Search Results: Shellie Reneé

Pictured: @todecrespa

If you’re like a lot of us, there’s a good chance that you’ve already broken a New Year’s Resolution or you procrastinated when it came to coming up with one in the first place. This means that you’re probably still trying to figure out which one you can make — and actually keep. Well, you already know that this site is about all-things-curly-hair-related, so how about I share with you six promises that you can make to yourself, regarding your tresses, that are actually pretty easy to keep?

And you know what? I’m willing to bet some pretty good money that if you stick with all of these, you should be able to see at least 4-6” of hair growth by the time the next holiday season rolls back around. So, are you ready to get your locks where you’ve always wanted them to be? Let’s do this.

1. I will study my hair and its needs, now more than ever

Isn’t it interesting that, if there’s one thing that we all can agree on, it’s the desire to have healthy hair? Yet how many of us can say that we actually study our locks? Its type (check out “Seriously. What Is Hair Type?!””>. Its texture (check out “Want to Understand Your Texture Type””>. Which products complement it and which ones don’t. If your hair responds fairly well to heat or if it’s something that you need to leave alone as much as possible. What your scalp’s pH balance is and what throws it off (check out “4 Reasons You Need to Balance Your Scalp’s pH””>. How often you personally need a cut or trim. Because here’s the thing — we all have hair and we all are individuals. This means that even if you share the same type, texture and porosity as some of your favorite YouTube naturalistas (for example”>, that doesn’t automatically mean what works for them is going to work for you. Bottom line, the more a student studies anything, the better they are at understanding it. And when it comes to achieving the best out of your hair, you can never go wrong about intentionally learning as much about it as you possibly can.

2. I will incorporate consistent hair pampering days

Self-care is important. That’s a full stop statement and I’m sure we all can agree on that. Yet isn’t it interesting that when it comes to pampering, our hair rarely makes the priority list? This year, switch that up by giving yourself a hair mask on every other wash (it will add even more moisture than conditioning alone”>; investing in a hair steamer (to give your hair more elasticity and manageability”>; giving yourself an apple cider rinse (to reduce frizz”>; creating DIY hair spritzes (to refresh your hair and scalp”>; applying essential oil hair blends like rose and jasmine and vanilla and lavender to make your tresses smell absolutely divine and sleeping on satin pillowcases and with a humidifier on (so that your hair can retain moisture during your sleeping hours”> — these are just some of the ways to indulge your hair, so that it and you can feel super luxuriant.

3. I will get more collagen into my diet

Long story short, collagen is a type of protein that pretty much all of your body needs. It’s necessary because it helps to make your bones and joints stronger; it adds elasticity to your skin; it hydrates your system, and it helps to keep your gut and heart healthy. Something else that collagen does is make your hair more resilient, thanks to the amino acids that are in it. Plus, since your tresses are made up of mostly protein (keratin”>, collagen serves as a great building block for your hair follicles. So, whether you choose to take a collagen supplement or simply eat more foods that have collagen in them (like citrus fruit, egg whites, fish, chicken, berries, white tea, garlic and bone broth”>, definitely up your intake of this important nutrient. As you can see, it’s not only great for your hair but the rest of you as well.

4. I will massage my scalp, no less than twice a week

When it comes to the stress relief that it provides alone, I recommend that you massage your scalp, no less than a couple of times each week. As far as the way that it specifically benefits your hair, it increases blood circulation to your scalp, it “stirs up” sebum so that your scalp is more moisturized and, if you choose to massage it with a carrier/essential oil blend, it can help to “feed your follicles” too. Great carrier oils for a scalp massage include jojoba (it soothes your scalp”>, pumpkin seed (it stimulates hair growth”> and avocado (it reduces dandruff”>. A few highly beneficial essential oils include lavender (it contains antimicrobial and antibacterial properties”>, cedarwood (it helps to reduce hair shedding and hair loss”> and thyme (it promotes hair growth”>. Add 5-7 drops of your preferred oil to ¼ cup of your favorite oil, heat it in the microwave for 10 seconds and then either use your fingertips or a scalp massager to massage your scalp for 10-15 minutes. Absolute heaven, I’m telling you.

5. I will put my hair into protective styles, two seasons a year

Hands down, protective styles are a great way to go if you’re looking to gain some inches this year. And while we’re here, it’s a good idea to put on record that braids, twists, Bantu knots, updos (that you can keep up for more than just a couple of days”>, wigs and weaves all qualify because they help you to manipulate your hair (via styling it”> less. However, as with most things in life, there is such a thing as “too much of a good thing” (especially if you want to keep your edges and nape from breaking off”>. That’s why it’s a good idea to use long-term protective styles (such as box braids, sew-ins and lace front wigs”> when you know that you don’t want to put a lot of thought into styling your hair (like maybe when you’re about to go on vacation or during the summer when you don’t want to think too much about shrinkage”>. Just make sure that whenever you do take your styles out that you give yourself no less than 3-4 weeks “off”, so that you can deep condition your hair, give it a protein treatment, trim your ends if need be and simply let your hair breathe. Otherwise, if you wear a protective style around the clock, the weight of the style, the build-up on your scalp and the lack of oxygen that it needs could end up doing your hair and scalp more harm than good.

6. I will nurture the “thinner” side

If you’re like me, you’ve got one side of your hair that easily flourishes while another is not thriving nearly as much. The long short of why this is the case is because, like our breasts, feet and pretty much every other part of our body, the sides of our hair are similar but not identical. Therefore, it’s completely normal to have one side be thinner or shorter than the other. The answer to this is to give the thinner side more TLC this year — use a leave-in conditioner, so that your hair is more manageable; apply less heat (if you blow dry your hair, let it air dry at least 70 percent before apply heat to that side”>; sleep on your opposite side more often (compressed hair follicles means they may not get all of the nutrients that they need”>; use your hands to style it as often as possible (the less manipulation the better”> and try to avoid hairstyles that will only add more tension to that side. And please, as much as possible, try to only trim your ends rather than constantly cut your hair to try and “even things up”. If you do all of this, you should notice more volume and some length sooner than later. I’m speaking of from personal experience, by the way. Happy new year and here’s to season of great (hair”> progress, y’all!

Just a couple of days ago, I sat down to have a long talk with my hair. It’s in its natural state but I decided to dye it jet black. Although, at this point, my hair has been almost every hue I can imagine, there is something about it being as black as it can be that I really, really like. The problem was, after about a week of coloring it, I noticed that my hair was feeling extra dry.

Some might say that it was because of the dye but, actually, I don’t think so. The dye was ammonia-free; besides, it’s the bleach from lighter colors that tends to be more damaging than when you tend to go darker. Plus, I did an overnight deep conditioning treatment right after. Nah, I think the real culprit was the weather. I live in Nashville and, weather-wise, we’re known for the temperatures being all over the place. Anyway, it wasn’t until a few days ago that we got our first real freeze. Coincidentally, that was also the time when I was outdoors quite a bit, running errands.

Since I didn’t want my hair to lose any of the length that it currently has (especially since I just recently trimmed it”>, I knew the dryness was a sign that winter had come to zap out the moisture in the air and so I needed to be proactive as possible to ensure that I could give my hair the moisture that it needs. Here’s what I did—and recommend that you also do this winter season—to accomplish that.

Image Source: curlyfro_angie

1. Stay hydrated.

If you’re dehydrated, it’s going to show up in your hair. That’s why it’s so important to consume as much water as possible. The cool thing about this time of year is you can get a good dose of H2O by drinking herbal tea. Check out “7 Herbal Teas That Your Hair Will Absolutely Love!” to find out what kind of teas contain nutrients that your hair will especially benefit from. Then, make sure to add some honey—not sugar—to your tea. Honey contains antioxidants. Plus, it acts as a humectant which is another way for your hair and scalp to get the moisture that it needs.

2. Shampoo just a little less.

Everyone’s hair is different. This means that when it comes to how often someone should shampoo their hair, it depends on a variety of things—how much product they use, the health of their scalp and, how often their hair becomes frizzy and/or difficult to style. Personally, I wash my hair every week with a sulfate-free shampoo. But during the winter season, sometimes, I’ll do it more like every 10-14 days instead. One reason is because I rock blowouts more which means I’m not using a ton of product. Another reason is because, while shampooing is good, it can still strip my hair of its natural oils. I need more oils than ever when the weather is cold, so I try and reduce how much washing I do in order to make that happen.

3. Deep condition on a weekly basis.

Honestly, it really doesn’t matter what time of the year it is, you should always deep condition your hair. It prevents dryness which can lead to brittleness and damage. It promotes hair elasticity and strength. It can pamper the oldest parts of your hair which are your ends. It aids in restoring your hair’s pH levels. It also helps to nourish your hair. If you’re someone who deep conditions on a monthly basis, I strongly encourage you to switch that up to doing it on a weekly basis during the winter months. The more conditioned your hair is, the better it will be at withstanding the harsh elements outside and the dry heat from your central air unit while you’re indoors. By the way, we’ve got a list of awesome deep conditioners that you can try here.

4. Use a cream-based moisturizer.

We’re made up of mostly water; that’s why it should come as no shocker that our hair needs a moisturizer, pretty much on a daily basis. As you’re trying to figure out what kind of moisturizer that you should get, first check out our article “These Things Don’t Moisturize Your Hair”. You might be surprised by how things like hair butters actually work as moisturizing sealants not true moisturizers, or that silicones give hair “slip” without actually moisturizing it. The best way to give your hair the moisture that it needs is to get a moisturizer that has water as its main ingredient. We’ve got a few articles on the topic to totally help you out—”12 Best Curly Moisturizers”, “10 Best Moisturizers For Dry Hair” and “The 15 Best Moisturizing Products for Coarse, Dry Natural Hair”. As far as texture goes, look for a moisturizer that leans on the side of creamy. The thicker it is, the more protection your locks will have during the winter snow, ice and chills.

