Hair is an essential part of one’s identity, an expression of individuality and cultural heritage. For black women, their hair carries a profound significance that goes far beyond mere aesthetics.
However, due to its unique characteristics and specific needs, caring for black hair can be a challenge sometimes. Understanding the foundations of proper hair care is essential.
Our goal for this article is to present essential tips to empower black women in their hair care routine, helping them embrace and nurture their locks.
That’s why we hired Minuca Elena to reach out to 40 black female bloggers and ask them the following question:
What tips and tricks can black women use to take care of their hair?
Some of the ladies that have contributed to this expert roundup are hair specialists, others are doctors, while some are travel or lifestyle bloggers. What they all have in common is that they are strong, beautiful, black women who take great care of their hair.
Beyond the basics, many of them delve into essential styling tips to protect the hair and promote healthy growth. From protective styles like braids and twists to gentle detangling and moisturizing, they offer practical advice to minimize damage and breakage.
Keep reading to find out all of their tips.
Dr. Nina Ross
Compared to other races, black hair is one of the most unique hairs due to its incredibly curly texture, which may also make African American hair difficult to maintain.
Here are some tips and tricks that black women can use to take care of their hair.
1. Go for hairstyles that do not put excessive tension or pressure on your hair strands. Ensure that your braid styles aren’t too tight or too small. Avoid chemical relaxers as well as long-term clip-ins or sew-ins.
2. Try a looser style or larger braids if you wish to braid your hair.
3. When sleeping, wrap your hair in a silk scarf to protect your hair and scalp.
4. Take note of how long you leave your hair in tight styles. If your scalp continues to feel uncomfortable, get your hairstyle removed.
5. Maintain a healthy nutritional and dietary routine. A well-balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals will result in healthy hair, a healthy scalp, and rejuvenated skin. Essential vitamins like B vitamins, vitamin A, vitamin E, and vitamin C are important factors in hair development.
Shaniqua Garciam – Originals by Africa’s Best
For maximum definition with your curls and twist outs, I recommend using a styling foam that reduces frizz and provides a long-lasting hold while keeping hair rich with luster from the olive oil-enriched ingredients.
After taking down a protective style, I highly recommend a deep conditioning treatment. Repairing hair in between styles is necessary to prevent breakage and increase manageability. This conditioner helps recover hair with its egg protein ingredients and supports hydration that hair may have lost during a protective style.
To prevent dry and brittle hair, always use a heat protectant before blow-drying or flat-ironing your hair. A heat protectant creates a barrier between your hair and heat exposure that keeps your cuticles smooth and healthy.
To maintain healthy hair and length retention, I recommend trimming your ends every 8-10 weeks. Be sure to use sharpened shears to reduce the chances of causing more split ends.
During wash day use a paddle brush/denman brush to detangle your hair starting from the ends and working up to the roots. Using this tool will help minimize breakage and create ease during the process.
Michelle Wagman – Fashion Edits
To keep my curls healthy and natural, I follow a routine. The first Tip is to treat your hair with the same care as your skin. Developing a consistent regimen has helped me maintain the beauty and moisture of my curls. By following this routine, my spirals always look their best.
To keep my hair clean and healthy, I shampoo it twice with a clarifying moisture shampoo; it helps eliminate any buildup while moisturizing it. After shampooing, I apply a deep moisture conditioner and leave it on for 5-10 minutes before rinsing it off with cool water; it prevents my hair from becoming dry and brittle by adding moisture.
I first moisturize my partially wet hair with hair-appropriate oil like tee tree to maintain my healthy curls. Then, I apply a leave-in conditioner and my preferred mousse or gel to add more moisture.
A helpful tip I follow for my hair is to moisturize every strand. However, I only use oil after shampooing, not daily, to prevent my hair from looking too oily or greasy.
Apart from my daily hair care routine, I minimize the use of heat on my hair. This practice helps to prevent damage and maintain the optimal look of my curls. I have kept them healthy and beautiful by sticking to a regular hair care regimen and giving my curls the best possible care.
Michaelle Barbor – Elfin View
You need to familiarize yourself with your hair type. The American Academy of Dermatology advises a weekly wash for tightly coiled hair, which can vary based on your scalp’s health.
Choose gentle, moisturizing shampoos to avoid stripping your hair’s natural oils. Condition each time you wash, paying particular attention to the ends of your hair.
However, if you have a scalp condition like dandruff, you may need to wash your hair more frequently, twice a week. When washing your hair, it’s important to treat your scalp gently and avoid rubbing it.
Instead, pat your hair dry to prevent damage.
You need to hydrate your hair consistently to combat the dryness inherent in black hair. Use conditioners, leave-in treatments, or oils like jojoba or coconut.
