12 Ways to Wear Side Bangs for Natural Hair | The Ultimate Styling Guide
Side bangs have long been a staple in the hair world, offering a versatile way to frame the face and add dimension to any cut. However, for a long time, there was a misconception that bangs were reserved for straight hair. Today, that myth has been thoroughly debunked. Side bangs for natural hair are not only possible but are arguably one of the most flattering styling choices for textured hair. Whether you rock 3C curls, 4C coils, or locs, a side-swept fringe can instantly elevate your look, soften your features, and add a touch of mystery and elegance.
One of the greatest advantages of incorporating side bangs into a natural hair routine is the sheer variety of styling options available. Unlike blunt bangs, which require precise maintenance and often fight against shrinkage, side bangs work with the natural volume and movement of textured hair. They can be sleek and swooped for a formal event, or fluffy and undefined for a carefree, bohemian vibe. Furthermore, they serve as an excellent transitional style for those growing out shorter crops or for anyone wanting to change their look without committing to a significant length reduction.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore 12 distinct ways to wear side bangs for natural hair. We will cover everything from high-glam updos to everyday protective styles, ensuring there is a look for every curl pattern and lifestyle. Additionally, we will discuss maintenance tips to keep your fringe healthy and defined, answering the most common questions about cutting and styling bangs on textured hair.
1. The Classic High Puff with Defined Tendrils
The high puff is a quintessential style for natural hair enthusiasts. It is easy, protects the ends of the hair, and draws attention to the neckline and face. Adding side bangs to a high puff transforms the look from a gym-ready style to a chic, dinner-date appropriate aesthetic. Instead of pulling all the hair back, a section at the front is left loose and swept to the side.
To achieve this look, hydration is key. The bangs should be defined using a curling cream or gel that offers hold without crunch. For tighter textures, a two-strand twist out on the bang section the night before can create elongated, defined spirals that cascade over the forehead. This style works beautifully because the volume of the puff balances the visual weight of the side bangs, creating a harmonious silhouette that works for both casual and formal settings.
2. The Sleek Low Bun with a Deep Side Swoop
For those seeking a more polished, red-carpet-ready look, the sleek low bun with a dramatic side swoop is a top contender. This style relies on smoothing the hair to create a glass-like finish, usually achieved on blown-out or stretched natural hair. The side bang in this style is less about texture and more about structure and shape. It crosses deep from one side of the part, covering a portion of the forehead before tucking behind the ear or joining the bun.
Achieving this requires a good edge control or molding paste and a satin scarf to set the hair. It is imperative to detangle gently and use heat protectant if blow-drying. The deep side swoop creates an asymmetrical line that is incredibly flattering for round and heart-shaped faces, as it cuts the width of the forehead and draws the eye diagonally across the face. This is often a go-to style for weddings and professional environments.
3. Textured Afro with Layered Side Bangs
Embracing the full glory of the afro doesn't mean you can't have shape. An afro with layered side bangs is a power move. This cut is all about sculpture. A professional stylist will typically cut the hair while it is dry and in its natural state to account for shrinkage. The bangs are cut at an angle, blending seamlessly into the rest of the afro but shorter enough to frame the eyes.
This look celebrates volume and density. It requires minimal manipulation once the cut is established. A pick can be used to lift the roots for volume, while the fingers are used to place the bangs to the side. It’s a low-maintenance, high-impact style that exudes confidence. The key here is keeping the hair moisturized so the afro remains soft to the touch and the bangs retain their elasticity.
4. The Twist-Out Bob with Sweeping Fringe
A bob on natural hair is timeless, but adding a side bang gives it movement and modernity. A twist-out is the perfect method to achieve this look because it provides uniform definition and controlled volume. By twisting the front section of the hair in the direction you want the bangs to fall, you train the hair to sweep to the side naturally once unraveled.
This style is particularly effective for those with Type 4 hair who want to show off length while maintaining texture. The side bang breaks up the roundness that can sometimes occur with a natural bob, adding angles and interest. To maintain this look, re-twisting the bangs at night is often necessary, but the result—a bouncy, defined face-framing fringe—is well worth the effort.
