pre poo for high porosity 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

15 BEST HAIR BARRETTES FOR THICK HAIR

Taming a head of thick hair can be a challenge, especially when it comes to finding hair accessories that can hold everything in place. Fear not, thick-haired beauties! This guide dives into 15 of the best hair barrettes designed specifically to conquer your voluminous locks. From strong claw clips to strategically placed clasps, we’ll explore barrettes that will keep your hairstyle secure and stylish all day long, without sacrificing comfort or causing damage.

WHAT IS BARRETTES?

A barrette, also known as a hair slide or hair clip, is a small clasp used to hold hair in place. It’s typically made of metal or plastic, and sometimes features decorative elements like fabric or jewels.

Here’s a breakdown of what barrettes are:

Function: They primarily serve to secure hair, keeping it out of the face, holding up updos like buns or twists, or sectioning hair for styling.

Material: Barrettes are commonly made of metal or plastic, but can also be found in wood or other materials.

Size and Design: They come in a wide variety of sizes and designs, ranging from small clips for individual strands to large barrettes capable of holding thick hair in intricate styles.

Decoration: Many barrettes feature decorative elements like jewels, beads, or fabric, making them a fashionable hair accessory.

OUR TOP PICKS FOR THE BEST HAIR CLIPS AND BARRETTES 

YITEXIN PLUS-SIZE VINTAGE METAL U-SHAPED HAIRPIN

The Yitexın Plus-Size Vintage Metal U-Shaped Hairpin is a specifically designed hair accessory for those with thick and long hair. Its U-shaped design allows you to easily gather and secure your hair in a variety of updos or chignon styles. Made of sturdy metal, it provides a strong hold without causing damage, making it a great option for thick hair that often requires reinforced support.

This vintage-inspired hairpin adds a touch of elegance to your hairstyle, while its plus-size design ensures it can handle the volume of thick hair effectively. With its simple yet effective design, the Yitexın hairpin offers a practical and stylish solution for taming your thick locks.

PATTERN BY TRACEE ELLIS ROSS

Not only is Pattern Leave-In Conditioner famous for being one of the best detanglers for curly hair, this company is also known for hair clips. Tracee Ellis Ross’ model isn’t just a hair care line, it’s also a celebration of textured hair. Founded by the award-winning actress herself, Pattern offers a selection of shampoos, conditioners, stylers and even tools, all specially designed for the unique needs of curly and tightly textured hair. Embracing the philosophy of low porosity hair care and promoting natural curl, Pattern empowers individuals to nourish, shape and style their beautifully textured hair.

EMI JAY BIG EFFING CLIP

Emi Jay claw clips address a common frustration with super cute hair accessories: they often lack the functionality to hold thick hair securely. Fortunately, Emi Jay’s design solves this issue with a super big and sturdy build, ensuring your hairstyle stays put all day long. While the adorable star embellishments might require some gentle handling to prevent rhinestone detachment, the overall functionality and secure hold make these clips a strong contender for thick-haired individuals seeking both style and practicality.

MWL THREE-PACK CLAW HAIR CLIPS

Madewell’s MWL Three-Pack Claw Hair Clips offer a versatile and stylish solution for taming your tresses. Available in sets of three, these medium-sized clips come in various colors to complement different looks. Their lightweight metal construction ensures durability and a secure hold, making them suitable for thick, thin, or long hair. Whether you’re crafting a casual updo or simply securing loose strands, the MWL clips provide both functionality and fashion in a convenient three-pack.

MLE MINI CLOUD CLAW IN PINK

For a touch of whimsical charm and ethereal elegance, the MLE Mini Cloud Claw in Pink is a delightful addition to your hair accessory collection. This petite claw clip, crafted from eco-friendly cellulose acetate, boasts a mesmerizing marbled design in soft shades of pink and lilac. Its compact size makes it perfect for adding a playful touch to half-up styles, securing braids, or even adorning a messy bun. Whether you’re embracing a dreamy, ethereal aesthetic or simply seeking a touch of whimsical flair, the MLE Mini Cloud Claw in Pink offers a delightful way to elevate your everyday hairstyles.

FREE PEOPLE MATTE OVERSIZED CLAW

The Matte Oversized Claw makes a bold statement with its sleek, contemporary design. Its generous size and sturdy construction effortlessly gather and secure even the thickest hair, making it ideal for effortless updos, half-up styles, or simply keeping your hair out of the way with a touch of modern flair. The matte finish adds a touch of sophistication, ensuring this claw clip seamlessly transitions from casual to polished looks.

SYEENIFY HAIR CLIPS FOR THICK HAIR

SYEENIFY offers a variety of hair clips specifically designed to handle the demands of thick hair. Their claw clips come in various sizes, with some reaching up to 4.3 inches, ensuring they can hold even the thickest hair securely and comfortably. They also prioritize strong, durable materials like acrylic resin and metal alloys to prevent the clips from breaking under the weight of your hair. Additionally, SYEENIFY doesn’t sacrifice style for function. Their clips come in various trendy designs and colors, allowing you to keep your hair under control while maintaining a fashionable look.

