Are you ready for Halloween? This fall is already going by so fast that Halloween is going to be here before we know it. This means it’s time to start preparing for your natural Halloween hairstyles. If you or your children have tight curls and plan to alter them in some way this spooky season, we’re here to help simplify the process. October is a month that’s filled with costume parties, crazy hair days at school, and fun-themed events. Natural tight curls are just as versatile as looser textures, so we want to provide you with some tips and suggestions to help you make hair choices.
We love that Halloween is a great time to tap into self-expression and have fun. If you’re interested in practicing healthy natural hair habits this fall without compromising the aesthetic of your costume, keep reading!
Temporary Hair Dye
Temporary dye is perfect for natural Halloween hairstyles. If you want to change the color of your hair for a costume or short term (about a week), this is the solution for you. Colored hair wax and temporary hair color spray are popular go-tos. There are pros and cons to using both of these products.
Temporary Hair Srapy
You’ll find temporary hair color spray pretty easily in costume stores. It’s readily available in different colors so it’s a popular choice for costumes and themed hair days. The spray will allow for quick application and vibrant colors. However, it may be difficult to get all of your curls due to their density. That may lead you to use a lot of products, which might make your cleansing process longer in the future. A lot of manipulation of your dry curls can also cause a lessening in curl definition. This is a great way to achieve color if that doesn’t bother you.
Colored Hair Wax
Colored hair wax has become more popular over the years. Depending on the brand, it can be applied to dry or damp hair. The wax can help improve the definition of each individual curl if applied deliberately. Wax has become a favorite among naturals because they’re able to get a vibrant, full-coverage color without compromising their texture. The primary complaint about this option, depending on the brand, is color-transfer. However, most plant-based hair color wax brands state that the color can be removed with a normal wash cycle.
What we like best is that both of these options will wash out of your hair and won’t permanently alter your hair strands like traditional dye. You’ll be able to achieve all of your natural Halloween hairstyles without compromising your hair’s integrity.
Wearing Wigs
If you don’t want to deal with temporary dye or you’d like to switch up hair textures, a wig might be a better option. Whether it’s a high-quality wig or one from the party store, you should always practice wig safety. It may not feel necessary to wear a wig with caution if you’re just wearing it for a few hours at a time but hair damage doesn’t always take long to occur. Here’s a quick guide on how to prioritize your hair health while wearing a wig. If you wear wigs longer term, learn how to keep your hair healthy here.
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Properly cleanse and moisturize your hair. It’s always ideal to wash your hair between styles. It sets your hair up for success. The cleansing process hydrates your hair which is vital. The detangling process will also ensure that your hair has no hidden knots prior to styling.
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Braid down your hair properly. Tight braiding has been glorified within our community but it’s causing hair loss in Black women(link). You should have your hair braided down with minimal tension. That means you feel no pain or discomfort throughout the process. A less tight style will also allow you to enjoy your evening more. Having a sore or tender head can put a damper on your Halloween festivities.
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Secure your wig safely. Wig caps provide multiple benefits, including helping your wig stay put. If there are clips on the inside of your wig, be careful when you tuck them into your hair. After placing the comb, move your head around to see if you feel any discomfort. Sometimes these clips get caught onto the hair and pull it when you look around. It can lead to hair loss or a sore scalp. If you are using glue, do so mindfully.
Tips for Other Styles
Avoid styles that cause an excessive amount of tension. If your costume requires a high ponytail or another tight style, try to be gentle with your hair. It’s important not to wear your hair too tightly for long periods of time. The constant tension may cause traction alopecia or other forms of hair loss. If it hurts to put your hair into the style, it isn’t going to be good for your hair health overall. If you do decide to do a tighter style, avoid sleeping in it.
Use high-quality styling products. If you’re able, still try to use quality products on your hair. Water-based and botanical products are preferred. They’re easier to wash out and don’t leave as much residue on the hair. Avoid products with high alcohol content or harmful ingredients.
Take your accessories off with care. Removing your accessories too roughly may cause you to rip out your hair or cause breakage. Learn how to properly add and remove your hair accessories before you use them. You should also take your time during this process. Moving too quickly or impatiently can quickly lead to an improper takedown process. For those who aren’t sure how to properly use different hair accessories, you can learn how to step-by-step inside our community.
Cleansing After a Successful Style
If you use a lot of product on your hair, we recommend using a clarifying or chelating shampoo. A clarifying shampoo will remove everything from your hair barring buildup caused by hard water. If you have hard water and product buildup, we suggest using only a chelating shampoo. A clarifying shampoo will be enough if you’re only trying to wash product from your hair. You should always follow up with a hydrating shampoo and conditioner after clarifying.
Be gentle with your hair. Take your time with this process if your hair is tangled or gelled into place. You can use water to soften the gel’s hold before you begin manipulating the hair to lessen the chance of damage. We do not recommend trying to pull your gelled hair apart while it’s dry. The crunch sounds and appearance may feel satisfying to you, but this can cause permanent damage to your hair. You should only use your detangling tool once you’re conditioning your hair. The conditioner and water help the tool glide through your hair more easily.
Note: You may need to wash your hair multiple times if you use a lot of products (or the products are not water soluble.) This is normal. It’s better to cleanse thoroughly than let buildup sit on your scalp and hair.
Get Excited for Your Natural Halloween Hairstyles!
Halloween is a fun holiday that allows us to express ourselves creatively. With so many events to attend, trying out new hairstyles that fit the occasion can be tempting. However, it’s important to prioritize our hair health and avoid damage, tangles, and mishaps. Whether you choose to use temporary hair dye, wear a wig, or try out other styles, there are ways to minimize damage and ensure that your hair stays healthy.
By following these tips, you can enjoy the Halloween season without compromising the health of your hair. Have a safe and happy Halloween!