5. Pineapple Updo with Wispy Corkscrews
The "Pineapple" is often used as a nighttime preservation method, but it doubles as a funky, edgy hairstyle. When paired with wispy side bangs, it becomes a playful daytime look. Unlike the heavy swoop or the thick layer, wispy corkscrews are lighter and sparser. This is achieved by pulling just a few distinct curls out of the pineapple at the hairline.
This style is perfect for days when the hair is aging (day 4 or 5 hair) and volume is at its peak. The wispy bangs soften the harsh lines of pulling the hair up and add a flirtatious element to the style. It’s incredibly youthful and requires very little product—perhaps just a touch of oil to reduce frizz on the loose tendrils.
6. Braided Crown with Side-Swept Ends
Protective styling can also incorporate the side bang aesthetic. A halo braid or crown braid is elegant and protects the ends of the hair. However, rather than braiding all the hair away, leaving a section out at the front to create a side bang adds softness. This can be done with one's natural hair or enhanced with extensions for fullness.
The loose section can be styled as a rod set to match the texture of the braid, or simply defined with gel. This juxtaposition of the neat, intricate braiding against the free-flowing texture of the side bang creates a beautiful visual contrast. It effectively frames the face while keeping the majority of the hair tucked away and protected from the elements.
7. The Shingled Wash-and-Go with Heavy Fringe
For those who love the "wet look" or maximum definition, the shingling method is ideal. This involves applying curling cream or gel to small sections of hair and smoothing it from root to tip to encourage maximum curl clumping. When applying this to side bangs, the direction of the shingling is crucial. The hair must be smoothed in the direction of the side part.
A heavy fringe with a wash-and-go offers a bold look that highlights the natural curl pattern intensely. Because shingling often results in some elongation (due to the weight of the product) followed by shrinkage as it dries, the bangs will bounce up. It is vital to account for this shrinkage when styling to ensure the bangs don't end up too short. This style screams hydration and health.
8. Faux Side Bangs (The Pin and Tuck)
Commitment issues? No problem. You don't actually have to cut your hair to enjoy side bangs. The faux side bang is a styling trick that involves taking a section of long hair from the front, sweeping it across the forehead to create a swooped shape, and pinning the ends behind the ear or under the rest of the hair.
This is an excellent option for naturals who want to switch up their look for a single evening without losing length. It works best on stretched or blown-out hair where the length is sufficient to sweep across. With strategically placed bobby pins and a bit of holding spray, the illusion is seamless. It allows you to test drive the look of side bangs before taking the plunge with scissors.
9. Box Braids or Twists with Side Bangs
Side bangs aren't limited to loose hair. When installing box braids, passion twists, or faux locs, you can incorporate a side bang into the parting grid. Shorter braids are installed at the front and swept to the side. This eliminates the weight that often comes with long braids hanging in the face while still providing that face-framing effect.
Alternatively, with long braids, you can simply sweep the front braids across the forehead and tuck them behind the ear to simulate a side bang. Beads or cuffs can be added to the ends of the bang section to draw attention to the eyes and add a decorative element to the protective style.
10. The Half-Up, Half-Down with Volume
The half-up, half-down style is a universal favorite because it combines the elegance of an updo with the length of wearing hair down. Adding side bangs to this style bridges the gap between the two sections. The top section adds height, while the back shows off length, and the side bangs connect the visual lines.
For natural hair, this look is all about volume. The top pony or bun should be high, and the back should be fluffy. The side bangs serve to cover the hairline, which is great for those who are self-conscious about their edges or simply want a softer transition from the forehead to the hair. It’s a romantic style that works well for dates and semi-formal events.
11. Bantu Knot Out with Asymmetrical Fringe
Bantu knots create a unique, springy curl that is different from a twist-out or braid-out. The resulting curls are tight and bouncy. When styling a bantu knot out, parting the hair on the side creates a natural asymmetry. The curls on the heavier side of the part naturally fall forward, creating an instant side bang.
