With information overload nowadays in the comment sections on popular hair pages on Instagram, there’s no wonder why so many myths about hair get floated around. With relaxers, there’s even more confusion about what exactly they are — can relaxers “burn” your hair off? Does having a relaxer mean your hair is “unhealthy”? Will your natural curls be gone forever if you relax your hair?
NaturallyCurly spoke with Texas-based stylist Latara Porch to learn more about relaxers and some common myths about the process.
MYTH: #1 If you get one bad perm, it will damage your hair forever.
Porch gave an example that she heard from a client who said that the one bad perm she had gotten in 5th grade is the reason her hair is damaged at 29. But Porch argues that one bad relaxer can’t ruin your hair forever — that damage is due to poor hair care.
If your hair has suffered a bad relaxing treatment that has left your hair broken and damaged, there are ways to nurse it back to health. Moisturizing is key, Porch says, and going to a stylist post-bad relaxer will help you with professional advice and products that can help your hair in the long run.
MYTH #2: You have to relax your hair every four to six weeks or your hair will break.
“Your hair will not break off,” Porch said. (Waiting longer) will actually decrease the chance of over-processing.”
We often hear that relaxers have to be touched up every four to six weeks, when “new growth”—or natural hair—starts growing back from the root. Porch said relaxed clients should base how many times they get a relaxer on their personal hair growth and thickness. Those with finer hair can go longer between relaxers, but many people can go longer with the help of protective styling, such as braids or twists.
MYTH #3: You can relax your hair and get braids the next day.
Porch said she suggests relaxed clients wait at least 2 to 3 weeks after relaxing their hair to get braids. After getting a relaxer, your hair is in a “fragile” state and needs to not be manipulated with tight styles like braids or twists. Putting tension on newly relaxed hair will cause those delicate stands to break off, resulting in damage at the root.
MYTH #4: When you see new growth, relax it immediately.
Depending on how fast your hair grows, you can see new growth as soon as 2-3 weeks after getting your relaxer. But that doesn’t mean you should immediately put relaxer on it to straighten it — that new growth is precious! Doing so could cause breakage to the roots and the virgin hair that’s growing out.
The recommended length for your new growth is 1 inch to 1 ½ inches before putting a relaxer on your hair again. In the meantime, the new growth should be kept as moisturized as possible until the next relaxing treatment.
MYTH #5: If you have relaxed hair, that means it isn’t healthy.
Guess what — you can have relaxed hair that’s healthy. You can even have natural hair that’s unhealthy. But it’s all about how you take care of your hair, whether straight or curly. Porch said that for relaxed hair, having healthy strands means keeping them moisturized with deep conditioning, drinking plenty of water, and utilizing leave-in conditioners.
“I’ve seen healthy, natural, and relaxed hair. I’ve also seen damaged natural and relaxed hair,” Porch said. “It’s all about how you take care of your crown.”
The curls and coils on the heads of little ones need special care and attention — their hair is delicate, which means the products used on their hair should be just as delicate. Regularly conditioning kid’s hair can help lead to bouncy and healthy curls and cut down on the dreaded detangling process — making way for a tear-free hair styling time!
Here are the 15 conditioners for kids that will leave their curls rivaling adult curls:
Cantu is a popular line of natural hair care products for both adults and children, and curlies love the wallet-friendly price point, too. This conditioner is a specialized formula with pure shea butter, coconut oil, and honey that nourishes fragile waves, coils, and curls without icky sulfates and parabens.
You may be familiar with the MopTop curl line for adults, but they have a FuzzyDuck collection for curly kiddos too. The FuzzyDuck Natural Kids’ Conditioner delivers a weightless finish while moisturizing and instantly detangling — making the wash and conditioning process for kids a little more easier. Plus, the swirls of ripe berries give the smell score an A+.
Not Your Mother’s KIDS collection is here to tame and hydrate knots and tangles. This lightweight and tea-free formula helps to create defined and hydrated curls your tiny tot will love.
Are the kids’ curls in need of deep conditioning? This deep conditioner penetrates curls with “fast absorbing vitals and nutrients,” creating softer and healthier curls — plus there’s no sulfates or parabens, which can be drying for curly kids and tend to be too harsh for their hair.
Infused with natural Keratin, it strengthens, smooths, and detangles curly hair while eliminating frizz. Vitamin E is also infused into the conditioner and can help grow healthier hair and improve moisture. The product can be used on wet and dry hair — just make sure you lightly mist the dry hair before adding the conditioner.
This conditioner softens and moisturizes curls, making the detangling process easier for you and your curly kid. You can even use this as a nourishing leave-in by not rinsing it all the way out and saving an extra step in your care routine.
The NaturallyCurly community has voted the SheaMoisture Kids line as their Favorite Product for Kids in our Best of the Best Awards, and it’s easy to see why. This is sulfate-free and great for detangling. This product includes mango butter, which leaves hair feeling silky smooth, along with carrot oil, which can help prevent breakage and promote growth.
This treatment can be used as a co-wash, deep conditioning treatment or a rinse-out conditioner and helps loosen and soften coils while replenishing moisture and strengthening the hair.
For little ones with Type 2 wavy hair, this conditioner is infused with jojoba, coconut, and avocado oils — which don’t weigh down waves. It can also be used as a leave-in conditioner if delicate curls need lasting moisture.
This conditioner uses a child-friendly gentle formula with honey to help kids curls maintain baby soft hair and milk protein to help strengthen hair. One NaturallyCurly reviewer said the product “smells amazing”, but more importantly also said the product “cleanses well without stripping out the natural oils.”
The Klee Kids Natural Magical Hair and Body Care collection is formulated with the gentlest yet most effective natural botanical ingredients such as Omega-3-rich organic argan oil and mango butter, the ancient remedies nettle leaf and marshmallow root extracts, and pure essential oils.
For kids with Type 4 coily hair, the conditioner includes sage, chamomile, horsetail, and nettle, which help detangle and rehydrate curls while soothing the scalp and reducing breakage.
Mixed Chicks is another popular brand used by adults with a kid’s hair care line. This conditioner is great not just for hydrating but also for detangling, which means fewer tears in the end. The jojoba oil in the conditioner softens curls and tames frizz.
Does your kid have a problem tackling dryness with their curls? Check out this conditioner infused with virgin coconut oil that can help lock and seal in moisture while keeping curls soft and healthy.
Formulated with aloe vera gel and jojoba oil to seal moisture into locks, while protecting the scalp, especially for baby’s curls.
Do your precious little curlies have a favorite conditioner? Share in the comments section below!
The product links in this article have been updated.
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When it’s time to change up your style, braided updos are a great option if you are looking for an eye-catching look that will turn traditional updos on its head. Updos are a great look for curly girls and can dress up just about any look that you rock. Plus, braided updos are low maintenance, which is music to curly girls’ ears!
