If you can’t find a shampoo and conditioner meant for ethnic hair, try to use a moisturizing shampoo meant for dry hair. Follow up with a moisturizing conditioner. [3] X Research source If you must wash your hair more often, dilute your shampoo with 50% water and 50% shampoo.
Step things up a bit by using a deep conditioning mask once a week to twice a month. Focus the conditioner on the ends of your hair; avoid applying it to your scalp. Applying conditioner to your scalp will cause your hair to appear greasy. It will also weigh down your strands.
Fortunately, there are lots of ways to make your hair nice and silky without using silicones, including nourishing masks and coconut oil. These products are easily washed out of your hair, without any dryness or brittleness.
The term “natural” is used very loosely by corporations. An orange soda can be natural because it has an orange flavoring that once shared a compound of a fruit. High fructose corn syrup is considered “natural” just like “petrolatum. "
Make sure your hair is slightly damp before you detangle. Hair is very vulnerable when wet, so if you just washed it, let it dry a little first.
Comb attachments help stretch and straighten natural curls, so they’re great if you plan on using a flat iron after drying. Instead of air drying, you can also sit under a dryer.
Try to use the lowest temperature possible and avoid going too hot. Heat protectant sprays can only do so much. Opt for ceramic flat irons over metal ones. They will be gentler on your hair. [7] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source Heat protectants come in many forms, other than sprays, including: shampoo, conditioners, creams, and serums.
Braids, cornrows, and weaves should not hurt. If they start to hurt, they are too tight, and are damaging your hair. [9] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source Avoid using rubber bands when styling your hair, as they can cause tears and breakage. Instead, use a ponytail holder without a metal clip.
If you do choose a glued-in weave, you can protect your natural hair by placing a stocking cap over it, then gluing the weave onto the stocking cap. If you are using a weave, visit your stylist every 2 to 3 weeks to ensure that it stays tight. A loose weave can tug on your hair and damage it. Change your weave every 1½ and 3 months. Let your hair rest for a few weeks after two consecutive weaves.
When relaxing your hair, add some natural oil, like olive oil, to previously relaxed hair. This way, you won’t accidentally over-process it. You can also use a conditioner or a pre-relaxer treatment to protect previously relaxed strands if you’d prefer to not use oil. Some stylists will recommend a touch-up every 6 weeks; that unnecessary, and actually very bad for your hair. You should get a touch-up every 2 to 3 months. Look at the ingredients: if it has too many long chemical names, try to stay away from it.
If you must do something with your hair, consider wrapping a scarf or headband around it, or adding in a cute hair clip.
Satin or silk pillowcases are also great for skin, as they don’t draw out moisture the way cotton pillowcases do. [12] X Research source Wash the silk pillowcases once a week. You can do it by hand or using a washing machine. Check the label before washing them. If you can’t get a satin or silk pillowcase, consider tying your hair up at night with a satin or silk scarf instead.
A little bit of oil goes a long way. Start with a small amount, about the size of a dime, and add more as necessary. After washing your hair, apply a moisturizing leave-in conditioner, then add the oil of your choice. This seal in moisture and ensure that your hair stays healthy.
If you don’t want to warm up the oil in advance, you can apply it then sit under a hooded hair dryer for 30 minutes while wearing a shower cap. Don’t use a microwave to heat the oil, or it will lose its nutrients. If you don’t have a shower cap, you can wrap a damp, warm towel around your hair instead. You can use any of the following oils: Argan, avocado, castor, coconut, jojoba, olive, sesame, and sweet almond.
