African Hair Rubber (Kiko) – Natural Hair Stretching Thread
African Hair Rubber, also called Kiko or Owu thread, is a stretchy thread used to stretch and hold natural hair in place, a traditional hair styling tool popular across West Africa and within the natural hair community. It stretches as you wrap and pull, holding sections of hair taut for styles like threading, twist-outs, or hair stretching to reduce shrinkage, and it feels smooth against the hair and scalp compared to rougher alternatives. It’s a budget-friendly, reusable styling tool for anyone maintaining natural hair.
How to use: Section hair, then wrap the rubber/thread around each section from root to tip, pulling gently to stretch and secure the style.
Storage: Store in a dry place; the thread can be reused across multiple styling sessions.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Material | Latex-free rubber |
| Length | Approx. 15 cm |
| Width | Approx. 1.5 cm |
| Color | Light brown |
| Usage | Twist-outs, threading, hair stretching |
FAQ
Can the African Hair Rubber be used for all hair types?
Yes, it works well with all natural hair types due to its smooth texture and stretchability.
How many times can the thread be reused?
The thread can be reused multiple times as long as it is stored properly and not exposed to moisture or extreme temperatures.
Is the thread safe for sensitive scalps?
Yes, it is smooth and gentle on the scalp, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
Joan Coleman –
I’ve used this thread for my twist-outs and it holds the style really well. It’s easy to work with and doesn’t pull on the hair. Great for reducing shrinkage and keeping my styles neat.
Joanne Mitchell –
The stretch is just right. I wrap it around my hair sections and it secures them without being too tight. It’s a simple tool that makes styling more efficient.
Warren Sharp –
I love how smooth it feels against my scalp. It’s a reliable alternative to other hair stretchers and has lasted through several styling sessions.
Lucas Peters –
It’s affordable and works well for both beginners and experienced natural hair stylists. I use it regularly for threading and it’s easy to store.