The Basics
(Revised 02/23/08)
I shampoo every two weeks (sometimes weekly). I use Aveda Shampure. I shampoo my hair in sections. It makes it much easier to manage, and allows me to really concentrate on the scalp, which is most important. After rinsing, sometimes I follow with a vinegar rinse, from Prairieland Herbs.
I always condition my hair, after each shampoo. I generally prefer heavier, oil based conditioners, because my hair is thick and naturally dry. I always try to maintain a good protein/moisture balance, by alternating between protein and moisturizing conditioners. See my product list, for more info. If you’re searching for product info, you’ll find it in the links section.
I wear my hair in braid/twist outs, and chunky fros/puffs. At nite, before bed, I apply a cream hairdress, like QB Amla and Olive Heavy Cream, working it thru from roots to ends with my hands. I brush down the perimeter edges, and tie with a silk scarf. In the morning, I shake and fluff, add hair accessories and I’m out the door.
When it’s time to shampoo, I section my hair, dampen each section (using a spray bottle filled with water), and squeeze a dollop of cheap conditioner (something by Suave or VO5) down thru to the ends. I detangle using a wide-tooth comb, divide into sections again, and head for the shampoo bowl. I never comb my hair, when it’s dry. Never.
I don’t fight the humidity. When it’s humid, my hair is up in a puff, box braids or twists. It’s neat, cool, and controlled. If I’m wearing braids/twists, I mist nightly with Herb n Life’s Head Sprung, or Asha’s Green-Tea Herbal Leave-In, or just plain water. I’ve just started using Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Leave-In (it was a gift). That works too.
I often wear a sew-in weave, during the winter months, to protect my natural hair from the cold and windy weather. Nappy hair is very sensitive to extreme cold and wind. If you have problems with knots, you definately should be careful about exposing your hair to high winds.
I trim my hair, probably every 10-12 weeks. I wet it down, blow it out using a warm dryer, trim and shampoo/condition.
My regimen is just that — my regimen. I don’t necessarily recommend it for anyone else. Finding what works is trial and error. If you have questions about anything you’ve read here, use the contact form to send me a message, and I’ll respond ASAP.
A Nappy Girl
