Black hair requires proper maintenance for it to grow and stay healthy. There are a number of products on the market promising immediate growth. Hair growth, however, is determined by genetics as well as the manner in which eachperson maintains her hair on a daily basis.
Deep Conditioner
Black hair is naturally brittle and without proper maintenance, it has the tendency to break at the ends. Once a week use a deep conditioning treatment to penetrate the scalp and give the hair added moisture. In fact, hair that is continuously moisturized is less likely to break as moisture gives the hair elasticity. To hydrate your strands best, choose a conditioner that contains protein, and when applying, leave it on the hair whilst wrapped in a heat cap under a hair dryer, as heat aids in penetration, claims Pamela Ferrell author of “Let’s Talk Hair: Every Black Woman’s Personal Consultation for Healthy Growing Hair.”
Boar Bristle
According to Andre Walker, Oprah Winfrey’s personal stylist, there are benefits to brushing the hair at least once a day. He claims that brushing the hair aids in distributing the hairs natural oils throughout the hair; it also helps to shift the buildup of products that have accumulated on the scalp. Walker also suggests using a boar bristle brush as it has strong bristles that are capable of working their way through curly African-American hair.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a natural product free of any chemicals or preservatives. It is good for the scalp and promotes hair growth. Extra virgin coconut oil is clear and nonsticky in texture and should have a smell of fresh coconut. When applied to the hair, the product should absorb quickly.
Essential Oils
The oils from rosemary, sage and lavender are natural products that aid in the stimulation of the hair follicles to promote healthy hair growth and a healthy scalp. You can use these oils daily as a hair rinse or a moisturizer for constant scalp stimulation.
Dr. Miracle
In an interview with "Hype Hair" magazine, Eugene Smith, a celebrity stylist, advocates the use of Dr. Miracle's Temple and Nape Balm. It is inexpensive, costing less than $10, and is used to stimulate the areas on the scalp most susceptible to hair loss.
References
- New York Times: Black Hair Still Tangles In Politics
- Oprah: Questions and Answers with Andre Walker
- University of Maryland Medical Centre: Rosemary
- Black Hair Media: Coconut Oil
- University of Maryland Medical Centre: Lavender
- "Hype Hair" Magazine; Healthy Hair Products; June 2010
Writer Bio
Sabrina Stapleton has been writing since 2001 with her work focusing on academic writing in the field of health and fitness. Stapleton holds a Master of Arts in physiotherapy as well as a Bachelor of Science degree in sports rehabilitation and physiotherapy from Kings College University.