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NATURAL HAIR 101 : A thread for all my natural hairs girlies if you’re natural, thinking of going natural or transitioning
DETANGLINGNEVER detangle dry hair it will cause breakage. Always use a detangler, conditioner/leave in or simply a moisturiser. Section hair & detangle from the ends to the root to avoid further tangling the hair and ripping hair out.
This is what I use:
TOOLSYou can either finger detangle (which is gentler) or use a wide tooth comb or detangling brush etc. NEVER USE A FINE TOOTH COMB.
CLEANSING Wash hair regularly (every 1-2 weeks) to prevent product build up. Use a sulphate shampoo to clarify if there’s a lot of buildup. Use a sulphate free shampoo if you wash regularly. Wash in sections to keep your hair in a detangled state.
Fave shampoo:
TREATMENTSDeep condition 1-4 times a month to deeply moisturise your hair. Leave treatment in for at least 30 mins and make sure there is a source of heat (a shower cap will do) so that the product really penetrates. I deep condition every wash day with any thick conditioner
Protein treatmentsIf your hair is damaged, weak, limp or loss of curl pattern you need a protein treatment! It strengthens your hair. Moisture/Protein balance is key. I use protein treatments once or twice a month, you can buy them (look for products with silk proteins)
MOISTURISINGMoisturise every 2-3 days depending on how dry your hair gets. Always mist with water first! Use the Liquid, oil, cream (LOC) or (LCO) method for effective moisturising. I moisturise every 2 days with :
STYLING Make sure your hair is well moisturised before styling, if u want a more defined look, use denser product & gels. If u want a fluffier look use lighter products. Try out different styles to find what you like ! You can do twists, braids or even a bun
AVOID BREAKAGEAvoid : tight hair styles, combing hair too much, combs that pull out hair (thin tooth combs) & excessive styling. ALWAYS moisturise. Protect your hair at night by wearing a silk bonnet/scarf or by using a satin pillow case. We like low maintenance hairstyles!!
PROTECTIVE STYLINGThese are styles that protect your ends and limit styling. E.g braids & wigs. Choose what suits your lifestyle. Make sure it is not too tight & that you are keeping up with your moisturising routine. Use light moisturisers & oils to prevent build !
Faves:
TRIMMINGGet rid of dead/split ends to maximise your hair growth! If you leave them they will only travel up your hair, break off and leave your hair uneven and your ends thin. I trim 2-4 times a year, depending on the health of my ends. SAY NO TO DEAD ENDS !!
KNOW YOUR HAIR POROSITYThis can help with your hair care. Low porosity hair doesn’t absorb moisture easily ,this hair type requires heat to allow products to penetrate. High porosity hair absorbs moisture easily but is susceptible to tangling & breakage- takes FOREVER to dry
LOW POROSITY GIRLIES(1)USE LCO. DC more to moisturise your hair and use heat such as a hooded dryer, shower cap or steamer to lift cuticle and allow the product to penetrate. Avoid heavy hair butters and oils as they will dehydrate the hair further - stick to light oils.
LOW POROSITY GIRLIES(2)Avoid strong protein treatments. Use products with glycerin and honey as these attract water. Always use water based products as they tend to be more moisturising and they penetrate the hair easier !!
HIGH POROSITY GIRLIES(1)USE LOC. Avoid ingredients that attract water such as glycerin & silicones. Use protein treatments more as this will fill in gaps in the cuticle, prevent breakage & strengthen the hair. Use heavier oils and butters to help the hair retain moisture.
HIGH POROSITY (2) Can be caused by heat/ styling damage, so you want to avoid heat/ use low heat to improve the health of your hair. Avoid chemical treatments. Avoid harsh shampoos & always use gentler products. DC regularly and use heavier products. Rinse with cold water!
