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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

17 CURTAIN BANGS HAIRSTYLES FOR MEN TO TRY IN 2024

Curtain bangs have made a major comeback, blending the relaxed charm of the 90s with a contemporary edge. In 2024, these versatile fringes are a standout trend in men’s fashion, merging effortless style with a touch of sophistication. This article highlights 17 innovative curtain bangs hairstyles that strike the perfect balance between nostalgia and modern flair, offering fresh inspiration for anyone looking to update their look with a nod to the past while staying firmly in the present.

EFFORTLESS EDGE

This hairstyle is ideal for the man who balances meticulous grooming with a touch of laid-back charm. The cut allows the bangs to gracefully curtain the forehead, drawing subtle attention to the eyes. It’s a look that combines structure with a hint of whimsy, making it perfect for those who embody a dynamic professional spirit.

SCULPTED WAVES

For those who value precision, this style merges the meticulous craftsmanship of sculpted waves with the gentle flow of curtain bangs. It’s perfect for men who seek a hairstyle that not only enhances their facial structure but also adds a touch of artistic sophistication.

CASUAL TOUSLE

Casual Tousle represents the essence of relaxed style. With less structured curtain bangs and a subtle middle part, this look allows the hair to fall naturally. Ideal for men with straight or slightly wavy hair, it requires minimal maintenance. A touch of texturizing spray or light mousse can add body and hold, achieving a laid-back yet polished appearance without appearing overly styled.

PLATINUM PLAY

Defying conventional norms, this platinum hairstyle makes a bold statement of independence. The curtain bangs frame the face, balancing the edgy color choice with a touch of softness, creating a harmonious blend of rebellion and elegance.

TOUSLED CHARM

Imagine a hairstyle that embodies the essence of a breezy day. This look features textured waves that appear to flutter around the face with a natural, dynamic movement. It’s a tribute to the free-spirited man who sees his hair as a reflection of his personality—playful, unpredictable, and effortlessly captivating.

MODERN MAVERICK

The modern maverick’s hairstyle embodies a calculated sense of casualness. The curtain bangs are precisely cut to a perfect length, allowing for a sleek back-sweep that integrates seamlessly with the rest of the hair’s texture. It’s designed for the man who commands attention effortlessly, exuding confidence without appearing to try too hard.

BLONDE AMBITION

Here’s a unique take on curtain bangs that defies the norm. Bleached to a sandy hue, these bangs make a bold statement of individuality and daring. The sun-kissed color complements a sultry gaze, evoking images of summer adventures and untold stories, adding a touch of intrigue to the look.

ASIAN ELEGANCE

Asian Elegance showcases the beauty of thick, straight hair, often seen in many Asian men. The curtain bangs are left longer and parted slightly off-center, framing the face with a softness that blends modern sophistication with timeless appeal. To perfect this look, use a lightweight serum to add shine and minimize frizz, ensuring a sleek and polished finish.

RETRO REVIVAL

Reviving the essence of the 90s, this hairstyle is perfect for the man who honors classic styles while staying current. The curls cascade loosely around the face, with the bangs creating a curtain that frames a gaze both nostalgic and perceptive. It blends vintage charm with modern sensibility for a look that’s timeless yet contemporary.

MODERN SLEEK

Modern Sleek offers a contemporary twist on curtain bangs. The hair is parted in the middle and slicked back behind the ears, creating a clean and refined look. Ideal for a night out or a special occasion, this style is achieved with a fine-tooth comb and a strong-hold gel for a polished, tidy finish.

SLEEK SOPHISTICATION

Sleek Sophistication takes curtain bangs to a new level of polish. Ideal for a professional setting, the bangs are parted down the middle and combed to each side, creating a curtain that beautifully frames the face. This style requires straight hair or the use of a straightener, and a medium-hold gel or pomade to maintain the sleekness throughout the day. It’s a look that speaks of control and attention to detail.

SHAGGY SOPHISTICATION

A throwback that feels perfectly modern, this hairstyle features longer, shaggy layers that exude relaxed sophistication. The middle-parted bangs hint at an effortless confidence, blending desirability with an enviable ease.

REFINED REBELLION

This style’s curtain bangs fall with precision, achieving a look that’s both polished and provocative. It’s a hairstyle that narrates a tale of complexity, perfect for the man whose every move blends thoughtful actions with innate style.

DARK AND DRAMATIC

The Dark and Dramatic look is characterized by its deep color and glossy finish. With curtain bangs cut straight across and parted in the middle, this style allows the bangs to fall just above the eyes, making a bold statement. To maintain this striking appearance, use a smoothing cream or serum to keep the bangs in place, and finish with a gloss spray for added shine.

CLASSIC COOL

Last but not least, we return to the essence of cool—the timeless charm of a simple, classic cut. These curtain bangs are perfectly balanced, neither too long nor too short, making them ideal for the man who epitomizes classic style with effortless sophistication.

CLASSIC NATURAL FLOW

The Classic Natural Flow is all about effortless style. Featuring slightly grown-out curtain bangs with a natural wave, this look is perfect for the guy on the go. It requires minimal maintenance—just a quick comb to part the hair down the middle in the morning, and you’re set. Ideal for men with naturally wavy hair, this style can be kept tidy with a light-hold styling product, offering a neat and relaxed appearance.

EDGY TEXTURE

The Edgy Texture style is designed for the bold and adventurous. This version of curtain bangs features choppy layers and textured elements that add a distinctive edge. Ideal for those with a daring fashion sense, it combines a middle part with uneven bangs that can be enhanced with matte clay or wax. It complements a rugged wardrobe and is perfect for men who want their hairstyle to reflect their unique personality.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, curtain bangs transcend mere trend status, embodying a blend of personal style and the timeless interplay between past and present. They provide a spectrum of expressions, from understated sophistication to bold audacity. What’s your choice? Share your thoughts and join the conversation about the latest in men’s fashion.