5. Pamper your scalp.

Your scalp is your hair’s foundation so, of course, it needs moisture too. You can pamper it by giving “your foundation” a hot oil massage once a week (coconut, argan or jojoba are great ones to apply; click here for tips on how to do the massage correctly”>. You should also consume foods that have Vitamin B in them. Why? Because there is a direct connection to dry skin and Vitamin B deficiency. Some foods that are high in this particular vitamin include whole grains, eggs, almonds, dark leafy greens and poultry. If there is a particular spot on your scalp that is dry, itchy or irritated, applying a mixture of 100 percent Aloe vera gel, Vitamin E oil and a drop of tea tree oil should bring about immediate relief. Oh, and sleep with a humidifier on. It will put moisture back into the air that the heat from your central air unit is pulling out.

6. Take an omega-3 supplement.

Another way to moisturize your hair from the inside out is to take an omega supplement. Not only does it give your hair the kind of essential nutrients and proteins that it needs to stay soft and nourished, omega-3 also promotes blood circulation, prevents hair follicle damage and, there are studies to support that, when it’s taken on a consistent basis, omega-3 can also reduce hair loss while increasing hair growth. Just make sure that you aren’t allergic to fish oil before you take it because that is exactly what omega-3 is.

7. Oil your ends every night.

Between your wool hats and scarves, if your hair is out, it’s going to experience friction and dryness more than ever during the winter months. Since your ends are the oldest parts of your hair, something that you can do to make sure that they don’t become brittle is to oil your ends on a nightly basis. It doesn’t need to be anything super heavy. Shea butter. Lavender oil. Olive oil. Coconut oil. These are some of the things that your ends will easily absorb so that they remain in great condition all winter long.

8. Be careful with heat.

I am a huge fan of blowouts. I wear them year-round. That doesn’t mean that I’m not aware that overusing heat can also lead to dryness and, ultimately hair damage, though. That’s why you need to use a ceramic dryer. You should apply a cream-based thermal heat protectant before drying your hair (a spray is fine if your hair is fine; cream is best if it is thick”>. Finally, you should go with the “less is more” mentality when it comes to how often you use a blow dryer; especially if you are going to follow it up with a flat iron. If you want some tips on how to do a silk press at home, click here and here. All of this should keep your hair feeling soft, moisturized and totally ready for what Mother Nature has in store—all winter long.

Have some tips of your own to share for combatting winter dryness? Share them in the comments!

We’re literally just a couple of weeks ago from a new year and a new decade. You know what that means, right? We’re also a hop, skip and a jump away from making some new resolutions too. If you read that line and just let out a big sigh, I feel you. I’m not big on making resolutions either. But what I do like to do is focus on things that I’d like to switch up a bit and then make promises to myself. What’s the difference? Although it’s probably more psychological than anything else, resolutions seem to oftentimes be unrealistic and stressful. Promises? They are a bit more down to earth and they help to hold me accountable.

Since Naturally Curly is a site that’s all about hair, I thought it would be a good idea to share with you some of the promises that I am making to my tresses and myself as we both gear up for 2020. Don’t worry, they aren’t too taxing. They are all about love, patience and consistency—the power trio that can give you the kind of hair you’ve always wanted by this time next year.

Image Source: @naturallycurly of @cocosluxcurls

1. “I will totally fall in love with the hair I was born with.”

I recently watched a YouTube video from a woman who said that she hates the hair (type”> chart because, to her, it conditions women who have 4-type hair to hate it. Perspective is everything because I don’t see it that way at all. Actually, embracing what my curl pattern is, along with understanding more about porosity, have helped me to take better care of my hair.

I’ve got Black female friends with 3-type hair and, believe me when I say that, they have their own battles to fight—being told that they must be mixed (even when they aren’t”>; wishing that they didn’t have to use an insane amount of product to make their hair do some of the things that mine does naturally; having to wash their locks more often…the list goes on and on.

That’s why I’m like, “We all have things to love about our hair—things that make us distinctly different from the rest, so why not celebrate those unique features?” And why not make 2020 the year that you decide to do it? One definition of envy is “To count someone else’s blessings more than your own.” Rather than wish you had what someone else does, how about embracing what you naturally do. It’s dope, all on its own. Trust me.

Image Source: @naturallycurly of @camilacvieira

2. “I will become less of a product junkie.”

I get it. Some people are product junkies when it comes to their hair (if that’s you, our site has an online store that you will absolutely love!”> just like when it comes to cosmetics and other stuff. As it relates to this particular promise, I’m not saying that you should change the core of who you are—if you like to experiment, do you, girl. What I am saying is, if length retention is one of your goals for the new year, something that could actually be working against you is constantly putting something new or different in your hair. It’s far better to spend a good amount of time (it shouldn’t take more than a couple of months”> to create an effective hair regimen and then stick to that. Not only will it increase your chances of ending up with the kind of hair results that you want, it can save you a mint on hair products too.

And what about your love for products? Eh. Maybe change that over to hair accessories or at least cutting the amount that you get in half. I’m pretty sure you can find other ways to put that extra money to use…right? Exactly.

Image Source: @naturallycurly of @beauty_skindeep

3. “I will commit to what works for MY hair.”

This world is full of opinions and, when it comes to hair care, hundreds of sites, blogs and videos that swear by what works and what doesn’t. I used to be the kind of person who stuck to someone else’s hair regimen, no matter how much my hair didn’t like it, believing that eventually, my tresses would adapt. Eventually, I came to the realization that the more natural a product is, the better; my hair actually prefers to be stretched (with heat”>; and the same three things are what help it to flourish.

Peer pressure is real, even when it comes to our hair. Spare your hair the pressure of being expected to act like someone else’s locks by paying close attention to what actually works for it and then sticking to that…no matter what.

Image Source: @naturallycurly of @kaydayallday

4. “I will educate myself on what length retention requires.”

For me, 2019 was about making peace with my personal decision to grow my natural 4a hair out (because I’ve been wearing it short for most of my adult life”>. 2020 is gonna be about getting serious about length retention. One way that I’ve been getting my mind prepared to achieve some real inches is I’ve been watching videos of women who are already where I want to be (you can check out a few of ‘em here, here and here“>. I’ve also been paying attention to supplements that seem to be all the rage too (like MSM“>.

Now, I’ve been in the natural (or at least semi-natural because sometimes I rocked a texturizer“> long enough to know that duplicating another person’s hair routine doesn’t automatically mean that I’ll garner the same results. Things like their own hair type, their genetics and even the climate that they live in can all play a factor. At the same time, I also know that “knowledge is power” and so, it’s a good idea to have as much information as possible if, like me, you want to gain some real inches over the upcoming months.

Image Source: @naturallycurly of @eboneedavis

5. “I will be patient and gentle with my locks.”

Something that I often compare my hair is silk. While on the one hand, silk is really strong, it can also be super fragile as well. Now put a pin in that while I make a brief comparison. Although my long nails are my own (and then powder dipped”>, my nail tech will personally vouch for the fact that there are times when I have to see her, in between appointments, and it’s because I have chipped my polish (even though it is gel”> or even broken a nail. It’s not because she didn’t do a good or thorough job; she’s fabulous. It’s because I am so rough on my nails.

*le sigh* My “roughness” is a reality that I’ve had to accept when it comes to my locks as well. Although I have the right tools, sometimes I still yank too hard when I’m detangling or if I don’t wait as long as I should for my deep conditioner to penetrate my strands.

There really is no point in having all of the right stuff to maintain my natural curliness if I’m not going to be patient and gentle while applying everything. Same goes for you. So yeah, make it a point to not try and rush Mother Nature when it comes to the growing out process and be gentle in the meantime with the hair that you actually do have. Be grateful for what you already have too. You’ll end up with some of the best hair results if/when you do.

Image Source: @naturallycurly of @wavycurly

6. “I will not stress out my hair—or myself.”

I am a self-professed quotes girl. Big time. One of the sayings about stress that I like a lot is by best-selling author Eckhart Tolle—“Stress is caused by being ‘here’ but wanting to be ‘there’.” In other words, worry, anxiety and the desire to want to control things that you can’t control, are a huge part of the reason why a lot of us stress ourselves out.

Hmph. I don’t know about you, but one of the last things that I want to take into a spanking new year is stress. When it comes to my health, it tends to break me out, make my periods worse, keep me from resting, alter my moods and it really affects my concentration. When it comes to my hair specifically, stress has a tendency to keep all of our hair in its “resting phase”. If it stays that way for too long, that can ultimately lead to hair loss—and who wants that?

So yeah, another promise that I am going to make—and I hope that you will too—is that I will not allow people, places, things or even ideas to stress me out too much. For one thing, stress doesn’t usually make things better, only worse. And secondly, my health and well-being and hair deserve better; especially as I head into another year; you too.

Here’s to 12 months of awesome hair care and fabulous results! Be sure to keep us posted (in the comments”>.

Photo by Darling Arias on Unsplash

If there’s one thing that is pretty much a fact of life for most of us, it’s that, at some point, we’re going to go gray. In fact, according to many studies, as much as 50 percent of us will be 50 percent gray by the time we turn 50 (crazy, right?”>. As far as what causes this to ultimately happen, there are several factors — genetics, aging, smoking and definitely stress (when you get a chance, check out Scientific American’s “Gray Hair Can Return to Its Original Color—and Stress Is Involved, of Course””>.

And while there are some things that you can do to slow down the premature graying process (for instance, did you know that.” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”> not having enough copper in your system can lead to graying earlier than you should? More on that in a bit”>, once the grays are present and accounted for, to this day, there isn’t a ton that you can do to turn back time. Because this is the case, rather than fight Mother Nature, what I’m going to encourage you to do today, is actually make peace with the grays that you have. Here’s how.