KITSCH BLOW DRY CLIPS

Kitsch’s separating clips are a game-changer for anyone who blow-dries their hair. Their super strong grip ensures sections stay separated, allowing for even heat distribution and a smooth, frizz-free finish. No more battling annoying dents or creases – these clips hold your hair perfectly in place while you style. While the convenience and functionality are undeniable, a minor downside is that they only come in packs of three, which might not be enough for everyone. Nonetheless, the incredible grip and styling benefits make Kitsch’s separating clips a valuable addition to any hair care routine.

FICCARE FICCARISSIMO HAIR CLIP

The Ficcarissimo hair clip is a luxurious and functional hair accessory known for its exceptional grip and stylish design. Handcrafted from high-quality materials like acetate and enamel, these clips come in a wide array of colors and patterns, allowing you to express your personality. Their patented design features a spring mechanism and a unique, curved shape that distributes pressure evenly, ensuring a secure hold without damaging hair. Whether you’re crafting an intricate updo or simply securing loose strands, the Ficcarissimo clip offers a blend of elegance, functionality, and long-lasting quality.

CANITOR LARGE HAIR CLAW CLIPS FOR THICK HAIR

Canitor Large Hair Claw Clips are a game-changer for those with thick hair. Designed to tackle even the most unruly locks, these clips provide the perfect solution for styling and managing voluminous hair effortlessly. Crafted with durable materials, they offer a stronghold without causing any damage or discomfort. Their large size ensures that they can comfortably accommodate thick hair, keeping it securely in place throughout the day. Whether you’re looking to create an elegant updo or simply need a quick and easy way to tame your mane, Canitor Large Hair Claw Clips are your go-to accessory. Say goodbye to frustrating hair days and hello to effortless style with these versatile and reliable clips.

ANBALA METAL HAIR CLIPS

Anbala offers a range of metal hair clips known for their durability and style. ANBALA typically uses high-quality metal alloys in their clips, making them sturdier than plastic or acrylic options. This ensures they can handle the weight and texture of thick hair without bending or breaking. They also have mini claw clips for styling bangs, braids, or smaller sections of hair. You won’t be limited to basic styles. ANBALA often features claw clips in various shapes like butterfly, crescent moon, or geometric designs. They also come in different colors like gold, silver, rose gold, and black, allowing you to match your hair accessory to your outfit.

FRANCE LUXE COUTURE JAW CLIP

The France Luxe Couture Jaw Clip is a luxurious and sophisticated hair accessory that elevates the everyday claw clip. Handcrafted in France from high-quality cellulose acetate, it boasts a polished, lustrous finish that exudes elegance. Available in a variety of sizes, from mini to jumbo, the Couture Jaw Clip caters to all hair types, from fine to thick and curly. Its strong, secure hold ensures hairstyles stay put effortlessly, whether you’re crafting a chic updo or simply gathering your hair back in a stylish twist. With its timeless design and premium quality, the France Luxe Couture Jaw Clip is a worthy investment for those seeking a touch of French sophistication in their everyday hair routine.

FRAMAR LARGE CLAW CLIPS FOR THICK HAIR

Framar’s large claw clips are designed specifically for those with thick hair, known for their ability to tame and hold even the most voluminous locks. These clips come in a generous size, often around 5 inches long, with a sturdy construction that features a powerful metal spring and small inner teeth. This combination ensures a strong grip that can hold your hair in place all day long, without slipping or budging, so you can style your hair in various ways without worrying about it falling apart.

LAXIZAR 8-PACK LARGE HAIR CLIPS

Laxizar’s 8-Pack Large Hair Clips offer a value-driven solution for taming thick or voluminous hair. Each clip boasts a generous 4.3-inch size, ensuring they can gather and hold even the most abundant locks securely. The pack often comes in a variety of neutral and classic colors, making them versatile for both casual and dressed-up hairstyles. Their simple, rectangular design offers a timeless look, while the durable construction ensures they can withstand everyday wear and tear. Whether you’re crafting intricate updos, securing messy buns, or simply keeping your hair out of the way, these large hair clips provide a practical and affordable solution in a convenient eight-pack.

AGIRLVCT PEARL STRONG HOLD HAIR CLIPS

Agirlvct Pearl Strong Hold Hair Clips offer a touch of elegance and practicality in one stylish package. These clips come in a set of four, featuring different sizes to accommodate various hair types and styling needs. The highlight is the incorporation of beautiful, faux pearls, adding a touch of sophistication to any hairstyle. But beyond aesthetics, these clips boast a strong hold thanks to high-quality resin and a sturdy spring mechanism. This ensures even thick hair stays securely gathered, whether you’re crafting an updo, securing a half-up style, or simply keeping your hair out of the way. Gentle on hair and available in a convenient multi-pack, Agirlvct Pearl Strong Hold Hair Clips offer a charming and functional solution for everyday hair styling.

CONCLUSION

Taming thick hair doesn’t have to be a struggle. With the right barrette, you can conquer your voluminous locks and create a variety of stylish updos, half-up styles, or simply keep your hair secured throughout the day. From the oversized strength of claw clips to the delicate elegance of pearl-adorned styles, this diverse range of barrettes offers something for everyone. Remember, the best barrette for you will depend on your specific hair type, desired hairstyle, and personal preferences. So, embrace the possibilities, experiment with different options, and let your thick, beautiful hair shine with confidence.