Growing up, my days were filled with Disney Channel escapades, fairy tales, and the promise of happy endings. Yet, even as I delighted in these magical stories, I couldn’t help but notice a stark omission—there were hardly any girls who looked like me, with curls and coils that mirrored my own. It seemed that the entire world, from my classmates to my favourite TV characters, was infatuated with the idea of long, glossy, straight hair. In this homogenized beauty landscape, curls were sidelined, and the glamour of sleek hair reigned supreme. During those impressionable years, as part of my own hair journey, I succumbed to the pressure of fitting in. Armed with straighteners and hair extensions, I was just another insecure teenager searching for a place to belong.
Embarking on a personal journey to cultivate healthy and thriving hair, I discovered there is a universal desire; whether you’re a seasoned naturalista, a dread head, a newbie to the curl-tastic adventure, or someone maintaining healthy relaxed hair regardless of your hair texture or style choice, the goal remains the same: to unlock the full potential of your gorgeous hair. For those choosing to embrace their natural curls, kinks, and coils, the journey is about more than just abandoning chemical treatments. It’s about understanding the importance of moisture retention, discovering personalised styling techniques, and nurturing hair with love and care. From the simplest of twist-outs to intricate braided styles, there are many ways to showcase the natural beauty of black hair.
Understanding that authenticity in our hair journey can take many forms beyond just wearing natural hair is crucial. Many black women choose to relax their hair, and this choice is just as valid and beautiful. Opting for relaxed hair can open up a world of styling options and serve as a unique expression of individuality. Whether it flows sleek and straight or ripples with soft waves, relaxed hair represents a personal choice that deserves as much celebration as natural textures.
Love your natural hair
Embracing natural hair is a beautiful part of your hair journey. It celebrates the unique curls, kinks, and coils that make each individual stand out. This path involves mastering the art of keeping hair well-moisturized and discovering styling techniques that best enhance natural textures. It’s about embracing authenticity, nurturing your hair with love, and appreciating every twist and turn along the way.
Moisturising techniques
- Hydration is vital: Hydration is essential for maintaining the health and vibrancy of natural hair textures. Incorporating a leave-in conditioner into your daily regimen is critical, as it helps to lock in moisture and nourish your curls without weighing them down. Renowned natural hair expert and founder of Urbanbella, Keneesha Hudson, recommends using water-based formulas to ensure maximum hydration. According to Hudson, “Water-based leave-in conditioners are perfect for natural hair, as they penetrate the hair shaft deeply, providing long-lasting moisture and promoting overall hair health.” By following expert advice like this, you can ensure that your natural hair stays hydrated, defined, and beautiful
- The LCO method: Lock in moisture using the LCO (Liquid, Cream, Oil) method. Start with a water-based leave-in conditioner, follow up with a moisturising cream or butter, and seal it with nourishing oil. Felicia Leatherwood, renowned celebrity hairstylist and founder of the Loving Your Hair with Natural Care Workshops endorses this method: “The LCO method is perfect for locking in moisture and promoting healthy hair growth.”
- Steam and treatments: Felicia Leatherwood, renowned celebrity hairstylist and founder of the Loving Your Hair with Natural Care Workshops, “Steam treatments once a week can work wonders for opening up the hair cuticle and allowing moisture to penetrate deeply into the strands.” Whether using a handheld steamer or enjoying a DIY spa experience in a steamy bathroom, the process is simple yet impactful. Treat your hair to a steam treatment once a week to help open the hair follicle and allow moisture to penetrate deeply into the strands.
Protective styling
- Embrace protective styles: Give your hair a break from manipulation by rocking protective styles like braids, twists, buns, and ponytails. According to natural hair expert Keneesha Hudson, founder of Urbanbella, “Protective styles like braids, twists, buns, and ponytails not only give your hair a break from daily manipulation but also shield it from environmental damage.” Not only do these styles help retain length, but they also shield your hair from environmental damage.
- Satin bonnets and pillowcases: Invest in a satin bonnet or pillowcase to protect your hair while you sleep. According to Aïcha Cissé, founder of Natural Hair Academy, “Satin bonnets and pillowcases are essential for preventing friction and breakage, which can occur with cotton materials.” Satin’s smooth texture reduces friction, allowing curls to glide effortlessly across the surface and retain moisture. Incorporating satin into your sleep routine can help your hair stay healthy, hydrated, and damage-free.
