Hair Care Tips For African American Hair

The texture of African-American hair makes it versatile and able to easily do several styles including afros, braids, dreadlocks, twists and cornrows. However, if your kinky, curly or wavy hair needs a change, there are always hair relaxers. Whatever style you choose to use, Anthony Dickey, a stylist based in New York and author of "Hair Rules!" stresses that there's no such thing as "good" or "bad" hair. However, there are good and bad hair practices.

Hair Relaxing

The chemicals in hair relaxers are harmful, such as caustic soda or lye, which is used in drain cleaners. Even brands that are "no lye" still contain chemicals that can permanently harm your scalp and hair. Despite all this, it's still possible to minimize the damage your hair suffers if you use these products. According to Pamela Ferrell, author of "Let's Talk Hair," correctly relaxed hair does not completely remove the curl, so hair remains strong and less prone to breakage or thinning. The key is to not apply relaxer to previously relaxed hair, never apply the relaxer for longer than recommended and to do timely touch-ups to new growth only.

Neglected Natural Hair

If your natural hair is matted, dry and brittle, it's the result of long-term neglect and poor hair hygiene practices such as rough combing or brushing, states Ferrell. Infrequent shampooing and greasy products that block hair follicles on the scalp are also to blame. Revamp your hair care routine to restore your hair to a soft, manageable state. Choose products made specifically for natural hair and use them as directed. Create a daily maintenance routine for nourishing and styling your hair. Be gentle and avoid using heat-styling tools on your hair.

Breakage

African-American hair is naturally drier than other hair textures, which increases the chances that it will break or split. Keeping it well-moisturized and conditioned is essential. Protein conditioners are a must if you straighten or relax your hair states, Anthony Dickey, a stylist based in New York and author of "Hair Rules!" However, make sure you wash it out thoroughly afterward, or your hair will become more brittle. Apply a deep conditioner at least once a week for extra and use leave-in conditioners to keep hair soft and easy to style. Also, raw shea butter is an effective moisturizer for daily or every-other-day use. It penetrates hair quickly to protect it from dryness and breakage.