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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

23 SUMMER HAIRSTYLES FOR A CAREFREE BEAUTY ROUTINE

Summer hairstyles are truly the go-to choice, as the season is all about embracing relaxation and minimizing effort, giving you more time to enjoy the sunshine and carefree vibes. from relaxed or polished updos to an array of braids, these 23 summer styles make your beauty routine more enjoyable and quick, rather than time-consuming.

AIR-DRIED ANYTHING

Your natural texture is your ultimate summer companion. “Effortless summer hair, to me, means embracing your hair’s natural state, whether it’s 3A or 4C, and letting it be bold and free with minimal upkeep,” says Wright. Step out of the shower, ocean, and let your hair do its thing—you might be pleasantly surprised by the outcome.

PLAITED PONY

Minimized styling is essential for summer, and creating a simple, single braid that swings between your shoulder blades is a quick and effective way to manage any texture while maintaining a touch of glamour. This effortless braid keeps your hair in check and exudes a relaxed yet stylish look.

BED HEAD

Some of the best summer hairstyles are defined by what you don’t do. In this case, tousled, messy waves embody the essence of the season, reflecting a carefree, laid-back attitude. These effortless waves signal your dedication to summer vibes, effortlessly exuding a sense of casual, cool sophistication.

SLEEK HIGH PONY

Quickly refresh day three (or four) hair by smoothing it back from your roots into a high ponytail. Run a straightener through the lengths to achieve a sleek, polished look, effortlessly reviving your style.

GODDESS LOCS

Goddess locs, a glamorous variation of boho braids, offer a shinier finish and partially undone ends for a classic look with a modern twist. Teyana Taylor’s take on goddess locs is perfect for summer, combining natural texture with partial protection to create an eye-catching and stylish effect.

OVERSIZED SCRUNCHIE

Oversized scrunchies are definitely a favorite for me as well. They bring a touch of drama and feminine elegance to any hairstyle. Opting for silk or satin materials not only adds a luxurious feel but also helps maintain healthy hair.

SLICKED-BACK BUN 

The timeless slicked-back bun is an ideal choice for summer, offering a chic and practical style that’s easy to achieve. To keep the look smooth and frizz-free, apply a strong-hold gel to tame flyaways and maintain that sleek finish throughout the day. 

WRAPPED UP

A headscarf or wrap is a stylish and practical way to shield textured hair from the summer elements. It adds a touch of elegance while providing protection against sun and humidity.

BUTTERFLY CUT

This style is, admittedly, easier for those with the hair texture to hold it and a real love for the blowout process, but its lasting appeal is unquestionable. “I recommend a round brush and blow dryer to give your hair big, voluminous body with a classic blowout,” says Fitzsimons.

BEACH WAVES

For a timeless warm-weather look, embrace the natural effects of salt water and sun. This style captures the essence of summer, giving you a relaxed, sun-kissed appearance that’s both effortless and iconic.

SWEPT BACK

Sweep your hair back into a delicate clasp for a relaxed style that accentuates highlights and balayage. This effortless look highlights your hair’s color and texture, offering a chic yet easy way to showcase your hair’s natural beauty.

TENDRIL TWIST

The classic French twist, also known as “businesswoman hair,” is making a comeback in 2024. To make it summer-ready, add face-framing tendrils or parted bangs for a more relaxed and easygoing feel. This update brings a touch of effortless sophistication to a timeless style, perfect for the season.

BEACHY PONYTAIL

If loose beachy waves seem stressful, gather your hair into a low ponytail positioned just above the nape of your neck. This style allows you to showcase your curls while keeping things neat and controlled.

UNDONE UPDO

Loose updos offer the perfect balance of laid-back summer vibes and a touch of evening-ready elegance. These relaxed styles let you embrace a carefree, effortless look while still appearing polished enough for any occasion, from beachside strolls to sunset dinners. 

CUTE CLIPS

A fun and easy way to accessorize your hair when you’re on the go or in a rush is by using trendy accessories that pay homage to the ’90s nostalgia. These accessories add a touch of style with minimal effort, making them perfect for quick, chic looks.

PIGTAIL PLAITS

A pair of plaited pigtails is a classic way to keep your hair out of your face and tidy up your look, no matter your natural texture or how long it’s been since your last wash.

TEXTURED UPDO

The sleekness of a polished style gains a summery twist when you highlight the natural texture within the ponytail or knot. This blend of refinement and organic texture adds a fresh, relaxed vibe to an otherwise polished look.

LOW BUN

Longer hairstyles that start to misbehave in the summer can be effortlessly tamed by twisting them back into a low bun. This simple solution keeps your hair neatly in place while adding a touch of elegance, making it perfect for both casual outings and more refined occasions.

ITALIAN BOB

The Italian bob’s popularity stems from its effortless charm, making it an excellent choice for summer. Cut to fall just below the chin, this style retains weight at the bottom. The Italian bob not only accommodates but actually encourages natural volume, offering a laid-back, yet stylish look that requires minimal maintenance.

HIDDEN LAYERS

If you have shorter layers in the front, pinning a few sections back is a playful way to switch things up while keeping cool. This easy adjustment adds a touch of style and helps manage your hair on warmer days.

HALF-UP HAIR

“A half-up, half-down style offers a versatile look that takes the hair out of the face without it being completely up,” says Fitzsimons. “You can take this look to new heights without heat styling and embracing your natural texture, leaving out your fringe for some playful pieces, or even putting the top half in a bun—you can really tailor this to fit your style.”

BRAIDED BACK

For long, curly, or coily hair, braids are an excellent low-maintenance summer option. A braided-back style is particularly effective if you prefer to keep your hair out of your face during hot weather, providing both practicality and style.

THE FRENCH GIRL

This versatile cut is tailored to graze the cheekbones, jawline, or shoulders based on your preference and is complemented by a blunt, easy fringe. “The ‘French girl’ cut is suitable for all hair types, can enhance the hair’s natural texture, and works for most hair lengths,” says Fitzsimons.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, summer hairstyles embrace ease and practicality while showcasing effortless style. From relaxed beachy waves and sleek ponytails to chic braids and polished updos, these looks are designed to keep you cool and stylish with minimal fuss. By leveraging natural texture and opting for low-maintenance designs, you can enjoy a season of sun and fun without sacrificing your hair’s appearance.