Check out these curly ladies below and how they styled their braided updos!
This look gives us angel vibes with the braid serving as a “halo” to celebrate your hair. This is a beautiful braided crown with criss cross braids in the center to add some extra detail and creativity.
Alright, so I know this only counts as half an updo — but if there’s a little updo action, we’re counting it! This braided “half-do” is half feed-in braids — extensions of hair you include in your cornrows by simply braiding them into your natural hair — and half Senegalese twists. This killer combo of braids and twists is a great head-turning look!
For those looking for an upgrade to feed-in cornrows, this braided top knot with side braids is a great look. We recommend adding beads to the end of your loose braids or jewels to the cornrows.
This is a great twist on your standard butterfly braid, which normally hangs down like a typical French braid. You can add colorful string or jewels to this look to make it stand out.
For an out-of-this-world look, try doing feed-in cornrows and putting the leftover hair in two space buns. Add some hair accessories to give this style a unique look.
Looking to show off your braiding and twisting skills? Well this updo covers all of that and then some! This look involves braiding the front half of your hair, and then twisting the back half, with a low braided flat twist.
This braided ponytail is a fabulous updo style that can be done with your natural hair to show off your curls. Spice up this simple braided style with white string to make your style pop.
If you’re already rocking braids, you can still join the updo fun! This double-do look from @theislandiva is a great look for those with braids who are looking to switch up their style.
We’ve been showcasing this viral style all summer long, and it’s not letting up. Having short hair doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a fun braided updo and the braided baldie is serving up all the intricacies of your favorite braided styles.
With this style, your skills will be put to the test, but the end result is amazing! If you’re looking to achieve to fro-hawk looks, try using crochet braids to add extra hair and volume!
This style is great for a fancy event, like a wedding or dinner party! While the braiding is minimal, the star of the show is the sides— where you can use crochet braids to create small or medium-sized braids.
Which style are you looking forward to trying? Let us know in the comments below!
Every child is teased for one thing or another when they’re growing up.
For kids with curls and kinks, those jibes may be focused on their hair. However, building your child’s self-confidence is key to helping the child handle taunting comments.
“Their hair is a wonderful part of who they are,” says Titi Branch, one of the founders of Miss Jessie’s Salon and hair care products in Brooklyn, N.Y. “You have to help them understand that connection.”
For example, Branch remembers the confidence of a young curly client who was taught early to embrace his curls.
“One of the kids at school gave him a weird look and said, ‘Why is your hair like that?’ The little boy said, ‘Well, that’s what makes me special,’” recalls Branch. “He already had a confidence that was built up, so when he encountered those situations at school, he was ready.”
Curl experts share five steps to raising a confident curly.
“Get knowledgeable, just like you would with anything else that you’re concerned about with your child,” says Betty Di Salvo, stylist and partner of The Curl Ambassadors in Toronto, Ontario, a salon specializing in curly hair.
You can develop that knowledge by searching the Internet, speaking to stylists, and reading books written by curl experts, such as Lorraine Massey’s “Curly Girl” and Diane DaCosta’s “Textured Tresses.”
“The parent has a big responsibility to learn about curly hair — who has it in the family and how they got it — because that’s what they have to teach their child,” DaCosta says. “There are so many products to help you right now. Whatever you want, it’s there and very accessible.”
For example, Miss Jessie’s salon created a Baby Buttercreme product made especially for kids with kinky-textured tresses.
“I think mommies with kids who have kinkier textures struggle with what they’re going to use. If their mommy doesn’t know how to do their hair, these kids can go through a lot of trauma,” Branch says. “For interracial couples, if the mommy is white or has straighter hair than her kids, suddenly they have to learn to style hair they’re not really used to.”
Stylists urge parents to learn as much as possible about their child’s curls to pass on that knowledge to their young curly kid.
“It is most important for parents to take the right steps to care for curly hair,” says Christo, curl expert and Global Artistic Director of New York’s Christo Fifth Avenue salon. “For example, if they don’t have curly hair themselves, they should research the right tools and methods to help them style their children’s locks — as well as teach them how. This way, curly kids can love their curls, making life a little easier.”
“Let them feel empowered and that they can control their curls,” adds Di Salvo. “When I started to educate my daughter, Laura — now 12 — I saw the difference almost overnight regarding how she felt about her hair. She always wanted to straighten it, and I got her to feel comfortable with her curls based on the information I shared.”
Experts say it’s critical to engage your curly in the process of grooming and caring for their hair as early as possible.
“Buy products that are especially for their hair, so they can have fun in the process, too,” Branch says.
Even if your curlies are too young to manage their own mane, Di Salvo encourages parents to showcase their child’s curly locks rather than stifle them.
“Let them wear their curls naturally,” Di Salvo says. “Don’t pin it up, don’t pull it back, don’t make them feel like they’ve got to hide it. Parents send subliminal messages when they pull their child’s hair back and hide it in ponytails, barrettes, and braids. If the parent isn’t comfortable with their child’s hair, how will the child be comfortable?”
As parents, ensure that your curly confidence is seen and heard in every aspect of your life, not just when speaking directly with your child.
“When you’re commenting about people’s hair, you have to be mindful that little ones are listening,” Branch says. “If you’re showing preference for straight hair, they’re going to pick up on that, and they take everything you say and do to heart.”
DaCosta agrees, “If the parent says, ‘Oh, your hair! I can’t take it, I don’t know what to do,’ then, of course, the child will not think her hair is beautiful. That’s where children get the fear from. They don’t wake up at age 4 or 5 and hate their curly hair. They heard someone say it or their parents complaining about it, so they feel self-conscious.”
“With kids, it’s so important to praise them, reassure them, and express how great they are,” Branch says. “Give your kid a big kiss and say, ‘I love your curly hair. It’s what makes you special. It’s a wonderful thing!”
Then, take them to a salon that specializes in curly hair so they can learn what’s so beautiful about it.
“Always help them style their hair and compliment them,” Christo says. “And keep telling them that you love their curls, and they should too.”
Movie stars, pop singers and other high-profile curlies may have more influence than you realize on how young curlies embrace their curls. Stylists urge parents to seek out curly role models their kids can relate to, and then subtly point them out.
“Show them examples of celebrities or other idol figures that show how exotic and beautiful curly hair can be,” Christo says.
“There are so many people with curly hair,” adds Branch. ”Start finding them images of people who have their kind of hair.”
And it could start with you. If you’re curly, it’s easy to lead by example. After all, you’re the most important role model in your child’s life.
“I think it’s helpful for you to wear your hair curly, take a break from that flat iron, and show your child that you’re proud of your curls, too. This is who you are, too,” Branch suggests. “Reinforce that curly hair is cool!”
