Achieving beautiful Afro hairstyles can be a struggle for black women and their hairstylists. The complex texture can be frustrating to deal with, especially if you are a stylist who is unfamiliar with it. Whether it is natural, coily, wavy, kinky, or straightened, Afro hair has unique needs and requires a strict regimen to ensure beautiful and healthy hair. Fortunately, there are many products on the market designed to treat and protect textured hair so that it always looks its best.
What All Hair Stylists Need to Know When Caring for Afro Hair
There are some critical differences between afro hair and other hair types. Black hair has a thinner cuticula layer, for instance, which causes the strands to break more easily. People of African descent also have fewer hair follicles than white people, and their hair is also prone to dryness.
Here are a few valuable tips on how to care for Afro hair that all stylists should know.
Weekly Hair Washing
Most people with Afro hair should only wash their hair once a week. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, washing tightly coiled hair more than once a week can remove some sebum and care products, which could dry out the hair and scalp. It is also essential to consider the type of shampoo used. Anti-dandruff shampoos, for example, contain sulfates which can remove natural oils and dry out the hair even faster.
Deep Condition
Using a deep conditioner or oil treatment once or twice a month can help with dry hair and scalp issues by adding much-needed moisture back to the hair. A great deep conditioner to try is Camille Rose Naturals Algae Renew Deep Conditioner featuring Biotin extracted from algae. One of the best oil treatments for Afro hair is NOW Solutions Sweet Almond Oil. It contains Vitamin E, which will keep the hair and scalp healthy.
Comb Hair While It Is Wet
Curly hair tangles very easily, which makes it prone to breakage from brushing it. It is best not to comb textured hair when it is dry. Instead, apply a leave-in conditioner or moisturizer like Gold Series Pro-V Hydrating Butter Cream. When the hair is wet, divide the hair into sections, comb each section using a detangling or wide-toothed comb, and then gradually move up the hair shaft while each section is combed and detangled.
The Best Ingredients Found in Afro Hair Products for Healthy Hair
There are many great products available designed to treat and nourish natural Afro hair. If you are looking for a new shampoo or want to use the best conditioning treatment, look for products that contain the following ingredients.
Shea Butter
Shea butter contains Vitamins A and E and essential fatty acids that work to add moisture to dry and textured hair.
Honey
Honey is another ingredient ideal for adding moisture back to dry hair. It has healing properties that help smooth down rough cuticles. If the cuticles of the hair are lifted, the hair will not absorb nutrients.
Jojoba Oil
Jojoba oil is an ingredient found in many afro hair care products. It helps add strength to your hair as well as prevents dry scalp issues such as dandruff. It also contains nourishing vitamins including B, C, and E.
Castor Oil
Castor oil is a natural oil that works as a barrier to prevent moisture loss. It can help ensure your hair stays hydrated longer.
Learn More About Cutting and Styling All Hair Types at Tricoci University of Beauty Culture
If you have ever dreamed of being a hairstylist, Tricoci University offers excellent programs for Cosmetology and Barbering that will guide you along the path toward a successful career in an exciting and ever-changing industry. Contact us today for more information.