10 AMAZING NATURAL HAIR RULES YOU SHOULD FOLLOW YOUR INSTINCTS
Natural hair is fundamentally a lifestyle choice. Achieving your hair goals requires dedicated effort and a keen understanding of your unique hair type, porosity, density, and width. Think of your hair like a plant: the more you nourish it with quality products, hydrate it, and shield it from harsh conditions, the more it will thrive, grow, and transform. Here are the top 10 essential rules for maintaining healthy, vibrant natural hair!
SOLIDIFY YOUR WASH DAY ROUTINE
Your wash day is essential for maintaining healthy natural hair, as it all begins with proper moisture. Clarifying your hair is a crucial step in your wash day routine. If your hair is dirty, it won’t be able to absorb moisture effectively due to product buildup.
When it comes to shampoos, there are two key types every natural should have: moisturizing shampoos and clarifying shampoos.
Moisturizing shampoos feature gentle yet effective surfactants that cleanse the scalp by removing dirt and product buildup. These are perfect for regular use.
Clarifying shampoos, however, contain stronger cleansing agents designed to deeply cleanse your hair and eliminate hard-to-reach dirt, including mineral buildup. Shampoos with chelating ingredients are especially beneficial for low porosity hair, which often experiences quicker product accumulation.
Weekly deep conditioning is an essential rule in caring for natural hair. Its primary purpose is to condition, strengthen, and soften your hair, setting the stage for your leave-in products.
Always prioritize deep conditioning after shampooing to counteract any stripping effects from the shampoo. Opt for deep conditioners that feature emollients, fatty alcohols, and are packed with nourishing plant extracts.
USE MOISTURIZING LEAVE-IN STYLERS
Leave-in conditioners are crucial for all natural hair types, regardless of curl pattern, porosity, density, or width. These products not only offer moisture until your next wash day but also condition the hair and minimize friction.
Curly and coily hair often experiences curl interlocking, where curls and coils tangle together. This can lead to severe knots and tangles, resulting in increased breakage and shedding if not addressed.
Leave-in conditioners contain friction-reducing agents that help keep your curls manageable. They are definitely a staple in any natural hair routine. When paired with a plant-based botanical gel, your coils will stay tangle-free and frizz-free for days!
KNOW YOUR POROSITY
What’s the point of using all those expensive products if you don’t understand your hair’s absorption potential? Porosity is the most crucial rule to know about your hair. It determines how well your hair absorbs water and products, guiding you on what to use and how to apply it effectively.
Natural hair porosity refers to your hair’s ability to absorb moisture and products. Low porosity hair has a low absorption rate because its cuticles are tightly closed, making it challenging for moisture to penetrate. High porosity hair, on the other hand, has open cuticles, leading to a high absorption rate but difficulty in retaining moisture.
If you have low porosity hair, focus on enhancing moisture absorption. Because the cuticles are tight, products often sit on the surface. Choose lightweight formulas that promote absorption and include delivery agents to help penetrate the cuticle, especially for leave-in conditioners and styling products.
For high porosity hair, which has raised cuticles, moisture retention is key. Use products with ingredients that form moisture barriers and fill cuticle gaps to prevent moisture loss throughout the week.
BALANCE PROTEIN
Protein treatments are vital for addressing protein loss caused by mechanical damage (like detangling) and chemical damage (from heat tools, dyes, and relaxers), and they should be part of every natural hair routine.
However, excessive protein treatments can lead to dry, brittle hair—exactly what we want to avoid! It’s crucial to tailor your protein treatments according to your hair’s porosity and width to prevent overuse.
Smaller proteins, such as amino acids and peptides, can penetrate the hair cortex to strengthen it, making them suitable for all porosities and hair widths.
Conversely, larger proteins like hydrolyzed wheat and collagen function similarly to film-forming humectants, creating a protective barrier around the hair. These treatments are ideal for high porosity or fine to medium strands but can increase dryness in low porosity and coarse hair.
