Hair Basics #4: What are the Dos and Don’ts of African American Hair Care?

Your hair requires care and attention regardless of its type. But what if your hair care routine just doesn’t give you the luscious, vibrant hair you want? Let’s consider the top dos and don’ts for happy, healthy, natural afro textured hair.

5 Dos of Natural Afro Hair

1.    Do Love What You’ve Got

The first step to caring for your natural hair is appreciating your God-given crown. Many of us still believe kinky hair (type 4 range) is the worst, and spend too much time and energy trying to turn it into type 3 or 2 or 1 hair. Afro textured hair is distinct and beautiful in its own right. Once we accept that, then we can celebrate it.

2.    Do Choose Hair Products Designed for African American Hair

Find styling products, shampoos, and conditioners specifically made for natural black people’s hair. Most will be moisturizing products with zero sulfates that prevent dryness and keep your hair healthy. Use for natural hair oils too, like avocado, coconut, jojoba, and olive oil. These oils can reduce breakage, make your hair softer, and improve hair growth.

3.    Do Detangle Gently

A wide-toothed comb, a detangling brush, or even your fingers can gently detangle your natural hair. Fine-toothed combs either won’t go through your hair, or you’ll use too much force and end up damaging your hair. Make the most of Moisturizing hair products to loosen the tangles before putting a comb through it.

4.    Do Wrap Your Hair At Night

Even if you’re rocking short African American hairstyles, you still need to cover up when you go to bed. A headscarf or bonnet is all you need to maintain your hair’s moisture and make styling easier in the morning. Even better, use a satin or silk pillowcase to avoid friction as you sleep.

5.    Do Wear Protective Hairstyles

A protective hairstyle gives you a gorgeous look with little or very gentle manipulation. These styles are particularly suitable for curly and kinky hair which tangles and breaks easily. Here are 10 protective African American hairstyles you can try if you have short hair, and get as creative as you can!

5 Don’ts of Natural Afro Hair

1.    Don’t Overwash it

Clean hair is a must-have, but it doesn’t necessarily mean washing it every day. African American hair tends to be dense and porous, meaning it can hold dirt and oils well. But it’s also prone to becoming dry and brittle if you overwash it. The idea is to find a balance: keep your hair as clean as possible without stripping off its natural oils. Use moisturizing products and wrap your hair at night, then wash it every few days or once a week.

2.    Don’t Use Excessive Heat

Flatirons and hair straighteners can offer more styling versatility, but use these heating tools wisely. Excess heat can damage African American hair, making it more prone to dryness and split ends. Ideally, avoid heat treatments as much as possible, or use a blow dryer on low or medium setting to dry your hair after washing. If you must straighten your hair, use your flatiron once a week using heat protecting serums or sprays. Then, focus on maintaining rather than redoing the style.

3.    Don’t Forget to Trim

No matter your hair type, trimming is a must if you want to improve your hair’s health and appearance. Split ends and breakage are unpleasant to deal with, so schedule for a regular trim to keep them under control.

4.    Don’t Ignore Hydration

Hydration here means two things: using moisturizing hair products, and drinking enough water every day. A good leave-in conditioner or natural hair oil or cream will nourish your hair from the outside. Drinking water nourishes your hair, and the rest of your body, from the inside. This combination ensures your afro textured hair looks and feels fabulous every day.

5.    Don’t Neglect Your Scalp

We tend to focus more on styling than on our scalp, but this must change if we want healthy natural hair. Go beyond scrubbing your scalp when you clean your hair. Apply natural hair oils directly onto your scalp and massage it gently. This will improve blood circulation and improves hair growth.

Build the Right Foundation for Your African American Hair

These dos and don’ts are a good starting point for healthy natural hair. Maintain your afro textured hair with these great tips no matter its length or hairstyle. Happy styling!