Although the wide variety of textures and curl patterns in natural black hair contributes to its beauty, dryness is a common concern. The curled or coiled structure of natural black hair makes frequent deep moisturization necessary. Good products that provide moisturization and protection to fragile natural hair often contain shea butter, essential oils, and humectants.
Shea Butter
Shea butter is a thick, yellowish cream that is made from the African shea seed. According to SheaInstitute.com, pure shea butter is good for all skin and hair types. This rich vitamin A cream is particularly good for natural black hair as it adds moisture and luster. Shea butter can be found rather inexpensively in most health food or bath and body stores. Shea butter balms, such as SheaMoisture Shea Butter, can also be found on hair care sites like TreasuredLocks.com. Shea butter should be applied after moisturizing treatments and throughout the day to help keep natural black hair soft, glossy, and well-hydrated.
Essential Oils
Essential oils can be effective additions to any black hair care routine. According to WellnessTalk.com, essential oils like Nature's Alchemy Lavender Essential Oil from Neem Aura can invigorate a dry, irritated scalp or moisturize and deep condition brittle hair. The essential oils that are most commonly used in natural black hair care are rosemary, lavender and peppermint oils. These oils will deeply penetrate the hair shaft and improve integrity and strength of highly textured hair. Any essential oil should be tested against a small area of skin on the wrist or inner forearm to ensure there are no allergic reactions. Always dilute essential oils in a thicker base or carrier oil such as grape seed or jojoba oil.
Humectants
Humectants are products that draw moisture into the hair and reduce the likelihood of moisture leeching from fragile Afro-textured hair. Humectants can be used throughout the year, although many people with natural black hair choose to use them especially in the warmer months. According to LongHair.org, commercial humectant conditioners like Nexxus Humectress or sprays can be found in the hair care aisles of most local supermarkets, but you can also make your own hair humectant treatment at home. Vitamin E gel added to honey is an inexpensive and easy homemade humectant treatment. Mix the vitamin E gel, which can be purchased in gel capsules, with three tablespoons of honey in a small reusable spritz bottle. Fill the bottle with distilled water and refrigerate the mixture. Apply the homemade humectant spray as needed throughout the day. The mixture should not be sticky, and essential oils can be added for scent.
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