MAINTAIN A HEALTHY SCALP
Scalp health is essential for a successful hair journey, regardless of hair type. Just as we care for our hair ends, we must prioritize our scalp.
Think of your scalp as the foundation of your hair; it deserves just as much attention. If our hair ends are like the wise elders, our scalp is the precious baby!
Here are some best practices for maintaining scalp health:
Moisturize: Use skin-friendly products to keep your scalp hydrated. Remember, the scalp is skin too, so avoid harsh ingredients.
Scalp Massages: Every few days, massage your scalp with nourishing oils like olive, castor, or avocado oil. Adding rosemary oil can enhance blood circulation and keep the scalp well-lubricated.
Gentle Hairstyles: Avoid tight hairstyles to reduce the risk of follicle damage.
Stay Clean: Regularly cleanse your scalp to remove oil, dirt, bacteria, and product buildup.
PROTECT YOUR HAIR
Protective styling is crucial for maintaining a healthy natural hair routine. If you’re aiming for hair growth, protective styles help retain length while locking in moisture, supporting your growth goals. To avoid any drawbacks of protective styling, follow these best practices: ensure your style isn’t too tight to prevent follicle tension, and regularly take it down for clarifying and re-moisturizing.
LISTEN TO YOUR HAIR
Mastering the art of listening to your hair can be challenging, but it’s essential for your hair journey. For instance, some people with natural hair can go a week without moisturizing, while others may need to re-moisturize every two days. Both are perfectly normal!
Remember, everyone’s hair is unique. If your hair feels dry, clear away buildup and follow up with a deep conditioner and leave-in. Pay attention to what your hair is telling you—it will show its appreciation!
UP YOUR DIET AND EXERCISE ROUTINE AS NEEDED
This year, let’s acknowledge the important connection between diet, exercise, and beauty. The saying “you are what you eat” holds true for natural hair. Staying hydrated is essential for hair growth, but making key dietary changes—like eating a balanced diet and taking necessary supplements—is equally important. Regular exercise also plays a vital role.
To boost your hair growth, focus on incorporating plenty of leafy greens and fruits into your meals. Empower yourself by understanding your body—are you missing any essential nutrients? Nutrients like iron are crucial for the hair cycle, and deficiencies can show up in your hair.
Lastly, don’t underestimate the impact of exercise. Many people with natural hair report that moderate weekly workouts help enhance their hair growth cycle.
STOP COMPARING
They say comparison is the enemy of creativity, and I couldn’t agree more. Remember, pursuing any goal is a marathon, not a sprint. Despite what some natural hair influencers may claim, hair doesn’t grow overnight—anyone who says otherwise isn’t being truthful.
Avoid comparing your hair journey to others; you are unique, and there’s no need to emulate someone else. Instead, focus on the health of your hair. Healthy hair grows! By keeping it moisturized, protected, and happy, you’ll set yourself up for success on your hair growth journey.
ACKNOWLEDGE YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS
We can be our own harshest critics, but your hair is beautiful just as it is right now. It’s important to take a moment to recognize your achievements, growth, and progress. Remember, your hair is always growing, and it deserves your gratitude!
CONCLUSION
These commandments are a foundational guide for healthy natural hair. While individual hair needs vary, following these science-based tips and adapting them to your specific hair type will help you achieve optimal results
15 BEST BRA FOR BACK FAT: TIPS TO CHOOSE THE BEST BRA FOR HIDING BACK FAT
Does back fat have you feeling less than confident in your clothes? You’re not alone! Many women struggle with this common issue. But fret no more! The right bra can be your secret weapon for a smoother, sleeker look. In this guide, we’ll explore the 15 best bra options for back fat, along with helpful tips to ensure you find the perfect fit for ultimate comfort and confidence.
