How to properly care for African American Hair

Let's face it. We all want healthy hair, regardless of race. This means hair that is neat, that has shine or sheen, great ends and little to no breakage. However, African American hair seems as though it's hard to grow and can only grow long if a person has "good" hair.

Well let's bust the myths and get down to business.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• An open mind

1. Type your hair using this typing chart: http://www.naturallycurly.com/hair-types
   
   If you are relaxed/permed, type your new growth
   *note: the chart does not belong to me and I do not claim it as mine.
   
   Generally, African Americans will fall in the 3c, 4a, b and c catergories. It's common that you may have more than one type. My hair is 3c/4a/4b

2. Contrary to what your mom may have told you, you can wash your hair more than every two weeks. Often times that is the problem. Your hair is not getting enough moisture from water or a good moisturizing shampoo. Try washing your hair every week with a good moisturizing shampoo.

3. Deep condition your hair at least twice a month. Alternate between moisture and protein deep conditions.

4. Moisturize your hair at least every day or every other day. Find a good water based every day moisturizing conditioner and then seal your ends with an oil, like olive oil or coconut oil.

5. Stay away from mineral oil, petroleum, and petrolatum. Greases made with these ingredients, when used on the scalp, clog the pores making it hard for hair to grow.

6. Try more updos and buns. African American hair can be fragile, so protect those ends by keeping it up, especially if your hair is shorter than arm pit length

Tips & Warnings

• Research products that you're looking to buy. Read labels as you would for food
• Learn what works for you, not for every one else
• Don't jump on every little thing others are doing
• I'm not an expert, so taking my advice can be risky. This is what works for my hair (and other people that I know).