The Basics
(Revised 08/19/09)

I shampoo every two weeks (ten days) when I wear twists, and about every five (5) days when I my hair is out (in the summer). I use Trader Joe’s Nourish Spa shampoo, most often.  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.

I wear my hair in twists and braid/twist outs.  At nite, before bed, I apply a cream hairdress, like QB Amla and Olive Heavy Cream, or Phyto 9, working it thru from roots to ends with my hands.  Sometimes I just concentrate on the ends.

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,  or twists. It’s neat, cool, and controlled. If I’m wearing braids/twists, I mist daily with Herb n Life’s Head Sprung, Qhemet Biologics’ Karkady Tea Replenishing Mist, or Carol Daughter’s Black Vanilla Leave-In.

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. In the winter time, my hair is in two-strand twists. It’s a great protective style. Sew-in weaves are good, if they’re done correctly and not sewn in too tight.

I trim my hair, probably every 10-12 weeks. I shampoo and condition, blow it out, and trim. I’ll wear it in a bun, until I shampoo/condition and twist it back up.

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