Growing up, African threading hairstyles were a lifesaver as they were the go-to hair for children of my age back then. It was my personal favorite because it stretched my hair and made it longer. My mum even had a signature style of her own which she achieved by adding extra thread alongside my natural hair before threading, giving the illusion of longer hair, lol!

In this article, I’ll walk you through the origin and benefits of African threading hairstyles and also provide a step-by step guide on how to go about it so, stay with me.

African threading hairstyles originated from sub-Saharan African countries and have existed since the 15th century.

African threading is a traditional African hairstyle that uses thread to create intricate and decorative patterns in the hair. It is a multifaceted hairstyle that can be used to create a range of different looks, from simple and basic to elaborate and ornate.

You can choose to style it plain or decorate it with fancy hair ornaments.

Several techniques can be used to create African threading hairstyles, and the specific method will depend on the desired look and the thickness and length of the hair. Some common techniques include:

Single threading: This technique involves using a single strand of thread to create simple patterns or to add accents to the hair. It is a quick and easy technique that can add color and interest to a hairstyle.
Double threading: This technique involves using two strands of thread to create more complex patterns and designs in the hair. It is a more advanced technique that requires more skill and practice to master.

African threading hairstyles have a long and rich history that dates back to ancient Africa. They are an integral part of African culture and have been used for centuries to express identity, cultural heritage, and social status.

In ancient Africa, hairstyles were often used to convey information about an individual’s age, marital status, social status, and cultural heritage. Different groups wore different hairstyles, and the specific hairstyles worn by individuals could convey important information about their identity and place in society.

African threading hairstyles, in particular, have a long history and were used to create intricate and decorative patterns in the hair. Women often wore these hairstyles to express beauty, femininity, and cultural identity. They were also used to convey social status, with more elaborate hairstyles often reserved for higher-status individuals.

Over time, African threading hairstyles have evolved and become integral to modern African fashion. Today, they are worn by people of all ages and are used to express various identities and cultural heritages. They are also popular in the wider fashion world, with many people worldwide wearing African threading hairstyles to celebrate and honor African culture.

Benefits of African Threading Hairstyles

These hairstyles have been used for centuries in Africa and have become popular around the world due to their many benefits. Here are some of the benefits of African threading hairstyles:

Promotes Hair Growth

African threading hairstyles can promote hair growth because they protect your hair from breakage and split ends. The thread used to create the hairstyle is gentle on the hair and doesn’t cause damage, making it a great option for you if you’re looking to grow your hair.

Versatile

African threading hairstyles are versatile and can be styled in a variety of ways. They can be braided, twisted, or wrapped into different shapes and designs, allowing you to express your personal style.

Low Maintenance

Once African threading hairstyles are installed, they require little maintenance. You can leave them in for weeks at a time without worrying about them getting tangled or messy. This makes them a great option for those with busy lifestyles.

Protects Hair

African threading hairstyles protect your hair from environmental damage such as the sun, wind, and pollution. They also protect your hair from harsh chemicals that can be found in some hair care products.

Cost-effective

African threading hairstyles are often less expensive than other hair styling options such as weaves or extensions. They also don’t require any special products, making them a cost-effective option for you.

Cultural Significance

African threading hairstyles have a rich cultural significance and can be used to express your cultural identity. They are also a way to celebrate and embrace African culture.

Overall, African threading hairstyles offer a wide range of benefits, from promoting hair growth to being low maintenance and cost-effective. They are a really good option for you if you’re looking for a protective hairstyle that is versatile and culturally significant.

Here are a few threading hairstyle inspo to choose from.