While it seems like most of us naturals seemingly have it all together, there is still a lot to learn for naturals new and old. While there are many amazing hair and health benefits to having natural hair, it can come with its challenges. If you’ve been wondering about what to do and not to do to keep your natural hair in looking and feeling healthy and conditioned, keep reading.
Don’t wait too long to wash your hair
Have you ever heard the term, dirty hair grows faster? I heard that a lot growing up. Not only from girls my age but also grown women. Dirty hair does not grow any faster than clean hair, in fact dirt and oils that are left on the scalp can block hair follicles, making it harder for hair to grow. The only truth to this method could be that if hair is “dirty” maybe you aren’t blowing drying, styling, or manipulating your hair to cause breakage. By allowing dirt, oil and debris to build up on your head you could potentionally get a scalp infection, flakes and odor. For a great deep cleanse, try our Miracle RepaiRx Strengthening Shampoo followed by our Miracle RepaiRx Strenghtening Conditioner to deeply cleanse, detangle and protect.
Do wear protective styling including weaves, wigs and braids
We get it, you are finally rocking your real hair and we’re telling you to put a wig on? Well, yes but not exactly. If you want to switch it up, wigs, weaves and braids can be great protective hairstyles when applied properly. When you cleanse and condition your hair and keep it braided, it helps to prevent excessive manipulation which can cause breakages. Of course, aside from wearing weave, you can also braid, twist and bun your real hair to keep it protected. Our Butter Cream Moisturizer for Natural Hair is a highly effective leave in that deeply moisturizes, helping to keep natural hair protected no matter what style you choose.
Do avoid alcohol
Aside from alcohol obviously being bad for your health, drinking alcohol can cause dehydration in both skin and hair which can result in dry, brittle and breaking hair. While a cocktail here and there or a glass of wine or champagne aren’t terrible, it’s best to avoid excessive drinking. Drink plenty of water to keep your hair, skin and nails hydrated and to prevent breaking.
Do trim you hair
We know with relaxers, most likely you depended on your trusted hairstylist for trims. With natural hair the game is a bit different. While there are many great natural hair salons out there, many naturals choose to trim their hair on their own. If you have good sheers, a great intstructional youtube video, or trusted friend or stylist, why not trim your ends? Allowing your ends to get too bad can cause breakage and excessive splitting and no one wants that.
Don’t use a normal towel to dry your hair
Regular cotton towels can be very harsh on natural hair causing damage and breakage. While just using a towel may be quick, the aftermath is not so great for your hair. Instead, using a teeshirt can help to dry hair without the damage.
Do use a silk or satin pillow case
Just like with cotton towels, cotton pillow cases can cause breakage. Imagine your hair rubbing against the friction of a cotton pillow case all night, inevitably you are probably going to experience some breakage. When you instead use a silk or satin pillow case or bonnet, your hair is much more protected.
Do sweat it outÂ
Excercising is great for your overall physical and mental health. Exercising can help release toxins as well as remove blockages in the hair, which can aid in hair growth. The great thing about natural hair is you don’t have to worry about losing your styles as much as with straightened relaxed hair. Throw your hair in a bun, braids, ponytail or wear it out, if it doesn’t interfere with your workout and get your sweat on.
Do use natural oils
Carrier oils such a jojoba, sweet almond oil, apricot, grapeseed oil and avocado oil can help to nourish the hair and scalp. These oils are great for hot oil treatments, moisturizing, and preventing frizz, flyaways and breakage. Our Argan Replenishing Hair and Body Serum is a highly effective serum for treating dry, damaged hair and helping to prevent breakage, frizz and flyaways!
Don’t be overwhelmed by these dos and donts. As you grow in your natural hair journey everything will be come second nature to you!
What natural hair “dos” do you follow?