mineral build up hair

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

THE 14 BEST DRUGSTORE HAIR PRODUCTS

Keeping your strands healthy and happy all year round might be difficult. Although there are several treatments available for every hair concern on the planet, the best drugstore hair products are your best chance to keep your hair looking beautiful and shining. The quality of these products has greatly increased over time as a result of ongoing research and innovation. This post will help you find the best drugstore hair care products. Keep scrolling!

Here, we’ve compiled a list of the 14 most trustworthy and reliable drugstore hair products on the market. It is worth noting that we curated the products after doing thorough research on their reviews. Take a peek.

Garnier Fructis Pure Clean Fortifying Shampoo

When it comes to budget hair shampoos, Garnier, a renowned brand, is an absolute classic. Garnier Fructis Pure Clean Fortifying Shampoo is one of the best options for frizzy hair. It contains a strengthening blend of healthy components such as aloe extracts, citric acid, and vitamins E, B3, and B6. It also contains active components including salicylic acid as well as extracts from fruits and plants. It’s free of parabens and silicone. The recipe is mild enough to thoroughly wash the scalp for maximum results. It may be used every day and does not weigh down the tresses, thus it is perfect for individuals with fine hair. It is a vegan formulation that is free of chemicals such as paraben, and silicone. 

Climaplex Moisture & Repair Shampoo

This sudser may be new to the scene, but it has taken up prime space in our shower since we first got our paws (er, strands) on it. It claims to use bond-building technology, similar to that found in many more expensive products, to help repair hair damage where it begins, namely broken disulfide bonds at the hair’s core. It also contains sunflower extract to protect against UV pollution, is extremely moisturizing, and sulfate-free, and comes in a convenient pump bottle. The only disadvantage is that it must be thoroughly cleaned before use.

Bain de Terre Coconut Papaya Ultra Hydrating Shampoo

The Bain de Terre Coconut Papaya Ultra Hydrating Shampoo contains argan oil, which strengthens and shines your hair. The product also contains highly nourishing monoi oils, which leave the hair silky, smooth, and buttery soft. Because of the good formula, its primary goal is to damage hair. The shampoo is free of parabens and color-safe. Furthermore, the lovely coconut and mango aroma of this shampoo refreshes your senses while nourishing your scalp. Furthermore, this shampoo is color-safe, so your hair’s color will last a long time. 

Pantene Pro-V Daily Moisture Renewal Shampoo

A classic oldie, but goodie. There’s a reason this masterpiece has endured the test of time. It lathers well and leaves our hair feeling cleaner than ever (and silky, even before conditioner). It doesn’t weigh down fine hair, and the clean, fresh aroma is irresistible. This shampoo is ideal for all hair types. However, it contains sulfates, which can be a major issue for those with sensitive scalps, so keep this in mind if you have an adverse reaction to this chemical. It is also not cruelty-free.

Maui Moisture Heal & Hydrate + Shea Butter Hair Mask

The Maui Moisture Heal & Hydrate + Shea Butter Hair Mask is vegan. This hydrating hair mask moisturizes and nourishes dry, damaged hair. The formula offers a rich blend of natural components, including creamy shea butter, 100% pure aloe juice, rich coconut milk, and pure macadamia oil. It hydrates and nourishes your dry scalp and strands while treating split ends.

You can apply this mask if your hair is dry. It is a leave-in conditioning treatment for hair. This product also contains no parabens, silicones, mineral oils, or synthetic dyes. 

Herbal Essences Smoothing Conditioner

You may say this is the best conditioner for straight hair. This conditioner is suitable for all hair types, particularly straight hair, and helps to prevent hair breakage. It’s also a lighter option for individuals who prefer not to use hefty hair treatments. If you have regular, uncolored hair, this is a beautiful conditioner that is also reasonably priced. It has a delightful smell that will entice everyone in just one minute. It also leaves the hair thick, lustrous, and moisturized.

We appreciate that it contains jojoba, which is proven to promote hair suppleness and protect against breakage. It’s also cruelty-free, pH-balanced, and color-safe.

Nexxus Humectress Ultimate Moisture Conditioner

Silicones certainly make your hair appear smooth and shiny, but they can also build up on it, creating an undesirable residue and weighing it down. Enter this silicone-free conditioner formulation: “It restores lost nutrients and is an excellent solution for dry hair,” remarked a customer. However, sulfates are present in the ingredients; keep this in mind if you are allergic to them. If you don’t mind that, this is worth a try. This conditioner is quite large, and it comes in a giant container that lasts forever. 

