how do you know which way your hair grows

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

16 STYLISH SHORT HAIRSTYLES TO INSPIRE YOU

Looking to refresh your hairstyle and achieve an Instagram-worthy look? Check out these top short hairstyles!

If you’re searching for hair inspiration, I’ve gathered the best short hairstyles for women that you’ll love.

These trending styles are making waves for all the right reasons.

From a cute and edgy pixie cut to chic and versatile shoulder-length hair, these hairstyles are as stylish as they are practical.

So, whether it’s time for a haircut or you’re just thinking about a change, let’s explore these stunning styles together!

In this post, I’ll highlight the best short hairstyles that are perfect for any occasion.

SHORT HAIRSTYLE AND HAIRCUT TRENDS

First things first, let’s dive into the latest short hairstyle trends.

Trends are always evolving, but here are some of the most popular looks you won’t want to miss:

WITH WISPY BANGS

One of the hottest features in short hairstyles right now is the addition of wispy bangs.

Bangs have always been a staple in hairstyling, and they’ve made their way into short haircuts too.

Wispy, thin bangs are a perfect match for any short hairstyle—they’re slightly longer and lightly layered, accentuating your natural features and adding a soft, flattering touch to your look.

BLUNT BOB (TASSEL CUT)

The blunt bob, also known as the tassel cut, is a trendy Korean short hairstyle that’s been turning heads recently.

This style features short hair with tassel-like cut ends, creating a minimalist and fresh look.

Unlike traditional short bobs, the tassel cut has razor-sharp edges that slightly flip out, adding a unique and playful twist to the classic bob.

A LOT OF LAYERS FOR LOB (HUSH CUT)

If you’re seeking a short hairstyle that adds volume and texture to your hair, the hush cut is an excellent choice.

This trendy style is all about layers, which add depth and dimension to your locks. It looks especially flattering on lob-length hair and suits most face shapes.

The best part? This haircut is low-maintenance, so you won’t need to spend hours styling it every day.

BEST SHORT HAIRSTYLES FOR WOMEN

Ready to check out some of the best short hairstyles? Here are our top picks that are sure to inspire your next salon visit:

NATURAL BOB AND FRONT FRINGE

Who can resist the allure of a natural bob? It’s a timeless and versatile hairstyle that beautifully balances sophistication with youthfulness. Adding a thin layer of fringe with see-through bangs gives your hair a playful and feminine touch that’s simply irresistible.

VOLUMINOUS SHORT HAIRSTYLES

What could be better than a stylish and voluminous short hairstyle? The c-curled bouncy bob is a fantastic choice for adding volume without going overboard. This trendy hairstyle provides a polished look that’s sure to turn heads.

CLASSIC BOB WITH TEXTURE

I instantly fell for this classic bob with added texture. It’s a versatile style that suits any face shape and achieves a natural, effortless look.

MESSY LOB HAIRCUT

For an effortlessly chic look, try the messy lob haircut with textured ends. This style is ideal for adding some edge without sacrificing length. The layers provide volume and depth, while the textured ends create a tousled, beachy vibe.

LAYERED LOB HAIRSTYLES

Add a touch of youthful charm to your look with a c-curl lob hairstyle! This elegant and versatile cut pairs beautifully with bangs, creating a fun and playful appearance. It’s no surprise that it’s a favorite among Korean girls.

HUSH CUT FOR LOB

I absolutely adore the hush cut! It adds beautiful movement and volume to your hair, creating a fun and playful look. Whether your hair is straight or wavy, this cut enhances your natural texture wonderfully.

WAVY LOB HAIRSTYLES

With a wavy lob hairstyle, you can achieve an effortless and dimensional look that’s ideal for any occasion. Elevate your style by adding face-framing bangs, which draw attention to your best features and give your hair an extra boost of movement and texture.

PIXIE WITH WISPY BANGS

For a soft and feminine look, try a pixie cut with wispy bangs. This style includes front bangs that are styled in a romantic way, adding a touch of elegance to your overall appearance.

TOUSLED PIXIE WITH BANGS

If you’re after a fun and playful short hairstyle, the tousled pixie with bangs is perfect for you! This cut features messy, textured layers and front bangs that create a carefree and effortless vibe.

TEXTURED PIXIE CUT

A textured pixie cut is a fantastic choice for those with fine hair, as it adds instant volume and body. The light texture creates a relaxed, effortless look while still keeping it chic and modern.

LAYERED BOB HAIRSTYLES

Many women may think short haircuts are hard to maintain, but a layered bob challenges that notion. The layers not only shape the bob beautifully but also provide long-lasting volume and texture that continues to look great as your hair grows out.

SLEEK BLUNT BOB

You’ll love the sleek and sophisticated look of a blunt bob. This stylish choice is especially flattering for those with straight hair, offering a timeless and natural appearance. The tassel cut adds an extra touch of elegance and refinement to your overall look.

TOUSLED BOB HAIRSTYLES

If you’re looking to add a touch of sweetness to your short hairstyle, a tousled bob with soft waves is perfect. This look exudes a playful and youthful vibe, and incorporating see-through bangs can enhance your overall attractiveness.

BLUNT BOB WITH SIDE BANGS

A blunt bob with side bangs is one of the trendiest haircuts right now. This style offers a sleek and polished look, and adding curtain or side bangs can enhance the volume and height of the tassel cut, resulting in a stunning effect.

HALF-UP HAIRSTYLES FOR SHORT HAIR

When it comes to styling short hair, half-up hairstyles are a fantastic option. They not only keep your hair out of your face but also highlight its length. Whether you choose claw clips or half-up buns, there are plenty of variations to match your style and the occasion.

ASH-TONED SHORT HAIRSTYLES

Achieve a chic and trendy look with ash-toned short hairstyles. This hair color is a popular choice among women, as it effectively neutralizes any unwanted red tones while brightening up your overall appearance. With its cool-toned hues, ash-toned hair adds a touch of sophistication and style to any short hairstyle.

SHORT HAIRSTYLES: FAQS

1. How to Style Short Hairstyles?

The styling options for your haircut will vary depending on the specific cut. 

A popular choice is to use a texturizing spray or styling wax to achieve a relaxed, ‘bedhead’ look. 

For a more polished appearance, consider using a flat iron to add subtle waves or curls. 

You can also create volume and texture by blow-drying your hair with a round brush.

2. What Hair Products Should I Use to Style Them?

The styling products you choose for your Korean short hairstyle will depend on your desired look. 

For a natural, messy style, consider using a texturizing spray or styling wax.

 If you prefer a sleeker, more polished look, a styling cream or serum can help smooth your hair and add shine. 

Remember to use a heat protectant if you’re planning to use hot styling tools like a flat iron or curling iron.

WRAP UP

We hope this guide has inspired you with ideas for your next haircut! Short hairstyles offer a variety of trendy and flattering options. 

Whether you’re looking for a classic bob, a playful pixie, or something in between, there’s a Korean short hairstyle perfect for you. 

So, take the plunge and discover a new look!