If curlies spend so much of the year fighting frizz and humidity, why would we want to introduce more humidity into our homes with a humidifier?
It’s because dryness is our hair’s enemy as well! And no matter where you live — hello from super-humid Austin by the way — winter has a way of sucking up all the moisture from the air. In addition to that, as we’ve discussed in so many seasonal hair-care and deep-conditioning articles, the dry, heated air inside our homes poses a hair-hazard as well.
Dry, cold air outside our homes and dry, warm air inside them can combine into a force for breakage that we all have to reckon with.
Enter the humidifier.
What does a humidifier do for hair and skin?
I bought a humidifier and quickly noticed that my skin was improving along with my breathing—and that extended towards my edges as well! Being the line where hair products, facial soap, dandruff, and sweat all meet is hard on everyone’s baby hairs, but I noticed mine were healthier and less, well, crusty than normal with regular water vapor exposure! Breakage was down, growth was up, and I was both glowy in the face and soft in the strands! The cool mist models pretty much work like a constantly firing, extra-fine spray bottle, and it’s honestly been pretty great. Bonus, it’s a lot easier to breathe now. Finally having the ability to use my lungs to their full capacity HAS to be good for growth too, right? Right.
You may not experience the full effects of an actual steam treatment for your hair, but a humidifier can help re-introduce moisture into the air and your hair when it’s in its driest state.
Are there downsides to the humidifier?
The biggest concerns are mold and general dampness, but unless you get an industrial one meant for health or greenhouse purposes, your home’s not going to turn into a rainforest overnight, so don’t worry. What you might need to watch for, though, is incidental drippage (easily solved with a nice tile or plate”>, not keeping it clean (easily solved by taking an interest in your house”>, and keeping it close enough to your bed that you knock it over onto all your electronics while reaching for your glasses (easily solved if you’re not…me”>.
How to keep your humidifier clean
Some humidifier brands only take distilled water, and some can deal with it straight from the tap. Some brands require you to swish out the tank with a bit of rubbing alcohol, and some need actual, manual hand power. If you get a variety that you can add scented oil to, only put in a few drops, and make sure you’re only using pure essential oil. Thicker carrier oils are going to do things like mess up the components keeping the water where it’s supposed to be (and that I do say from accidental experience”>. And if you want to feel extra fancy, a little rose, mint, or orange water (all fine, as they’re hydrosols and not juices”> up in there is going to take you from humidify to humidiFINE very shortly. Trust me.
As long as you read and follow the instructions, you’ll be good to go!
Does this list make you down with the mist?
Let us know in the comments below!
6 Deep Conditioners to Strengthen & Moisturize Transitioning Hair
There are a lot of things you should keep in mind when you make the decision to transition from relaxed to natural, like making sure your hair is carefully detangled, moisturized, and limiting heat on your strands. But another rule that’s important for transitioners is deep conditioning!
Deep conditioning your hair while transitioning is extremely important, especially as your “new growth” — aka your curls — are growing in. Deep conditioning can help with dry, brittle, or damaged hair, making your hair more hydrated, soft, and easier to detangle and style. It also helps with avoiding breakage at the line of demarcation, where your straight hair and curly hair meets. If you’re just now learning what deep conditioning is or you need a refresher, check out our do’s and dont’s of deep conditioning!
Below, we’ve rounded up the top deep conditioners for transitioning hair, meaning these products can work well with multiple hair textures to ensure moisture and hydration. Take a look at our recommendations!
This product was one of Naturally Curly’s “Best of the Best” in 2016 because it’s just that dang good — this was even one of my go-tos when I was transitioning! This products is specifically meant for transitioning hair, and targets Dry, damaged hair so it can heal, grow, and strengthen. Ingredients like sea kelp and argan oil help seal and smooth hair cuticles and give hair lasting shine, whether you’re rocking a wash-n-go or a braid out.
One of the biggest problems when dealing with transitioning hair is dealing with the effects of heat damaged hair, which causes both textures to be dry and brittle. In the beginning of my transitioning process, I used this Aussie product twice a week to help tackle my heat damaged hair from the beginning. Also, this is a great product to add to my hair before I went swimming, to protect my hair from chlorine damage!
This is a great product because it’s infused with Argan Oil — a type of oil is comprised of Omega 3, that helps prevent hair loss, and Omega 9, which repairs damaged hair follicles. Argan Oil is also good for dry hair, and you can also use it to oil your scalp, an important part of transitioning from relaxed to natural hair. The Creme of Nature Argan Oil Intensive Conditioning Treatment also makes your hair very soft and manageable — great for when you’re detangling your hair before styling!
This is a pricier option, but Camille Rose knows a thing or two when it comes to preserving your curls. Their Naturals Algae Deep Conditioner is mixed with — you guessed it — blue Green Algae, which has Vitamin B that can help improve hair cell regrowth for stronger, thicker, and longer locks. This product also caters to all hair types, so you can continue to use this long after you transition!
A popular product with Naturally Curly readers, the Alikay Naturals Honey and Sage Deep Conditioner not only penetrates the hair follicle to tackle dry and damaged hair, but it also works at the scalp with ingredients like Sage. Sage has stimulating properties that help increase scalp circulation, which promotes promotes skin renewal process of scalp. The honey in this product helps lock in moisture and also contains antibacterial properties!
Hair Masks are great deep conditioners when you have time on wash day to go through your entire routine. Masks have a much thicker consistency than traditional conditioners you would pair with shampoos because they are made to coat your strands entirely. This product is not only a great masque, but also has ingredients like coconut oil and shea butter, which help soften, strengthen, and moisturize hair.
What’s your favorite deep conditioner you’ve use or currently use for transitioned hair? Let us know in the comments below!
Here’s How to Maintain Healthy Hair for Color Treated Curls
Spring is here and you may be itching to switch up your hairstyle. One of the easiest ways to update your hairstyle is to add a pop of color to your curls. Some of our favorite Curl Friends like @iam.tiffany.renee, @ownbyfemme, and @tierechristyan have us drooling over their vibrant platinum blonde and red curls. I’ve personally changed my look by adding blonde and bronze highlights to my growing taper cut. It’s been a learning process maintaining colored curls, so if you’re considering color, or have already taken the plunge, there’s one thing I want you to know: updating your regimen is a must for colored curls. Here’s what I’ve learned and a few things you should do to keep your color popping and your hair healthy.
Handle Your Curls with Extra Tender, Love, and Care
It’s no secret that dyed hair tends to be fragile compared to color free hair so it’s even more important to pay extra attention to handling your curls. First, be sure to use products specifically designed for color treated hair like Mielle’s Babassu Oil Conditioning Sulfate-Free Shampoo. Since your hair may be more prone to dryness, that means your hair may break easier. When detangling, be sure to be gentle and use your fingers or a wide tooth comb. Start from the ends of your hair and work your way to the roots.
