If you're like me, you may have had to re-think and change a few things about your hair regimen this year. A s result, I decided to play more of an active role in my hair care. I realized that when it comes to healthy natural hair there's tons of advice that can get in the way of what truly is vital to thriving, healthy, growing hair. We follow the latest trends, new products and still continue to struggle with hair sabotaging habits. So let me shed some light on these 5 major natural hair mistakes most naturals continue to make. Knowing them will help you recognize what may be keeping you stuck in your natural hair journey.
Hair Mistake #1: What's Inside Doesn't Matter
No, I don't mean the cliché saying recognizing inward beauty and it's importance(even though it is). I'm talking about the inside of your natural hair products. What makes a product worth your time and money should be the ingredients. Your ingredients should be free from sulfates, phosphates, parabens, harmful alcohols ( not all are bad) & water as one of it's first listed ingredients. Always pay attention to the order in which the ingredients are listed. The order represents the ratio or amount of the ingredient used. I also want to point out that how your hair responds to product ingredients is important. Pay close attention to any changes in your hair/scalp to truly determine if it's right for you.
Most naturals go off of the assumption that a brand associated with natural hair must be curl friendly. Unfortunately not. A great tool to check out is curlsbot. You simply copy and paste the ingredient list and it'll help you determine if a product is right for you or not.
Hair Mistake #2: Dead Weight
It's recommended that the damaged ends of your hair should be trimmed roughly every 6-8 weeks . It may seem counter productive but it will help you retain length. Remember damaged ends will always get worse. There are products out there that promise to repair split ends but don't be mislead; once they are split it's best to snip them before it damages the entire hair shaft. Not sure if it's time for a trim? Pay attention when detangling or styling your hair. If there is more shedding than usual, tangling or thinning at the ends a trim may be needed. When in doubt you can always ask a professional stylist.
Hair Mistake #3: Not Sticking With It
When you find the right product, routine, ingredient, or style that noticeably has your hair at it's best; Stick with it! Too often the excitement of a new product, trend or technique may have us wondering if what we're doing could be even better. We are all guilty of it from time to time and there is nothing wrong with wanting to improve your regimen or skills. I'm speaking of the extremes of always manipulating and experimenting constantly without regard to the changing state of your natural hair. It's recommended to try out a new product at least 4 weeks before deciding if it's not working. So if you have a new shampoo and wash once a week then usually by wash day 4 you should know if it's benefiting you hair or not. On the other hand if you wash your hair once and you have a noticeable adverse or undesired result immediately; I'd recommend discontinued use at once. It's all about what works for YOUR hair.
Hair Mistake #4: Under Used Resources
Maintaining your natural curly, kinky or coily hair doesn't mean you have to do it all on your own. I assure you; natural hair doesn't mean "do-it-yourself". There are many talented naturals, natural stylists, and great natural hair products available that can help keep your hair thriving. Being natural doesn't mean you have to know the ins and outs of it all to be successful. It's perfectly fine to use quality natural products on your own or with a natural stylist that will help educate you. The key is to pay attention to how your hair responds to certain treatments and styles.
Hair Mistake #5: Neglect
To put it simply, a protective style is never a reason to take a break from caring for our hair. When wearing extensions it's important to keep the scalp clean and moisturized as well as the length of the hair when wearing braids. When using braiding hair, it can pull moisture away from the hair and neglecting it can increase the breakage you'll see when you take your braids down. Deciding to wear a protective style without extensions requires attention as well. It's important to address any scalp irritation or hair tension. Even if it means taking down a long-term protective style sooner than expected. If you are having overall difficulty managing your natural hair that's ok too. Never just neglect your hair care. Please consider consulting with a professional stylist who can work with you and help educate you about maintaining your hair.
Although these 5 major natural hair mistakes are very common they are also avoidable. If you need more suggestions on products or help customizing your natural hair regimen, follow me on Instagram , subscribe and receive exclusive posts & offers.
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