How to Take Care of Black Hair While Abroad
Managing black hair abroad can be tricky because of the intricate maintenance processes required for many popular hairstyles. Before selecting a hairstyle for a trip abroad, consider the duration, activities and climate. Braids and natural styles tend to be the best for travel because they are low maintenance and adaptable in every climate. If extensions, press 'n' curl, or a relaxed style is selected, be sure to bring all of the equipment needed for day and evening preparation and for emergencies. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Cord converter
- Curlers
- Blow-dryer
- Electric hot comb
- Electric flat iron
- Wrap Cap
- Shower cap
- Silk scarf
- Hair spry
- Gel
- Moisturizer
- Bobby pins
- Banana clips
- Coated rubber bands
- Comb
- Brush
- Ziplock bags
- Hair stylist
Instructions
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How to Take Care of Black Hair While Abroad
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1
Determine the type of hairstyle that is best suited for the trip. Schedule an appointment one day before traveling with a hairstylist who specializes in the look. Ask for any tips on how to keep the look fresh while abroad.
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2
Travel with all of your hair care necessities and tools. Pick up all items at a beauty supply store. Delegate an entire bag to hair supplies, separating products with ziplock bags for organization and easy access. Label bags as applicable.
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3
Start the trip with the most high-maintenance look. A complicated style like a press 'n' curl can be difficult to maintain for more than two or three days when away from a salon. Start with the look and use tools like curling irons, flat irons and pressing combs to help it hold as long as possible. Braids and natural styles can last the duration of the trip without any concerns.
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4
Use wrap cap, banana clips, brush, comb and silk scarf to wrap the hair every night and before bathing, showering or going to the gym. Remove the wrap cap when the activity is over, then gently brush and blow-dry the hair on a low setting, adding a dab of moisturizer to give the hair sheen, then style. Braids and natural styles only require light moisturizing and being wrapped in a silk scarf before going to bed.
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5
When it is no longer possible to wear the hair down, lightly apply a quarter-sized amount of gel onto the hands and rub into the hair, avoiding the tips. Brush and comb into a ponytail, then secure in place with coated rubber bands. The "tail" can also be braided, then wrapped around itself into a bun, then secured in place with bobby pins. The ponytail style can last up to a week without washing.
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Tips & Warnings
When traveling internationally for two weeks or more, go for natural styles. They are easy to care for and maintain and don't require as much equipment as processed styles.
In order to prevent blowing a fuse, check the voltage of the sockets in the travel destination to make sure that they are compatible with the hair equipment.