I’ve had color for two months and the most noticeable change I’ve experienced is dryness. I typically wash on a Sunday and apply a leave-in, oil, and cream to my curls which usually lasts for five days before I have to refresh. Well, since adding color, I now have to refresh every two days to keep my hair moisturized. When people tell me that color damaged and broke their hair, that may mean that the hair shaft was dry which makes for easy breakage. To help combat dryness I now apply aleave-in and oil every two days which has made a world of difference in my hair’s overall moisture. I also use a sulfate-free color safe shampoo to avoid stripping all moisture during wash day. Here’s a few products to help you avoid dryness and keep your curls moisturized.
I know we’ve all skipped a deep conditioning session, but with colored hair, skipping deep conditioning treatment is a no-no. It’s reported that colored hair makes for extremely porous hair. This means that moisture leaves the hair very quickly. Deep conditioning is a major key to ensuring your hair is getting all the moisture it needs. If you want to be extra cautious, try protein treatments to help strengthen the hair shaft and replenish moisture. ApHogee makes a great Two-Step Protein Treatment for strengthening the hair shaft.
Let’s Chat! How has your regimen changed since adding color? Comment below!!
Are you looking to add spring to your curls? Check out these articles!
Oil is my best friend, plain and simple. As someone who has type 4 hair, I’m dealing with a fragile hair texture because my hair type has the fewest cuticle layers to protect it from dryness. This means that maintaining moisture takes a lot more for my hair type, making oil my go-to whenever I’m doing a style.
Image Source: Getty Images/Image Studios
Today, I’m going to share with you how I incorporate oil into my type 4 hair routine, from twistouts to wash-n-gos.
First, it’s important to know what kinds of oils are good for type 4 hair. Luckily, there’s a variety to choose from, depending on the specific texture of your hair. The best oils for type 4 hair include:
Coconut oil (pure and unrefined”>
Castor oil (Jamaican black”>
Olive Oil (extra virgin”>
Avocado oil
Jojoba oil (pure and unrefined”>
Grapeseed oil
If you want to go into the specifics behind each oil, check out this article to learn more.
For me, I’ve learned that mixing oils is my best bet to keep my hair moisturized, because every oil offers something different. In the past, I’ve created my own DIY mixture of avocado, jojoba, and grapeseed oil to use on my hair. Currently, my go-to oil product is Melanin Haircare’s Multi-Use Pure Oil Blend, which includes baobab oil, argan oil, sweet almond oil, jojoba oil, sage oil, geranium oil and vitamin E. While the price of the product is a little high, it’s worth it — I’ve seen a huge change in my hair moisture, not to mention I’ve had the bottle for three months and I’m not even halfway through it!
So how exactly do I use oil when taking care of my hair? First, I use (and swear by”> the LOC method — liquid, oil, cream method — which is a three step product application process that aims to maximize moisture by layering products. Using liquid (like water”> serves as a foundation for moisture; oil is next sued to seal in the moisture; and the final step, cream, is used to further seal in moisture and style and define your hair. I used this method whenever I do a twist out, braid out, or wash-n-go. If I’m refreshing my twistout on its second or third day, I lightly spray my hair with water, put a quarter-size amount of oil in my hand and put it on the ends of my hair, followed by a gel styling product.
Another way I use oil in my routine is by oiling my scalp about 2-3 times a week. After I wash my hair, I’ll oil my scalp, along with oiling it before bed on nights that I pineapple my curls vs. braiding or twisting my hair up. This involves me parting my hair into 6-8 section and using the tip applicator of the oil product I use to run to product through my scalp, dividing my hair into mini section as I go.
Lastly, although I don’t use this method a lot, it is helpful — using a spray water bottle, I had several drops of my favorite oil, along with some conditioner, and shake the bottle to make my own LOC method in a bottle. This is great for post-gym styling or just refreshing your curls after a long day.
What are some of the ways you incorporate oil into your hair routine? Which oils work for your hair? Let us know in the comments below!
Curl-friend, it’s officially summer, and officially time to put your hair in a protective style so you don’t have to think about it while you deal with temperatures that you can’t bring yourself to actually move in.
By which I mean, you’re going to be tubing, hiking, sweating, and festival-…ing, and having so much summer fun that you don’t want your top of head to be top of mind every time the humidity level shifts.
But between the sun, the surf, and the late nights where your extra-long bonnet just doesn’t make it on your head, your hair will still need another layer of protection while it’s in a state where you can’t touch it directly!
Yes, of course—maintenance is both possible and necessary through protective styles’ lifetimes, but we can’t pretend there aren’t going to be steps you’ll have to forgo post installation.
Try doing a deep conditioning mask when you have crochet braids in sometime, I dare you.
Just like you can’t go into your restorative, post-beach blanket-burrito without having snacks and a good movie cued up, it’s just as imperative that you protect your hair IN its protective braided style before anything gets installed.
Enter the sealing process.
The shaft of your hair is made out of scales!
You’re not exactly Medusa, but as it turns out, at the micro-level, hair, scales, and feathers all operate on very similar principles!
The closer the scales are together, the less breakable your hair is. That’s why birds preen, lizards shed, and curlies seal!
But sealing isn’t just laying your cuticles down, although that’s part of it.
When your hair is damp, as it should be during maintenance, your little “shingles” surrounding each hair have tiny amounts of water running into them. The oil you seal with basically shuts the door before your hair can dry and the water can run back out!
And that’s what’s keeping your strands moist, elastic, healthy and happy!
Why is this so important for protective styles?
Simply put, your hair can and will break off within a braid or under a weave if it’s not protected beforehand.
And because you’re not taking microbraids out every night (can you imagine?”>, you won’t have the opportunity to course correct the coarseness until several weeks down the line, when it’s too late.
Think of each hair like a wooden fencepost.
If each plank is unfinished, and unsanded, the constant contact means snagging, snapping, and splintering. And while sanding by itself helps, it’s the finishing touches that keep the wood from warping with the elements and heading right back to splinter town.
But if you’ve treated the wood thoroughly, the smoothness on smoothness is less conducive to damage!
Then what’s the difference between sealing and moisturizing?
Toia B via Curly Nikki puts it best in this expository article, but the short version is: moisture is the water in the bottle, and sealing is the lid.
Have a water bottle without a lid on a hot day? Everything evaporates. The hair equivalent leaves each single shaft’s shingles (say that 10 times quickly”> raised, and open, and vulnerable!
Meanwhile, a bottle with a lid and nothing inside of it is just kinda…trash. Well, recycling, but you get my drift. If you’re putting a thick sealing oil on completely dry hair, your curls aren’t going to feel or be any better off. That’s why hot oil treatments are a PRE-wash thing.
