It resembles expression, freedom, and earth! Naturally textured hair is back and here to stay. Women of many different ethnicity are ready for a change. Not only are women interested but also men are deciding to free themselves of chemical straightening and learn more about their own unique hair texture. Afro or naturally curly hair comes in a wide variety styles whether it be dense tight coils or deep soft waves. With proper love and care natural hair can be sexy, but rewarding.
There are a couple of things that play a huge role in maintaining your beautiful locks. First things first, moisture moisture moisture, I can't say it enough. Curly hair lives for moisture,and because of the curl pattern the natural oils can't reach the length of the hair which causes the dryness. There are many ingredients in most products that hinder the health of naturally curly hair, although we've been taught to use some of these for years or it's a part of the first main ingredients which can make it difficult to find something. Some are ingredients like petroleum/mineral oil, sodium lauryl, and sodium laureth sulfate, isopropyl alcohol are just to name a few. Your probably thinking that's everything, but through research and awareness, your hair will be on it way to luxury.
It is particularly very important how we treat natural textures when hair color is involved. Hair color is a double whammy to curly hair causing even more dryness. However, remembering your regular 5-8 weeks hair cut with moisture pack treatments, and the occasional reconstructing pack allows maintaining funky natural tresses without color limitations.
Creating all natural conditioners are great! Combinations of olive oil, coconut oil, or coconut milk mixed with avocado and heavy whipping cream are known to be great moisture masks. Instead of using heavy whipping cream, sometimes mayonnaise is an alternative. Don't worry though if there is no time for mixing, there are a couple of hair product companies that will do just fine. Miss Jessie's, Mizani, and Quidad are some that I've tried and love! Your hair will let you know if what your using is right for your texture, so listen.
When it comes to styling techniques like the 2 strand twists, and braiding with your choice of product and a blowdryer can help tremendously. This can help with frizziness, give shape, and add shine. Depending on how much volume is wanted, blasting the roots with a blowdryer roughens the texture and allows the hair to have more height. The bigger the better!
Natural hair is beautiful in giving a definite individuality, but don't let anyone lie to you because it's not easy. It takes a lot of patience and love, and hair care.