Again, It Happens to Most of Us

I’d be lying to you if I said that everyone on the planet eventually goes gray. I’ve actually read, a few times, that 1 in 10 individuals still don’t have a single strand of gray hair by the time they turn 60 (again…genetics”>. What I will say is that’s not exactly the norm because most of us start to see signs of graying at around the age of 30. When it first happens, I know that it can feel strange because it’s a clear reminder that the aging process is setting in. Still, it’s nothing to feel uncomfortable with or awkward about because, even if you think that other people aren’t going through what you are, trust me, they are. It’s just that, as long as hair dyes exist, you may never know it.

Work WITH Not AGAINST Them

Speaking of dye, if your first inclination, when it comes to your gray hair, is to cover it up with hair color, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, gray hair can be quite resistant to dye because it tends to have a “rougher” texture than hair that has more melanin in it does. This means that you could end up damaging your hair as you’re trying to figure out what to use “get rid” of your grays. Not to mention the fact that covering up gray hair doesn’t make them permanently go away and so, the more dye that you use, the more you can put your health at risk (for instance, an increased your cancer risk according to a 2001 University of Southern California study”>. Then there’s the money that you’re spending to cover up your grays, along with the fact that healthier options like semi-permanent and henna don’t always give you the results that you’re looking for. That’s why, it might be a good idea to consider — just consider — letting your grays shine through.

You know, I’ve got a friend who’s 40 who is doing just that. Her gray hairs are coming through her hairline, she has 3B texture strands and because of that, her grays actually look like subtle highlights. It’s quite lovely. Besides, after a while of using harsh chemicals (including silicones and sulfates”>, your grays can end up looking yellowish and dingy and oftentimes, that is hard to reverse once it happens. That’s why, again, it really may be best to stop fighting gray tresses, so that you can actually become “friends” with them. This brings me to my next point.

Use Products That Will Bring Out the Best in Your grays

As far as commercial brands go, there are all kinds that will help to bring the most out of your gray hair (just go to your favorite search engine and put “products for gray hair” in the search field”>. Yet did you know that there are natural ways to give your hair that silver sheen that is really quite stunning? First, it’s important to keep in mind that, aside from constantly coloring your hair, UV rays, medicated shampoos, heat damage, smoking and even minerals in your water (which is why you might want to wash your hair with a showerhead that has a filter attachment on it”> can also play a role in your grays looking dull instead of brilliant.

And as far as actual natural products go, apple cider rinses (on wash day”> can remove environmental toxins; fish oil, omega-3s, Vitamin E, biotin and zinc supplements can help to keep your grays strong and healthy; making conditioners that contain ingredients like yogurt, banana, egg and avocado can help to “tame” unruly gray hairs; avoiding products with mineral oil in them is wise because those can weigh your gray hair down while making it difficult for moisture to penetrate your strands and eating lots of protein can help to bring elasticity and manageability to gray hair. Oh, and Naturcolor is an herbal-based hair color brand that is designed to help your grays blend better. When you get a chance, check them out. You might be surprised what it can do for you.

Remember, There Are Ways to Slow Down Premature graying

What if you know, in the very core of your soul, that you are experiencing gray quicker than you should be? If that is indeed the case, there are some proven ways to slow the entire process down a bit. I’ll list seven of them here:

Stop chemically processing your hair so much

All that does is damage your hair strands, making them more vulnerable to graying. So, if you’ve been looking for a reason to go natural, avoiding premature graying just might be it.

Cover your hair up in the sun more often

Just like chemicals can damage your hair, so can heat; especially heat that comes directly from the sun. That’s why it’s a wise move that, when you know that you’re going to be outdoors for a long period of time that you put on a hat or scarf.

Pre-poo your hair with coconut oil

Remember how I said that hair needs protein? Something that is loaded with it and can protect your hair from the outside in is coconut oil. Just apply a teaspoon to tablespoon of it before washing your hair. Massage your scalp and make sure to cover your hair from root to tip. If you do this on a regular basis, you may notice that your gray is slowing down.

Shampoo your hair with zinc pyrithione

If you’re looking for a shampoo that can help to slow down the graying process, look for one that contains zinc pyrithione. It works because it’s full of antioxidants (something else that pigmented hair needs”> and it can protect your hair from UV damage.

Consume enough copper

Copper is a mineral that helps to make up melanin; that’s why it’s important that you have it in your system. Foods that are high in copper include dark chocolate, spirulina, sesame seeds, shellfish and spinach.

Take an L-tyrosine supplement

If you’re not familiar, L-tyrosine is an amino acid that can make you more alert, help to improve your quality of sleep, reduce depression-related symptoms, regulate your thyroid and, because it’s another nutrient that helps with melanin production, I’m sure you can see how it can slow down the graying process as well.

De-stress

The reason why stress can kick graying into high gear is because, when your cortisol (your natural stress hormone”> is elevated, that can affect the stem cells in your body that are responsible for creating hair pigmentation. That’s why exercise, meditation and getting no less than 6-8 hours of sleep, each and every night, are so important.

gray Can Be Absolutely Beautiful

Rihanna. Rita Ora. Pink. These are just some of the celebs who have dyed their hair gray or silver before — on purpose. And again, if you go to your favorite search engine and put “dyeing hair silver” and then click on the images that are available, you will see all kinds of pictures of women, some of them who are quite young, who have gray or silver stands and they look beyond amazing! It’s a reminder that, these days, gray hair isn’t just a “sign of the times” but a reminder that it’s trendy, it’s appealing and it’s certainly nothing to shy away from. So…don’t.

Photo: Unsplash

When it comes to taking care of your scalp (the “foundation” of your hair”>, if there’s one thing that I think is imperative that we all do, it’s learning the differences between what it means to have a dry scalp, dandruff and — whew — a scalp yeast infection. When it comes to dry scalp vs. dandruff, although both are prone to having issues like flakiness and itchiness, dandruff also often results in an oily buildup caused by a fungus called Malassezia. And, unlike doing things like steaming your hair, sleeping with a humidifier and even oiling your scalp (with a little oil like jojoba or grapeseed”> to ease a dry scalp, dandruff often requires the treatment of a dandruff shampoo, scalp exfoliation, tea tree oil applications, eating less sugar (Malassezia loves carbs”> and even seeing your doctor.

And what about a yeast infection on your scalp? How in the world do you heal it? That’s what we’re going to tackle over the next few minutes. Because while the mere thought of having a scalp yeast infection might sound semi-terrifying, it’s not as uncommon as you might think and there are some proven and effective ways to treat it.

How in the world do you end up with a scalp yeast infection?

So, let’s start here. Because it’s been reported that over 75 percent of women will get at least one yeast infection over the course of their life and eight percent will even end up with four a year, I wouldn’t be surprised if you’ve had a yeast infection before. And, as you may already know, they happen as the result of when the natural yeast (which is a fungus; generally, it’s one called Candida”> that is on our skin ends up growing out of control. Although it oftentimes happens in warm and moist areas (like our vagina, underneath our breasts and in the folds of our underarms; especially if an all-natural deodorant is used”>, yeast infections can show up, just about anywhere.

What causes a scalp yeast infection?

When it comes to your scalp, specifically, some of the things that can trigger this type of infection include medications, stress, harsh chemicals, living in a warm climate and a diet that consists of more sugar and carbs than anything else. Interestingly enough, health issues like diabetes and even taking antibiotics to get over an ailment can lead to this kind of a yeast infection too.

How do you know if you have a scalp yeast infection?

Some telltale signs of a yeast infection on your scalp include soft and white moist areas, crust on your scalp or around your hairline, greasy scales on your scalp and red or purple patches — not to mention the same incessant itching or irritation that typically occurs when you have a yeast infection anywhere else.

Schedule a doctor’s appointment

If you’ve had a vaginal yeast infection before, you probably recall being advised to see a doctor the first time it occurred, just to make sure that you had one. That’s because everything from an allergy to Bacterial Vaginosis to STDs like trichomoniasis, herpes and genital warts to even just your pH being thrown off (due to a shift in your hormones”> can all “mimic” signs of a yeast infection and it makes no sense to try and treat it yourself without knowing, for sure, that you have one. Same thing applies to a scalp yeast infection. There is no way to be certain what is going on without setting a doctor’s appointment (even if it’s at a local clinic”>, so that they can inspect your scalp and even send off for lab tests, if that’s what’s required.

How do you treat a scalp yeast infection?

If they do end up confirming that a yeast infection is what’s going on, there are a few different approaches that they might recommend. First, it’s not uncommon that they will prescribe you with the same antibiotic that you would take for a vaginal yeast infection (which is Diflucan”>.

Second, they might suggest that you use a prescription strength antifungal shampoo that oftentimes contains somewhere around two percent ketoconazole or they might opt for a corticosteroid shampoo instead. If you want to add to these some home remedies, massaging your scalp with a mixture of organic coconut oil (which has powerful antifungal properties”> and a few drops of either tea tree oil (it’s got potent antimicrobial, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties”> or lavender oil (it helps to kill yeast and soothe your scalp”> or rinsing your scalp with a half distilled water and half apple cider vinegar (it reduces inflammation”> rinse is pretty effective too.

How long does it take to clear up a scalp yeast infection?

While the symptoms should start to subside within a couple of days, it could take up to 2-8 weeks for the infection to clear up completely.

How can you prevent them in the future?

