Image:@amandarrwalker
With the winter in full swing, a lot of us have trouble keeping our curls moisturized, frizz-free and defined. Our regular hair care routines may be struggling and just not cutting it. Anytime there’s a lack of moisture in the air, our curls can start to dry out and crave more.
If you’re a product junkie, then you know it’s not always on the products! Sometimes our hair isn’t as eager to cooperate and we have to take a few extra steps. This can feel like a job sometimes, but my recommendation is to make a spa night out of it. Self-care always includes hair-care. Here are some tips to make sure your products are penetrating your hair in every way they should!
Fresh Out the Shower
Most curlies know the importance of adding your products while your hair is still wet. However, a mistake a lot of people make is allowing your hair to dry down a bit. When applying your curl creams, gels or mousses, you want to make sure your hair is still dripping wet. This allows the products you use to lock in the moisture and benefits. If you add your products while your hair is only damp or drying, this can cause the products to dry on top of your hair follicles. When products don’t seep into the hair cuticle or dry properly, it can lead to a crunchy or dry nightmare.
Hair Steaming
Over the past few years, the act of using steam in our hygienic routines has become increasingly popular. Facial steaming claims to have so many wonderful benefits. It’s no wonder that people took note and began using it in other ways. Hair steaming can dramatically change the appearance of your curls and the health of your hair.
Hair steaming not only allows moisture to return in abundance to your hair, but it also works to open the cuticle. This allows for products to better penetrate when you apply them later on. You can use a hair steamer such as CG favorite Q-Redew or just use your favorite kitchen pot! If these options don’t work, you can use a wet t-shirt that’s been warmed up in the microwave. Make sure the shirt isn’t too hot, you keep a safe distance from the steam, and don’t over do it! About 20 to 30 minutes will always get the job done.
Deep Conditioners
Lastly, we can’t forget the importance of deep conditioners and leave-ins! Making sure to incorporate a deep conditioner in your routine can make all the difference. It allows your hair to retain moisture and gives it just the pick-me-up it needs in any sort of dry weather! My favorite way to get the most out of my deep conditioners is to leave them in overnight. I also add a bit of Jamaican Black Castor Oil to my treatment and then wrap my hair in a shower cap and bonnet. The steam from your scalp will help the products really penetrate each strand of your hair.