Keo Karpin Hair Oil 

The Keo Karpin Hair Oil is the ultimate multitasker. This hair oil is suitable for any hair type. It contains mineral oil, arachis oil, scent, olive oil, and wheat germ oil. The oil strengthens your hair shaft from root to tip. The mixture is non-sticky and will keep your hair looking gorgeous and shining all day. The smell is relaxing. The mixture contains olive oil, which has proven to be effective in protecting your hair from external contaminants and stress. The oil is suitable for dry, oily, and regular hair types.

Herbal Essences BioRenew Hydrate Coconut Milk Shampoo and Conditioner

Herbal Essences products, which contain coconut extract and aloe, are suitable for all hair types. Coconut Milk Shampoo infuses moisture into hair, making it more manageable and less prone to breakage. This product is unique in that it smoothes and repairs hair for a more beautiful appearance. The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew has endorsed the botanicals used in these recipes. There are complex scents of vivid coconut, white florals, and vanilla. Consumer testers also praised these infusions: “My dry hair was much more moisturized,” one tester exclaimed.

Aussie 3-Minute Miracle Moist Deep Conditioner

To be fair, this is more of a cross between a typical conditioner and a mask—it works swiftly like a conditioner but provides the same amount of deep hydration as a mask. The combination of jojoba and avocado oils provides lots of deep hydration. It works extremely well on the hair, and we can notice the results immediately after finishing the washing session. We also enjoy that it works in only three minutes and costs less than three bucks. However, finer hair types may find it too heavy to use daily.

Mane Club Wavy Baby Wave Texture Spray

It is fair to claim that this is one of the greatest hair products for waves. Not only does Mane Club’s formula smell fantastic, but it’s one of the few wave sprays that doesn’t leave hair crunchy or stiff.

The rose and cactus water-infused recipe provides the hair with the ideal amount of body and structure, and we appreciate that this selection does not feel gritty like some other beach wave texture sprays. Another advantage: Wavy Baby is lightweight and won’t weigh your hair down, so you can spritz it on clean hair and skip washing it for days.

Moroccanoil All-In-One Leave-in Conditioner

Moroccanoil All In One Leave-in Conditioner is a quick way to detangle and hydrate your hair. This drugstore conditioner features a lightweight composition that provides long-lasting suppleness. It is a multi-purpose spray suitable for practically all hair types. It acts as a shield to protect your hair from breakage and thermal damage.

The product works better than a typical conditioner since it contains antioxidant-rich argan oil and pure amino acids, which boost hair strength and aid in damage healing. It also contains vital fatty acids, vitamins, and naturally occurring carbohydrates that protect hair from dryness. This product is cruelty-free. Several reviewers praise how this shampoo leaves their hair feeling silky and nourished.

INFINITI PRO BY CONAIR 1875W Hair Dryer

The INFINITIPRO BY CONAIR 1875W Hair Dryer uses ceramic technology and frizz-fighting conditioning ions to reduce heat damage and add shine to hair strands. The ergonomic hair dryer distributes heat evenly on your hair for a speedier drying experience.

It also includes a cold shot button to lock in the style, as well as three heat and two-speed options for individual styling. This styling device includes a concentrator nozzle for targeted styling and a professional diffuser for styling various textured hair types.

Flawless by Gabrielle Union Hydrating Curl Refresher Hair Spray 

The Gabrielle Union Flawless Hydrating Curl Refresher Hair Spray enhances your curls, coils, and beachy waves like a professional. This hair spray/heat protectant contains nutritious nutrients such as passion fruit seed oil, rice oil complex, acai palm oil, Brazilian bacuri butter, moringa seed oil, coconut oil, and lilac leaf extract. Lilac restores luster to your curls.

The product does not include sulfates, parabens, or silicones. It complements natural, color-treated, or relaxed hair.

Conclusion

The top drugstore hair products transformed the business. They were both affordable and accessible, and they produced outstanding results for people with different hair types. From reviving shampoos to nourishing conditioners and inventive styling products, drugstore brands outperformed expectations. Celebrities and influencers embraced these items, removing the stigma attached to them. Everyone can now easily keep great hair thanks to online buying. The route to beautiful, healthy hair no longer needed a large expenditure; it became a symbol of empowerment and inclusivity, demonstrating that beauty has no price tag.