Remember how I said in the intro that it’s quite possible to have recurring yeast infections? I can attest to this because I have a fungal sensitivity (one that sometimes causes me to have recurrent yeast infections”>. That’s why it’s important to be proactive about keeping the yeast that is on your skin and in your system under control. Aside from consuming sugar and carbs in moderation, as it relates to your scalp specifically, there are a few other things that you can (and should”> do:

• Shampoo your scalp on a bi-weekly basis
• Exfoliate your scalp on wash days
• Be intentional about avoiding product buildup
• If you wear wigs, let your scalp breathe at night (to keep your scalp from getting too moist”>
• Take breaks from protective styles
• Don’t constantly cover your head with hats, hoods, etc
• Massage your scalp with antifungal essential oils (like peppermint, lemongrass and clove”> once a week
• Take a daily probiotic (to keep “good bacteria” in your system”>
• Drink lots of water
• Keep your stress levels down

There is nothing pleasant about a yeast infection, I don’t care where it is on your body. But now that you know more about scalp yeast infections, hopefully you know how to tell the difference between it and a dry scalp or dandruff, how to treat it and, most importantly, how to prevent it.

” alt=”6 Solid Reasons to DIY Your Shampoo (Along with a Few Recipes”>” src=”https://images.ctfassets.net/naq2t3kc7ito/4PBqpUFSd2GFIn6F832wjr/13e264dd146ad5087b20204c0bcbcee3/diy-shampoo-700.jpg”>

Photo: Unsplash

There is no way around the fact that it is super important to shampoo your hair. Not only does it help to remove dead skin cells, debris and product buildup, it can also get rid of odors that things like sweat can cause while helping to unclog your hair follicles, so that your tresses are able to truly thrive. While there are a ton of shampoo brands on the market, something that I’ve personally become a big fan of is homemade shampoos; either I will make them myself or I will purchase shampoo bars from merchants who make them. And you know what? My hair and scalp have only become so much healthier as a direct result.

Why? That’s actually what I’m about to share with you in this article. Whether you opt to wash your hair weekly or bi-weekly, here are six pretty good reasons why you definitely should at least consider making some shampoo yourself along with five recipes for you to test out (trust me, it’s not as hard to do as you might think”>.

The benefits of a DIY shampoo

1. You Know Exactly What’s in It

Although companies are legally obligated to share the ingredients that are in their products, let’s be honest — a lot of us don’t even think to read the labels, even though we should. When it comes to shampoo specifically, there are oftentimes all kinds of things in them that aren’t good for our overall health and well-being. Things like what? Parabens (they stop bacteria from growing in products yet also mimic estrogen in your system”>; sulfates (they provide lather and also create mutagenic properties which can literally alter your DNA sequence”>; sodium chloride (it makes shampoo thicker and can also lead to hair loss over time”>; alcohol (it can dry your hair out”> and synthetic fragrances (they can irritate your scalp”> — and that’s just the tip of the iceberg!

Making your own shampoo means that you’re in control of what goes into it. And when you have that kind of personal assurance, you don’t have to worry about putting things onto your scalp and in your hair that could prove to be detrimental in the long run.

2. You Can Customize It to Suit Your Personal Needs

Another cool thing about DIY shampoos is you can customize them. So, instead of spending 30-plus minutes in drug and grocery stores trying to figure out which commercialized product can get closest to what you’re looking for, you can “design” your own hair wash. For instance, I made one shampoo that has both tea tree oil (for dandruff”> and honey (it’s a humectant”> in it. Since tea tree oil has such powerful antiseptic properties and it also is an oil (so it doesn’t strip my scalp’s natural moisture”>, it’s a win/win. In fact, you can make a few different kinds of shampoos to fit different occasions (for instance, one that reduces frizz, one that deep cleans and one that uber moisturizes”>.

3. It Can Be Much Less Drying

The beauty industry is a billion-dollar business and businesses are all about making money. So, why would brands — brands that are looking to make a mint off of what we buy — actually go out of their way to make more moisturizing shampoos when they can leave the conditioning elements out of them and sell us bottles of conditioner instead? Listen, I will be the first one to say that deep conditioning is an absolute must. At the same time, we wouldn’t have to do that so much if we were making our own shampoo; the kind that has moisturizing ingredients like coconut milk, a few teaspoons of herbal infused oil or some Aloe vera gel in it. (See what I’m saying?”>

4. Less Lather. More Clean.

As it says in the title, I will share a few easy recipes at the end of this. For now, if you’re someone who thinks that extra lather means extra clean, first, that’s not really true. Because a lot of us have been so accustomed to using shampoos that provide lather, we’ve been “programmed” to believe that although it’s more of a “cosmetic ploy” than anything. Still, if you’re someone who feels like you’ve just got to have a ton of suds, while castile soap won’t provide boatloads of bubbles, you will get some. The real bonus is you’ll be able to get what you want from a much healthier approach because castile soap helps to preserve natural oils on your scalp, promotes healthy hair follicles and even has a good reputation of soothing your scalp if you happen to have scalp eczema or psoriasis. In fact, castile soap happens to be a main ingredient in a lot of homemade shampoos. Rightfully so, too.

5. It’s (Typically”> Better for the Environment

A lot of the chemicals that I mentioned earlier? Not only are they not good for your system, they aren’t great for the environment either. And don’t even get me started on what all of those plastic containers are doing to our planet. I recently read that our world currently produces somewhere around 380 million tons of plastic every year and most of it ends up in our oceans or they become pollutants on some level. When you’re making your own shampoo, you can buy a couple of recyclable bottles and just keep using them over and over again. Then when, for whatever the reason, you’re ready to toss them, you can put them in a recycling bin so that they don’t create more trash. Yeah, this DIY shampoo thing just keeps getting better and better, doesn’t it?

6. It Can Be Cheaper in the Long Run

There are a lot of cheap bottles of shampoo that are on the market. While some work “OK”, you know how the saying goes — you get what you pay for. And if commercialized brands are ultimately going to pay their own role in brittle hair, split ends, dry scalp and who knows what else, isn’t it actually less expensive to spend a little more to buy pure products that will take better care of your hair overall? Yeah, my sentiments exactly.

5 Easy, Healthy DIY Shampoo Recipes

To make your own DIY shampoo, mix the ingredients together, put them into a flip bottle, and shake well before use. 

Castile Shampoo Recipe

• 1/4 cup distilled water
• 1/4 cup liquid castile soap
• ½ teaspoon of your favorite carrier oil (sweet almond, avocado, jojoba, etc.”>

Aloe Vera Shampoo Recipe

• ¼ cup of Aloe vera gel (contains antioxidant and antibacterial properties and unblocks hair follicles”>
• ¼ cup of castile soap
• ½ teaspoon of Vitamin E oil
• 5-7 drops of orange (soothes dandruff and relieves dry scalp”> or jasmine (reduces frizz”> oil

Coconut Milk Shampoo Recipe

• ½ cup of coconut milk (uber moisturizing”>
• ½ liquid soap
• ½ cup of vegetable glycerin (a humectant”>
• 3 teaspoons of argan oil (awesome for hair growth”>
• 10 drops of lavender oil (kills bacteria and encourages hair growth”>

Maple Shampoo Recipe

• 10 drops of carrot seed oil (soothes texture and tames frizz”>
• 3 tablespoons of pure maple syrup (a powerful humectant”>
• ½ cup of castile soap 

Honey Shampoo Recipe

• 3 tablespoons of Manuka honey (nourishes hair and reduces flaky scalp”>
• 2 teaspoons of liquid coconut oil
• 3 drops of lemongrass oil (reduces dry scalp and increases hair shine”>

We just announced the NaturallyCurly Best of the Best awards for 2021, awards voted on entirely by the NaturallyCurly community! And if you’ve been here a while then it will come as no surprise that SheaMoisture’s Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie has won for two categories: Best Styling Cream for All Hair Types and Best Styling Cream for Type 3 Curls. This product has won several of our awards over the years, and if you’re curious about trying it then we have a full review from our writer Shellie Reneé. 

OK, So Let Me Tell You Why I’m All About ‘SheaMoisture’s Coconut and Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie’

So, here’s my true confession about this particular product. I’ve actually had a jar of SheaMoisture’s Coconut and Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie and Coconut & Hibiscus Curling Gel Souffle for close to a year before I even got around to testing them out. It’s mostly because I’m actually not a product junkie (anymore”> and I’ve been wearing my hair as a blowout, in cornrows or in medium-sized box braids, so there was no need.

Oh, but baby, when I took out my latest round of braids earlier this year, saw that my hair was gaining some real inches and so I decided to play around with a braided faux hawk braid-out? Let me just start this off by saying that when my editor asked me if I wanted to shout-out one of the products for this end of year piece, SheaMoisture’s Coconut and Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie is what I jumped up and down to do! I’ll share a few reasons why (then to be fair, also share some “words to the wise” to be aware of”>.

Photo SheaMoisture 

The Pros & Cons of SheaMoisture’s Coconut and Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie

When it comes to SheaMoisture’s Coconut and Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie, here are its strengths and weaknesses (to me, anyway”>:

The Pros

OK, so there are several things that I like about this product. First, that its first ingredient is water which means that’s what it has the most of in it. You can tell too because while the consistency of the cream is thick, it’s not sticky nor will it dry your hair out and, unless you apply a ton of it to your hair, it doesn’t leave much flaking when it comes to your end results either. If you apply it while your hair is wet (you know, for like a wash ‘n go”>, you will immediately see curl definition without a ton of shrinkage once it dries (one way to elongate a bit is to apply a little bit of Jamaican black castor oil during application process”>.

As I said earlier, I prefer it on braid-outs because, once my hair is dry (I usually apply mine to dry hair; long story”>, it doesn’t take forever for the cream to dry. Then, once I take my braids out, my hair is soft, it has a hint of sheen to it and it’s really easy to pull the braids apart (for volume”> without losing a lot of the braid-out’s definition. I also like that if you want more definition than your initial application, you can apply more of the product the following night (and braid it again”> and your hair will be curlier and shinier without really any buildup at all. In fact, you’d have to reapply for 4-5 days in a row before you can really start to “feel” the product on your hair. And because it makes my tresses feel so unbelievably soft and manageable, it’s almost like I have to remind my own self that it’s a braid-out and not my hair’s natural texture. Plus, if I wrap my hair up at night, I can easily keep a “fresh” look for about four days before needing to braid it up again. Beautiful.

