangling brush into your hair care routine is a professional and smart choice for anyone looking to effortlessly create beautiful waterfall braids and maintain the health of their black hair.
Protect from heat damage.
To protect your hair from heat damage while styling, it is essential to use heat protectant products. These products create a protective barrier on the hair shaft, shielding it from the high temperatures of styling tools such as flat irons and curling wands. Look for heat protectants that are specifically formulated for black hair, as they often contain ingredients that cater to the unique needs of textured hair.
Apply the heat protectant evenly throughout your hair before using any heat styling tools to ensure maximum protection. By taking this extra step, you can minimize the risk of heat damage and maintain the health and integrity of your black hair while achieving stunning waterfall braids.
Try a leave-in conditioner.
Leave-in conditioners can be a game-changer when it comes to maintaining the health and hydration of your black hair while rocking a beautiful waterfall braid hairstyle. These products are designed to provide long-lasting moisture and nourishment to the hair, helping to combat dryness and frizz. When choosing a leave-in conditioner, opt for one that is specifically formulated for black hair, as it will contain ingredients that cater to the unique needs of textured hair.
Apply the leave-in conditioner to damp hair before styling, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends. This will help to detangle the hair, provide extra moisture, and make it more manageable for creating flawless waterfall braids. With the added moisture and protection from a leave-in conditioner, your black hair will be ready to rock stunning waterfall braids with confidence and vitality.
Add texture with sea salt.
Sea salt can be a fantastic addition to your hairstyling routine when aiming to add texture to your black hair for a flawless waterfall braid. This versatile ingredient works by absorbing excess oil and providing a natural, effortless volume and texture to the hair. To incorporate sea salt into your hairstyling routine, you can create a DIY sea salt spray by mixing warm water with sea salt and a few drops of essential oils for a pleasant scent.
Simply spritz the mixture onto damp hair before braiding to achieve a tousled, textured look that will hold your waterfall braid beautifully. Alternatively, you can also find sea salt-infused hair products in the market that are specifically formulated to add texture and volume to your black hair effortlessly. Experiment with sea salt to elevate your waterfall braid and achieve a stylish, textured hairstyle with ease.
Use a wide-tooth comb.
To ensure smooth and tangle-free hair while styling a stunning waterfall braid, it is essential to use a wide-tooth comb. The wide gaps between the teeth of this type of comb allow it to glide through your black hair without causing breakage or damage. Unlike brushes or narrow-tooth combs, which can snag and pull on the hair, a wide-tooth comb gently detangles and separates the strands, making it easier to create intricate braids.
Additionally, using a wide-tooth comb helps distribute natural oils evenly throughout the hair, promoting healthier and shinier locks. Incorporating a wide-tooth comb into your haircare routine is a simple yet effective step towards achieving a flawless and well-maintained waterfall braid.
Try a lightweight serum.
Another crucial product to consider when styling a beautiful waterfall braid for black hair is a lightweight serum. This type of serum is specifically formulated to provide nourishment and hydration to the hair without weighing it down or leaving a greasy residue. By incorporating a lightweight serum into your hair care routine, you can enhance the overall health and appearance of your hair, making it more manageable and easier to style.
The serum helps to tame frizz, add shine, and provide protection against heat damage, ensuring that your waterfall braid looks sleek and polished. Additionally, a lightweight serum can help to nourish and strengthen the hair strands, promoting healthier growth and minimizing breakage. By incorporating this essential product into your styling routine, you can achieve a stunning waterfall braid that showcases the beauty and versatility of your black hair.
Use a heat protectant spray.
To maintain the health and integrity of your black hair while styling a stunning waterfall braid, it is crucial to utilize a heat protectant spray. This product acts as a barrier between your hair strands and the high temperatures generated by styling tools such as curling irons or straighteners. A heat protectant spray forms a protective layer, preventing the heat from causing excessive damage to your hair.
By using a heat protectant spray, you can significantly reduce the risk of split ends, breakage, and dryness, which are common concerns when using heat styling tools. Additionally, the heat protectant spray adds an extra layer of moisture and hydration, keeping your hair looking healthy, shiny, and well-nourished. Incorporating a heat protectant spray into your hair care routine is an essential step in achieving a flawless and long-lasting waterfall braid while ensuring the overall health and vitality of your black hair.
Avoid harsh chemicals.
When it comes to selecting the best waterfall braid products for black hair, it is important to prioritize the use of products that are free from harsh chemicals. Harsh chemicals, such as sulfates and parabens, can strip the natural oils from your hair, leading to dryness, breakage, and overall damage. Opting for products that are formulated with natural and nourishing ingredients will not only protect your hair from harmful effects, but also promote its health and vitality.
Look for products that contain botanical extracts, essential oils, and plant-based proteins, as these can provide the necessary nutrients and moisture to keep your black hair strong, lustrous, and resilient. By avoiding harsh chemicals and choosing gentle, natural products, you can ensure that your waterfall braid not only looks exquisite, but also maintains the overall health and well-being of your beautiful black hair.
Refresh with dry shampoo.
To maintain the freshness and volume of your waterfall braid, it is essential to incorporate the use of dry shampoo into your haircare routine. Dry shampoo is a versatile product that absorbs excess oil and grease from your hair, instantly revitalizing it without the need for water or washing.
It is especially beneficial for individuals with black hair, as it can help extend the time between washes without leaving any residue or dullness. When selecting a dry shampoo, opt for one specifically formulated for dark hair to avoid any potential white cast. Simply spray the dry shampoo onto your roots, use your fingertips to massage it in, and brush through for an instant refresh that will leave your waterfall braid looking fresh, voluminous, and full of life.
In conclusion, with a variety of products specifically designed for textured and curly hair, achieving a beautiful waterfall braid on black hair has never been easier. From moisturizing creams to edge controls, these products help to nourish and protect hair while also providing the hold and definition needed for a flawless braid. So, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, these top waterfall braid products are sure to elevate your styling game and leave you with gorgeous, envy-worthy braids. Happy braiding!