How to Grow Your Naturally Black Hair

Keep your natural hair healthy with a few tips.

Keeping your black hair natural means you do not process your hair to make it straighter with chemicals, such as relaxers and other straightening products. Natural hair is healthier than chemically treated hair, but it still requires maintenance in order for it to grow healthy and strong. If you're looking to grow out your natural hair while still steering clear of chemicals, follow a few tips with your next washing in order to keep your mane looking good.

Things You'll Need

• Moisturizing shampoo
• Protein packs or egg treatments
• Wide tooth comb
• Moisture treatment
• Deep conditioner

Instructions

1. Wash your hair with a gentle moisturizing shampoo. Check the labels carefully. Many shampoos contain harsh sulfates that strip the hair from its natural moisture and cause breakage and split ends. Use shampoos containing sulfates no more than once a month as a clarifying lotion to remove excess buildup.

2. Use protein packs at least once every other week to rebuild hair structure and strength. Protein packs are commonly used for chemically treated hair, but they work just as effectively for natural hair. Do not apply heat to this treatment. After washing hair, saturate the wet hair with the protein pack. Use a wide tooth comb and comb thoroughly to be sure all strands are covered. Cover the hair with a plastic cap for 10 to 15 minutes. Rinse thoroughly when the application process is complete.

3. Alternate between a protein pack and a moisture treatment to help build hair resilience and to prevent breakage. You can also use a moisturizing treatment after applying your protein pack for added hair protection. To apply the moisture treatment after the protein pack, work through the hair with your fingertips or a wide tooth comb. Rinse thoroughly.

4. Apply a moisturizing or deep conditioner when the washing process has been complete. For maximum results, work the conditioner through the hair. Place a plastic cap on the head and sit under a warm dryer for at least 15 minutes. Rinse out the moisturizer. Dry and style as usual.

Tips & Warnings

• Diet can also contribute to healthy natural hair growth. Take vitamins that contain biotin and folic acid to stimulate growth. Keep heat minimal when styling your hair. Excessive curling iron and blow dryer usage causes split ends and breakage. Tie hair up with a silk scarf every evening before bed to minimize damage to your hair caused by cotton pillowcases.

References

• Hairfinity: 10 Steps to Grow Black Hair Longer