This style is full of personality and texture. The key is to separate the curls gently to avoid frizz while maintaining the spiral shape. The asymmetrical fringe created by the side part gives the hair a structured yet wild appearance that is incredibly chic. It’s a statement hairstyle that showcases the versatility of natural hair texture.
12. Locs with a Side-Swept Cut
Locs are incredibly versatile, and yes, they can have bangs too. Side-swept bangs on locs add a layer of sophistication and can relieve tension on the hairline that comes from constantly pulling long locs back. The locs in the bang section are cut shorter to fall across the cheekbone or eye.
This style works well with both starter locs and mature locs. It creates a permanent style feature that looks great whether the rest of the locs are down, in a bun, or in a ponytail. Styling involves simply sweeping them to the side and perhaps using a loc clip to train them to lay flat if they are prone to standing up. It’s a bold, artistic way to wear locs.
Essential Maintenance Tips for Natural Side Bangs
maintaining side bangs on natural hair requires a specific routine to ensure they remain healthy and styled correctly. Because bangs are manipulated more often than the rest of the hair (swept aside, touched, pinned), they can be prone to breakage if not cared for.
Moisture is Non-Negotiable
The hair at the front of the hairline is often the most fragile. Ensure that you are moisturizing your bangs daily or every other day with a water-based leave-in conditioner. Seal that moisture in with a light oil to prevent the bangs from becoming dry and brittle.Nighttime Protection
Never go to bed without protecting your bangs. If you have a defined style, pin the bangs in a loose curl or twist them gently before putting on your satin bonnet. Alternatively, use a satin scarf to lay the bangs flat against the forehead if you prefer a sleek look. This prevents friction and preserves the style for the next morning.Regular Trims
To keep side bangs looking intentional and sharp, regular trims are necessary. Natural hair ends can split, and since bangs are right by your face, ragged ends are very visible. Visit a professional stylist every 6-8 weeks to dust the ends and maintain the shape of the cut.Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Should I cut my natural hair bangs wet or dry? A: It is almost always best to cut natural hair dry. This allows the stylist (and you) to see exactly how the hair falls with shrinkage. Cutting wet natural hair can result in bangs that are significantly shorter than intended once the hair dries and shrinks.
Q: How do I stop my side bangs from shrinking too much? A: You can minimize shrinkage by stretching the hair. Methods include banding, braiding the bangs at night, or using a cool setting on a blow dryer to elongate the curls without straightening them completely. Heavier products like twisting butters can also weigh the hair down slightly to reduce shrinkage.
Q: Can I have side bangs with a round face shape? A: Absolutely! Side bangs are actually one of the best choices for round faces. The diagonal line created by the side sweep breaks up the symmetry of a round face, creating the illusion of length and angles. It is a highly flattering choice.
Q: Will side bangs cause acne on my forehead? A: Product buildup on hair that rests against the skin can sometimes clog pores. To prevent this, try to keep heavy oils and greases off the very tips of the bangs, or ensure you are washing your face thoroughly twice a day. On days when you are sweating, pin the bangs back.
Q: How do I grow out side bangs if I change my mind? A: Growing out bangs on natural hair is generally easier than on straight hair because the texture blends well. You can twist or braid the growing bangs into the rest of your hair, or use headbands and scarves to disguise the shorter length until it catches up with the rest of your hair.
Conclusion
Choosing to wear side bangs for natural hair is a stylistic decision that pays off in versatility and flair. Whether you opt for the drama of a deep sleek swoop, the playfulness of a curly pineapple, or the protective benefits of braided bangs, there is a variation that suits your unique texture and personality. These 12 styles prove that natural hair is not limited to a single silhouette; it is a canvas for artistic expression.
Remember, while DIY styling is fun for faux bangs and updos, if you are considering a permanent cut, it is highly recommended to consult with a professional stylist who specializes in textured hair. They can assess your curl pattern, shrinkage, and face shape to create the perfect custom fringe for you. Embrace the change, and let your natural hair take center stage.