Product recommendations
- Shampoos: Look for sulphate-free shampoos that gently cleanse your hair without stripping away its natural oils. Brands like Shea Moisture, Carol’s Daughter, and Mielle Organics offer several sulphate-free options.
- Conditioners: Opt for rich, moisturising conditioners that nourish and detangle your hair. Look for ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and honey to keep your hair soft and manageable.
- Deep conditioners: Treat your hair to a weekly deep conditioning treatment to replenish moisture and strengthen your strands. Products like the Shea Moisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Treatment Masque are perfect for repairing and revitalising dry, damaged hair.
Healthy relaxed hair
Similarly, healthy, relaxed hair individuals understand the importance of maintaining strength and vitality in their strands. They can achieve sleek, luscious locks through proper conditioning, regular trims, and gentle styling while preserving their hair’s integrity.
- Hydrating shampoos: As Dr Kari Williams recommends, “Using moisturising and sulfate-free shampoos specifically formulated for chemically relaxed hair is essential.” These shampoos cleanse the hair gently, removing impurities without stripping away natural oils, thus helping to preserve the moisture balance. Incorporating hydrating shampoos into your hair care routine ensures that your chemically relaxed hair remains nourished, soft, and healthy.
- Deep conditioning treatments: Incorporate weekly deep conditioning treatments to replenish moisture and nourish chemically relaxed hair. Aïcha Cissé, founder of Natural Hair Academy, said, “Incorporating weekly deep conditioning treatments is crucial to replenish moisture and nourish chemically relaxed hair.” It’s essential to choose deep conditioners enriched with ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and keratin, as these ingredients help strengthen and hydrate the hair shaft.
- Protein treatments: Regularly applying protein treatments is essential to strengthen chemically relaxed hair and prevent breakage. These treatments help rebuild the hair’s structure and improve elasticity, especially after chemical processing. Look for protein-rich products for chemically treated hair to fortify and protect your strands. By incorporating protein treatments into your hair care routine, you can ensure that your chemically relaxed hair remains strong, healthy, and beautiful.
- Leave-in conditioners: Leave-in conditioners provide continuous moisture and protection for chemically relaxed hair. Look for lightweight formulas that are effective without weighing down hair and contain ingredients like glycerin or aloe vera to hydrate and soften strands.
- Sealing with oils: Seal moisture into chemically relaxed hair with lightweight oils such as argan, jojoba, or grapeseed. Apply a small amount of oil to the ends of the hair to prevent dryness and split ends.
- Protective styling: Embrace protective hairstyles like buns, braids, or twists to minimise heat styling and manipulation, which can lead to further dryness and damage. Protective styles help to retain moisture and promote hair health.
- Regular trims: Schedule regular trims every 6-8 weeks to remove split ends and prevent breakage. Trimming chemically relaxed hair helps to maintain its overall health and appearance.
Product Recommendations
- Shampoos: Choose moisturising and sulphate-free shampoos from brands like Mizani, ORS, or Design Essentials, specifically formulated for chemically relaxed hair.
- Deep conditioners: Consider deep conditioning treatments such as the Mizani Moisture Fusion Intense Moisturizing Mask or the ORS Olive Oil Replenishing Conditioner to restore hydration and strength to chemically relaxed hair.
- Protein treatments: Look for protein treatments like Aphogee Two-Step Protein Treatment or Joico K-Pak Deep Penetrating Reconstructor to fortify chemically relaxed hair and prevent breakage.
Nurturing your versatile locs
And let’s not forget about the beauty of locs—each strand is a testament to patience, dedication, and individuality. Whether cultivating freeform locs or meticulously maintained ones, the journey is about embracing the journey of physical and spiritual growth.
- Water Spritzing: According to Dr Kari Williams, renowned trichologist and founder of Mahogany Hair Revolution, “Regularly spritzing locs with water using a spray bottle is essential for maintaining their elasticity and overall health.” Water is the ultimate moisturiser for locs, helping to restore moisture balance and prevent dryness. By incorporating water spritzing into your loc care routine, you can ensure that your locs remain supple, resilient, and full of life.
- Moisturising Oils: According to DDrKari Williams, applying a lightweight moisturising oil like jojoba oil, argan oil, or coconut oil to your locs helps seal moisture and prevent dryness.” It’s essential to focus on the ends of your locs, as they are more prone to dryness and splitting. By incorporating moisturising oils into your loc care routine, you can keep your locs nourished, hydrated, and looking their best.
