Hi Beauties!
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I recently received a note from a reader asking me how to treat natural hair that has recently become damaged. This reader has never had a perm and over the past few years wasn’t giving her hair as much TLC as she needed to. Due to the lack of care, her hair became very damaged and dry. Her question, like many of us out there:
“What are some natural products (shampoo’s conditioners) that would help with my problem?“
The first step in a situation like this is to take a step back and try to access where the “damage” came from. In this case, it wasn’t from a relaxer or harsh chemicals (good).
So, was it maybe from heat, permanent hair color, extensions, tight hair styles? The reasons truly are endless, but once you pin point how the damage began you’re in a better position to figure out how to stop it.
Since I’m unsure of exactly what to attribute the damage to in this scenario, here are some tips that should help the over all health of your hair:
1. Try adhering to an exclusive Ayurvedic regimen for at least 6 months. (This is simply a holistic approach to hair care. The practice is composed of natural, herbs, powders, oils and techniques to promote hair health, growth, thickness and length.) :
Try these:
Vatika Oil
What is it? Coconut Oil infused with traditional Ayurvedic Herbs such as Brahmi, Neem & Amla . As we all know, Coconut Oil strengthens hair at the roots, promotes hair growth!
How to use it? Pre Shampoo Treatment: Use this method once weekly. Saturate hair with the oil before wetting then cover hair with a
plastic cap for about 45min (or as long as you have.)
Henna Treatment
What is it? Henna is a plant used thousands of years ago to dye hair. It has been proven to create stronger, smoother, shinier hair.
How to use it? You will need the following:
200G Henna [two boxes for thick hair] [100G/one box for shorter length hair]
1/2 cup Hello Hydration Conditioner
1 cup Your favorite Conditioner
1/2 cup of Coconut Oil added to mixture before applying the Henna
Shikakai
What is it? This poo bar acts as a natural cleanser, and mild conditioner, while promoting healthy hair growth. Use this as a substitution for your regular shampoo.
How to use it? Similar to how you would use a bar of soap..except on your hair!
2. Damaged natural hair LOVES hot oil treatments.
Similar to the Ayurvedic regimen, this is an inexpensive way to nurse your hair back to health.
What to do? Start with jojoba oil and add coconut oil, shea butter, honey and argan oil. You can essentially add any other oil you feel your hair needs most. These are just some of my favorites.
Next, heat olive oil in a microwave safe bowl for about 30-45 seconds. Test the oil with your finger before applying to scalp to ensure the temperature is comfortable for you.
Apply oil mixture to scalp in sections (you can choose to apply on dry or wet hair.) Let oil sit in hair for as long as you can. For severe damage, over night is recommended. Rinse mixture after it has saturated into your scalp and proceed with your normal shampoo/conditioning regimen.
3. Sometimes damaged curly hair can be irreparable. In this case, don’t fret. One good haircut (OR CHOP) can give you a clean slate. I know it’s difficult to let go of our hair…but sometimes it’s for our own good. Be empowered! Just do it (if you need to.) 😉
Hope this helps, beauties!
