If you want to grow long healthy natural hair, this post could be one of the most important ones you read. My friend, Toronto-based hairstylist Keina Morgan, breaks it down for us in 10 quick tips.
1. GO SULFATE-FREE
Use a sulfate-free moisturizing cleanser:  healthy hair will always looks shiny and soft. By using a sulphate free cleanser you are helping to keep the natural oils that your hair produces. Resulting in less dryness for your scalp and hair.
2. CONDITION
Conditioners don’t harm your hair they just help it. As long as you are conditioning your hair, you are helping to keep it hydrated. Some conditioners should be completely rinsed out, while others can be left in. Try to avoid synthetic ingredients in your conditioners they create buildup over time.
3. STAY BUILDUP FREE
Stay away from ingredients that leave heavy buildup in your hair. Always read the ingredients in your products, and stay away from heavy synthetic oils and humectants. Buildup blocks the absorption of moisture in your hair. So use a clarifying shampoo to remove build up once in a while because healthy hair needs a lot of moisture to maintain its shiny and soft appearance.
4. LEAVE-IN
Use a leave-in conditioner daily. A water-based leave-in conditioner is preferable because it penetrates the hair and can be used with other styling products.
5. FINGER DETANGLE
Use your fingers to detangle your hair. It is a great way to gently take tangles out of your hair. You will lose a lot less hair this way. Which will result in less ripping, snagging and breaking.
6. PRE-POO
Do a pre-wash or pre-poo with natural oils before washing your hair. This method of massaging your hair in oils before washing it, helps to protect your hair from absorbing too much water  and works great to prevent major stripping from harsh shampoos.
7. OIL vs WATER
Ever wonder why certain products tend to bead up in your hair? Well, it’s because oil and water don’t mix so choose your products wisely. Always read the ingredient list and make sure you are not using a water-based product on-top of an oil-based product. They won’t blend well together and will give your hair a flaky or filmy look once it’s dried.
8. PROTECT YOUR HAIR AT NIGHT
You can do this by using a satin / silk cap or pillowcase to prevent and protect the moisture in your hair. This reduces frizz and knots that can develop at while you sleep.
9. EAT FOR HEALTH
Nutrition matters so eat healthy. Try getting enough vitamins and minerals in your diet, they will help to produce stronger hair. Always drink a lot of water as this will carry the nutrients to your cells better and wash out the toxins and waste that can accumulate in your body.
10. LIVE STRESS-FREE
Stress can cause major hair breakage on the back and sides especially. Try to remove yourself from bad energy and thoughts. You will be surprised at the power you have within yourselves when you sustain positive energy, feelings and thoughts.
JOIN THE CONVERSATION:
How long have you been natural?
Stay Conscious & Chic!