- Leave-In Conditioners: To add moisture and nourishment to your locs, use a leave-in conditioner formulated explicitly for them. Look for water-based formulas that won’t leave residue or buildup.
- Herbal Rinses: Treating your locs with herbal rinses is a beautiful way to nourish and enhance their health. According to natural hair care specialist Keneesha Hudson, founder of Urbanbella, “Herbal rinses made from ingredients like rosemary, chamomile, or lavender can provide numerous benefits for locs.” These natural ingredients soothe the scalp, stimulate hair growth, and impart a beautiful shine to your locs. Incorporating herbal rinses into your loc care routine can help maintain scalp health, promote healthy development, and enhance the overall appearance of your locs over time.
- Protective Styling: Opt for protective styles like buns, braids, or updos to minimise manipulation and protect your locs from environmental damage. Be mindful not to style your locs too tightly, which can cause tension and breakage.
- Satin Scarves or Bonnets: Wear satin scarves or bonnets while sleeping to protect your locs from friction and retain moisture. Satin helps prevent breakage and keeps your locs looking healthy and vibrant.
Product Recommendations
- Moisturising Oils: Use natural oils such as Jamaican Black Castor, almond, or grapeseed oil to moisturise your locs without leaving them greasy or weighed down.
- Leave-In Conditioners: To keep your locs hydrated and manageable, look for leave-in conditioners designed for locs, such as the SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Leave-In Conditioner.
- Herbal Rinses: Experiment with herbal rinses from brands like Aunt Jackie’s or Taliah Waajid to refresh and revitalise your locs while promoting overall scalp health.
Regardless of where you are in your hair journey, whether you’re rocking your natural curls, maintaining healthy, relaxed hair, or embracing the beauty of locs, the key is to prioritise the health and well-being of your hair.
Endless styling options
The world of styling possibilities for black hair is as vast as the ocean, and you can do anything! From embracing your fluffy afro and ponytail to rocking intricate braids and locs, there’s no shortage of ways to express your unique style and personality. Let’s dive into the diverse styling options and unleash your creativity!
Afro:
Embrace the beauty of your natural texture with a fabulous afro. Whether you prefer a big and bold fro, the afro is a timeless style that exudes confidence and flair. Keep your curls moisturised and defined with a leave-in conditioner and styling gel, and fluff your hair to your desired volume.
Twist-Outs
A twist-out hairstyle achieves defined and elongated curls. Start by sectioning your hair and twisting each section tightly, then unravel the twists once they’re scorched for gorgeous, bouncy curls. Add oil or cream to your fingertips to minimise frizz and enhance shine.
Braids:
Explore the world of braids and unleash your inner queen with stunning braided styles. Whether you opt for classic box braids, intricate cornrows, or trendy feed-in braids, braided hairstyles are versatile, low-maintenance, and perfect for protecting your natural hair. Experiment with different patterns, lengths, and accessories
Locs:
Locs, also known as, are a timeless and culturally significant hairstyle that symbolises strength, resilience, and spiritual growth. Whether starting your loc journey or maintaining mature locs, locs can be styled in various ways, from updos and buns to intricate styles adorned with beads and accessories.
Bantu Knots:
Bantu knots are a fun and stylish way to create defined curls and waves. To achieve this look, section your hair into small sections, twist each section tightly and wrap it around itself to form a knot. Secure the knot with a hair elastic or bobby pin, then unravel the knots once your hair is dry to reveal beautiful, spiral curls.
Wash and Go:
The wash-and-go is a low-maintenance styling option that lets your natural curls shine. Apply a leave-in conditioner or curl-defining cream to damp hair, scrunch your curls upward to encourage definition, and allow your hair to air dry or use a diffuser for added volume.
Feel free to experiment with different styles, textures, and accessories to find the looks that make you feel confident and empowered. Whether you’re rocking a fierce afro or embracing the beauty of your locs, your hair journey is all about celebrating your unique beauty and individuality.
Remember, your natural hair journey is a personal and transformative experience. It’s okay to have moments of doubt or insecurity, but always remember the power and beauty within you. Surround yourself with a supportive community, seek inspiration from others on similar journeys, and, most importantly, be kind to yourself along the way.