OUR TOP PICKS
MAGICLIFT FRONT-CLOSURE POSTURE BACK BRA
The MagicLift Front-Closure Posture Back Bra by Glamorise is a strong contender for those seeking comfort and support with a touch of back smoothing. This bra boasts a wire-free design that lifts and shapes without the discomfort of underwires. The secret lies in its crisscrossed inner band that provides gentle lift and a secure fit.
Another key feature is the front closure. Unlike traditional back-clasping bras, the MagicLift closes securely in the front with adjustable hook-and-eye closures. This can be a game-changer for those with limited mobility or who find reaching behind their back difficult.
But the MagicLift isn’t just about comfort. The bra’s design incorporates strategically placed Lycra® panels across the back. These panels offer gentle smoothing and light posture support, helping to minimize the appearance of back fat and promote better posture throughout the day. Wide, padded straps add to the comfort factor by distributing weight evenly and reducing pressure on your shoulders.
SPANX BREAST OF BOTH WORLDS REVERSIBLE COMFORT BRA
The Spanx Breast of Both Worlds Reversible Comfort Bra is all about convenience and comfort, with a touch of versatility. This wireless bralette features a seamless, pullover design that’s free of hooks, wires, and even seams. This eliminates the potential for digging or discomfort, making it ideal for all-day wear or lounging.
Despite the lack of traditional structure, the Bra of Both Worlds offers surprising support. The key lies in its innovative construction. Spanx utilizes a combination of a ribbed band and a special inner lining to provide gentle shaping and lift. This design is particularly suitable for those with smaller busts who desire a comfortable and supportive bralette.
An added bonus of this bra is its reversible feature. The Bra of Both Worlds comes in two solid colors, with each side offering a different shade. This allows you to switch up your look or coordinate with various outfits. With its focus on comfort, ease of wear, and a touch of style, the Spanx Bra of Both Worlds is a solid option for everyday wear or low-impact activities.
FRONT-CLOSURE SMOOTHING WONDERWIRE BRA
The Glamorise Front-Closure Smoothing Wonderwire Bra is designed for those who want the combined benefits of strong support, smoothing capabilities, and a user-friendly closure. This bra utilizes Glamorise’s signature Wonderwire® technology. Wonderwires are specially designed underwires that provide supportive lift while minimizing the risk of digging or discomfort.
The front-closure design is a major advantage, especially for those with limited mobility or who find back-clasping bras difficult to manage. The bra secures firmly in the front with adjustable hook-and-eye closures, making it easy to put on and take off independently.
Beyond ease of use, the Front-Closure Smoothing Wonderwire Bra lives up to its name. Built-in smoothing panels across the back target unwanted bulge, creating a sleeker silhouette under clothing. Additionally, the bra’s full-coverage design offers excellent support and lift, making it ideal for everyday wear or those with fuller busts. Wide, comfortable straps help distribute weight evenly and reduce pressure on your shoulders. If you prioritize a supportive, smoothing bra with a convenient front closure, the Glamorise Front-Closure Smoothing Wonderwire Bra is definitely worth considering.
LEONISA BACK SMOOTHING BRA WITH SOFT FULL COVERAGE CUPS
The Leonisa Back Smoothing Bra with Soft Full Coverage Cups is designed for those seeking a comfortable and supportive option with a focus on smoothing. This bra combines full-coverage, soft foam-lined cups with an underwire structure for both lift and shape. The underwire is designed for comfort, minimizing any potential digging or pinching.
The key to the bra’s smoothing effect lies in Leonisa’s signature PowerSlim® fabric. This strategically placed fabric, particularly in the high-coverage underarm and back wings, gently smooths and shapes your silhouette. The longline underbust band and high sides also contribute to a seamless look under clothing.
Despite its smoothing capabilities, the Leonisa Back Smoothing Bra prioritizes comfort. The soft, full-coverage cups provide a comfortable and rounded shape, while flexible side boning ensures the bra stays put without rolling down. The 4-level adjustable back hook-and-eye closure allows for a personalized fit for optimal comfort and support. This bra is a great choice for everyday wear, offering a combination of smoothing, shaping, and comfortable support.