Oh, it’s also a bonus that when I twist the ends of my hair with the cream (as I’m braiding it”> that it will curl up so that I don’t have to rod or roller set my hair to keep the ends from staying straight. And the price? It just takes things to another level. I’ve actually purchased some extra jars and bypassed the 6 oz. (I can get a good four braid-outs with that jar”> and gotten a couple of 20 oz. instead. No regrets on doing that either. Not one.

The Cons

As far as any downsides, there aren’t a lot of them. I will say that you might need a bit of a learning curve as far as how much your hair requires (based on type and thickness”> because if you go the “less is more” approach, you might not get the definition that you’re looking for and if you apply too much, the cream will not fully absorb into your hair and it could lead to some flaking that is kind of stressful to shake out. Also, even with a braid-out, depending on how much you use, you might not be 100 percent dry the next day. Still, it’s not the big of a deal because your look will still hold; you just might need to braid it again, so that your hair can “set” all of the way. Oh, and if you want more sheen (because it “finishes” on the “drier” side of things”>, you’ll probably need to “seal” your hair with a carrier oil like sweet almond or avocado. Just make sure to keep in mind that it could add to your overall drying time. Yet when you weigh all of this out, how can this be that big of a deal? In my eyes, it’s not. I’d do a commercial for this product if I could. For now, this review will have to do. Try it. It’s well worth it!

Have you tried SheaMoisture’s Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie? What did you think of it? 

Photo by Thought Catalog on Unsplash

There is a spot, on the bottom right side of my head, down at the nape, that simply doesn’t want to cooperate with the rest of my hair. For about two years now, my frustration with it has hindered the progress of gaining as many inches as I would like because I’ve been super consumed with making sure my hair was even (which meant I kept trimming the faster side to keep it on par with the shorter parts”> rather than getting to the root of what the problem was, so that I could put the shears down.

Today, I hope that you can reap from some of my personal experience because, the reality is, although it might seem like there are parts of your hair that aren’t growing, the reality is, so long as your hair follicles aren’t dead, your hair is always making progress. However, some hair flourishes more than others and, as you’re about to see, there are five main reasons why certain spots of your own head may be struggling more than you would like.

1. DNA

Basically, there are four stages of hair growth: anagen (growing”>, catagen (transition”>, telogen (resting”>, and exogen (shedding”>. Between the fact that each hair follicle is unique and people’s growing stage (which is what 90 percent of your hair is currently in”> can last anywhere from 3-7 years, this plays a significant role in how long your hair grows. Unfortunately, as far as genetics go (if your growing phase is three years or seven”>, there’s not much you can do to change that. At the same time, it’s important to remember that your hair is always growing so, while some people you know may gain between 6-10” (maybe more”> in a year while you seem to do about half that, things like a healthy diet (which “feeds” your follicles”>, exercise (which increases blood circulation to your scalp”> and drinking plenty of water (because it hydrates your hair from the inside out”> can all play a role in getting that “stuck spot” to thrive.

2. Stress

Heart disease. Asthma. Obesity. Diabetes. Headaches. Depression. Digestion issues. Wanna know something that all of these health issues have in common? They are all triggered by stress. Guess what else stress can do? It can affect your hair’s progress. That’s right. When you’re all stressed out, it can literally push your hair, prematurely so, into the telogen (resting”> phase. And since there’s only one phase after that (shedding”>, I’m pretty sure you can see how stress works against, not for, you. Meditation. Prayer. Journaling. Exercising. Sex. Chewing gum. Reducing your sugar and caffeine intake. Taking a multivitamin. Hanging out and laughing with some of your favorite people. Getting onto a sleep schedule. These are just some of the things that you can do reduce the amount of stress that may currently be at peak levels in your life, so that you can avoid the resting phase, so that the stagnant part of your hair can continue to grow.

3. Sensitivity

Remember how I said earlier that each hair follicle is unique? This means that each one has its own shape, size, level of thickness and oftentimes texture too (which is why you can have multiple textures on your head”>. This was something else that I had to make peace with, when it came to the back of my head, in general, because it doesn’t grow nearly as fast as the front and my sides (especially my left side”> does. The back also isn’t as strong or thick, so I’ve had to learn how to not treat it the same way as I do the other parts of my hair. It’s far more sensitive (i.e., susceptible to breakage”> which means that I’ve had to handle it with extreme care. This includes on wash days, when I’m styling it and when I get it put into a protective style. In fact, when I’m getting braids or twists in my hair, I have to remind my stylist to go a little easier on the back (especially down on the right side, in my nape area”> because of how sensitive that spot is.

4. Sleep Patterns

One day, I just might get around to writing an article about how much sleep affects hair growth. For now, what I will say is there are studies to support the fact that the natural hormone melatonin not only helps you to sleep soundly but influences hair growth in a positive way as well; that’s because it plays a role in extending your anagen (growing”> phase. Another thing that helps your hair to grow? Not constantly sleeping on the same side. I know this from very up close and personal experience because the area of my hair that I keep mentioning? It’s on the side that I constantly sleep on. Between the putting pressure on these blood vessels for hours at a time and the friction that comes from moving around a lot throughout that night, that can also keep your hair from growing as much as you would like. So yeah, if you can, try and at least start to sleep on your least favorite side and definitely make sure you’ve got some satin pillowcases; that will reduce the fiction that that side experiences, significantly so.

5. Manipulation

This point right here, boy. You know what’s interesting about my own “stuck spot”? Even though I know it’s pretty fragile, even though I know that I sleep on its side too much, there was something in my mind that used to think that if I kept messing with it — constantly styling, adding new products, brushing and combing it — somehow, it would grow faster, when all it actually did was weaken it which caused my tresses to keep breaking off. While there is something to be said for giving the parts of your hair that don’t seem to grow (as fast”> scalp massages, hot oil treatments and deep conditioners, other than those things, try and leave that area alone as much as possible. Because again, since hair is constantly growing, there’s a really big chance that one of the reasons why your own spot seems “stuck” is because you are touching on it too much. And like a rose with petals that can’t stand to be constantly touched, your hair is very similar — beautiful and strong…when left alone. Make sense? Exactly.

 

Photo by madison lavern on Unsplash

Even if many people consider the holiday season to be the most wonderful time of the year, there’s no way around the fact that it can also be the most stressful. In fact, I’ve actually read that stress spikes typically increase somewhere around 44 percent for women and 31 percent for men during the months of November and December. And when we’re all stressed out, that can do a real number, not just on our mental and emotional health but our physical well-being; this includes our hair.

It would be a real shame if, after New Year’s Day comes and goes, you’ve got some excessive shedding, breakage or other issues going on with your own locks. That’s why I wanted to take a moment to share some tips on how to keep your scalp and hair from going through the consequences of stress, so that you can walk into the 2022 with your tresses firmly intact.

1. Get Yourself Some Pine Essential Oil

Ah yes. In the spirit of the holiday season, what would your home — or your health — be without the fresh smell of pine? Here’s the thing about it too: I bet you didn’t know that pine essential oil can actually do wonders for your hair. Yep. That’s because it contains antibacterial, antiseptic, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and detoxifying properties that can help to rid your scalp of fungus (like the kind that leads to dandruff”>, it can help to soothe any eczema-related scalp breakouts and it’s actually great if you’re looking to give yourself a stress-relieving scalp massage. And since the root of all flourishing hair growth is your scalp, I’m sure you can see why maintaining your own is such a great idea. (You can find pine essential oil where most essential oils are available, by the way.”>

2. Treat Yourself to a Scalp Massage

Speaking of a scalp massage, when’s the last time that you actually treated yourself to one? Now that the holiday season is in full swing, hopefully you’ll get at least a couple of days off and you’ll be able to use that time for a little bit of rest and relaxation. Scalp massages are great because they help to calm your nerves, increase blood circulation to your hair follicles (which helps to make them stronger”>, can help to strengthen the roots of your hair and so much more.

For a walkthrough on how to effectively give yourself one, check out our article “How to Give a Scalp Massage”. Oh, and if you happen to want to forego the pine oil to massage your scalp with, lemongrass is good for treating dandruff, the antimicrobial and antibacterial properties of lavender oil can help to improve the health of your scalp over time and rosemary oil increases cellular regeneration so that your hair can growth healthy and strong. If you’d like to learn more about some essential oils that are great for your hair and scalp, check out “8 Essential Oils That Are Great for Curly Hair” that’s also featured on our site.

3. Eat Some Foods That Are Currently in Season

Taking good care of your hair (and de-stressing your system”> means that you’ve got to be intentional about what you eat as well. And while this is the time of year to enjoy some of the homemade goodies that will be sure to make its way to your table, try to not go overboard as far as sugar is concerned. The reason why is because sugar triggers bodily inflammation which can result in damage to your hair follicles and possibly even hair loss over time.

On the flip side, turkey (the signature holiday meat”> is loaded with protein which is something that your tresses do need. Some other foods that are in season around this time of year that are healthy for your hair include apples (they’re loaded with biotin”>; collards (they’re like a multivitamin for your hair”>; cranberries (they’re full of antioxidants and if you put some pure juice into your shampoo, it can actually help to repair your hair follicles”>; pumpkin (the Vitamin A in it can help your scalp to produce more sebum in order to keep it moisturized”>; pears (they’ve got a natural alcohol called sorbitol that aids in feeding your hair follicles”>; sweet potatoes (their beta-carotene can reduce hair thinning”> and even mangos (they contain powerful moisturizing properties”>.