Apply oils to your hair after washing to lock in moisture.
Protective hairstyles like braids or twists are your friends.
Ensure braids are loose and alternate their direction to ease scalp tension. Regular trims (every 6-8 weeks) prevent split ends and maintain hair health. Pair this with a balanced, nutrient-rich diet for improved texture and growth.
A routine deep conditioning treatment keeps your hair soft and manageable while massaging your scalp with oil can stimulate blood flow and promote growth.
Dr. DJ Sims – SuperHero Skincare
One of the most important tips for maintaining healthy black hair is to prioritize the health of your hair follicles and strands. Since hair growth begins from the inside out, it is crucial to ensure that you are taking in the right nutrients.
As a Naturopathic Doctor specializing in hair and skin, I emphasize eating a diet rich in protein and vegetables to promote hair growth and overall health.
However, most standard American diets are deficient in the nutrients we need to promote healthy hair growth, so supplementing your diet with a daily multivitamin or hair vitamins is important.
It is also good to check your iron levels to ensure that you get enough iron in your diet. Iron helps to carry oxygen to the hair follicles, which is needed for the growth and repair of hair cells. Low iron levels can lead to hair loss and thinning, as well as other health issues.
Foods such as red meat, poultry, fish, spinach, and lentils are all good sources of iron. Let’s not forget that you must drink plenty of water for hair growth which can help keep your hair strand hydrated.
In addition to nourishing your hair from within, you should also take steps to protect your hair from external damage.
Shahada Karim – HABIBI Bath & Body
Proper moisture is key with hair that is curly or kinky. Instead of simply using oils or butters to moisturize, dampen hair first.
You can use water (infused with an essential oil like ylang-ylang for extra benefits) or aloe.
Lightly hydrate your hair, then lock in the hydration with the oil or butter of your choice.
The lighter the formula, the more easily it can seal the hair cuticle with less potential for tangling or breaking.
Jewell Singletary – Gratitude Griot LLC
Throughout my life, I’ve experienced lupus-related hair loss and thinning, but I’ve been able to grow a healthy bra-strap length afro with a primarily plant-based lifestyle.
I only drink water and herbal teas; my diet is about 80% plant-based. I wash my hair every 3-4 weeks with paraben and sulfate-free shampoos and moisturizing conditioners.
I mix my own shea butter blends and natural oils to apply to my hair and skin. I don’t use heat on my hair and I choose low-maintenance hairstyles such as braids and twists.
The last protective practice in my hair care routine is headwraps and silk pillowcases to prevent breakage.
Lucy Ifunanya – Ifylucy
When I was growing up, I loved having my hair plaited, but the challenge I had was that I always had dandruff and this made me always scratch my hair.
So, this is how I take care of my hair and how Nigeria women at large take care of their hair:
In my tribe, Igbo land, there is something we called Okwume also known as Shear butter, this is what helped me get off my dandruff then. I always rub it all over my hair.
Another thing that helped me to get rid of this dandruff is the use of a soap called ncha oji in my tribe, another name for ncha oji is black soap. I always use this soap to wash my hair.
But in Nigeria generally, women take care of their hair by using a product called relaxer, they rub it all over their hair and allow it to stay 10 to 20 minutes, then they wash it off with shampoo and conditioner.
Delia Pena-Gay
I’ve been on my natural hair care journey since 2009. This was a time when natural hair wasn’t popular, and at the beginning of my journey, I was a product junkie.
I was shamed at Dominican salons for wearing my natural hair, experienced heat damage, and had my scalp and ears burnt with a blow dryer. That experience caused me to try every at-home concoction you could think of. I’ve had enough terrible experiences at the hairdresser to last me a lifetime.
My advice is to keep things simple. First, find a hairdresser with experience with natural hair and clients to vouch for them. Shampoo, conditioner, styler, and routine trims are all you need for healthy hair. I wash my hair every 10-12 days and wear twists or twist-outs.
My hair was stuck at one length for two years until I began implementing that routine. Also, have an understanding of what products work for certain hairstyles.
Grace Mashaba – The Grace
My best tip is to use Shea butter to keep your hair moist and prevent it from drying out, which can often happen when you have it up in braids or locks.
Shea butter is produced from Shea nuts of the Shea-Karite tree, a native tree that is grown in West Africa.
After I’ve washed my hair after taking out the braids I melt a small quantity of Shea butter, and apply it all over my hair.
You can also add it to your moisturizer spray and spray it onto your hair. I use it at least 4 times a month.
Milagros – Curls by Mili
I am an Afro-Latina from the Bronx! For more than 12 years, I have rocked my natural hair.
