Black Hair Care Tips
Black hair (African American hair) is different from Caucasoid or Asian hair. The most typical character of black hair is that it is strong and stiff transversely but very flexible lengthwise. Because of this presentation, the body of the hair often curls tightly and takes on a spiral appearance. The shape of the African hair has a resemblance to an oval or a twisted ribbon.
Another characteristic of black hair is that its diameter is irregular. Neither the diameter of the fiber nor that of the cuticle is identical along its entire length. Because of this typical structure and its curl, the hair has many fragile points. The outside of a tight curl puts stress on the cortex and cuticle of the hair fiber. In some areas on the outside of the curls, the cuticle becomes very thin and flakes easily. These stress areas in the hair fiber are susceptible to chemical damage. Even vigorous combing is enough to chip the cuticle and damage the hair.
Another undesirable characteristic of black hair is its low water content. This characteristic also makes black hair more susceptible to the elements. Because black hair is too curly by nature, it is difficult to style. It is prone to breakage and hair loss.
Because of these difficulties, black hair requires more care than any other hair type. The following black hair care tips help prevent some of the damage to which it is naturally susceptible.
Massage the scalp regularly to promote oil production.
Always use a wide-tooth afro comb. The comb helps diffuse the natural oil into the hair, making it shinier and healthier.
Use intensive treatments before shampooing.
Shampoo your black hair as often as you feel necessary, but only lather once, using a small amount of shampoo. Rinse thoroughly.
Always blow dry your hair and never rub it with a towel.
Try a hot oil treatment once a month. It lubricates dry scalp and helps moisturize dark hair.
Choose non-greasy formulas for your hair gel so that it doesn’t take away the healthy shine.
If you want to braid your black hair, use a softening shampoo that maintains the right moisture balance. You can also try a natural oil-based moisturizer.
When combing your hair, start with the ends and work your way to the roots, this will be less damaging to the hair.
Get regular haircuts to eliminate split ends, as this prevents hair breakage.
Whether it’s braids, plaits or buns, try not to repeat the same “pull-back” style too often. The stress on the hair can weaken it at the edges.
Try to avoid using heat treatments, chemical straightening or blow drying your hair.
Do not use hair care products that contain harsh chemicals. Use only natural hair care products.
Avoid using alcohol-based products.
Cotton pillowcases and sheets promote breakage, use a silk or satin scarf to wrap your hair while you sleep.
In addition to these natural hair care tips, there are some black hair products that can be used to care for your hair. Black hair has its own specific characters and unique problems. Thus, special black hair growth products must be specially formulated to take care of the more fragile black hair. The best black hair care or growth products are those that use natural hair care products.
The common ingredients in black hair care products depend largely on the requirements of black hair care. Research has shown that black hair is less dense than other ethnic hair. Studies on black hair have shown that it also has less regrowth potential.
Because of these factors, more and more African American women are concerned about hair loss or alopecia. These women are especially looking for products that offer better hair growth, in addition to frizz control. Natural hair care products offer these black hair care products more credibility than other products.