4. Keep Your Cuticles Sealed

While I’m pretty sure that you’re familiar with what hair cuticles are, if you’ve ever been curious about what the word “technically” means, cuticles are simply the outermost part of your hair shaft that’s comprised of dead cells that help to protect the rest of your hair. The reason why it’s so important that your cuticles remain sealed is because, when they’re not, not only does that make the rest of your hair vulnerable to inclement weather and other things that can damage it, it can also result in a significant amounts of frizz and locks that end up looking rather dull.

Some things that you can do to keep your cuticles sealed include adding a teaspoon of olive, avocado or sweet almond oil to your shampoo (the extra moisture can help to protect your cuticles during cold temperatures”>; rinsing your hair with cool water on wash days; blow drying your hair on a cooler setting with the nozzle pointing downwards (which is along the grain of your cuticles”> and clarifying your hair with an apple cider vinegar rinse, every third wash, in order to remove buildup.

5. Amp Up Your Hair Accessories

Personally, I think one of the best things about this time of the year is how it’s perfectly the norm to cover up your hair due to all of the wet (snow, sleet, etc.”> weather. So, on the days (or nights”> when you’re simply not in the mood to fuss with your hair a lot, that’s when you need to pull out those cute hats that are on the top shelf of your closet. Just make sure that they are lined with satin; otherwise, you could end up drying out your tresses or, if your hats are made of wood, your hair could end up snagging on them. Also, if you’re experiencing a bit of a bad hair day (again, because of the weather”>, you can usually remedy that pretty quickly by putting some other kind of hair accessory in. Some that are currently trending include pearl hair pins and barrettes, wide padded headbands, jewel-toned hair clips, hair-kerchiefs (which is basically just another name for tying a scarf around your head”> and, believe it or not, scrunchies.

6. Put It into a Protective Style

Technically, a protective style is any style that literally protects your hair, so that you aren’t manipulating and styling it as much as you usually do. And yes, this means that wigs and weaves most certainly qualify. However, if you want to try a style that is outside of those two options, some looks that are trending right through here include Marley twists, faux locs, knotless braids, large box braids and jumbo twists. All look amazing. All are relatively low-maintenance. And all will keep you less stressed out (at least when it comes to your looks”>, so that you can focus on other things this holiday season. Enjoy!

” alt=”7 Signs of Weak or Damaged Hair Follicles (and How to Fix Em”>” src=”https://images.contentful.com/naq2t3kc7ito/3MrC8dn4YGMWeAhtu1sMrG/105e7e9c2aad5ed3386164d52ad7589e/follicles-700.jpg”>

Photo by Jessica Felicio on Unsplash

Let’s briefly hold a bit of a science class, shall we? When it comes to having hair that truly thrives, it’s important that you take really good care of your hair follicles. Basically, they are the “foundation” of each strand of hair that you have; they are what anchor your hair into your skin. Within each hair follicle, there is a hair bulb and, inside of that, there are tiny blood vessels that help to provide your strands with the nutrients that they need.

It’s hair follicles that cause your hair to grow. And, as far as the stages of hair development go, there are three of them: anagen (birth”>, catagen (death”>, and telogen (rest”> stages. The anagen phase (where hair grows between ½ inch and one-inch each month”> can last for up to six years, the catagen phase (when hair follicles stop producing the protein keratin that hair needs to grow”> typically lasts around 10 days and the telogen phase (which is when your hair sheds and follicles are able to rest”> can last for a whopping 10 years (it should also go on record that approximately 10 percent of your hair is in this phase at all times”>.

Keeping all of this in mind, I’m sure you can see just why it’s so important to be super proactive when it comes to taking good care of your hair follicles. One way to do that is to stay aware of some of the signs that your follicles are either weak or damaged. If you’re curious about what some of those indicators are, I’ve got seven of them for you below.

1. Excessive Root Shedding

Here’s the thing about hair shedding — we all lose somewhere between 50-100 strands a day and that’s totally normal. So, how do you know if something “abnormal” is going on? One, if you can tell that you are losing way more than that. Two, if every time you gently tug at the ends of your hair, a few strands come out, that’s another red flag. And just what can lead to excessive root shedding? Stress, imbalanced hormones, becoming a new mom (because it shifts your hormones”>, heredity and a poor diet are all the leading causes. So, if this is the issue that you’re noticing, go down the list that I just made and see a doctor, if needed. Sometimes, just a shift in your lifestyle can nip this particular hair (follicle”> issue right in the bud.

2. Dry and Brittle Hair

Something that I personally have to stay on top of is dry hair. While I know that my personal issue is I need to drink more water (because dehydration plays a direct role in our locks not receiving all of the moisture that they need”>, some other culprits include medical conditions (including hypothyroidism”>, heat styling (more on that in a bit”>, not eating right — oh, and a biotin deficiency (although many health professionals consider this to be rare”>. Another thing that dry and brittle hair could be alerting you to is your hair follicles are not producing enough oil because they are damaged in some way. If this is the case, the bad news is if they are too damaged, things might be irreparable (a dermatologist can help to confirm”>. But, if it’s just a case of either not receiving enough nutrients or clogged hair follicles, changing your diet towards eating more fresh fruits and vegetables, exfoliating your scalp (check out “3 Easy Ways to Exfoliate Your Scalp This Fall””> and deep conditioning your hair every wash day can help to restore moisture and stimulate your follicles to produce more sebum (natural oils”>.

3. Dry Scalp

When it comes to this particular topic, it’s important to always remember that hair follicles produce hair fibers and when those fibers are growing out of a moisturized space, it’s easier for them to flourish. That’s why it can also be a not-so-good thing if your scalp is dry. Some of the things that lead to this include washing your hair too much (or using a sulfate-based shampoo or applying too much hot water whenever you do”>, not deep conditioning, using hair products that irritate your scalp and not adjusting to the shifts in seasons. When any of these things happen and you don’t make some necessary adjustments, this also can damage your follicles over time. As far as seasonal shifts go, humidity levels oftentimes drop in the fall and winter months. Plus, we tend to spend more time in dry heat via our HVAC systems in order to keep warm. So, definitely make sure to invest in a humidifier (especially at night”>. Also, it doesn’t hurt to massage your scalp with a soothing oil like sweet almond, avocado or grapeseed to give your scalp and hair follicles the extra pampering that they need.

4. Scalp Acne

Like any other kind of acne, scalp acne is what happens when breakouts occur due to 1″> an overproduction of sebum; 2″> an increase of bacteria that causes acne; 3″> a blocked hair follicle and/or 4″> a build-up of dead cells within your hair follicle. And when a hair follicle is irritated on some level, inflammation can occur. If you happen to see or feel tiny bumps on your scalp, if you notice pimples along your hairline or it feels like you’ve got cysts developing somewhere, this is another good reason to make an appointment with a reputable dermatologist. In the meantime, do your own process of elimination to see if any of your hair products are playing a direct role. You also might want to go with an oil-free shampoo. Oh, and while this should be the case for all of us, change your bedding on a weekly basis, wash your scarves, bonnets, turbans, etc. consistently and massage your scalp with some lavender, rosemary or tea tree oil along with a carrier oil like sweet almond or coconut; this process can help to soothe acne and kill the bacteria that causes it.

5. Unmanageable Hair

When I say “unmanageable hair”, what do I mean? Hair that is super frizzy (which usually means you need to condition it”>. Tangled hair (which usually means that you’ve got a lot of fairy knots or it’s time for a trim”>. Split ends (which often means that you’ve applied too much heat”>. Rough texture (which is oftentimes tied to a hormone imbalance of some sort”>. Raised cuticles (which can be the result of your hair’s pH balance being off; applying an apple cider rinse can seal them”>. When things like these are overlooked, it can cause you to constantly pull and tug at your hair follicles which can lead to traction alopecia, if you’re not careful. That’s why you should never get accustomed to being too rough with your hair. If you feel like you have no other choice, that’s a clue that something is up with your stresses that needs to change as soon as possible.

6. Over-styling

Probably the best way to illustrate this point is, saying that you’ve got a long stem rose in your hand. Because you think it’s so beautiful, you keep touching on the petals; so much that eventually some of them start to fall off. This is your hair in a nutshell. While it can take a fair share of manipulation, hair is not designed to constantly undergo that kind of pressure. If it does, that can weaken your hair follicles and possibly damage them, long-term, for sure. As far as your hair follicles go, heat can dehydrate them. Harsh hair product chemicals can irritate or inflame them. The ammonia in a lot of hair dyes can permanently damage them. A constant protective style with no breaks in between can weigh them down and make them weak. Constantly touching your hair can cause your hair follicles to lose their strength as well. Hairstyling is fun and you should enjoy it. At the same time, if you know that you are a bit “high-maintenance” when it comes to how you care for your hair, try easing up a bit. Your hair follicles will be oh so very grateful if/when you do.

7. No Multivitamin in Your System

Something that is interesting about the points that I just made is the fact that all of them can point to a sign of poor nutrition at the end of the day (including if your hair is super thin or you happen to be experiencing any premature greying”>. That’s the bad news. The good news is ramping up your healthy eating habits could very well be all that you need to do to get your hair follicles — and ultimately your hair overall — back on track. Your hair needs protein because it’s made of mostly protein. Meat is a great source of this yet if you are a vegetarian or vegan, so are lentils, chickpeas, green peas, quinoa, oatmeal, wild rice and Ezekiel bread. Zinc assists with cell growth and tissue repair and foods that are high in it include legumes, pumpkin seeds, cashews, eggs, cheddar cheese, potatoes and whole grains. B vitamins literally carry oxygen and nutrients to your hair follicles. Foods that are full of them include beef, salmon, dark leafy greens, black beans, poultry, fortified cereal and yogurt. These are just a few examples of how to get your diet where it needs to be; however, even if you are eating right, it can never hurt to take a multivitamin — just be sure that you’re getting vitamins and minerals that you may be lacking in supplement form. If you do this — and follow all of the other things that I mentioned — you will be effectively protecting your hair follicles which your hair will certainly thank you for, for years to come.