Whether you wear your hair silky straight or naturally curly or kinky, an underrated yet crucial hair care tip for Black women is to schedule regular haircuts every 3 – 4 months.
It helps maintain the health of your hair by eliminating split ends that tangle easily and prevents further hair follicle breakage.
Haircuts also maintain the cut and shape of your hairstyle or help you change up your look. All of which leads to boosting your confidence and refreshing your look.
Aspen Cierra
Washing your hair thoroughly is an underutilized part of the haircare process. If you don’t have an oily scalp, daily washing may not be for you, but cleansing your hair and scalp at least once a week is going to help with a plethora of hair woes.
Product buildup, dry and itchy scalp, and dehydrated hair are a few of the problems that can stem from not washing your hair enough.
Using a clarifying shampoo, in addition to your regular routine, once or twice a month will help make sure that the hair follicles are perfectly primed to encourage hair growth and the success of your favorite styles.
Dr. Charlie Cage
My hair is natural and I understand the struggle involved with black women’s hair.
I have learned that lack of moisture is the enemy but a balance must be maintained to have clean hair and scalp without dehydration.
To do this, I only wash my hair 1-2 times a week to reduce over-stripping the oils from my hair and scalp.
I have noticed a dramatic difference in the condition of my hair when I use water that is softened. Washing hair with hard water can leave your hair, scalp, and skin feeling dry and itchy so enjoy the benefits of having a softer.
After washing and conditioning, I detangle immediately before my hair dries using a technique of detangling the ends and working up to the roots to prevent breakage.
The products that have been invaluable to healthy hair is a combination of both an oil and cream which provided maximum moisture without weighting down your hair.
If blow drying to flat ironing using a heat protectant is important to break heat damage which can lead to breakage and split ends.
Most importantly, wearing a protective cap at night help protect the hair from moisture loss and break and also keeps both edges and hair condition tamed.
Camesha Gosha
I’m a lifestyle blogger with a focus on self-care and wellness. To take care of my hair I use products that add moisture. I also sleep on a satin pillowcase or in a satin bonnet to protect my tresses.
Because I am a curly girl, I don’t use heat on my hair unless I wear a protective style that requires it.
As for protective styles, about once a year, I get my hair braided to give my hair a break from being styled weekly.
Doing these things and keeping up with trims helps to maintain healthy, full locks and promote growth.
Erin Cooper – Hungry Fit Foodie
As a woman of color, I’ve discovered the key to caring for my hair lies in embracing my natural curls. It’s liberating to go natural and rock my curls, allowing me to fully enjoy life and workouts without hair worries.
My go-to protective style is all about moisture, as our hair craves it. Each day, I prioritize moisture by wetting my hair, applying a deep conditioner, and using a curl styling cream. This routine keeps my curls refreshed and thriving.
To maintain healthy hair, I’ve learned a few essential tips. First, I make sure to moisturize daily, as moisture is the lifeblood of black hair.
My morning routine consists of me spritzing my hair with water, deep conditioning, and applying a curl styling cream that locks in the much-needed moisture.
G Stone – “Straight” … But Not Narrow Ladies
Tips and tricks black women can use to take care of their hair
1. Moisturize and then moisture some more. Black hair, especially 4c patterns, tends to be very dry, brittle and prone to breakage.
It’s so important to keep your delicate strands moisturized with a good leave-in conditioner and then follow it up with a natural oil (coconut oil, jojoba oil, sweet almond oil, etc) to seal in the moisture.
2. Protective styles are game changers. Protective hairstyles like braids, twists, locs, or buns not only reduce your daily style time and hair manipulation significantly but they also reduce damage.
With protective styles, it’s important to make sure you’re not creating any tension by pulling your hair, especially the edges, too tight as that can result in significant breakage.
3. After taking out the braids, gently comb before washing. Do not take out your braids and wash your hair without combing or detangling it first! Especially if the braids were in for several weeks.
Gently combing or detangling helps remove the accumulation of shed hair and build-up. If you skip this step, your hair may get extremely tangled during shampooing and result in a lot of unwanted breakages and even pain.
4. Healthy hair and scalp start from within. Drink lots of water to stay hydrated, eat foods packed with vitamins and minerals, take a multivitamin or supplements if needed for deficiencies, exercise regularly, and keep your stress levels low.
Alexia Blair – Brennas Hair
As a black woman, I’m sure you know how important it is to keep your hair looking nice in this society, but what about it feeling nice? One of the most important things we lack in our hair is moisture.
Our hair is prone to breakage because of its coarse texture and right curl pattern. Moisturizing your hair consistently will help it be flexible and avoid snapping when manipulated.
Another good to is to clip your ends. Nobody wants to, but it’s another great way to retain length. Clipping dead ends helps breakage from traveling up the hair shaft, worsening the damage.