Section your damp, not wet, hair, and run a thick oil or butter from root to tip, after detangling.
That’s literally it!
If you’re a user of the LCO method like I am, guess what? You’re already doing it!
The O, for oil, is the last step in sealing moisture from the liquid and cream into your hair.
I prefer to lightly seal my hair post wash with a toussling of low-weight oil (more on this later”>, and then once my hair is dry enough to use creams on without me looking like I’ve had a horrible milk-related accident, I’ll use a heavier sealant after my leave-in.
The amount of oil you use will depend on your porosity level, and the oil you’re using. My hair’s got Blanche Devereaux porosity (ie, it’s always thirsty”>, so large amounts of thick oil work best for my coils.
And just what are these oils?
I’ve extolled the virtues of Sunny Isle’s JBCO Butter already, and I’m going to do it again here!
For my high porosity hair, I have yet to want to go elsewhere for a pre-protective style sealant. It’s also been great for sealing my new growth and the sections that slip past my braids with time!
After the protective style is in, an oil blend decanted into a spray bottle is mandatory for me post-wash. I like Reshma as a blend that’s thin enough for spraying, but thick enough for sealing!
If your hair isn’t as thirsty as mine is, I recommend Alikay’s Essential 17 for an alternative to the thickness that is JBCO.
So do you have the zeal to seal?
We all know we can’t step out with missed steps, right? But I know the 5 metric tons I like to spread through my coils won’t work for everyone.
Put your porosity level and what you seal with in the comments, and share & share alike!
When I decided to transition from relaxed to natural hair three years ago, the big question for me was how I would style my hair. In the beginning on my transition, I kept my hair straight, until I realized how that wasn’t 100% healthy — I was going to natural so my hair could be healthier, and I didn’t want to make that process any harder! So just how do you style your hair when you’re working with two different hair textures? It’s not easy, but Naturally Curly put together a list of hairstyles you can rock before your hair is entirely natural. Check out the styles below!
Braidouts were my go-to when I was transitioning because the style made it look like my hair was entirely natural! The products you use to do a braidout is important, because they help with definition, especially with your straight hair. I recommend the Cantu Coconut Curling Cream.
This was my second favorite style to rock when I was transitioning. Like a braid out, bantu knot outs helps your hair look curly all around, and you can’t really notice where your new growth stops and your straight hair begins!
On those second or third day twistouts or braidouts, doing a half updo can be a quick style to do when your hair isn’t as defined as when you took your braids or twists out, but you’re not ready to re-do it!
An out-of-this-world look for those looking to add something a little different to their routine! To help slick down your edges, I recommend using the Carols Daughter Black-Vanilla Edge Control!
Here’s another style that’s quick to do if you’re in a rush or you don’t feel like doing a full-on braidout or twistout nor do you need any product to hold it together. At most, moisturize your hair and scalp with with avacado or CBD oil!
Aside from wrapping the actual wrap (you can watch our tutorial here”>, hair wraps an easy way to not only style a look, but also keep your hair underwraps if you’re having one of those days where your curls just won’t cooperate.
Many people opt for protective styles during their transition, and box braids are a great way to show-off a new style, while letting your natural hair grow for a few weeks without manipulation.
A low-bun is always a safe move for transitioning folks. You can either keep it casual, or dress it up with a variety of hair accessories to make it stand out.
Another protective style for the summer that you can rock, especially when you don’t want to deal with the humidity messing with both your hair textures.
One of my personal go-to’s when I was feeling lazy was a double braided crown. It’s easy to transition from day to night, and it doesn’t take long to do!
This look is one of my favorites for those who want to try out bangs, but maybe don’t want to take the leap just yet — especially when you’re transitioning. Instead, opt for a faux banged bun, where you can achieve “bangs” by either twisting or bantu-knoting your hair in the front.
Are you still transitioning? Which style are you going to try next? Let us know in the comments below!
15 Short Natural Haircuts to Bring to Your Stylist
Get a haircut full of volume. Voluminous haircuts show off lots of shape and texture. Get your hair cut in layers to tailor your areas of additional shape and volume.
A haircut with a defined side part and layers gives effortless volumand can be worn by all curlies. Whether you have a wavy, curly, or coily pattern, consider getting a haircut with a defined side part.
If you want to stand out and make a statement, get an undercut with a design. This is a bold style, and can serve you if you want to really switch up your look.
let go of everything, and completely start over! Imagine not only all the physical, but also all the emotional weight gone! If you’re thinking about shaving all of your hair off, just do it. This cut ensures that all the hair that remains and grows back will be 100% healthy.
Stylist, Mona Baltazar, is known for creating silhouettes and moving shaped with curly hair. This beautiful triangle shape is a great way to show off the various dimensions of your curls.
Love a clean line and shape? This is a great style for those who want to cut their hair, but still want to hang on to some as well. An angled bob aka lob is such a statement style, and will make your waves or curls pop even more!
If you are interested in a more edgy look a side-tapered fade is just that. Be daring and try it out by adding color and finger coiling the top for extra definition.
Bring your hair forward with front bangs. If you’ve been wanting to do the big chop and have been sick and tired of your current hairstyle, go for the curly bangs.
Get a haircut inspired by the iconic Shirley Temple. Her delicate, soft, and big curls fell right at the neckline. With a few bobby pins, you can even place a twist or two in the front like @brenahenn did to experiment with the look.
Be fierce with a curly mohawk! This super rock star yet feminine style will make you glad you did the big chop!
Ready for your big chop now? Get your hair cut with confidence knowing that you are not limited to just one look. Use these haircuts to help you get your new do!
What inspires you to do the big chop? What haircut do you want to try?
Let us know in the comments below!
Read about how to have confidence with your big chop here. Discover when the right time is to do your big chop here. Read about how other natural women felt when they did the big chop here.
I did my own research after my second (augh”> big chop in high school, and I figured “Okay, these have to be the tightest things ever, so my hair type is 4C.” I don’t have many pictures of me with my actual hair out from that time, because I hadn’t learned to love it yet, but now I’m kind of wondering…was it EVER a 4C?
Now that it’s coming up on 10 years of me being out of high school, and my hair’s grown out, I can’t help but ask myself if something changed my pattern or if I was just completely wrong about what it was in the first place.
I’d always been skeptical of curl types changing, but I know that it can happen.
Reading our comments sections, it looks like your hair types have changed with age, pregnancies, and even haircuts! I’ve also had a few friends on hormone replacement therapy tell me that their curls got tighter after beginning testosterone supplements. So it IS possible for something that isn’t styling damage to switch up your curl pattern, seemingly spontaneously in some cases!
So what happened to mine?
