Natural Hair Care

The main principle of natural hair care for African Americans is embracing the hair's natural texture. This doesn't mean that you can't braid or style your hair; what it means is that you will avoid techniques such as chemical relaxers, straightening techniques, and extensions.

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How to Manage Your Hair Naturally

Especially for women who have spent a lifetime in the salon chair enduring lengthy hair treatments, learning how to manage natural hair will involve a lot of study. Even the New York Times recently reported on the difficulties experienced by African Americans when it comes to reestablishing their natural hair.

The Big Chop or Transitioning

Some women who decide to go natural choose to cut off all the hair that is relaxed, straightened, or chemically altered. This can result in a very short haircut and is often called 'The Big Chop.' Others, however, take it slower and trim off previously relaxed hair in stages. This is referred to as transitioning. There is no right or wrong way - but there are things to keep in mind with both methods. The Big Chop is a drastic change and not all women are comfortable with it. Those who transition, however, should keep in mind that it can be hard to find styles to support two different hair textures. The area where the relaxed hair ends and the natural hair begins may also be weak so extra care is needed when washing, styling and detangling.

Basic Care

There is no one-size-fits all method to taking care of natural hair. However, there are some ways to make basic care easier.

Cleansing: Apply a pre-shampoo oil to keep hair from drying out. Use gentle sulfate-free shampoos or those designed specifically for curly hair. Many women alternate shampooing with water washing or conditioner-washing (also called co-washing). Some women also conditioner wash exclusively. When washing hair, divide the hair into sections and gently wash one section at a time, starting at the scalp.

Protecting Hair During Sleep: Another source of damage often occurs while sleeping, so extra care is needed. Sleeping with a hair bonnet or on satin pillow case can help reduce the risk. For women with longer natural hair, piling or pulling hair gently up on top of the head can help reduce tangles and night damage.

Tips and Tricks

Natural hair tends to grow up and out rather than down. Depending on your hair type, tangling will also be an issue. For styling natural hair, try the following tips and tricks:

• Keep your hair style short and allow it to grow as it will. Use curling or anti-frizz serums to control its texture. This is particularly important for coarse hair types that may become unmanageable past a length of three or four inches.
• Do wash as necessary to keep your hair healthy. Applying almond and jojoba oil or hair oils post-washing and during bedtime can restore moisture, shine and manageability. Jojoba oil is also ideal for detangling.
• Clips, headbands, and barrettes can dress up your natural look and add a touch of femininity.