Both of these tips are even more important if you have colored or chemically treated hair. These processes can compromise the integrity of the hair shaft, making it more vulnerable to snapping and/or thinning.
One more tip is to dangle from ends to roots rather than the other way around. This will keep you from snatching out hair while you remove tangles.
Lucy M Brice
My hair journey was transformed by embracing messy hair days and YouTube University. Growing up in a Haitian household as an American, I felt pressured to have perfect and presentable hair, which was exhausting and costly. Here are my favorite tips for hair care:
1. Embrace rest. Break free from the ‘wash, style, repeat’ cycle. Chasing a perfect image is draining and dehydrates your hair.
2. Moisturize regularly. Black hair gets dry, so moisture is crucial. Protective styles like loose buns with satin scrunchies, two-strand twists, and no-heat blowouts allow your hair to relax and rehydrate.
3. Overnight protection. Invest in satin pillowcases and scarves to avoid friction and maintain hair health.
4. Regular appointments. Don’t limit visits to special occasions. Allocating a budget for regular visits to a skilled hairstylist promotes hair health and provides professional guidance.
Saideh Brown – Luxury Sai
Good hair. Bad hair. Hair! Hair! Hair! is a common topic among black women on an almost daily basis.
I am an interior designer and I also own The Luxury Sai Lounge – a self-care and beauty bar – in Raleigh, North Carolina. I toggle, almost daily, between on-site installations for clients and networking events to grow my business.
I have natural hair so slick-and-smooth is elusive, especially during Raleigh Summers. And, to add to my hair dilemma, I work out six days a week at Burn Bootcamp.
During the warmer months, my hair is kept in two-strand twists and is nurtured by Miss Jessie’s Baby Buttercream. I wear a bonnet at night to contain the frizzies. I wash my hair more frequently since going outside with wet hair is of little concern.
During the colder months, I wear my hair bone straight. Since it is wet when I leave the gym in the morning, I have to dry it anyway before heading to work. I use Vitapointe since it is heavy and protects my hair from the heat, but not as heavy as, say, Ultra Sheen.
Tosha Johnson – Hustle in Faith
I’m always experimenting with my 4C hair. One of the greatest pieces of advice I can offer Black women about their hair is to use an Aloe Vera plant as a pre-shampoo treatment once a week.
I cut open an Aloe Vera plant, scoop out the gel inside it, pound it into a paste (filter out the pulp), and place the gel throughout my hair. I make sure that my hair is thoroughly coated. I then put on my bonnet and go to bed. When I wake up in the morning, I shampoo, condition, and style my hair.
Aloe Vera works like a “natural relaxer.” It helps soften my hair (especially helpful if I wear it straight), elongates my curls, and provides incredible sheen.
I highly recommend incorporating Aloe Vera into your hair care routine.
Jamila Kyari
For the longest time, Black hair has been viewed negatively as difficult to style, manage and grow.
For this reason, I went through a season of unlearning and debunking most of the myths surrounding my 4C kinky-textured, natural hair that I might have embraced while growing up in Nigeria, West Africa – stories told to me by others that my hair was too “strong” and that it needed to be “tamed” with chemical relaxers.
Finding myself in Canada years later, the experience is no different. The common stereotype is that natural hair looks “unkempt” or “unprofessional,” but it doesn’t have to be a narrative I or anyone embraces.
As a simple person who prefers low maintenance, I needed to discover a hairstyle and care routine that fitted seamlessly into my busy lifestyle. For me, this means keeping short looks.
Today, regular hair care is all about taking time out to pamper oneself in addition to having a groomed appearance. If you have a short afro like me, I recommend visiting the barber’s shop every 6 to 12 weeks to get a fresh cut and trim.
You can wash the hair weekly while showering and moisturize with essential oils like almond and jojoba.
Due to the short nature of your tresses, you might not need to comb or de-tangle (except with your fingers when the hair is wet), which helps avoid unnecessary breakage and damage to the hair follicles.
Sterling Jones – The Beauté Study
As a woman with naturally curly hair, I focus on hair care from the perspective of how can I maintain my gorgeous hair in any state I desire to style it.
I break my hair routine down into three themes: Hydration, Styling, and Maintenance. First, the theme of Hydration begins with weekly hair washing with a hydration shampoo and conditioner. I clarify my hair with a clarifying shampoo twice a month.
Next, the theme of Styling depends on how I am getting my hair styled. If I am wearing my hair curly, I am using one to two styling products like a mousse and curl cream.
If I am wearing my hair straight, I am using a pre-styling treatment that doubles as a heat protectant and a post-styling oil for a silk press look.
