scalp oil vs hair oil

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

35 BEST TRIBAL BRAIDS HAIRSTYLES: SAVE THIS FOR YOUR NEXT APPOINTMENT

Ready to transform your hair into a masterpiece of culture and style? Tribal braids aren’t just hairstyles; they’re a statement. Rooted in rich traditions, these intricate designs blend beauty with boldness. From classic Fulani braids to modern twists, get ready to explore a world of hair inspiration. Save this list for your next salon appointment and prepare to turn heads! Keep scroll!

CROSSOVER FISHBONE CORNROWS

Crossover Fishbone Cornrows offer a dynamic twist on traditional cornrows. This style merges the clean lines of cornrows with the intricate pattern of fishbone braids, creating a visually striking and modern look. The crossover element adds depth and dimension, making it a standout choice for those who love bold hair statements.

ELEGANT UPDO WITH TRIBAL CORNROWS AND PEARLS

An elegant updo featuring tightly braided tribal cornrows, beautifully pulled up and adorned with pearls. The addition of pearls enhances the sophistication and richness of the style, making it an ideal choice for formal engagements where a refined and culturally rich look is desired.

TRIBAL BRAIDS CROWN WITH SILK FLOWERS AND BEADS

It crowns the head with tribal braids, giving the appearance of a regal headpiece, enhanced with silk flowers and beads. This decoration adds a touch of elegance, making it especially fitting for special events where sophistication is key, such as weddings and cultural ceremonies.

TRIBAL BRAIDS WITH INTRICATE SCALP ART

Tribal Braids with Intricate Scalp Art blend traditional braiding techniques with detailed designs shaved or painted onto the scalp between the braids. This artistic element adds a unique personal touch, turning the hairstyle into a walking piece of art that reflects both creativity and cultural pride.

HALF TRIBAL CORNROWS, HALF LOOSE CURLS

Half Tribal Cornrows and Half Loose Curls create a striking visual contrast by pairing the sleek, tight cornrows on one side of the head with soft, romantic loose curls on the other. This style beautifully merges structured and free-flowing elements, making it perfect for those who appreciate both types of hairstyles.

TRIANGLE TRIBAL TWISTS 

Triangle Tribal Twists are a geometrically captivating hairstyle. This style involves creating a series of triangular sections on the scalp, with each section twisted into a neat rope-like braid. The result is a bold and edgy look that is both modern and reminiscent of traditional tribal patterns.

TRIBAL FULANI BRAIDS WITH A TOUCH OF MODERNITY

Tribal Fulani Braids with a Modern Twist combine traditional Fulani braid patterns with contemporary styling elements, like unique parting or modern accessories. This hairstyle merges cultural heritage with current trends, offering a look that honors tradition while appealing to modern fashion tastes.

TRIBAL PIN CURLS AND BRAIDED TOP KNOT

Tribal pin curls add a touch of glamour to this hairstyle, making it ideal for formal occasions. Who says tribal braids are only for vacation?

MIXED TEXTURE TRIBAL PONYTAIL WITH BRAIDS

The Mixed Texture Tribal Ponytail with Braids features a high ponytail that blends various textures, including smooth, twisted, and potentially curly braids. This dynamic hairstyle celebrates textural diversity, creating an eye-catching and stylish look that merges both modern trends and traditional elements.

ALICIA KEYS INSPIRED TRIBAL BRAIDS

Alicia Keys-inspired tribal braids will beautifully frame a woman’s curls with their curvy pattern. This style is especially flattering for women with round faces, adding a graceful complement to their features.

BRAIDS WITH TRIBAL SIDE TWISTS AND BEADS

Braids with Tribal Side Twists and Beads feature braids along the scalp with cascading side twists adorned with beads. This blend of textures and styles not only adds visual interest but also frames the face beautifully, making it a versatile and eye-catching choice for any occasion.

