You finally did it! You made it all the way through the process of going natural. Your question is now what? What do you do with all your naturally textured hair? Any hair with a course texture or even a softer and wavier texture needs adequate care to prevent breakage. It is a learning process, but once you learn about your specific hair type, maintenance for your hair becomes easier.
It is said that caring for natural hair is easier than relaxed hair but that is not always true. There is a difference however, but the difference is not that it is easier, it is just more detailed to an individuals needs.
The first thing people with natural hair have to realize is that it craves moisture. That is one of the biggest drawbacks of having natural is that is dries quickly and needs moisturizing attention immediately after washing and conditioning. Shea butter is good moisturizing and nourishment for the hair as well as the your skin and nails.
Petroleum based products are not essential for the hair they tend to sit on top of the hair and not penetrate through the roots and to the scalp. Petroleum also clogs pores in the scalp and slows down growth. Greases with petroleum leave the hair brittle with just layers of grease that will leave residue on pillows and clothing.
Another thing to remember when caring for natural hair is if you have course (coiled hair) or kinky strands do not use a small tooth comb. The smaller the teeth the more the hair will come out in clumps. Small teeth combs rip the hair out from the shaft, which will pull out more than just the dead hair. Also remember when combing the hair not yank out the knots or tangles. This pulls the hair out of the shaft causing more breakage and bald spots.
Like relaxed hair if you do not tie a scarf around your head at night, the sides and back of your head will start to shed hair from rubbing against the pillow. Wear a silk scarf around your hair , or if you are not comfortable wearing a scarf to bed then sleep on a silk or nylon pillow case.
The last thing and the most important thing to remember is to limit the amount of heat that put on the hair. Heat destroys hair. There is a reason why you went natural, and to put heat on your hair from blow drying, flat ironing and curling is unnecessary. If you prefer to periodically wear a style that needs heat then use products to protect your hair from heat damage. Many natural styles are a wash and go process, therefore the regular use of heat is not needed to create a hairstyle. On the other hand if you are wanting a hairstyle that requires heat, go to a natural stylists they will be able to perform the style you want without heat damage.
Natural hair is not that different than caring for relaxed hair. The only major difference is the moisture. Natural needs to be moisturized and everything else after that is similar to having relaxed hair. If you are in doubt of what to do for a specific hair type or style it is always best to consult a beautician who specializes in natural hair care.
