Why is afro hair dry

So after you've completed your cleansing and applied all of the products that need to be absorbed with warm water, you should do your final rinse with cold water. The cold water will help lay those cuticles back down to seal in color, moisture, and whatever else you applied.

Oiling your scalp should be done strategically, based on how your scalp is feeling. Some people do produce very little of their own natural scalp oil or sebum, and might need to apply a little bit of extra. But remember that oil isn't a moisturizer. That being said, there's nothing wrong with oiling your scalp, as long as you apply a light water-based mist to your scalp beforehand to make sure some moisture is getting in there. Other people already have super oily scalps and don't need to add any more.

You've just got to find that right balance. But nobody should be parting their hair and oiling down their scalp every single day.

That's not necessary or effective. If you find that your hair typically feels dry or hard, you probably need to carry a small moisturizer spray or cream to moisturize your hair in the afternoon. People are always kind of really shocked when I recommend this and feel like that's maybe doing too much, but think about it like this: Back in the '80s, our hair was long, full, moist, and moisturized. Well, during that time, a lot of African-Americans had Jheri curls, so everyone walked around and moisturized throughout the day because that was the norm.

So you might be one of those people whose hair needs constant moisturizing. It might seem impractical at first, but we all typically get at least one break throughout the day, so maybe you moisturize before work, during lunch, and at night. People who wear their hair out a lot, like in a wash-and-go style for example, might need to moisturize even more than that. Just know that it's okay. Editor's note: Keep in mind that not all products marketed as moisturizing are actually moisturizing.

It is important to moisturised and hydrated afro hair regularly. So, we have established that afro hair requires frequent moisturising maintenance to prevent dryness and breakage… but too much of it can be counterproductive. Applying too much moisturiser to your hair can result in your hair follicles becoming blocked.

Blocking hair follicles prevents the secretion of sebum on the scalp. Sebum is vital for scalp health because it contains an acid mantle which kills bacteria and protects the scalp from infection. Scalp infections can hinder hair growth and cause hair loss, potentially triggering hair loss conditions such as Central Centrifugal Cicatricial Alopecia.

If you are suffering from a hair loss condition, it is advisable to seek treatment such as soon as possible to prevent permanent hair loss. ProTress Essential Scalp Therapy Energising Shampoo and Lotion stimulates the flow of blood around the scalp and revitalises hair follicles which improves hair production, extending the anagen growth stage of the hair growth cycle, restoring hair growth, making hair thicker and stronger whilst reducing hair loss.

This is why the ends of the hair are the weakest and why people with looser curls don't tend to struggle so much with dryness. Whilst you can't change the pattern of your hair without chemicals, there are some simple steps you can take for shiny, moisturised afro hair. Drink more water Drinking water allows the body to flush out toxins much quicker which can contribute to hair growing faster.

Water keeps your hair hydrated from the inside out and hydrated hair is less likely to break. Even spraying water on my hair has become its best friend, especially when styling!

Eat a balanced diet The truth is we are what we eat — if we eat food lacking in vitamins and minerals, it will begin to show on our body — and hair. Nuts about dry hair? Brazilian nuts are an excellent source of selenium, which helps prevent hair loss.

Also, walnuts are good sources of potassium and omega fatty acids which are vital for scalp health. Moisturise and seal At the beginning of my natural hair journey I thought this was a long process, however, the time has told me I cannot live without it! A good moisturiser must contain water such as Afrocenchix Smooth Moisturising Cream.

Keep your hair hydrated on a daily basis to keep it from drying out. Surfactants give shampoo their lathering ability, and they are deep cleaning as well. The problem is that they clean too well, stripping hair of its protecting oils. Use a mild shampoo that is formulated for dry and damaged hair instead.

You should also condition daily with a product for dry hair; many conditioners contain special ingredients, such as shea butter, that have hydrating properties. After bathing, use only a wide toothed comb on your hair that will not get caught in tangles. Its important to use natural hair products for African Americans to gain adequate levels of hydration without stripping natural oils. Use a detangling product or leave in conditioner to make the combing process easier.

When possible, allow hair to dry naturally rather than blow drying. If you must use a blow dryer, use the lower and cooler settings, and use a diffuser as well. Before drying, apply a pomade, gel, or other moisturizing hair product to your hair that will help you style it while also offering protection from dirt and the elements, such as sun and wind.

For extra protection, try a protein treatment, a deep conditioner, or a hot oil treatment at least once a month.