Everyone should take care of their hair. African hair requires a little more attention because it is curly, needs more moisture and tactile strength.
Here we give you a complete guide on how you can give your hair the best care. From natural hair, dreadlocks to chemically straightened hair and weaves. It’s all covered here.
DREADLOCKS
Dreadlocks are fashionable and work well for both men and women. When caring for dreads or natural hair, take note of the following tips:
Shampoo and condition your hair every three weeks using products designed for dreadlocks. To combat growth of bacteria between washings, wipe dreads and scalp with an astringent-soaked cotton ball or pad. Don’t use a comb! It causes breakage. Instead use your fingertips to comb through your hair. Moisturize your locks using natural oils or oil-based products. Wrap your locks in a satin cloth while you sleep to avoid drastic loss of mositure.
WEAVES/ EXTENSIONS
This is where artificial pieces are added onto natural hair to improve it’s appearance and combat hair loss. Hair weaving and extensions is done by professional hair stylists. It can also be completed during one appointment if the stylist is really good.
CHEMICALLY TREATED NATURAL HAIR
There are countless chemically treated hair styles. Identify styles that enhance your facial shape and feel free to switch up. Please note that treating hair weakens it.
So take note of the following:
- Get a treatment at least once every two weeks to maintain moisture and grit. Endeavor to learn about the products you put in your hair. Protein re-constructors and steaming treatments are great. You can find these at “Body shop” Pioneer Mall on Kampala road. Miadi is a great brand for African hair.
- Wear your hair down once in a while. Ponytails and other strenuous styles which involve too much twisting and turning can break your hair.
- Include natural oils in your regimen. These can include shea butter oil, castor oil, coconut oil and olive oil. They help a great deal in softening hair and keeping moisture locked in. You can find these at your local pharmacy.
- Comb your hair right from the roots. A lot of hair is lost during combing but this doesn’t have to be the case if you adopt some good combing habits. Use a wide toothed comb to untangle the hair first.
- Apply relaxer after at least six weeks of application. Relaxing chemicals are harsh so allowing hair to rejuvenate is important.
- Take lots of water, eat healthy and stay out of the sun as much as you can. Too much UV exposure dries out and browns the hair.
STYLING FOR MEN
While men can follow the same shampoo and conditioning routines as women their hair has different maintenance needs. African men sometimes have trouble growing their hair out as it is often dry, brittle and curly. However here are some tips that can help.
- Avoid chemical treatments. Relaxers slow hair growth.
- Condition every day and deep condition once a week. Remember to use lukewarm or cold water when you rinse your hair as hot water dries out hair and makes it brittle.
- Show off your healthy hair.Don’t hide it in caps and head pieces.
- Consult your hairstylist to help you find the hairstyle that suits you. Short dreads are easier to maintain than long dreads and have a trendy urban and modern appeal.
VITAL STYLING NOTES
- Stay away from heat. Heat from blow-dryers, flattening irons and other appliances weakens your hair. Avoid them as much as you can and if you need to use them make sure you apply protective and restorative products before and after use.
- Watch your diet. Healthy hair comes from within and you should make sure your diet includes vitamin B, folic acid, and protein – all of which help to maintain healthy hair.
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