Black women who choose to wear their hair in its natural state often find the transition from chemically altered hair somewhat challenging. This does not mean that natural hair is difficult to manage, but that it requires a different technique. In order for natural black hair to reach its fullest glory, it needs liberal amounts of moisture, regular strengthening treatments and very gentle handling.
Moisturizing
Highly textured hair has a tendency to be dry and prone to breakage. Black women who choose to wear their hair in its natural state should always focus on adequately moisturizing the hair. Regular use of deep conditioners is important. Ideally, products with the least amount of chemical processing should be used. Shea butter is a product that many black women with natural hair use to add moisture and luster to the hair. SheaInstitute.com recommends shea butter use for the skin, scalp, and hair because of its rich antioxidant and vitamin A content.
Protective Styling
Black women with natural hair may find that their hair is actualy quite fragile. The curled or coiled structure of the hair strands presents a potential point of breakage at every bend. Protective styling will reduce the risk of breakage and hair damage. Using styles that protect the edges and ends of the hair will help to ensure healthy, natural hair. Easy protective styles that keep the hair free of tangles and split ends are braids and buns. According to Black-Hair-Growth.info, braids should not be tight at the root as the tension will result in a type of alopecia.
Detangling
The curly and coiled texture most black women with natural hair have can make detangling difficult. The curls and coils fold over themselves and cause tangles, knots, and snags. Black women with natural hair should detangle their hair section by section with a wide-tooth shower comb. It is best to detangle highly textured natural hair while it is wet with conditioner. The conditioner acts as a lubricant and makes combing much easier. Natural hair should be combed carefully, from the ends toward the roots.
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