FRONT-CLOSURE T-BACK WONDERWIRE BRA
The Front-Closure T-Back WonderWire Bra is a revolutionary undergarment designed to offer superior comfort and support. Featuring a convenient front-closure mechanism, this bra is exceptionally easy to put on and take off, eliminating the hassle often associated with traditional back-hook bras. The T-back design ensures a secure fit, keeping the straps in place and preventing them from slipping off the shoulders. This thoughtful construction not only enhances comfort but also provides a sleek and stylish look under clothing, making it a versatile choice for various outfits and occasions.
One of the standout features of the Front-Closure T-Back WonderWire Bra is its patented WonderWire technology. Unlike conventional bras, the underwire in this bra is cushioned to prevent it from coming into direct contact with the skin. This unique design eliminates the discomfort and irritation often caused by underwires, providing all-day comfort and support. Crafted from high-quality, breathable materials, this bra is designed to keep you cool and comfortable throughout the day. The combination of functionality and style makes the Front-Closure T-Back WonderWire Bra an essential addition to any wardrobe, catering to those who seek both elegance and practicality in their lingerie choices.
SLOGGI ZERO FEEL BRALETTE
The Sloggi Zero Feel Bralette is a seamless blend of comfort and modern design, offering an unparalleled wearing experience. Constructed from innovative, lightweight fabric, this bralette provides a barely-there feel, making it perfect for all-day wear. Its seamless design eliminates the potential for chafing and irritation, ensuring a smooth silhouette under any outfit. The bralette’s stretchy material adapts to your body’s natural shape, offering a custom fit that moves with you, providing support without the need for traditional underwires or padding.
One of the key highlights of the Sloggi Zero Feel Bralette is its wireless structure, which offers gentle support while maintaining a natural look. The absence of hooks, clasps, and tags further enhances the comfort, making it an ideal choice for lounging, light activities, or as a comfortable alternative to traditional bras. Available in a variety of colors and sizes, the Sloggi Zero Feel Bralette caters to diverse preferences and body types, ensuring that every wearer can find their perfect match. This bralette embodies the fusion of style, comfort, and functionality, making it a must-have addition to any modern lingerie collection.
WONDERWIRE FRONT-CLOSURE POSTURE BACK BRA
The WonderWire Front-Closure Posture Back Bra is a thoughtfully engineered piece of lingerie designed to provide exceptional support and enhance posture. Featuring a convenient front-closure mechanism, this bra is easy to put on and take off, offering a hassle-free experience for everyday wear. The innovative WonderWire design ensures that the underwire is cushioned, preventing it from coming into direct contact with the skin and eliminating discomfort commonly associated with traditional underwire bras. This bra is crafted from high-quality, breathable materials, ensuring all-day comfort and a perfect fit.
A standout feature of the WonderWire Front-Closure Posture Back Bra is its posture-enhancing back design. This unique construction provides additional support to the back and shoulders, promoting better posture and alleviating strain. The wide, adjustable straps further enhance comfort and stability, making this bra an excellent choice for those who seek both support and comfort in their lingerie. Available in a variety of sizes and colors, the WonderWire Front-Closure Posture Back Bra combines functionality and style, making it an essential addition to any wardrobe. Its thoughtful design caters to the needs of modern women, ensuring they feel confident and comfortable throughout the day.
FIGLEAVES SMOOTHING SWEETHEART FULL CUP UNDERWIRED T-SHIRT BRA
The Figleaves Smoothing Sweetheart Full Cup Underwired T-Shirt Bra is an elegant and practical choice designed for everyday wear. Featuring a sweetheart neckline, this bra provides a flattering shape that enhances your natural curves, making it perfect for wearing under fitted tops and dresses. The full cup design ensures maximum coverage and support, while the underwired structure offers additional lift and shape. Made from smooth, high-quality fabric, this bra creates a seamless look under clothing, eliminating visible lines and providing a polished appearance.
