So you just went natural, part 2

Hey Kurlies,

Hopefully, you have read the initial post to this series. If you haven't read it, read, So you just went natural, part 1. This second post is dedicated to providing my hair care tips for the newly natural. In the initial stages of being natural, it's very easy to become a product junkie, and I'm not judging. However, there are certain products/techniques that are staples to the newly natural, and I will discuss these products/ techniques below. Let's get right to it!

Hair Care Tips for the Newly Natural:

1. Moisturizing Conditioner. You need a moisturizing conditioner for co washing (conditioner washing) your hair. When I first went natural, my hair was very dry. Often times, I co-washed two to three times a week, and this was relatively easy since my hair was so short. Co-washing helps to restore the moisture levels of the hair. I used conditioners from Giovanni and Garnier mostly. While the Giovanni felt great on my hair, it did not sit well with my pocket book, especially since I co-washed so frequently.  I know other naturals who cowash with VO5 and Suave, which are less than $2 at most stores, and they still get the job done. 

2. Clarifying Treatment. A clarifying treatment will cleanse and remove scalp buildup, and this should be done at least once a month. When you are co washing frequently, it is very important to clarify your hair at least once a month to remove excess buildup from your pores. Some clarifying treatments can be found in the form of clarifying shampoos while others use apple cider vinegar (which I love) to clarify. 

3.  Deep conditioner. A great deep conditioner will allow you to nourish, moisturize and strengthen your hair. I used (and still use) Elasta QP-DPR and/ or Organic Root Stimulator Hair Mayonnaise as my deep conditioner. There are so many deep conditioners out there, from Shea Moisture to Carol's Daughter to Oyin to Cantu Naturals. You get my drift! And if you can't find a deep conditioner you like, make one. Avocado with olive oil make a great deep conditioner! 

4. Styling Tools. Styling tools like a wide tooth comb, satin bonnet/cap/scarf/pillow case for night time and spray bottle for a moisturizing spray are staples when you first go natural. 

5. Items for the LOC method. The LOC method is the process of using a leave in/ liquid, oil, and cream (in that order) to moisturize your hair. This method is great for keeping your tresses moisturized and healthy. 

6. Hair Accessories. You hair will undergo a lot of changes within the initial months of being natural, and you may not always be fond of the changes. Keeping some cute hair accessories on deck, such as hats, bows, scarfs, and headbands, will help you get through those awkward hair moments and keep you from slipping back into creamy crackdom.

I dare add this next item to the list again, but this item is essential to being natural. Patience! Patience! Patience! Patience is truly a virtue that will be practiced throughout your natural hair journey. Be patient in how you handle your hair- no yanking, pulling, and other harsh measures with your hair. Also, be patient in your expectations for your hair. Don't expect your hair to go from shoulder length to bra strap length over night. In the end, your patience and care will pay off. We all have to start somewhere. Remember, with patience, comes growth.

Until next time...

Be faith-filled, fearless, and fabulous,

Kurly Ken