Finally, the theme of Maintenance targets how I maintain the health of my hair with scalp care, hair trims, and tools. Scalp hair is an essential part of my hair routine to keep my scalp healthy. I keep up my hair trims with a three-month schedule with my hair stylist.
The tools I use at home include my hair dryer, which I prefer to use to reduce hair frizz. All of these things are my system to take care of my hair.
Felister Moraa
As a black African woman, my hair is my pride and joy. It’s my identity and my truth. I have dreadlocks, which are deeply rooted in my African culture, and one of the core styles our Ancestors wore.
Styling and taking care of my locks not only reminds me of where I come from but also enhances my beauty.
Taking care of my locks isn’t that difficult. As long as I frequently wash and get them re-twisted and locked, I’m good.
However, I’m keen on using all-natural shampoos and conditioners that won’t damage my roots or hair texture. I also only use all-natural wax gel for my re-twist to ensure my hair flourishes.
Once every three months, I apply a hair treatment to nourish the hair. I don’t dye or bleach my locks because the chemicals can damage them and cause them to break or cut off.
I’d advise women to invest in all-natural products for their hair. All-natural products don’t affect our natural curls and maintain the hair’s texture. Keeping your hair clean and moisturized is also crucial to preserving your hair’s health.
Ayla Duve – AppleFallsPrints
Taking care of my hair has been a lifelong journey because as a woman that is Black and Puerto Rican, there was never an example of someone with hair like mine and there were never products that were just right.
My hair is type 3c and even with kinky curls, my hair is coarser than other biracial women and my scalp is dry. To help maintain my curls especially as I age, I stick to just a few products.
My daily routine:
I comb my hair in water only with a wide toothcomb. My hair requires lots of moisture so I use Shea Moisture for both Shampoo and Conditioning however I only shampoo about once a week. I condition it daily while I comb my hair and let air dry. To help reduce frizz I will use Marc Anthony Strictly Curls while my hair is wet.
My biannual routine:
I have my hair cut dry and deep conditioned about twice a year. This helps maintain curl shape and lets me check in on the health of my hair.
Taking care of my hair has always been a priority for me and as I get older I make a point to try to use the best and most affordable products for me.
Robin Wilson Home
I made the transition from relaxed to natural hair over the past 10 years and have learned that the most important thing besides moisturizing/conditioning is how you sleep on your hair.
Satin sleep bonnets and/or satin pillowcases are a must accessory for your bedtime ritual – at home or when traveling. Using a satin accessory prevents breakage as you move during sleep. If you sweat when sleeping, a pillowcase is best.
For style protection or if you are a restless sleeper, a bonnet and pillowcase are best – in case the bonnet slips off, the pillowcase will still be in place.
I recommend having a satin pillowcase ready for travel so you can just pop it into your suitcase.
Iesha Mulla – Parental Questions
As a black woman, taking care of my hair can be both an enjoyable and sometimes intimidating process. However, with the right techniques, I have found that caring for my hair is manageable and rewarding.
One of the most important tips I use when it comes to taking care of my natural hair is to keep it clean and well-conditioned. To do this, I typically opt for gentle sulfate-free products that are specifically formulated for curly or kinky types like mine.
I regularly condition and detangle my strands with a wide-toothed comb while in the shower and always air dry after washing instead of using heat tools which can damage my locks.
Once out of the shower, I ensure that all knots have been removed before applying any leave-in conditioners or styling products such as mousses or gels – this has become essential in helping me create long-lasting curl definition without creating frizziness or weighing down my curls!
When it comes to styling, I opt for protective styles such as braids or two-strand twists, which help me switch up my look and give my hair a break from the daily wear and tear of styling.
Colleen Gwen Armstrong – Colleen The Publicist
The following things I learned along the way since my hair texture and elasticity changed drastically:
1. Gone were the days when I could wash my hair every two weeks! Now once a week is a necessity. Of course, I learned this the hard way and thought I could continue washing every two weeks until realizing dandruff/hair product buildup was out of control.
2. I have oily skin and always had an oily scalp since a teenager. Once I stopped relaxing, within the first two months I noticed my hair becoming extremely dry and I tried numerous dry/brittle hair treatments and deep conditioners to no avail. All of these products were very pricey might I add.
As a last resort, I decided to purchase a hot oil treatment sample for $2..50 from Luster’s Pink Oil Moisturizer (the brand has been a staple in the Black hair community since the beginning of time). Lol! Needless to say after just (1) hot oil treatment my hair regained its moisture considerably.
I now make sure to do a hot oil treatment twice a month and I pay special attention to the ends of my hair when receiving a regular conditioner after learning how dry and brittle your ends can be.
