Ah, the crown on your head, the mane that defines your swag, the hair that either makes you a sharp guy or leaves you looking like you just woke up from a 2-day nap. For us Nigerian men, hair is no joke. Whether you’re rocking a low cut, Afro, dreads, or just trying to keep the stubborn “Congo meat” (those stubborn curls) in check, knowing how to style your hair can make all the difference between looking like a proper ‘chairman’ or a struggling ‘boy-boy.’
Brother, it’s not every time you’ll have time to go to the barber’s. Sometimes, you gats manage yourself at home.
1. The Low Cut Crew: Keeping it Fresh
If you’re the type that likes to keep things simple with a low cut, you know how easy it can be to just go to the barber and tell him, “Abeg, just give me a low fade.” But when you’re at home and need to maintain that sharp look, here’s what to do:
Moisturize: Don’t just be washing your hair anyhow. Apply a good leave-in conditioner to keep your scalp hydrated. As we say in Naija, “No be only face dem dey rub cream o!” Your scalp needs love too.
Trim Regularly: Get a clipper, my guy. Even if it’s to just trim the edges. You don’t want to be looking like someone who just finished hustling Okada money.
Shine Bright: Use some hair pomade or oil for that extra shine. Not too much o, unless you want people to see their reflection in your head!
2. The Afro Kings: Flaunt that Fro
Rocking an Afro in Nigeria is like making a bold statement. It’s saying, “Yes, I’m here, and yes, I’m stylish!” But, bros, that fro can quickly turn from stylish to something that looks like you got electrocuted if you’re not careful.
Pick with Care: Don’t just dig into your fro like you’re looking for gold. Use a wide-tooth comb or Afro pick and start from the ends, working your way to the roots. You no wan dey lose hair for nothing, abi?
Keep It Moist: Dry Afro is like dry Garri; nobody wants that. Spritz your hair with water or a leave-in conditioner regularly. It’s the difference between “Fine boy, no pimple” and “My guy, wetin happen to you?”
Shape It Up: Regular visits to your barber to shape your fro can keep you looking like a boss. A well-shaped fro is like a well-tailored suit—sharp and on point.
3. The Dreadlock Brothers: Locks that Rock
Dreadlocks are not just hair; they’re a lifestyle. But just because you have dreads doesn’t mean you should just leave them to Jah and the ancestors. Even dreads need care, my guy.
Wash Wisely: Don’t wash your dreads every day unless you want to smell like wet wood. Every 1-2 weeks is cool. When you do, make sure to dry them properly. Ain’t nobody got time for mildew in their hair.
Twist & Shout: Keep your dreads neat by twisting the roots regularly. If you leave them too long, you’ll look like Bob Marley’s understudy. And we’re in Naija, not Jamaica!
Oil & Shine: Light oil is your friend. Keep your locks moisturized and shiny. Don’t overdo it unless you want to leave oil stains on everything you rest your head on. No be everywhere you suppose mark territory!
4. The Curly/Wavy Guys: Embrace the Curl
If you’re one of those Nigerian men blessed with natural curls or waves, congrats! But those curls can quickly turn to frizz if not handled well.
Define Those Curls: Use a curl cream or gel to define your curls. Don’t let them just waka anyhow. You need to be in control, like a chairman running a board meeting.
Less Heat, More Waves: Reduce the use of heat on your hair. If you fry your hair too much, you’ll go from waves to kpafuka (damage). Air-dry when possible.
Condition Like a Boss: Deep condition once a week to keep your curls popping. If your hair looks good, you’ll be the guy everyone is asking for hair tips. If not, people go just dey ask, “My guy, wetin do your head?”
At the end of the day, my brothers, your hair is your pride. Whether you’re rocking a low cut, an afro, dreads, or curls, how you care for your hair is a reflection of who you are. In Naija, we say, “No matter how fine you are, if your hair no set, e don spoil.” So, take these tips, apply them, and walk with confidence, knowing that your hair game is strong.
After all, we all know that in Nigeria, packaging is key. And nothing says “I have my life together” like well-styled hair. As they say, “Shine your eye, shine your hair!”