Well, there are a few possibilities. It’s fully possible that my hair type was never 4C at all, but that it just took me longer to realize it was a 4A with continuing natural hair education over the years. And that makes sense—after all, I’d never even thought of my porosity levels before I started working here. Seeing my hair next to Gerilyn’s hair made it a lot more obvious though, I must say.
It’s also possible that as my hair grew the curl pattern just became more evident, or that it’s falling and stretching under its own weight, enough to pull the pattern out more permanently, even though it’s still growing out and not down. Grace just cut about six inches of her hair off at a Deva salon, and she’s reporting tighter waves as a result. Naturally, we got footage of it all, so make sure you’re subscribed on YouTube to catch the big reveal. Maybe now all of our less-than-polite commenters will get off her back about it…
A third option is that life in general just loosened my curls. I had what I affectionately call a puberty part 2 in college that saw me go up a cup size, down a sanity size, and finally grew me the butt I never had. Whether or not that had anything to do with the birth control I was on, off, then on, and off again I’m not sure. I was also on and off a few different prescriptions during my matriculation. Considering the various effects that came through on my body and brain, it’s not a huge stretch to say something could have happened to my hair as well.
What is certain though is that curls change.
For better or worse, our hair, like our bodies, is not going to stay the same forever. The important thing is to be able to love yourself through whatever changes occur, even if it’s not something you like. I’m trying not to spend time thinking about what I’d do if my curls do something like spontaneously lightening, or jumping off my scalp in clumps, but we’ll see what happens.
What about you, curlies? Has your curl pattern ever changed?
Can you trace your changes in hair type to certain events in your life?
You know the term “mind your own beeswax”? Sometimes it’s good to mind your own — especially when you get it stuck in your hair! But just how do you do deal with this problem? NaturallyCurly has some tips on how to mind your own beeswax — in your hair, that is!
First, let’s talk about beeswax and how it reacts with natural hair. Beeswax is pretty self explanatory — it’s a natural wax produced by honey bees of the genus Apis. From lip balms and skin moisturizers to unsticking drawers and sealing envelopes, beeswax can be used for a variety of day-to-day activities. But what about beeswax and hair? The product can be used in products curly hair girls frequently use, such as gels and pomades, making it good forholding styles or laying down edges. But like any product, too much of it can lead to annoying buildup that can leave your hair feeling heavy and gunky.
Yes, the name sounds a little odd, but it can do some good for your locks! Cleansing your hair is essential to healthy hair, but if you’re looking to remove beeswax buildup without harsh sulfates, silicones, and lather, try using a gentle cleanser. Check out our Top 15 Low-Poo and No-Poo Cleansers if you’re looking to protect your hair from harsh chemicals.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Like beeswax, apple cider vinegar, or ACV, has many uses from cooking to skincare — but it can also be used on your hair! ACV has clarifying properties that can help strip beeswax from your hair. We recommend trying our ACV Hair Rinse recipe, which will help balance the PH levels of your hair and kill bacteria that may be caused from buildup left behind by the beeswax. The good thing about an ACV rinse is that you can find most of the ingredients in your kitchen, making it easy and accessible to put together.
Dishwashing Soap
I know we’re ending on a weird note, but hear us out! Shampooing with dish soap can get rid of heavy build-up, along with adding body to your hair. After shampooing with the dish soap, follow with your regular conditioner and leave the conditioner on for an extra 5-10 minutes. This idea may not be good for all curl types, so test out the dish soap method on a small section of your hair to see if this is for you.
These treatments will help get that stubborn beeswax buildup out your hair and leave your curls looking more healthier and feeling much cleaner. Let us know in the comments below or hit us up on Instagram with what your favorite treatments are for getting rid of beeswax buildup!
14 New Must-Have Moisturizers for Curly Hair Winter 2018
Winter brings a whole new set of challenges for those of us with curly hair. Rapid temperature changes can cause scalp issues, as well as dryness, brittleness, and frizziness. To make matters worse, the change of seasons can cause trusted old products to suddenly lose their magic.
Fortunately for us, beanies and scarves are popular winter accessories.
But for wash day and beyond, we’re lucky that many of our favorite curly brands have recently launched some new deep-moisturizing products. Between new product lines and moisture-packed holiday releases, there’s much cause for winter cheer!
Whether you need a deep conditioner, moisturizing mask, or twisting cream, you’re in luck. Here’s our newest hot product list:
This is the latest version of a Ouidad favorite. This VitalCurl+ Rinse Conditioner adds lightweight moisture and consistency with chia seed, japanese camellia, and sunflower oils in a unique omega 3-6-9 fatty acids complex.
This bundle is a great chance to try several Honey Baby Natural products all in one:
Hold It Honey Styling Gel
Honey & Ginseng Energizing Hair Masque
Milk & Honey Leave-In Conditioner
In particular, the leave-in conditioner utilizes milk protein to give your hair deep hydration, protect against frizz, and prevent breakage. Honey protects your hair from heat damage while leaving hair perfect for that holiday party: voluminous and shiny.
This line is LUSCIOUS. Get on this if you want “a sweet aromatic blend of premium cocoa botanical, coconut water, and citrus to nourish hair for a healthy and resilient shine.” Just in time for the holidays.
This may be just the thing you need this winter season: green apple, aloe, and apple cider vinegar combine for a pH-balancing deep conditioner. Taliah Waajid “eliminates dry and frizzy hair, boosts hair elasticity, and works great on color-treated hair.”
Girls With Curls’ Coconut Curl Butter is a blend of coconut, avocado and macadamia oils combined with creamy shea and cocoa butter. Sulfate-free, color-safe, and paraben-free, this moisturizing formula defines curls and boosts moisture and shine.
This formula packs a ton of moisture. Combining aloe vera, coconut water, biotin, hemp oil, Girl+Hair’s hair milk rehydrates curly, kinky, or coily hair types.
For super curly/coily hair types, DevaCurl’s newest product is multipurpose. In addition to moisturizing hair with coconut oil and shea butter, this product also helps elongate and define tight curls. 100% sulfate-, paraben-, and silicone-free.
The newest product in DevaCurl’s Decadence line, Leave-In Decadence is a lightweight leave-in conditioner that doesn’t add buildup. Key ingredients include: quinoa protein, Brazilian pequi oil, and chufa milk — all to moisturize, nourish, and revitalize hair. Yes, please.
Crème of Nature Pure Honey Moisture Whip Twisting Cream defines and elongates curls. Infused with honey, certified natural coconut oil, and shea butter, this product provides crunch-free hold and non-greasy shine.
The classic, stylist-recommended Moroccanoil product you love, now in an ornament! This is a chance to try out a classic hydrating and styling product from Moroccanoil.