‘ONE TRIBE FITS ALL’ BRAIDS

One Tribe Fits All Braids celebrate diversity and unity through hair. This versatile style combines elements from various tribal cultures, blending different braid patterns and textures. Think of it as a global hair fusion, creating a unique and inclusive look that reflects the beauty of different traditions.

LADDER PATTERN TRIBAL CORNROWS

Ladder Pattern Tribal Cornrows showcase a distinctive braiding design that mimics the rungs of a ladder, producing a striking and unconventional visual effect. This creative pattern is perfect for those seeking to elevate traditional cornrow styles, offering a modern twist on classic tribal braiding.

THREE-LAYERED FULANI TRIBAL BRAIDS

Three-Layered Fulani Tribal Braids feature a tiered design where braids are arranged in three distinct layers or sections of the head, often adorned with traditional Fulani beads or gold clips. This layered approach adds depth and dimension, resulting in a richly textured hairstyle that resonates with cultural significance.

PATTERNED SCALP TRIBAL CORNROWS

Patterned Scalp Tribal Cornrows are intricately braided close to the scalp, featuring a variety of patterns like geometric shapes or curved lines. This technique highlights the precision and artistry of cornrow braiding, turning the scalp into a key element of the hairstyle’s visual appeal and showcasing detailed craftsmanship.

HALF-UP TRIBAL BRAIDS WITH FLOWING LOCKS

Half-Up Tribal Braids with Flowing Locks offer a captivating contrast of structure and freedom. The upper half showcases intricate tribal braids, while the lower half boasts unrestrained, flowing tresses. This style beautifully balances precision and natural beauty, making it a versatile choice for various occasions.

BEADED TIPS TRIBAL BRAIDED BOB

Beaded Tips Tribal Braided Bob features a chic bob hairstyle with each braid ending in decorative beads. This adds a playful charm and a touch of weight to the braids, giving the classic bob shape a unique movement and a distinct tribal flair.

CROSSED TRIBAL BRAIDS WITH COLORFUL THREADS

Crossed Tribal Braids with Colorful Threads feature braids that cross over each other in a striking pattern, interwoven with vibrant threads. The colorful threads add a burst of color and emphasize the intricate crossing design, making this hairstyle a standout choice for those seeking a bold, artistic look.

TRIBAL TWIST-OUT CROWN WITH BRAIDS

The Tribal Twist-Out Crown with Braids combines braids along the scalp with a beautifully defined twist-out that forms a regal crown effect. This style showcases how textured hair can be shaped to create a voluminous, sophisticated outline that is both natural and elegant.

RIBBON INSERTED BACK-SWEPT TRIBAL CORNROWS

This style features a set of tight braids closely woven together, sweeping back from the hairline and adorned with colorful ribbons. The ribbons introduce a playful touch and add ornate dimension, bringing both color and texture to the hairstyle. It’s a great choice for festive occasions or for adding a touch of flair to everyday looks.

ELEGANT TRIBAL UPDO WITH SILK FLOWERS AND BRAIDS

This Elegant Tribal Updo with Silk Flowers and Braids is a sophisticated style featuring intricate braiding enhanced with romantic silk flowers. Combining classic braiding techniques with floral accents, it creates a stunning and graceful look, making it perfect for any formal occasion.

CURVED TRIBAL CORNROWS WITH NATURAL PUFF

Curved Tribal Cornrows with Natural Puff showcase smoothly curved cornrows that taper towards the crown, leaving the hair in a natural puff. This style elegantly blends sleek braids with the hair’s natural texture, creating a polished look that proudly highlights natural beauty.

BEADED TRIBAL FAUXHAWK WITH TRIBAL INSPIRATION

Beaded Tribal Fauxhawk with Tribal Inspiration shapes the hair into a fauxhawk using tribal braiding techniques, adorned with beads and other traditional accessories. This edgy hairstyle blends contemporary fashion with cultural influences, making it an ideal choice for a bold and distinctive statement.