3. I wear wigs and hair pieces as a protective style. I try to give my hair a break from the wigs, etc. while going to the gym, running errands, etc.
It was very common for me to just pull my hair back and tie a cotton bandana around it. I didn’t realize that there were days I would have the bandana on all day and it was drying out my hair as well.
I’ve since paid more attention to the fabrics used to tie my hair down. I always hear people talk about the importance of wearing silk scarves/sleeping on silk pillowcases and I realize how much of a significant difference it makes.
It’s been a journey, however, I’m happy to give my hair the attention it deserves. Although shrinkage is VERY real, I’m also happy to share that my hair stretches out to the longest it’s ever been!
Trysta Barwig – This Travel Dream
Here is how I take care of my hair as a black woman with 4C hair who frequently travels to tropical destinations, including Hawaii.
Maintaining healthy and vibrant hair while exploring diverse climates requires a combination of protective styling, moisture retention, and mindful product selection.
First and foremost, protective styling plays a vital role in preserving the health of my 4C hair. I often opt for low-manipulation styles, such as braids or twists, that shield my hair from external elements and reduce breakage during my travels. These styles also allow me to enjoy the destination without worrying about hair maintenance.
Moisture retention is a key aspect of my hair care routine, especially in tropical climates. Before embarking on my travels, I ensure my hair is well-moisturized. I deep condition regularly, incorporating hydrating hair masks enriched with natural oils and humectants that help lock in moisture and prevent dryness.
During my trip, I prioritize moisturizing my hair using a leave-in conditioner or a moisturizing spray to combat the effects of sun exposure, humidity, and saltwater. I also oil my scalp after braiding and washing my hair.
Mindful product selection is essential for nurturing my 4C hair while traveling. I opt for hair care products specifically formulated for textured hair, paying attention to the ingredients and avoiding sulfates, parabens, and other harsh chemicals that can strip away moisture. Natural oils such as coconut oil, jojoba oil, and shea butter are staples in my routine, providing nourishment and sealing in moisture.
In addition to protective styling, moisture retention, and mindful product selection, I also prioritize the gentle handling of my hair. I use wide-toothed combs or my fingers to detangle, starting from the ends and working my way up to minimize breakage. While sleeping, I also wear a satin or silk scarf or a satin pillowcase to prevent friction and protect my hair’s moisture levels.
Kali Patrice – The Original Hair Whisperer
Three tips and tricks I personally use and also recommend are:
1. Adopt an attitude of play! Haircare begins with hair love, and hair love begins with replacing fear and intimidation with fun and exploration. Finding the right haircare routines will change for as long as we live because products keep changing and our hair changes over time. So, the name of the game is to make it fun!
2. Add ease with innovative products, processes, and tools! We are exiting a season of spending lots and lots of time on our hair – ushering in a season of time-saving EASE. Simplicity with hair, as with a number of other things in life, comes through hacks! Choosing one product that does the job of three, like Doux Mousse Def, and opting for safe chemical re-texturizing to create the looks you love in less time are two examples of healthy hair hacks.
3. Last but not least, Lacing aka Tree Braiding: This underrated protective style for highly-textured hair begins with a foundation of small to micro-sized tree braids. Black women can enjoy a *vast *array of lengths, colors, textures, and even style cuts that look more like loose hair than braids.
Alexis Chateau
I grew up in a multi-racial family where almost everyone else had “nice” hair. Mine, on the other hand, was branded “difficult.” In my early 20s, I started the process of locking my hair. Ten years later, I still think it’s the best decision I ever made.
Dreads finally gave me carefree, low-maintenance hair without chopping everything off. I can wash and go and only need to twist or interlock every 4 to 8 weeks. I learned to do it myself so that haircare needs didn’t affect my travel plans as a digital nomad.
My family was initially skeptical of my decision to transition to locked hair, but they are now 100% supportive. So much so, in fact, that I recently locked my mother’s hair as well. She is loving her dreadlocks journey and how easy they are to maintain.
People often ask me: why dreads? I tell them that if my hair was made for combs, it wouldn’t break them so easily!
Kisha Mays – Just Fearless
I have been a natural for well over 15 years. For me, that means no relaxers.
Depending on my hairstyle will decide if I use a bonnet or silk scarf.
But there is always something covering my head at night to protect my hair or at the very least having a silk pillowcase on my pillows.
Akilah Trinay – Revision Publishing
In December 2012, I made the ultimate hair decision that has completely transformed my life! I chose to sisterlock my hair, and it has been nothing short of a game-changer. Sisterlocks are a natural and incredibly versatile long-term hairstyle that has changed the hair game for Black women all over the world.