This comprehensive bundle includes the Moroccanoil Hydrating Conditioner, and an argan-oil infused treatment oil “to restore hair’s natural moisture balance.”
14. TXTR. by Cantu
Cantu’s new, salon-grade line is perfect for those in need of hydration and nourishment. With shea butter, spearmint oil, baobab extract, watercress extract, and canola oil, this line soothes dry scalps, increases hair strength and hold, and helps to prevent split ends.
Have you tried, or are you interested in trying any of these products? Let us know in the comments below, and be sure to share some of your favorites with us as well!
When it comes to caring for your hair, there are a lot of DIY recipes out there to combat every imaginable concern. If you’re a DIY-er then you may be familiar with the popular ACV rinse or flaxseed gel, but one of the lesser known options is a DIY cucumber hair rinse. Don’t let the lack of attention compared to other ingredients fool you because this is a powerful little veggie that packs a punch. Let’s take a closer look at this overlooked powerhouse.
What makes cucumber a great choice for a hair rinse?
If you have ever eaten a cucumber, you already know they are rich in water content. This makes them pretty hydrating for your scalp and strands. Aside from being hydrating, cucumbers are full of healthy nutrients like silica, vitamin A, and potassium. Aside from being super healthy and hydrating, the juice can soothe an irritated, dry scalp and since the scalp is the bedrock of great hair, this is especially important. According to research published in Fitoterapia, a leading medical research journal, “Fresh fruit juice is used for nourishing the skin. It gives a soothing effect against skin irritations and reduces swelling.” Cucumbers are great for giving your scalp and strands a little boost as needed.
How to make a DIY cucumber hair rinse
The steps are pretty easy. Here’s how you can make your own soothing rinse Here are the steps to take to create a soothing rinse.
Prepare the cucumbers
Peel a large cucumber or two medium cucumbers to remove the skin. Chop cucumbers into small cubes.
Place cubes in a food processor or blender.
Blend until it is a puree and then strain into a bowl to remove any chunks or seeds. If there are still seeds left over, don’t worry about it. You will still get the same effect with the rinse and you can rinse them out in the shower.
Apply to your hair
Wash your hair as normal and then apply the cucumber rinse to your scalp and strands. Massage the juice into the scalp in circular motions.
Rinse and condition as usual.
Tip: You can also add a little peeled lemon to the blender to add an antibacterial element to the rinse to help clear up any scalp issues.
Have you tried any DIY remedies for your scalp?
Let us know what’s worked for you in the comments.
By definition, a hair relaxer is a lotion or cream that makes the hair easier to straighten and manage. It reduces the curl by breaking down the hair strand and chemically altering the texture. Most women who decide to get their hair relaxed have curly hair who want it to be stick straight without any frizz. The results vary depending on your hair type, but usually a hair relaxer will leave your hair straight for about six to eight weeks. Unlike other permanent straightening methods, relaxing your hair will require touch-ups from time to time. You can go to a professional stylist, or you can purchase a hair relaxing kit to be used at home.
NaturallyCurly talked to Texas-based stylist Latara Porch to learn more about relaxers and some frequently asked questions about the process.
What are the benefits of going to a professional?
While getting your hair relaxed by a professional is expensive, it is the best option if you decide to relax at all. Porch said professional stylists like herself know how to care for your hair and can properly add all the nutrients that have been stripped during the chemical process. A professional can perform a “strand test,” which will test the strength of your hair in order to further assess which type of relaxer is best for you. Porch added that professionals have better, stylist-approved hair products that can help specially treat your hair. Apart from their years of experience, some professionals actually keep records of what treatments you have had or what procedures other clients had that will help them determine how strong the relaxer should be for your hair type.
What are the different types of hair relaxers?
Hair relaxers, most commonly, are available in two types: Lye relaxers and No-Lye relaxers. Opinions on the two vary, but as with everything, it depends on your hair type and texture. Lye relaxers are known to work quickly on the hair, but as a result they might also rinse out of your hair easily. Their main ingredient is sodium hydroxide, and they are also known as “alkali” relaxers. No-lye, on the other hand, is mostly made of calcium hydroxide, which can dry out the hair. However, no-lye is better for people with sensitive scalps. When using no-lye, it is imperative that you use a “de-calcifying” shampoo to prevent calcium buildup.
What are some disadvantages of using hair relaxers?
Hair relaxers are very powerful chemicals; they have to be if you want your hair’s texture altered so drastically. Depending on your hair type, hair relaxers might cause breakage, hair thinning, and stunt your hair growth. Porch said the process may also result in chemical burns on the scalp and other areas — with some women have also complained of scalp irritation, scalp damage or hair loss. Remember that hair relaxers are stripping your hair of its natural oils, so be very attentive to your hair if you decide to relax it.
What are some advantage of using hair relaxers?
Despite the hair breakage and and scalp irritation, Porch said there are some advantages of getting your hair relaxed. Your hair stays straight for the most part and it’s easier to manage and style and less likely to frizz.
Should I get a relaxer?
There’s no right or wrong answer to this question — but Porch always wants to understand from her clients why exactly they want a relaxer. Having straight, relaxed hair is no “easy” task — relaxed hair needs special attention by keeping the hair moisturized, along with weekly deep conditioning, drinking plenty of water, and utilizing leave-in conditioners. Be sure to use a reconstructing shampoo and conditioner the week following your hair relaxing, and stay away from heat that will further dry your hair. It’s important to understand that if you get a relaxer, your hair will be damaged in the long run and will require special care to repair it.Porch said she’s seen healthy and damaged relaxed hair and healthy and damaged natural hair — but it’s all about how you take of your crown.
August is Hair Loss Awareness Month, and this is not an issue that affects men only. According to NYU Langone “more than 80 percent of men and nearly half of women experience significant hair loss during their lifetime.” In fact there is one possible cause of hair loss that is unique to women: birth control.
If you’re experiencing hair loss, whether it’s thinning or shedding, the culprit may be your birth control. But with so much information floating around, separating fact from fiction about this potentially devastating condition can be tricky.
Contrary to popular belief, every hair on your head isn’t growing at the same rate. At any given moment, about 90 percent of your follicles are in the anagen growth phase, meaning they are actively producing hair.
However, “the other five to 10 percent of hair follicles are in the catagen and telogen phases,” Blaisure says. “Your hair follicles go through individualized growth cycles at different times; otherwise your hair would fall out all at once.”
During the catagen phase — when the follicle renews itself — and the telogen phase — when the follicle rests — no hair growth takes place. A more-recently described phase — the exogen phase — is when hair sheds.
Although genetic predisposition and nutrition play a factor, your curls “grow around half an inch a month,” Blaisure says. However, because these three phases of hair growth are controlled by hormones, using hormone-containing birth control methods can interfere with the body’s normal hair growth cycles.
