You’ve probably watched a YouTube video with someone raving about a product that can transform kinky textured natural hair to juicy, bouncy curls. You then find yourself rushing to your local beauty store, buying the product and becoming super excited to finally discover this “holy grail” product that will level up your natural hair game. However, after using it a few times, nothing changes. Your curls are still as reluctant as ever and you are back at square one with less money in your purse. We’ve all been through this, especially those who decided to transition back to their natural hair.
But here is the key beauty secret that only the DIVA naturalistas understand. Curls and waves come from training your hair. Yes, it is possible to TRAIN YOUR HAIR! Taming coils and enhancing curls is an art form that has been utilized for centuries by women of color.
With these 5 tips you can watch your hair transform into a sensational healthy mane that can be shaped and molded to your liking.
1. Improve Your Elasticity By Understanding Protein/Moisture Balance to Enhance Your Natural Curl Pattern.
Everything is about balance and moderation and your hair is no exception. Too much protein will make your hair hard with the possibility of breakage just as over-moisturizing can lead to hygral fatigue and breakage because the strands are weak. Elasticity measures the “stretchiness” of your hair. If your hair has a hard time stretching when wet and does not return to its natural state after pulling, your hair more than likely has low elasticity. Research shows elasticity cannot exist when there is an imbalance of moisture and protein.
2. Use Products That Are Properly PH Balanced To Enhance Curls, Reduce Frizz and Properly Close The Hair Cuticle To Retain Moisture.
Aloe Vera juice is a great natural ingredient with a low pH of about 4, which is very close to the natural pH of healthy hair (4.5-5.5). This will help to enhance natural curls while also closing the hair cuticle. The main ingredient in Zipporah’s Hair Care line is Aloe vera Juice! Other benefits of aloe vera juice include:
• Relieves dry, itchy scalp
• Works as a natural moisturizer for dry hair
• Slippery texture helps with detangling
• Promotes hair growth
• Can be used as a great pre-poo product.
3. Wear More Protective Styles.
Protective styles are a natural hair girl’s best friend. Not only does it decrease the daily wear and tear from continuously styling your hair, it also preserves your hair health and protects it from damage that can result from harsh wind, cold, fingers, and more. The goal is to keep your ends tucked away safe to prevent manipulation of the hair.
4. Stay Away From Instant Gratification Gels.
Do not use styling gels or products that do not condition your hair, although it produces curling results. The results will be temporary, and your hair will be dry, rather than supple afterward. If you’ve ever experienced the temporary joys of EcoStyler gel, you know what we’re talking about.
5. Love and Accept The Type of Hair You Have
The only way to make your hair better is to show it some TLC! Accepting that your hair is beautiful just the way it is, is hard for most women of colour. We were not taught to love and appreciate our kinks and coils and use nourishing products to make it grow. Paying attention to ingredients and being patient with your hair will give you healthier hair that is easier to manage.
Training your natural hair is easier than you think. Just as you train in the gym, consistency is key. Your curls will start to reveal themselves slowly once you get into the habit of no heat and low manipulation styles. I know it may be difficult but trust us you can do it!
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