The term "nappy hair" is most often used to define hair that is worn in its natural state. This normally refers to hair that is unaltered by chemical styling processes. The decision to wear hair in its natural state is usually made to suit personal convictions -- whether religious or political. Adopting a proper hair care regimen is essential to keep your nappy tresses looking their natural best.
Wash and condition your hair at least once a week. Use a gentle shampoo and conditioner. Making sure you select products specifically designed for your hair type.
Apply a hot oil treatment or a deep conditioning treatment on your hair at least once a month to maintain your hair's moisture.
Eliminate heat styling practices from your hair care regimen altogether. Heat makes the hair brittle and leads to damage.
Detangle your hair only when it is wet and, preferably, while it has conditioner on it. Conditioner provides the proper slippage which allows the comb to slid through tangles with ease. Be sure to work the comb in the direction of the roots to the ends of your hair. Refrain from combing your hair when it is dry. Combing dry hair causes breakage. Invest in a good wide-tooth comb as this is better for nappy hair textures.
Avoid using any hair product containing ingredients that strip your hair of moisture. Some of the worst hair product ingredients include isopropyl alcohol, polyethylene glycol, or PEG, and propylene glycol, or PG. These ingredients dry the hair out, leaving it brittle and straw-like.
Dry your nappy hair using the squeezing method as opposed to vigorously rubbing it with a towel. Wet hair is vulnerable to breakage.
Apply oil to the ends of your hair at night. Remember that the ends are the oldest part of the hair. Protecting them is essential to prevent them from becoming damaged.
Experiment with different styles for your nappy hair to find ones that suit your facial features. Nappy hair can be styled in a variety of ways, such as braid-outs, twist-outs and Afro puffs. Familiarize yourself with your hair type. Having a head of hair in which there are different textures mixed is not uncommon. Knowing your correct hair textures will help you address your specific hair care needs more effectively.
Visit the salon for a hair trim approximately every two months to keep your ends healthy and to prevent split ends.
Apply a natural product, such as an African shea butter, to your nappy hair to keep it soft and more manageable.
Sleep on a satin pillowcase at night, or with a satin scarf tied on your head to protect your hair from breakage while you sleep.
Tip
Eat a healthy diet to help nourish your nappy hair and keep it looking healthy.
Make sure you are drinking plenty of water every day.
Take a multivitamin every day.
References
Writer Bio
Aretha C. Smith began her professional writing career in 2004. She has authored several training guides for Dalhousie University, where she is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in English. Smith also holds a diploma in library information management from Nova Scotia Community College.