Why women experience hair loss after stopping birth control
Various medications have varying levels of different hormones, and each can impact hair growth differently. In some women, some hormones in birth control — or the body’s response to the additional hormones — can cause the hair to move from the growing phase to the resting phase too soon, resulting in a form of hair loss is called “telogen effluvium.”
In other women, however, the hair loss comes after they stop using birth control pills. For these women, absorbing the additional hormones extends the anagen phase of the hair-growth cycle.
When the supplemental hormones are no longer interfering with the normal process, the hair follicles are able to go into their resting phase, and then their shedding phase.
This can lead to massive shedding of hair that had been held overlong in the anagen phase by the additional hormones.
Will the hair loss last forever?
The good news, according to Blaisure, is that our beautiful, brilliant bodies eventually get back on track. “Once you ditch your contraceptive, your hair loss will self-correct within three to four months,” she says.
What you need to know about estrogen
The AHLA agrees: “Hormonal contraceptives have a significant potential of causing or exacerbating hair loss. It is important to note that any medication or therapy that alters a woman’s hormones, including but not limited to, contraceptives, can trigger hair loss in anyone who takes them. If a woman has a strong predisposition for genetic hair loss in her family, we recommend the use of another non-hormonal form of birth control.”
Contraceptives create a negative feedback system within your body. A negative feedback stabilizes a process by reducing its rate when its effects are too much. This occurs because the endocrine glands are sensitive to both the amount of hormones they make, and the substance that activates them.
Thus, if you take a birth control that’s high in estrogen, your endocrine gland will stop making the hormone resulting in hair loss. Your body needs a balanced amount of estrogen so the hair growth cycle can function effectively.
Within the endocrine system, the endocrine glands which includes the pancreas, thyroid, pituitary, and adrenal glands, secrete hormones directly into your bloodstream to signal the hair growth cycle.
“Estrogen and testosterone are the two dominant hormones that influence hair growth,” Blaisure says. “Most birth control contains progestin, a synthetic form of progesterone, and estrogen.”
Testosterone is an androgen that’s present in both men and women. An excess of testosterone in men or women, will cause the enzyme, 5-alpha-reductase to convert it into DHT.
The American Hair Loss Association recommends that all women interested in using oral contraceptives for the prevention of conception should only use low-androgen birth control pills.
“When a woman’s body has an excess of dihydrotestosterone (DHT”>, it shrinks hair follicles, a process known as hair miniaturization,” Blaisure says. Because each follicle contains two to six strands of hair, she says miniaturization will result in less volume instead of bald spots.
The surge in estrogen and progestin changes your body’s hormone level, “keeping it the same all the time,” Blaisure explains, which is a hair growth no-no if you want Rapunzel-like length.
“It depends on the level of progesterone and/or estrogen in the contraceptive.”
When it comes to estrogen and hair growth, too much of it translates into hair loss.
“Low amounts of progesterone and too much estrogen triggers hair in the growing cycle to shed,” Blaisure says. Your hair follicles respond to the excess hormones by causing them to enter the telogen phase faster.
For those struggling with hair loss at any time, Blaisure has handpicked four products that’ll help you grow your coils while maintaining your mane’s health.
Bosley Rebalancing and Finishing Treatment: A blend of burdock root, marula, coconut, sunflower seed, rice, avocado, and argan oils that treats dry, itchy scalp, and/or dandruff.
Bosley BosRevive Kit For Color-Treated Hair: Saw palmetto, which can prevent follicle shrinkage, is the active ingredient in this kit that includes shampoo, conditioner, and a leave-in treatment.
Bosley HairMax Laser Band: Use for two months, at least two to three times weekly, and you’ll notice new strands of hair courtesy of 82 red-light emitting lasers that stimulate your hair follicles.
Is my hair loss connected to my birth control?
If you’re losing your hair and want to know if it’s related to your birth control, Blaisure suggests seeking the counsel of a specialist such as a gynecologist to administer a hormone panel test, thyroid test, or a general blood test. She points out that results of your tests may indicate a need for further testing. Once you know your results, your doctor can discuss your options for a low-dose contraceptive.
Would you ditch your birth control to save your tresses? Why or why not?
Share with us in the comments section below. For more on how hormones affect hair loss, check here.
This article has been updated.
Having Trouble Growing Edges? Here’s How to Get Them Back
With natural hair, it’s hard not to think constantly of your curls and coils—how moisturized they are, the defined they are, how to style them, and more. But there’s another part of your hair that needs equal attention to and that you may sometimes neglect: your edges.
Excessive styling and bad styling habits can cause strain on your edges, thinning them over the course of time. Other reasons for hair loss (at the edges and beyond”> can include pregnancy, stress, heredity, hypothyroidism, chronic illnesses like lupus, and scalp conditions, according to Prevention. The most common type of hair loss is hereditary, affecting around 80 million men and women across America.
Some people have gotten their “edges snatched” literally, and it’s time to get them back! If you’ve run into snags in trying to regrow your edges, here are some tips.
Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize!
Natural oils like castor oil and coconut oil are useful in keeping edges moisturized and stimulating growth. Castor oil lubricates the hair shaft, which can reduce breakage, dandruff, and flaking. Coconut oil has antifungal and antibacterial properties, which can improve scalp health and support hair growth. Creating oil mixtures and treatments will more deeply moisturize your edges and fight against hair loss. Try combining DOO GRO Thickening Hair Oil thickening hair oil, coconut oil, and castor oil in a small bowl and microwaving for a few seconds. Apply to your edges at night and watch your hair grow!
Stay away from extreme styling.
Braids and twists can be cute for those summer Instagram shots, but be wary of these styles if you’re having issues regrowing your edges. Tight protective styles cause tension and pull on your scalp, increasing the likelihood of that your edges will break off. Also, constantly pulling your hair back into buns and ponytails can have the same growth-stunting effect. Keeping away from tight styles gives your scalp a rest and allows your edges the freedom to grow without restraint.
Hard brushes and edge control are a no-no.
Scrolling through Instagram, we often see our favorite naturalistas slicking their edges down to add to final touches to their hairstyles. But constant manipulation of your edges with hard bristles brushes and edge control gel can prevent your edges from growing back. If you’re trying to grow your edges, let them grow naturally without being forced down. You can try any of your regular styles with free, unlaid edges—saving you more time in the end!
Satin and silk are you best friends!
For girls with curly, kinky, and coily hair we already know silk and satin can be life savers when protecting our curls at night—but it can help with our edges too! Sleeping on cotton pillowcases can cause friction that sucks the moisture out of your edges—this will undo the benefits of any extra nourishment you’ve added with oils! Along with a satin pillowcase, you can tie a silk scarf around your edges to keep them protected at night. Just make sure you don’t tie the scarf down too tight.
