We cannot stress enough that it’s important for you to know your own hair and learn what works for you. The basics of natural haircare is the same but the application may differ slightly to based on your own hair needs and preferences.
Some of the basics of natural haircare are:
1. Moisturise.
Water is the best moisturiser.
The drier your hair, the more water it needs. We recommend that your hair gets
some moisture or water daily. A spritz bottle becomes handy if rinsing your
hair daily is not an option.
2. Seal in moisture with an oil of your choice.
A little goes a long way. The idea is not to apply too much as this will cause product build-up and your hair to be heavy. This technique is used to keep moisture in your hair for longer. Others choose to top up with a cream but again, it totally depends if your hair needs it.
3. Condition once a week.
The more you condition and co-wash your hair the more manageable it will be. And when there's product build-up, wash off with shampoo.
4. Detangle, detangle, detangle!
Knots cause breakage. Detangle with fingers first and then use a wide tooth comb if needed. Work from tips to root.
5. Keep your hair stretched.
Sleep with twists or amagoda (braids) to avoid tangling and knots. Again, remember knots cause breakage. So depending on how tight your curl pattern is, and how long your hair is, shrinkage means your hairs needs detangling.
6. Sleep with a satin bonnet.
This not only prevents excessive dryness but also prevents damage to your hair. You can also invest in a satin pillow.
7. Watch out for sharp / styling tools.
Bobby pins that are damaged, metal wig clips that have narrow teeth or combs that have sharp edges will tag onto hair, causing breakage.
8. Avoid heat.
Now this can be a contentious subject but just because your neighbour’s hair can take heat, it doesn’t mean yours will. Exercise caution. Not all hair has the same endurance. And when you do use heat, make sure you use a heat protectant first.
9. Do low manipulation hair-styles.
You want to avoid styles that pull and tug or require too much handling. Great styles are those that are gentle, quick and simple to do like twists, goddess braids, bantu knots, and braid outs.
10. Hairline is queen.
Avoid styles that pull your hairline like a plague. If your stylist continues to pulls your hair, change them! If you persevere, it will be worth it.