One of the key features of the Figleaves Smoothing Sweetheart Full Cup Underwired T-Shirt Bra is its focus on comfort. The bra is equipped with adjustable straps and a secure hook-and-eye closure, allowing for a customized fit that adapts to your body. The cups are lightly padded, offering a smooth silhouette without adding extra bulk. This combination of style and functionality makes the Figleaves Smoothing Sweetheart Full Cup Underwired T-Shirt Bra an essential addition to any lingerie collection, catering to those who seek both elegance and practicality in their undergarments.
MAGICLIFT MINIMIZER BRA
The MagicLift Minimizer Bra is expertly designed to provide maximum support and a sleek silhouette, making it an essential addition to any lingerie collection. This bra features the unique MagicLift technology, which offers exceptional support without the need for an underwire. The inner cushioned band provides gentle lift and shaping, ensuring a comfortable fit throughout the day. As a minimizer, this bra effectively reduces the bust appearance by one cup size, creating a smoother and more balanced look under clothing. Its high-quality materials and thoughtful construction guarantee both durability and comfort.
In addition to its functional design, the MagicLift Minimizer Bra prioritizes comfort with wide, padded straps that relieve shoulder strain and enhance support. The bra also includes a breathable, moisture-wicking fabric that keeps you cool and dry, even during extended wear. The seamless cups ensure a smooth look under any outfit, while the sturdy hook-and-eye closure allows for easy adjustments and a secure fit. Available in a variety of sizes and colors, the MagicLift Minimizer Bra caters to diverse preferences and body types, making it a versatile and practical choice for everyday wear.
MARKS AND SPENCER SEAMLESS NON WIRED BRALETTES 3 PACK
The Marks and Spencer Seamless Non-Wired Bralettes 3 Pack offers a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and style, making it an ideal choice for everyday wear. These bralettes are designed with a seamless construction, ensuring a smooth fit under any outfit and eliminating any discomfort from seams. Made from soft, stretchy fabric, they provide a flexible fit that adapts to your body’s natural shape, offering gentle support without the need for underwires. The non-wired design enhances comfort, making these bralettes suitable for all-day wear, lounging, or light activities.
Each pack includes three bralettes in different colors, providing versatility and options to match various outfits. The Marks and Spencer Seamless Non-Wired Bralettes feature adjustable straps for a personalized fit and a secure, supportive feel. The fabric is breathable and lightweight, ensuring you stay cool and comfortable throughout the day. These bralettes are perfect for those who prioritize comfort and simplicity in their lingerie, offering a practical and stylish solution that complements any wardrobe. With their high-quality materials and thoughtful design, the Marks and Spencer Seamless Non-Wired Bralettes 3 Pack is a must-have for those seeking both functionality and elegance in their undergarments.
MAGICLIFT ORIGINAL SUPPORT BRA
The MagicLift Original Support Bra is crafted with utmost comfort and support in mind, making it a staple in lingerie collections. This bra features the patented MagicLift design, which includes a unique cushioned inner-bust band that provides uplift, separation, and support without the discomfort of traditional underwires. The cups are crafted from breathable and moisture-wicking fabric, ensuring a cool and dry feel throughout the day. Wide, padded straps alleviate shoulder strain and enhance overall comfort, while the full coverage cups and sturdy hook-and-eye closure offer a secure fit. Available in various sizes and colors, the MagicLift Original Support Bra combines functionality with elegant design, catering to those who prioritize both style and comfort in their everyday wear.
RUNDERWEAR EASY-ON RUNNING BRA
The Runderwear Easy-On Running Bra is specifically engineered to provide exceptional comfort and support during intense physical activities like running. Featuring a seamless design, this bra eliminates chafing and irritation, ensuring a smooth and comfortable fit against the skin. The moisture-wicking fabric helps to keep you dry and cool, even during strenuous workouts, while the breathable mesh panels enhance ventilation and airflow. The bra offers firm support with a compression fit that reduces bounce, providing stability and reducing strain on the breasts and shoulders. Designed for ease of use, the Runderwear Easy-On Running Bra includes adjustable straps and a hook-and-eye closure for a personalized fit, making it a practical and essential choice for active women seeking performance and comfort in their sports bras.
