GET FREE SAMPLES

sign up for our newsletter to get free sample alerts

Natural Hair Care, A to Z: Everything You Need to Know

Consider this your go-to guide for caring for natural hair
Photo 5/10
J – Jamaican black castor oil

Seriously, it's amazing. (And Shea Moisture 100% Pure Jamaican Black Castor Oil Head to Toe Restoration, $9.99, is a great, affordable option).

K – Keep away from heat

Try not to use heat on your hair with blow dryers, straighteners or curling irons as heat damages our hair and curl pattern. It can be used sparingly for certain styles, but try not to do it too often.

L – Leave-in products

Use leave-in conditioners to give your hair extra moisture and hold.

Buy now

Photo 6/10
M – Microfiber

Invest in a microfiber towel (such as the Aquis Rapid Dry Lisse Hair Towel, $30) to dry your hair, as it's better for your curls. They cause less breakage and absorb water better than cotton towels.

N – Go no 'poo

This means skipping shampoo — or co-washing — so you don't strip your hair of natural oils.

O – Oils

Oils will be your best friend. There are different kinds; some which mainly moisturize and otherwise which seal in moisture. Learn the difference and which kind you want to use when you're doing the LOC or LCO method.

Buy now

Photo 7/10
P – Protective styles

Protective styles are key for protecting your hair from cold air, or harsh heat or even while you're sleeping.

Q – Questions

Ask your fellow naturlistas about their hair journey &mdash: it's always a great way to find out new tips. Also, when finding a new stylist, be sure to ask lots of questions.

R – Routine

Establish a hair care routine early on and stick to it while making little adjustments over time to suit your hair needs and as you find things that work for your hair.

Image via Imaxtree

Photo 8/10
S – Shrinkage

Shrinkage is when your natural hair looks noticeably shorter after getting wet or being washed.

T – Trimming

Curly hair should be trimmed every 4-5 months to keep your curls in optimum shape and avoid split ends.

U – Updos

Wearing your hair up for certain occasions means doing something a little different, but also protects your hair. Remember to use products to keep it moisturized and find a great style for you.

Image via Imaxtree

Photo 9/10
V – Volume

You can add volume to your hair with certain protective styles, or having it cut a certain way.

W – Wash and go

This popular term refers to when you wash and style your hair and then let it air dry while you're out and about without manipulating it after for you to go to bed, etc.

X – Xtra care

Look closely at your ends and make sure they're being moisturized with oils and butter. But also take extra care of your hair in general because being natural means you have to look after your hair a lot more now, but there are things that you can also let go of.

Image via Imaxtree

BY CARMEN WILLIAMS | JUN 30, 2019 | SHARES
VIEW COMMENTS
Full Site | Terms & Conditions | Privacy Policy
TotalBeauty is a property of Evolve Media Holdings, LLC. © 2024 All Rights Reserved. | Affiliate Disclosure: Evolve Media Holdings, LLC, and its owned and operated subsidiaries may receive a small commission from the proceeds of any product(s) sold through affiliate and direct partner links.