JUMBO MIXED TEXTURE TRIBAL BRAIDS

Jumbo Mixed Texture Tribal Braids feature thick, jumbo braids mixed with sections of varying textures, such as curly or coiled hair. This combination creates a dynamic and voluminous look that is both modern and striking, offering a bold and stylish contrast.

BOX TRIBAL BRAIDS WITH WIRE WRAPS AND BEADS

Goddess Tribal Braids with Wire Wraps and Beads are intricately styled with thin wires and beads wrapped around the braids, creating a regal and sophisticated look. This elaborate style highlights elegance and enhances the wearer’s goddess-like aura.

THICK HALO TRIBAL CORNROWS WITH INTRICATE PATTERNS

Thick Halo Tribal Cornrows with Intricate Patterns showcase broad, halo-shaped cornrows that encircle the head, featuring complex braid designs. This detailed and robust style not only demonstrates the braider’s skill but also creates a majestic and elegant appearance, perfect for formal events and ceremonies.

DIAGONAL TRIBAL BRAIDS WITH COWRIE SHELL EDGING

Diagonal Tribal Braids with Cowrie Shell Edging feature braids styled in diagonal patterns across the scalp, with cowrie shells adorning the braid edges. This unique style blends angular sophistication with traditional accents, resulting in a visually captivating and culturally rich hairstyle.

SUPER LONG TRIBAL BRAIDED HAIRSTYLE

The Super Long Tribal Braided Hairstyle extends dramatically, often reaching the waist or beyond, making a bold and striking statement. This style highlights the beauty and versatility of long braids, offering a canvas for a range of embellishments and styling options.

SHELL ACCENTED LAYERED TRIBAL BRAIDS

Shell-Accented Layered Tribal Braids feature multiple layers of braids, each embellished with small shells that introduce an oceanic touch. These shells not only enhance the hairstyle’s visual appeal but also symbolize wealth and earthiness, adding cultural significance to the look.

ASYMMETRICAL TRIBAL BRAIDS

Asymmetrical Tribal Braids with Feathers showcase braids of varying lengths and sizes swept to one side, adorned with delicate feathers. This style exudes a bohemian and whimsical charm, making it ideal for creative or festive occasions where a unique, nature-inspired look is desired.

ZIGZAG DESIGNED CORNROWS

Zigzag Designed Cornrows with a Tribal Touch feature cornrows arranged in dynamic zigzag patterns, infusing traditional tribal styles with a modern twist. This hairstyle is both visually striking and a testament to intricate craftsmanship and creative braid artistry.

TRIBAL BRAIDED CROWN WITH HANGING TWISTS

The Tribal Braided Crown with Hanging Twists creates a regal appearance by shaping a crown of braids around the head, complemented by twists that cascade downward. This elegant hairstyle is perfect for special occasions and can be embellished with accessories like flowers or jewels to enhance its celebratory flair.

COLORFUL BEADED SIDE-SWEPT TRIBAL CORNROWS

Colorful Beaded Side-Swept Tribal Cornrows infuse traditional cornrows with a playful touch by incorporating vibrant beads and sweeping the braids to one side. This style blends elegance with a hint of fun, making it perfect for both everyday wear and special occasions.

LONG FLOWING TRIBAL BRAIDS

Long Flowing Tribal Braids cascade gracefully down the back, providing a classic and feminine look that can be styled both casually and glamorously. Often adorned with beads or shells, these braids enhance their visual appeal, making them a versatile choice for any occasion.

ANGLED BOB TRIBAL BRAIDS

Angled Bob Tribal Braids offer a stylish, modern twist on tribal braids with a sharp, angled bob shape. This hairstyle is ideal for those who want a sleek, structured look while still embracing the cultural depth of tribal braiding.

CONCLUSION

These styles are not just hairstyles; they’re cultural touchstones, works of art, and confidence boosters. So, the next time you’re looking to elevate your hair game, don’t hesitate to embrace the beauty and versatility of tribal braids. Remember, it’s not just about the hair; it’s about the story you tell through it. Which style will you choose to unleash your inner warrior?