How to Take Care of Relaxed African-American Hair

The structure of African-American hair can make it more prone to damage and dryness. If the hair is chemically treated, it requires additional special attention to prevent breakage and to keep the hair healthy. Not all African-American hair is the same, so it is important to develop a hair care regimen tailored to the individual.

Instructions

1. Limit the use of hair relaxers to every 8 to 10 weeks to prevent damage. Use a reconstructor (instead of conditioner) in the week following the application of the relaxer. Return to the use of regular shampoo and conditioner in the second week.

2. Shampoo and condition hair about once a week. Use products specifically designed to add moisture to chemically treated hair. Apply a deep moisturizing treatment weekly.

3. Blot excess water from the hair after washing. Forgo the hair dryer and instead air dry the hair, working the fingers through it to separate it as it dries. Decrease the volume by using a wide-tooth comb. Use a hood-type dryer when heat is needed to dry the hair.

4. Take care not to stress the hair when using a curling iron. Wrap the hair around the iron and loosely set the clamp over the hair. Make sure the hair is able to move on the barrel at all times and that it is not stressed by the clamp.

5. Rehydrate the hair by applying a moisturizing conditioner to the hair for 30 to 60 minutes. Apply the conditioner to the length and ends of the hair but not to the scalp. Following with a cool water rinse and let the hair air-dry.

6. Understand that oil added to the hair does not moisturize, but seals. Choose a lightweight oil like olive oil or almond oil and apply it only to the ends of the hair. Wash the oil out of the hair in a few days.

7. Drink lots of water to stay well hydrated and help maintain the hair's moisture level. Test the hair's moisture level by gathering a handful to see that hair is cool and silky to the touch. Increase water intake when the hair is warm, dry or brittle.