Not only have sisterlocks allowed me to avoid harmful chemicals and hair extensions, but they have also given me the freedom to effortlessly rock a gorgeous style every single day.
Initially, I was hesitant to sisterlock my hair, thinking that it was a more sophisticated style, reserved for older women. However, I quickly realized that this was a false assumption.
Now, ten years later, my hair is longer and more beautiful than I ever thought possible. I am able to get up and go without worrying about the stress of what to do with my hair.
I receive compliments daily from strangers who admire my hair, thanking me for inspiring them to make the same choice. So to those who are afraid that choosing sisterlocks means shaving it all off – fear not! Trust me when I say that our hair is our crown and I feel like absolute royalty.
Dr. Sondema Tarr – Direct Podiatry Arizona
I have Sisterlocks and have had them since 2017. At the time I was spending a full day doing a wash routine filled with multiple products, steps, airdrying, and styling. I was looking for a style that gave me more freedom and thus decided to lock my hair.
Since then, I only use 3-5 products now: Avalon Organics Nourishing Lavender shampoo, rose water as a moisturizer, jojoba oil to lock in this moisture, and occasionally almond oil to pre-poo with.
My regimen is very simple. I retighten my locs every 4-6 months. My hair is also the longest that it’s ever been, I’m approaching waist length.
All in all, Sisterlocks have been a blessing for me. I can swim every day and not worry about detangling my hair. I don’t have to stress about my hair being braided before I go on vacation. I wake up, and my hair is effectively styled. Anything I do extra to it is just icing on the cake.
Kira Byrd – Curl Centric
For black women, nurturing our hair requires a specific approach that respects our unique textures and patterns. Here are some key pointers:
Prioritize moisture: our hair tends to be naturally dry. Regular hydration with water-based moisturizers and sealing with oils can help lock in moisture.
Gentle cleansing: over-washing can strip hair of natural oils, leading to dryness and breakage. Opt for sulfate-free shampoos, and consider co-washing (conditioner-only washing) in between shampoos.
Deep conditioning: this is a must to replenish moisture and promote elasticity, which can help reduce breakage. Incorporate deep conditioning into your routine at least once a week.
Protective styling: hairstyles like braids, twists, and updos can protect your hair from damage by reducing wear and tear. However, ensure that these styles are not too tight to avoid tension on the scalp and hairline.
Regular trimming: even with great care, our ends can become dry and split over time. Regular trims help maintain healthy hair and promote growth.
Remember, every hair journey is unique. What works best for you depends on your specific hair type, texture, and personal preferences. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what suits your hair best.
Jade Carolina – In Love With The Co
I would say the number 1 tip for any black woman with their hair, first of all, is to KISS- keep it simple and sweet. Don’t overdo the hair with much product.
Keep the hair moisturised and use a good plain simple product. I think Aussie is really good for hair with texture as the formulations really motorise and are light and smell divine.
At night Use an oil like Moroccan oil all over the hair to seal the cuticle and put the hair in braids/ twists so it doesn’t tangle.
Don’t over wash the hair and keep washing to once every 2 weeks if possible. If you can buy a pair of cutting scissors and keep split ends at bay each month to keep growth even and create depth and texture.
Try to not use too much heat on the hair if you do put a barrier on the hair like a heat protection spray or pomade.
Nicole Fraise – Nic Up And Go
I’ve been on a career break traveling the world since 2021, and have become an avid travel blogger. Undoubtedly, hair was one of the determining factors in where I’d go during the planning phase!
I didn’t want to hope for a decent hair product selection or find myself with weeks of new growth with nowhere to turn. I also didn’t want the burden of trying to bring enough products weighing down my suitcase.
The *only* solution was braids! I had to ensure every 2-3 months, I’d be in a location with a decent population of black people to ensure I could find a braider! I’ve been braided in Lima, Peru; Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Dar es Salaam, Tanzania; Marr
akech, Morocco; Nice, France; London, England; Berlin, Germany and Medellin, Colombia! Instagram has been a lifesaver for this. Hop on, search “braids + city”. (Trenzas in South America!)
Thank God for technology! And yes, it’s a fraction of the cost of any US city. I left with a pixie cut, and now I have pretty good length!
Allison Taylor – Pretty Girlz Tings
I can get away without much maintenance to my hair. I can wet it when I want to wear it wavy or curly, and I can straighten it with flat irons when I want to wear it straight.
Black women have very complex hair textures and as a result, there are many options available to us on how to properly take care of our hair depending on what type it is and what we are looking to achieve.
I personally have a combination of 2B and 2C hair, so it depends on your ethnicity and if your family tree is full African American or mixed and the level of and if a black woman is mixed race, multiracial or biracial.
