Natural curly hair is naturally dry, so it’s important to keep your curls moisturized at all times. With winter around the corner, the cold and dry air doesn’t exactly help! I’m sharing six natural hair tips to help you survive the weather this season and combat dryness, itchy scalp, and repair brittle tresses.
1. DEEP CONDITION BI-WEEKLY
Deep conditioning masks help the ingredients beneficial to the health of your hair deeply penetrate the hair shaft and promote growth, moisture, and luster. Section by section, distribute your favorite deep conditioner from the roots to ends and let sit for about 20 minutes.
Product Spotlight: Camille Rose Naturals Algae Renew Deep Conditioner is a favorite amongst naturalistas. With blue green algae, cocoa butter, and mango butter as key gourmet ingredients, your hair will be more moisturized and strengthened with much less breakage.
2. OPEN UP WITH STEAM TREATMENTS
In order to take in all of the benefits of your favorite deep conditioner, do a steam treatment to open the hair follicles so the ingredients can successfully penetrate the shaft. Not only is the treatment great for your locks, but it’s also very relaxing. Sit under the hair steamer for approximately 20 minutes. If you do not have a steamer, you can steam your hair in the shower before rinsing your deep conditioner with cool water to close the follicles.
Product Spotlight: The Red by Kiss PRO Hair Therapy Steamer is an affordable option that is easy to use and collapse for storage after using on your clients.
3. The LOC Method
For moisture that will last all week, try the LOC method when styling your hair. The LOC method consists of a leave-in conditioner to hydrate, an oil to seal the moisture, and a cream to define. This trio is a triple threat when it comes to combating winter dryness!
Styling Tip: Best results are often achieved by using products from the same brand and line because they are formulated to work together. However, if your favorite products come multiple brands, test their compatibility by rubbing a dime size of each together. Do they crumble when mixed? If so, the mixture is probably not going to work in your hair.
Our winning combination was the Camille Rose Naturals Curl Love Moisture Milk, Silk Elements Pure Oils Argan Oil, and Bekura Palm Tapioca Deluxe Buttercream on 4C type hair for a two-strand twist-out.
4. SLEEP IN SATIN
Sleeping on a cotton pillowcase can be damaging for your hair, causing unwanted breakage. If you’re not retaining length, that could be one reason. Instead, sleep in a satin bonnet or on a satin pillowcase every night to prevent friction, frizz, and dryness. This will also keep your hair looking fresh throughout the week.
5. TRY BLACK CASTOR OIL FOR DRY SCALP
Many in the natural hair community stray from thicker oils and embrace more lightweight options, but Jamaican black castor oil is excellent for relieving a dry and itchy scalp during winter. Simply massage into scalp daily and it will even promote hair growth especially for those who may be experiencing hair loss.
Product Spotlight: Mango & Lime Jamaican Black Castor Oil is an excellent multi-purpose oil and affordable option. They even come in several scents with supportive oils for the hair such as lavender, mango papaya, coconut oil, and more.
6. EAT HEALTHY & DRINK WATER
You are what you eat…and that includes your hair! Be sure to eat well-balanced meals with plenty of fruits and vegetables. Your curls will benefit from the vitamins and nutrients increasing growth, promoting shine, and keeping them moisturized and healthy. Also, drink tons of water! Eight 8-ounce glasses of water is sufficient, but a little more wouldn’t hurt either. If you’re in the mood for a sweeter drink, stay away from the sodas and grab a fresh juice or smoothie.
Incorporate these tips into your natural hair-care routine and watch the curly magic happen!
