01

Loose Afro Genesis

Fresh cut, full length, no plan yet.

You have just big-chopped, or your loose hair finally has enough length to work with. This is the foundation module: moisture, detangling, and the weekly rhythm everything else is built on.

The routine

  1. 1

    Pre-poo and detangle

    Section into four. Coat with conditioner or an oil blend, then detangle from the ends upward with a wide-tooth comb on damp hair only.

  2. 2

    Clean the scalp

    Shampoo the scalp once a week, or co-wash if your scalp is calm. Use fingertips, never nails.

  3. 3

    Condition and seal

    Leave-in on damp hair, then oil to seal, then a light butter on the ends. Water always comes first.

  4. 4

    Protect at night

    Four to eight loose twists and a satin scarf. No tight pineapple on short hair.

Timing

No style to take down yet — this is the state you build length in.

Keep

  • — Water-based leave-in as the base layer
  • — A light oil on the ends to seal
  • — Sulphate-free shampoo if the scalp runs dry

Drop

  • — Petroleum-heavy grease on the scalp
  • — Detangling on dry hair
  • — Re-wetting daily without sealing afterwards