Hair products can contain harsh chemicals that dry out and damage African-American hair. Furthermore, according to The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, some chemicals in personal care products contain known carcinogens. If you're concerned about using chemicals in your hair, you'll be interested to know that there are natural alternatives that provide effective and nourishing ways to care for your hair.
Shea Butter
This natural herbal extract comes from the nut of the shea tree in Africa and is rich in vitamins A, D, E and F, states SAL Enterprises. Shea butter penetrates your hair easily to moisturize and soften it. It also protects it from the sun's burning rays that dry out hair and contribute to breakage. However, the website Treasured Locks points out that shea butter products are available at different quality levels. Raw or unrefined shea butter is the best. If the product isn't labeled, you can tell if it's raw if it has a buttery or grayish yellow appearance. On the other hand, highly refined shea butter is pure white.
Essential Oils
Other effective natural products are essential oils. According to stylist Anthony Dickey who is based in New York City, almond oil can soothe and moisturize your scalp and hair, and nutrient-rich jojoba oil moisturizes and protects your hair. It's also a good oil to use for hot oil treatments to fight dryness and breakage. Light, essential oils are always better to use than heavy greases that plug follicles. However, "Let's Talk Hair" author Pamela Ferrell recommends using light essential oils sparingly and only if you feel your scalp is dry.
Mayonnaise and Eggs
Find some natural products for black hair in the food aisles at your grocery store instead of in a beauty shop. Hair is made up of strands of keratin, a form of protein. When your hair becomes damaged by chemicals, such as chemical relaxers, dyes or heat-styling tools, protein treatments can help to strengthen it and restore elasticity, explains Dickey. Mayonnaise and eggs are loaded with protein and have long been used as hair conditioners.
Tea Tree Oil
This pungent oil is a common ingredient in natural shampoos and helps to unblock plugged hair follicles and promote better oil production on the scalp, according to the International Aromatherapy and Herb Association. It can also treat bacterial and fungal scalp conditions and dandruff. Tea tree will also gently moisturize your hair to help prevent dryness and breakage.
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