Black hair is the most difficult hair type to maintain simply because of its tight thick wiry curl pattern. Each strand grows in a tiny tight curled state which gives the appearance of much thicker, denser hair when compared to other hair types.
Research has shown that all human hair has the same basic chemical composition in terms of keratin protein content, however due to afro hair’s wiry kinky pattern it is more difficult for the oil secreted from the scalp to reach the ends of the hair therefore leaving hair dry and easily prone to breakage when brushed or combed.
Due to the high degree of kinky curls in natural afro hair, it is impossible for many to draw a comb through the hair; this leaves hair maintenance, time consuming and painful for many of black descent. While it’s common for Caucasians to comb their hair when dry, it is recommended that those with afro hair comb their hair when wet in order to minimise hair shaft fracture.
Hair shrinkage is another factor that is common with afro hair. Depending on the tightness of the curl, shrinkage can be up to 75% of its true length. This is most evident when hair is wet or has been recently washed.
In order to combat shrinkage it’s common for many to turn to chemicals and heat to straighten afro hair’s naturally tight curl pattern however this leaves the hair more susceptible to damage. If you are determined to grow long afro hair its best to avoid heat and result to more natural means to straighten your hair.
A common technique is to plait the hair in sections when wet and leave overnight. When plaits are taken out, hair is relatively stretched out. Hair will continue to stretch itself over time as long as the hair remains in plaits or you plait it every night before going to bed. Natural oils such as Shea butter and Avocado butter/oil are also good products to use when stretching afro hair naturally.
For general afro hair maintenance we recommend that you try some of the following tips below:
Gently cleanse (not strip) with a Sulfate Free Shampoo
Detangle with fingers before washing
Gently detangle with wide tooth comb in shower
Condition
Deep condition (periodic protein treatments) at least once weekly
Leave-In Conditioner
Moisturize
Section hair to apply leave-in conditioner, moisturizer
Style with styling aid; NO MINERAL OIL OR PETROLEUM
Air dry or on low to medium heat (no high heat)
UV Protection (especially during the Summer)
Keep hair CLEAN – water is our friend (once to twice weekly)
Use protein, as needed (more often if coloring hair)
Sleep with a silk scarf/bonnet as this will help keep the moisture sealed in your hair. This will also help avoid split ends caused by rubbing on harsh cotton pillow cases.
Moisturise hair daily with NakedHairCare products. Focus especially on the ends as this will help keep hair protected and will avoid breakage.
Wash your hair once a week, as mentioned in other articles, water is not an enemy to afro hair but your friend. It is when you use harsh shampoos that contain harsh ingredients such as Laurel sulphate and Parabeans that lead to dry damaged hair. If you live in a hard water area, you may want to invest in a shower filter.
Use a large teeth comb to comb or finger comb de-tangle you hair. It is always best to comb afro hair whilst conditioning it as this will easily help remove tangles and shed hair.
Massage with NakedHairCare products to promote thicker hair growth and improve hair circulation.
And last, but certainly not least, eat a healthy diet which includes drinking lots of water and eating fresh fruits, vegetables and seeds.