Photo by Juan Manuel Merino on Unsplash

Triggers. They are something that we all have, although, I must say that since I’ve personally being putting forth the concerted effort to get to the root of some of mine so that I can deactivate them (which boils down to figuring out how to find ways to not let them get to me as much”>, life has been so much more peace-filled. It’s great.

That’s what we’re gonna explore today. The reason why is because, I’m pretty sure that I’m not the only one who has days when my hair pisses me all the way off — sometimes to the point where it can shift my focus, in a negative way, all throughout the day, if I’m not careful. If your hair emotionally triggers you and you know it, I just want to take out a moment to offer up a few suggestions on how you can stop that from being a regular occurrence — for your hair’s sake as well as your peace of mind.

1. Get to Know Your Hair Type, Texture and Porosity

I’m here to tell you from very up close and personal experience that if you don’t make the time to understand what your personal hair type, texture and porosity are, you are going to stay frustrated on your hair journey because these three things play a direct role in how you care for your hair in order for you to keep it healthy and retain length. While it’s easy to assume that you know what these things are based on what you may have heard someone else say, please devote a couple of hours to doing some thorough research; especially since it’s not uncommon to have more than one type/texture at the same time. To get you started on your journey, we’ve got an article on our platform entitled, “Seriously. What is Hair Type?!” that can help to give you a few ah-ha moments. Also, YouTube is full of women who can offer up some great insights. Angela C Styles (here“>, lyda Michael (here“> and Breanna Rutter (here“> are just a few curly haired naturalistas who can effectively assist in pointing you into the right direction.

2. Celebrate What You Know

Knowledge is power, right? Know what else? When it comes to getting information on what your hair is all about, that is a call for a true celebration! Hit up YouTube again to search for women in your hair tribe who have a similar type, texture and porosity as yours to see what kind of hair products to invest in (less is more on the product tip, by the way”>. Next, take a picture and post it on your socials to let people know what your type/texture/porosity is and that you are learning how to fall in love with it more and more every day (I guarantee you that some of your followers will join into the conversation which can be the best kind of ego boost and form of affirmation”>. Purchase some hair accessories that will perfectly accentuate your hair. Treat yourself and your hair to a scalp massager, so that you can relax more as your hair and scalp can get the pampering that it needs and deserves. Real talk, sometimes, we get more triggered than we should because we focus more on what we don’t like about something than what we do (hair is not exempt”>. By putting forth the concerted effort to literally praise, revel in and bless your hair — you’ll be amazed how quickly it can put your mind, body and spirit into a much better space.

3. Accept That Envy Is Futile (and a Total Waste of Time”>

My goddaughters are bi-ethnic, so their hair texture basically lands somewhere in “2” world (loose waves”> while my hair is mostly between 3c and 4a and b. Every time my older godchild wants to get some cornrows, she gets frustrated because, due to her hair’s texture, they don’t last very long. Meanwhile, when I was around her age, I remember having moments when I would literally wear a towel on my head in order to look like I had hair like her. Moral to the story — we were blessed with what we were blessed with. There is beauty in all hair types, there is purpose in why we have the kind that we do which means it makes absolutely no sense to wish that your hair was different than what it naturally is. Because I promise you that some of the very things that you are complaining about, someone somewhere is wishing that they could experience. Guaranteed.

4. Take “Some Time Off” from Your Locks

Something that isn’t addressed, nearly enough, is that our “connection” to our hair is much like any other kind of relationship — there are good days and there are bad days. There are times when we’re all about putting a lot of effort in and then there are times when we just need a break. Whether you are transitioning from chemically straightened (or color-treated”> hair to your natural locks, you are trying to grow your hair out or you’re just having a moment when you feel a bit of a “disconnect” as far as your hair is concerned, there is no time like the present to book an appointment with a reputable stylist to put your hair into a protective style. I recently got some twists and when I tell you that they are one of the best things to happen to me because, with all that I have going on, my hair is the last thing that I want to be thinking about right now…whew. Besides, I know me. After a couple of months, I’m going to be more than happy to get them out and focus on styling my hair again. Right now, though, I need a break — so that I can decompress and my hair can get a bit of rest from styling manipulation too. A win/win all the way around.

5. Stop Trying to Control What You Can’t

A wise person once said, “If you try to control everything, and then worry about the things you can’t control, you are setting yourself up for a lifetime of frustration and misery.” That said, if you’re really honest with yourself, it’s easy to see that, at least 7 times out of 10, the cause of your hair “emotionally triggering you” is you wanting to control something about it that you simply cannot. So, whether it’s a bad hair day, you wishing something about your hair was different than it is or you can’t wait until you have the time or money to do something different to it — resolve in your mind to control ONLY what you can control. Believe me when I say that surrendering to this alone is a total gamechanger — and definitely a “hair trigger” deactivator.

Anyone who’s on the journey to gain some real inches as far as their hair goes knows that if the saying “patience is a virtue” ever resonates, it’s in this particular situation. That said, if there’s one thing that I have come to adore about having a head of hair that is flourishing, it’s being able to wear my Afro. And if there is one thing that I especially love about the fall season, it’s that I can wear my ‘fro, in all of its fullness and splendor, so much easier during this time of year.

If you’re curious about why I’m someone who will shout from every rooftop that this is probably the best season of all to put protective styling somewhat to the side so that you can let your Afro shine for the world to see, I’ll share with you six reasons why I absolutely believe this is the case.

Less Humidity

I’ll tell you right now that one of the best things about wearing an Afro in the fall is that there is less humidity than there is in the summertime. You know what that means, right? Less shrinkage. Whew! While it’s kind of a myth that colder seasons have no humidity at all (I mean, inclement wet weather definitely puts moisture into the air”>, between temperatures being all over the place and us being inside more often with the central heat (which is dry”> being on, both of these things definitely results in whatever style we put our hair into lasting longer — even if that means stretching it out via braids, twists or even a blowout first. So, if you’ve been hesitant to “let your soul glow” because you want it to remain big and full for longer than just an hour or so, this autumn season has you and your hairstyle preference written all over it!

You Don’t Have to Worry (as Much”> About UV Damage

Another myth that comes with the fall and winter seasons is that you can’t experience UV damage. Listen, so long as the sun is out, it has the ability to affect your skin and your hair. However, when it’s super bright and really hot, that definitely results in a greater chance of ending up with drier strands, weakened cuticles, loss of color, stiffer hair and photochemical degradation (which means that your tresses will lose some of the protein and melanin that it needs to thrive”>. That’s why it can be a really good idea to keep your hair in a protective style during the summer season. But when the weather is much milder (like the fall”>, you can feel better about wearing your natural locks totally. This brings me to my next point, though.

Leave-In Conditioners Help to Protect Your Hair’s Cuticles

I tend to wear my ‘fro quite a bit yet a big mistake that I used to make, when it came to showing it off, is underestimating the purpose and power of leave-in conditioners. Not only is using one an easy way to maintain and/or restore moisture, it also keeps my hair soft; makes it easier to style; protects it from heat damage via styling tools and, it protects my hair from outer elements like sun damage or, when it’s cooler, brisk winds. Plus, when I wake up and I need to add a bit of “life” to my Afro, a palm of leave-in conditioner does an amazing job of “waking it up” too. I think sometimes, a lot of us are hesitant about applying a leave-in because we think it’s too heavy. To that I say, there are all kinds of “versions” that you can use including foams and sprays. So, if you want to give your Afro a solid pick-me-up, a leave-in conditioner definitely has your back (check out our articles “Top 20 Leave-in Conditioners”, “10 Best Water-Based Leave-in Conditioners” and a list of leave-ins that are featured on our site here“>.

Afros Adore Heavy Hair Butters and Creams

When the weather is cooler, it can be a great time of year to go with thicker moisturizers like butters — you know, shea butter (which strengthens hair strands”>; Muru Muru butter (which is rich in omegas that help to deeply moisturize your hair”>; mango butter (which protects your hair from harsh weather elements”> and Cupuacu butter (which helps to keep your scalp healthy”>. Not only will they provide your hair with some extra special protection, they can deeply penetrate your ends, so that your curls will be stronger and shiner from root to tip. Personally, I’m all about applying a blend of shea and mango butter to my hair. The combo makes my ‘fro super soft, it’s non-greasy and it also gives my hair the kind of “bouncy texture” that I want for this type of signature look. An easy DIY recipe can be found below.

Steaming Your Hair Can Create Beautiful Natural Curls

Even though I mentioned that there is probably less humidity in your home during the fall season due to how much you are relying on your HVAC unit to keep you warm, you don’t want your hair to be totally zapped of all moisture. One way to get around this is to invest in a humidifier that you can turn on at night (by the way, some COVID symptoms can be relieved by high humidity conditions, so an elevated amount of it in your house can be beneficial for you when it comes to viruses like it or even colds or the flu”>. Another way to get more moisture (from water”> into your hair is by steaming it. If you happen to have low porosity hair, it’s great at combating that. Steaming can also increase hair elasticity, lubricate your scalp, unclog your hair follicles and keep your hair moisturized in between wash days. For tips on how to properly steam your hair, check out our article, “How to Steam Your Natural Hair the Right Way”. And how do you keep your Afro stretched while using these moisture-inducing options? Stretching it with braids or twists (and then taking them out the following morning”> should work just fine.