You can have healthy hair challenges once you start to use a particular product that is not sold in many of the big box stores and you are then left with trying an alternative product. Black women like to stick to only a few products to keep from stripping their hair of essential oils and moisture.
Most single parents are limited on time, so we go the quicker hair care route which is quick weaves, and the lace front wigs that have become so popular over the last few years. We would rather sacrifice the oxygen and care required for proper hair health by wearing a lace front wig because it looks so real than take the time to do our own hair. But again, there is never enough time left in a day, so it is a choice that many of us have to make.
I would also suggest that black women take the time to research what hair regimen they should use based on their hair type and they will help them on the road to longer and stronger hair.
There has always been this misconception in the black community that black women’s hair doesn’t grow as long as other cultures and that is simply a myth. Over the last few years, black women have taken more interest in the health of their hair and as a result, I have seen more and more black women, including myself with longer, stronger, healthier hair that is 14 to 22 inches long.
Tia Mula – Live & Wed
Here are my top tips for taking care of your hair as an African-American woman.
1. Use sulfate-free shampoos. When you’re shopping for your next shampoo, make sure to look for sulfate-free options. They’re gentler on your hair and won’t strip away its natural oils, keeping it from getting too dry.
2. Sleep on a satin pillowcase. You should consider switching to a satin or silk pillowcase to minimize friction while you sleep. This helps to reduce hair breakage, tangling, and frizz.
3. Regular scalp care. Remember to keep your scalp clean and moisturized to promote healthy hair growth. Incorporate scalp massages to stimulate blood flow and maintain a healthy scalp.
4. Moisturize and seal. Apply a water-based moisturizer followed by a natural oil, like jojoba or coconut oil, to seal in moisture. This process, also known as the L.O.C. method (liquid, oil, cream), will help keep your hair hydrated and reduce breakage.
5. Trim regularly. To maintain healthy hair, make sure to trim your ends regularly. This will help prevent split ends from causing further damage.
6. Embrace natural hair! Learn to love and work with your hair’s natural texture. Avoid harsh chemical treatments, such as relaxers or perms, which can cause long-term damage and weaken your hair.
Alice Walk – Couture Candy
Moisturize regularly: black hair tends to be naturally dry and prone to breakage, so moisturizing is essential. Use a water-based leave-in conditioner or moisturizing spray to hydrate your hair daily. Additionally, deep conditioning treatments once a week can help replenish moisture and nourish your strands.
Protective styling: protective hairstyles such as braids, twists, buns, or wearing wigs help minimize manipulation and protect the ends of your hair. These styles can reduce breakage and shield your hair from harsh environmental factors.
Gentle handling: be gentle when detangling and styling your hair to avoid breakage. Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to detangle, starting from the ends and working your way up. Avoid using fine-tooth combs or brushes that can cause excessive tension and breakage.
Avoid heat damage: excessive heat styling can lead to dryness and damage. Minimize the use of heat tools like flat irons and curling irons, and always apply a heat protectant before styling. Embrace heatless styling methods such as bantu knots, twist-outs, or flexi rods to achieve beautiful curls without heat.
Alyssa – HealthKeeda
I am a woman of colour with personal experience in taking care of my own hair, so I am aware of the particular difficulties and beauty that come with having black hair. Here are some useful pointers and techniques I discovered during my travels:
Embrace the moisture: black hair care cannot exist without moisture. I advise regularly implementing deep conditioning procedures into your routine. To deeply hydrate and nourish your hair, look for products infused with natural oils like argan, jojoba, or shea butter.
Protective styling: the secret to keeping your hair healthy is to shield it from the elements and over-manipulating it. I can provide a variety of protective hairstyles that offer versatility and style in addition to protecting your hair, like braids, twists, and updos.
Gentle handling: because black hair is fragile, it is essential to use gentle handling to avoid breaking. I can give expertise on using little heat and avoiding harsh chemical treatments that can weaken hair, as well as advice on detangling using wide-toothed combs or your fingers.
Taking care of your scalp: a healthy scalp encourages a healthy growth of hair. I’ll go over the value of routine cleaning, the advantages of mild exfoliation to get rid of buildup, and the technique of scalp massage to increase blood flow and stimulate follicles.
Curated product recommendations: thanks to my familiarity with a range of hair care items, I am able to make tailored suggestions that are specially made for black hair. I’ll concentrate on recommending nutritious shampoos, conditioners, and style aids that take into account our particular requirements.
Let us celebrate the diversity and beauty of black hair. Embrace your natural locks, educate yourself about proper care techniques, and share your knowledge with others. Together, let’s create a community that uplifts and empowers black women, breaking barriers and embracing the power of their hair. Start your journey today and inspire others to do the same. Your hair deserves the love and care it demands.
