SLEEK HAIR TREND: PRODUCTS FOR RELAXED HAIR

As far as hair trends go, the slicked back (or up) style has certainly been one of 2018’s main attractions. Whether it’s a centre-parted, gelled down regal look that culminates with a Diana Ross-esque ponytail or a sleek and sexy braided top knot, this is an effortless yet chic trend worth trying. The style can however be marred by unruly flyaways, so it’s important to know how to lay those hairs down. In today’s post, I’ll be sharing with you my favourite products to use in achieving this sleek look.

Tell Nicki: V's got buns, Hun!

I’ve been rocking a slicked back low curly ponytail for the past two weeks, however my go-to hairstyle is the sleek, ‘no-nonsense’ top bun. It’s a simple, low maintenance up-do that compliments any outfit and suits all occasions. It also adds a touch of elegance although most important to me is the instant slimming effect it has - my face is unfortunately still carrying December’s late night guilt-inducing feasts so I’ve been relying on the hairstyle to snatch my face and add a bit of height for that low BMI illusion. Gotta work with what you have!!

Hair-smoothing duo

To achieve a polished sleek look, I rely mainly on two items: Design Essentials’ Natural Almond and Avocado Curl Enhancing Mousse (R69.90 (71ml), Clicks) and a synthetic boar bristle brush. As suggested by the name, the mousse is designed for enhancing natural curl definition however as someone with relaxed hair, I’ve found that it gives my hair a perfectly sleek, quick set that has a beautiful, salon-fresh sheen. Most hair gels can achieve this effect however with relaxed hair, you are most likely to develop unsightly product build up with the first use.  Fortunately, with the Design Essentials Natural Almond and Avocado Curl Enhancing Mousse I don’t experience any visible build up and my hair is smoothed down with an impressively strong, long-lasting hold. The longevity of the hold is however dependent on the amount of product you use so if you are looking to keep your hair set for the whole day, apply the mousse generously. As an added bonus, the mousse is enriched with sweet almond and avocado oils which are known to be excellent for retaining hair moisture and nourishing the hair from within. If you prefer to use gels to set your hair, the Revlon Flex Styling Gel and EcoStyler Olive Oil Styling Gel are great options. I have a mini review on the EcoStyler Olive Oil Styling Gel in my 'Relaxed Hair Essentials' and 'How I Maintain My Braids' posts.

The synthetic boar bristle brush (R19.99, Dischem) is best used as a finishing brush. Ideally, you would firstly detangle your hair with a wide-tooth comb, style your hair as desired (centre-part, top knot, low bun etc.), apply the mousse and then smooth down the hair with the boar bristle brush. The simplicity of this technique is another reason why I gravitate so frequently to this look.

Waist-length gang

Aside from being chic, effortless and simple, sleek hairstyles are also quite versatile when it comes to styling. From rocking a prima donna top knot one day to donning a thick, femme fatale waist-length braided ponytail the next, the options are plenty.  I've been wearing a curly ponytail which is, in fact, a curly weft (name of brand and price TBC) that I pinned onto a low bun . If you are keen to try it out, here's a LINK to a tutorial on how to achieve the look.

As you can see, you don't need a lot of products or tools to achieve the sleek hair trend hence it's such an ideal look for someone who wants a trendy, yet low maintenance hairstyle. 
Hope you feel inspired to try it out!

'Til next time,

V