Jan 25 2012

Relaxed or Natural Ethnic Hair Needs Special Care

Posted by Andrew Knowles in Fashion Consultant

African American hair is the same in composition as Caucasian and Asian hair, but the way the wave patterns form can make it very vulnerable to breakage. There is no one specific wave pattern or growth pattern for African American hair, just like there are many variations for Caucasian or Asian hair. But it does tend to grow more slowly and need more moisture than other types of hair. Textures can range from very kinky to smooth, it all depends on genetics. How you care for your hair is more important than what the texture may be, and with proper care African American hair can be very beautiful.

If you use a relaxer this increases the chances of breakage even more. No lye relaxers are gentler on your hair, but the pH is still very high and the chemicals used are very strong. They can also irritate your scalp and skin. Relaxers work in the same way as perms. The chemicals in the relaxer break the bonds that form your hair’s natural wave patterns and when you comb the relaxer through your hair and apply the neutralizer the bonds form in a straighter pattern giving your hair a “relaxed” texture. You can then set it on rollers or blow dry it and use a flat iron for a sleek look.

Moisture is the key to having manageable and strong hair. Shampoos that aren’t made for ethnic hair may dry your hair and make it more prone to breakage. Always look for products made for your hair texture, not necessarily those marketed for ethnic hair. It is important to shampoo your hair regularly to prevent the growth of bacteria and cleanse your hair and scalp, but you don’t have to wash it every day. Shampooing your hair once a week or once every 10 days is recommended by Ellin LaVar, New York stylist to stars such as Beyonce and Angela Basset. Always use a moisturizing shampoo and a moisturizing conditioner to keep your hair hydrated and strong.

Keep your scalp healthy by only using your fingertips when shampooing and treat yourself to a scalp massage when you go to the salon. This will increase circulation and just plain feels good. If you wear braids or dreads apply scalp conditioner on a regular basis to keep your scalp healthy and keep it from feeling tight. Before you use a hot comb or flat iron on your hair protect it with a silicone based product. This creates a protective barrier between your hair and the hot appliance. Heat is one of the worst culprits for sapping the moisture out of your hair and making prone to breakage. With the right products and care your hair can be strong and beautiful.

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