Tapered Afro Guide: How to Get It, Wear It, and Keep It Fresh
Learn what a tapered afro is, who it looks best on, what to tell your barber, and how to care for your hair at home.
A tapered afro is a classic cut for natural hair. It keeps your hair full and puffy on top, but trims it short around your ears and the back of your neck. This makes your afro look neat and clean without losing your length.
Many people pick this haircut because it is easy to wear. It gives your natural curls a nice shape every single day.
Who Looks Good in a Tapered Afro?
This cut works great on almost any face shape, but it really shines on round and square faces. Because the hair is short on the sides and tall on top, it makes your face look a bit longer and slimmer.
It works with tight coils and looser curls. If you have thick hair, the taper takes away extra bulk from the sides. That means your head feels lighter and stays cooler in the summer.
What to Tell Your Barber
Sitting in the barber chair can feel scary if you do not know what words to say. Here is what to ask for:
Ask for a "taper on the sides and the back, leaving length on top." Tell them if you want a low taper (just around the edges) or a high taper (shaved higher up your head). Tell them how much hair you want to keep on top. Ask for a clean line-up on your hairline if you like sharp, crisp edges.
Bringing a picture is always the best idea. It helps the barber see exactly what you want before they pick up the clippers.
How to Care for Your Cut at Home
Natural hair needs moisture to stay soft and healthy. If you let it dry out, your afro can break or itch.
First, wash your hair with a gentle shampoo once a week. Use a good conditioner every time you wash. Next, put leave-in conditioner or hair oil in your hair every morning. You can use a curl sponge or your hands to fluff up the top.
At night, sleep on a satin pillowcase or wear a silk bonnet. Cotton pillowcases drink up the water from your hair and make it frizzy. A satin cover keeps your curls smooth while you sleep.
You will need to see your barber every two to three weeks to keep the taper looking clean. If you wait longer, the sides will grow out and the shape will fade.
See the Cut on Yourself First
Changing your hair is a big deal, and nobody wants a bad cut. You can check your face shape for free with the HairMatch AI tool. If you want to see this cut on your own face before you go to the barber, you can get realistic photo packs starting at just $0.99.