WONDERWIRE FRONT-CLOSURE BRA
The WonderWire Front-Closure Bra combines practicality with comfort, offering a convenient and supportive design. Featuring a front-closure mechanism, this bra is easy to put on and take off, eliminating the hassle of reaching behind your back. The WonderWire technology ensures that the underwire is cushioned and never touches the body, providing a comfortable and irritation-free experience. The cups are designed to provide full coverage and shaping, while adjustable straps allow for a personalized fit. Made from high-quality, breathable materials, the WonderWire Front-Closure Bra offers all-day comfort and support, making it an ideal choice for everyday wear. Its thoughtful construction and elegant design make it a versatile addition to any lingerie collection, catering to those who value both functionality and style in their undergarments.
WONDERBRA ULTIMATE BACKLESS BRA
The Wonderbra Ultimate Backless Bra is a revolutionary piece of lingerie designed to provide exceptional support and versatility. Featuring a unique adhesive application, this bra adheres securely to the skin, offering reliable lift and shaping without the need for straps or a back band. It is crafted from lightweight and breathable materials, ensuring comfort and ease of wear. The deep plunge neckline makes it suitable for low-cut and backless outfits, enhancing your natural silhouette while remaining virtually invisible under clothing. Whether for special occasions or everyday wear, the Wonderbra Ultimate Backless Bra offers a seamless blend of style and functionality, catering to those who seek confidence and comfort in their wardrobe choices.
TRIUMPH DOREEN BRA
The Triumph Doreen Bra is renowned for its classic design and exceptional support, catering to women seeking comfort and style in their lingerie. This bra features a non-wired construction with wide, adjustable straps and a supportive underband, providing maximum support and lift. The cups are crafted from soft, breathable fabric, ensuring all-day comfort without compromising on shape. The Triumph Doreen Bra is known for its timeless appeal, offering a flattering silhouette and minimizing the bust while maintaining a natural look. Available in a range of sizes and colors, it combines functionality with elegance, making it a versatile choice for everyday wear.
HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST BRA FOR BACK FAT
Finding the right bra when you deal with back fat can be tricky, but it doesn’t have to be a struggle! Here are some key things to consider to maximize both comfort and support:
Fit is key: Forget about squeezing yourself into a bra that digs in. A well-fitting bra should feel snug but comfortable, with the band around your back supporting most of the weight, not the straps.
Coverage matters: Opt for a bra with a full-back design. This will help smooth out any bulges and provide a more flattering silhouette under clothing. Wide side and back panels will distribute pressure evenly, preventing that overflow you might get with thinner straps.
Say no to dig-in: Look for bras with wider, comfy straps. These will help distribute weight better and prevent them from digging into your shoulders.
Support matters: Consider a bra with a cushioned underwire for extra lift and support. If underwires aren’t your thing, there are great options with supportive bands and molded cups that can still give you a smooth, lifted look.
Embrace adjustability: Look for bras with adjustable straps and multiple hook closures in the back. This allows you to fine-tune the fit for maximum comfort and support.
Beyond the basics: Some bras are specifically designed to minimize back fat. These may have features like higher centers in the back to smooth and tuck, or built-in shaping panels for a sleeker look.
Remember, the most important thing is to find a bra that fits well and feels comfortable. With the right bra, you can banish back bulge and feel confident and supported all day long.
CONCLUSION
Finding the perfect bra can be a challenge, but it’s an important part of feeling confident and supported throughout the day. By following the tips above and considering your own personal preferences, you can find a bra that minimizes back fat and flatters your figure. With a little effort, you can find a bra that makes you look and feel your best.
