Afro hair isn’t always the easiest to deal with, but a well-cared for African mane looks so good.
More women are ditching relaxers to embrace their natural curls, and if you’re thinking of doing the same, all you need is the right afro routine and hair products to get that bouncy mane that can get people staring at the halo on your dear head.
In case you have not realized how beautiful and special your fro is, hear this out. The Afro is the only hair that has a day dedicated to its celebration. World Afro Day holds September 15th every year!
Despite the compliment you get when carrying your fro with pride, caring for afro hair can be tricky when you don’t know where to start.
Not managing your fro can make you look unprofessional and unattractive.
Not sure where to begin? Here’s how?
Moisturise your hair:
Keeping your afro well-nourished and moisturised is good for your hair as it will help to enhance elasticity and shine, and curb brittleness and breakage.
Wrap your hair before going to bed:
That little silk scarf will protect your hair from friction, prevent tangles, dryness and further damage.
Use a silk or satin pillowcase:
Organic silk pillowcases reduce the loss of natural hair oils and moisture, thereby, minimizing thinning hair, split ends and frizzing.
Leave the heat:
Instead of using heated tools and processes, let your hair dry naturally because uncontrolled heat is one of the biggest damagers of hair. If using a hairdryer is necessary, it is advisable to set the heat temperature at the lowest.
Snip and trim:
Get regular trims to prevent split ends and enhance growth. Let those dead ends get chopped away.
Know your products:
Hair products that contain nourishing natural ingredients like Argan, Avocado oil, Jojoba and Shea butter are the most beneficial for keeping the hair’s moisture levels high.
Use the right hair bands:
If you’re going to style your hair by tying it up or putting it in a bun, ensure you use a hair band made out of silk or satin. Yes! Satin is your hair saver. Fabrics like elastic can cause breakage and damage the cuticles.
Comb well:
Use a wide-tooth comb to pick at your afro. Start from the tip and work your way down to the roots.
Use your fingers:
Yes, your fingers to rake through your already tangled hair to separate the strands so it can be easy for you to comb.
Resist colouring:
You wanna add swag to your hair so you want to go for a colouring spree. As much as it sounds tempting, it’s best to stay away from any forms of hair dye or bleaching for the first year of growing out your natural hair.
Make hair oils your new besties:
There are only pros when it comes to hair oils. These oils have been used even in the ancient days to enable growth and maintain a nice hair smell. It moisturises, nourishes and improves texture.
Enhance your curls:
If you have a longer fro, try curling it just to add a few styles to your list. You’ll have people staring at you, thanks to your hair.
Wash moderately:
Don’t follow the craze of washing your hair too often. Wash with room temperature water, condition once or twice a week and use a leave-in conditioner.
Give your hair a treat:
Chat with your hairstylist about hair treatments that will give your hair a quick boost. She knows best. You can also research products that are tailored to your hair type.
Eat and live healthy:
Eat nourishing foods. More often than not, the food you eat tells on your body. Don’t get a million dollar worth of product and eat like a pauper. Naaah! That won’t work. Also, keep fit and avoid habits that kill the hair.
One step at a time:
Don’t be in a hurry to see your fro grown into a mane. It takes time and care. Give yourself a timeline and work on your hair growth plan. It is hair, not air.
So, common gurl! Embrace your natural hair texture and let the world go wow! when you uncage your fro.