How to Maintain Afro Hair Between Barbershop Visits
If you’ve ever left the barbers with your afro hair feeling sharp and shaped—only to see it lose structure or dry out days later—you’re not alone.
Maintaining afro hair in London’s changing climate can be a challenge. Between rain, hard water, heating, and city pollution, textured hair needs the right at-home routine to stay healthy and manageable.
At Levy & Co., our clients come from Kensal Rise, Notting Hill, Harlesden, and beyond looking for sharp cuts that suit their curl pattern and lifestyle. But what many ask is: “How do I keep it looking this good between appointments?”
This guide gives you the tools to do exactly that—with expert tips designed for people with afro-textured hair who want to maintain their cut, shape, and moisture between barbershop visits.
Book an Appointment at Levy & Co.
Why Knowing the Difference Matters
Afro and curly hair types are unique—they require specific techniques, products, and care to stay strong and defined.
It’s not always easy to find barbers who truly understand textured hair. Many of our first-time clients tell us they’ve had bad experiences elsewhere—cuts that weren’t shaped properly, poor product advice, or worse, assumptions made about how their hair “should” look.
Afro hair thrives when cared for properly. And between trims, that care comes down to consistency, moisture, and the right tools.
Our barbershop in Kensal Rise isn’t just inclusive—it’s built around knowledge, respect, and care for textured hair. Whether you’re rocking a short shape-up or growing a full afro, maintaining your look between appointments keeps your hair healthy and your confidence high.
Your Afro Hair Maintenance Toolkit: 5 Key Practices
1. Moisturise, Then Seal
Afro hair naturally craves moisture—but water alone isn’t enough. You need a hydrating product, followed by a sealant to lock it in.
-
Start with a leave-in conditioner or water-based moisturiser.
-
Follow with a natural oil like castor oil, jojoba, or argan to seal the moisture.
Pro Tip: Focus on the ends—this is where dryness and breakage start.
2. Keep Your Shape with Light Styling
Don’t try to re-cut your shape at home. But you can keep your style looking fresh with gentle reshaping:
-
Use a wide-tooth comb or afro pick to lift roots.
-
Shape gently from underneath—avoid disturbing your fade or outline.
-
For tighter textures, finger styling can maintain definition without frizz.
Want a long-lasting shape-up? Ask your barber at Levy & Co. for a fade with a longer grow-out cycle.
3. Sleep with Protection
Friction is the enemy of moisture and shape.
-
Use a satin or silk bonnet or pillowcase to protect your curls overnight.
-
Avoid sleeping with your hair loose—especially if you’ve had a fresh shape-up.
This small change makes a big difference in preventing breakage and keeping your hairline sharp.
4. Wash Gently & Infrequently
Washing afro hair too often strips natural oils. Stick to a gentle routine:
-
Every 7–10 days is ideal for most people.
-
Use sulphate-free shampoos and moisturising conditioners.
-
Consider co-washing (conditioner-only washing) between full shampoos.
Important: Always detangle with a wide-tooth comb while your conditioner is still in.
5. Schedule Regular Check-ins
Most afro styles benefit from trims every 3–6 weeks, depending on your growth and shape.
In between, monitor your hair for:
-
Split ends
-
Dry patches
-
Changes in curl pattern or definition
Don’t wait until your shape is completely lost—booking in a little sooner can help maintain the structure and avoid over-cutting later on.
FAQs
Q. Can I use the same products I use for straight or wavy hair?
A. Not recommended. Afro hair needs moisture-rich, sulphate-free products. Look for formulas made for textured or curly hair types.
Q. Is daily moisturising too much?
A. No—daily hydration is great, especially in dry or cold conditions. Just avoid product build-up by washing weekly.
Q. What’s the best brush for afro hair?
A. Skip regular brushes. Use a wide-tooth comb, afro pick, or your fingers to prevent breakage.
How Levy & Co. Supports Your Afro Hair Journey
At Levy & Co., we specialise in barbering for afro and curly hair—without assumptions, stereotypes, or salon-style fluff.
We offer:
-
Precision afro shaping, fades, and line-ups
-
Expert advice on moisture routines, product selection, and hair health
-
A judgement-free, inclusive environment where every texture is welcome
Our barbers in Kensal Rise take the time to understand your curl pattern, lifestyle, and goals. Whether you're maintaining a sharp shape or transitioning styles, we’re here to make the process smooth, simple, and empowering.
Keep Your Hair Healthy Between Visits
You don’t need a shelf full of products or a new routine every week. Just a few good habits, the right products, and a bit of expert advice from your local barber.
Want help building a routine that suits your lifestyle?
20 Chamberlayne Rd, London NW10 3JD
Website created by Add People