Fall Is the Ideal Protein-Consumption Season

Your hair is mostly made up of a protein called keratin. So, of course it makes sense that you would need to eat protein in order to keep it healthy and strong. Since fall brings Thanksgiving our way and Christmas is a month after that, you’ll probably be eating hearty meals — ones that may have meat in them like turkey, chicken and beef. Or, even if you don’t eat meat, you might consume more bowls of oatmeal in the morning, quinoa as a side for your lunch, nuts like pumpkin or sunflower seeds as a snack or black-eyed peas, spinach, portabella mushrooms, sundried tomatoes or Brussels sprouts for dinner. The more that you eat these kinds of foods, the more you’ll be feeding your hair follicles which will lead to more inches on your Afro in no time.

A Good Trim Creates a Great Shape

Your ends are the oldest parts of your hair; no way around that, and if you want a glorious Afro, it’s going to need to be given a great shape. This comes by making sure that you get a professional trim or cut. Not only will it give you the “rounded look” that you desire, it will also help to remove any of the damaged parts of your hair that the summer season may have caused. While I know that it might seem odd to recommend a cut in order to cultivate a beautiful Afro, the less bad ends you have, the less tangling and fairy knots you will have and the less you will need to put your hands in your hair (which can also damage your strands”> to keep it looking the way that you want it to. Your Afro will be full, even and healthy — just in time for the reason that this fall season has in store for you!

Pictured: Mango butter by Whole Elise

Recently, I was having a discussion with someone about how important it is to follow instructions. I mean, just think about how much time (and frustration”> could be saved if more of us took out, just a few moments, to make sure that we were doing things as they were intended to be done. Sealing is no exception.

I’m pretty sure you’ve got at least a vague idea of what sealing your hair is all about. Long story short, it’s the extra couple of steps that we all need to take, after conditioning/moisturizing our hair, in order to make sure that the moisture stays locked in for more than just a few hours or a couple of days.

I’m a huge fan of sealing. Thing is, though, when I speak of the train wreck that (potentially”> comes from overlooking directions, I am coming from very up close and personal experience. No doubt, there have been times when I’ve just pulled out some shea butter, plopped it onto my head and then got mad when my ends still felt dry.

Sometimes, we go through things in order to spare others the drama. That said, if you want to get into the habit of sealing your tresses more often yet you want to avoid doing it “wrong”, here are some steps that can help to make everything turn out, just as you want it to.

1. Wash with Sulfate-Free Shampoo

Remember, the entire purpose of sealing your hair is to lock-in the moisture that you just put into it. This means that you’ve got to make sure that your hair is well-conditioned ahead of time and one thing that isn’t going to make that happen is a shampoo that contains sulfates. While on one hand, they are good to use from time to time in order to deep clean your hair and get rid of build-up, when you’re looking for a shampoo to add to your consistent hair routine, it’s best to go with a sulfate-free brand. Those are the kinds that are great at keeping natural oils in your hair, locking moisture in, strengthening damaged tresses and even keeping your hair color from fading faster. Personally, I am a fan of all-natural shampoo bars; however, with whatever you decide to go with, just make sure that it says sulfate-free on the packaging. It’s definitely the first step that you should take on the days when you want to go all out when it comes to sealing your hair.

2. Deep Condition for at Least an Hour

It’s gonna be rare that you see an article with my byline on it where I don’t sing the praises of deep conditioning. A big part of the reason is because I used to be someone who also plopped some conditioner on my hair, let it sit for 90 seconds and rinsed it off. Boy, can I tell a real difference, now that I let conditioner sit on my hair for no less than an hour (I try and go 3-4, if I can”>. Deep conditioning is a proactive way to prevent split ends (which comes as the result of dry and brittle hair”>, boost hair elasticity, nourish and strengthen your tresses and maintain the pH balance (which should be between 4.5-5.5″> of your hair too. While a lot of people think that sealing is solely about applying an oil or butter to the hair, you’re not really thoroughly doing the job, if you’re not deep conditioning your hair first. Always remember that.

3. Use a Thick Oil and Butter Blend on Your Ends

OK, once your hair is well-moisturized from washing and deep conditioning, it’s then time to start the official sealing process. When it comes to this part, a hack to keep in mind is oils are oftentimes great to use during the warmer months while butters are awesome when it’s cold outside (or you happen to have really thick hair”>. As far as great hair oils, non-GMO soybean oil helps to prevent split ends; grapeseed oil can penetrate your tresses to keep them soft and shiny; avocado oil is loaded with nutrients; apricot oil helps to prevent hair fall, and Jamaican black castor oil is a rich oil that can provide long-lasting sealing protection. Butters? One of my all-time, from head-to-toe favorite oils is shea butter; it’s got properties to protect your hair from UV damage and heat damage while also moisturizing your tresses. Mango butter is filled with vitamins A and E so that your hair is well-conditioned. Muru Muru butter is a lighter butter that helps to increase hair elasticity. Cupuacu butter is one that locks the moisture that is already in your hair extremely well. Tacuma butter works brilliantly if you happen to have high-porosity hair.

4. Customize Your Sealant, Though

With all of what I just said, please make sure that you customize your oils and butters to suit your personal hair needs. What I mean by that is, one of the main ways that a lot of people totally mess up the sealing process is they watch a YouTube video on hair sealing and then automatically put on their hair whatever the host of the channel put on theirs. That can be super counterproductive because your hair could be finer or thicker or it might not respond as well to the oils that they choose (for instance, my hair can’t stand coconut or argan oil; it tends to irritate my scalp and dry my hair out — go figure”>. So, while it might require a little bit of trial and error, play around with oils and butters (or perhaps using even a little bit of both”> until you figure out what truly works best for you. It took me about three wash days to come up with my own failsafe combo (shea butter and an herb-infused oil blend”>.

5. Allow Your Ends to Dry Completely Before Touching Them

Your hair is actually way more fragile when it’s wet than when it’s dry. That’s why, once you’ve applied the oil or butter to your hair (make sure to use about twice as much to your ends as you do to the rest of your hair because your ends are the oldest part of your hair”>, gently twisted them and applied a bit more oil or butter for extra coverage, leave your hair TOTALLY alone until it dries. Not only will this help to prevent breakage but you also stand a far greater chance of locking even more moisture in if you’re not manipulating your hair while it’s still wet or damp.

Tuck Your Ends As Much As Possible

Another mistake that a lot of people make while sealing their hair is forgetting to tuck their ends away. What I mean by that is, even if your ends have all of the moisture in the world in them, once your hair is dry, if you choose to constantly wear your hair out, it runs the risk of snagging on your clothes, drying out from the environment or experiencing a ton of wear and tear due to constant styling manipulation. So, since sealing is ultimately about protecting your ends more than anything else — a protective style is wise. Or at least make sure to put your hair in a bun and/or tie it up with a silk or satin scarf or bonnet at night. If you do, you’ll be able to retain length because your ends will be less damaged.

Do It on a Weekly Basis

And just how often should you be sealing your hair? I know some people who make it a part of their end-of-the-week ritual which is cool. I personally do it on wash days which is every other week. As far as this goes, my bottom line would be not to go any longer than bi-weekly. What I will say, though, is if in between wash days, your ends feel dry or they are frizzing up, that’s a clear sign that you need to seal them again. Trust me, once you get used to doing it — and you do it while treating yourself to watching a movie, binge-watching a show or listening to a podcast — it’ll become one of your absolute favorite things to do; especially once you start to see the results. And I am certainly a living testament of that!

Shellie R. Warren/2021

Image: doterra

For the past few months now, I’ve been into making my own herb-infused oils (check out “Why You Absolutely Need to Try Some DIY Herb-Infused Oil””>. Since I’ve been learning more about how different herbs and essential oils are able to benefit my scalp and hair, it’s been amazing, the progress that my hair has made (not to mention the money that I’ve saved by making my own hair products”>. And while I never thought that I would become an “herb junkie”, it’s actually been kinda fun learning about herbs and oils that I’ve never heard of before.

That’s what today is all about — sharing with you some of the not-so-commonly-discussed herbs and essential oils that are some of the best-kept secrets when it comes to healing and protecting your scalp and getting your hair to flourish.

Where to buy these herbs and oils

Another best-kept secret is Etsy features many merchants who sell just about all of these at an affordable price. Just go to the site and put the name of the herb or oil in the search field.

4 “Uncommon” Herbs to Try

Shikakai

Let’s start with an herb that goes by the scientific name Acacia concinna and the nickname “hair fruit”. As far as your hair goes, it’s kind of crazy that it’s not mentioned more often in hair-related content. The properties in it can help to cleanse your hair, improve its texture and strengthen your hair follicles. Also, because it contains potent antifungal and anti-microbial, Shikakai is great at helping to prevent dandruff and soothe inflamed scalps. What a lot of people like about it is, it’s even the kind of herb that can slow down premature greying. Yeah, it’s definitely an herb to add to your hair care collection, if you ask me.

Bhringraj

This particular herb is a medicinal one that is pretty big in the Ayurveda because of how it helps to keep your liver healthy and strong. Bhringraj makes this hair list because it’s great at treating dry scalp, fighting the yeast that triggers dandruff (which is Malassezia, by the way”>, feeding hair follicles, reducing stress and, when added to your favorite hair conditioner, it can create a lot of sheen to your hair too.

Gotu Kola

One of the best things about this herb is it’s got antibiotics galore inside of it. Also, if you’re looking for one that is basically a multi-vitamin, Gotu Kola will certainly not disappoint because it has vitamins B and C, magnesium, potassium, zinc and even calcium in it. These nutrients work together to feed your hair follicles, reduce hair fall, strengthen your hair strands, increase blood circulation and increase hair growth. It really is great in so many ways.

Sorrel

Sorrel herb is a flower that flourishes in tropical and subtropical climates. It has vitamins A and C in it as well as amino acids and alpha hydroxyl acids too. If you’re looking for the kind of herb that fights hair frizz, reduces itchy scalp, increases hair volume, boosts hair shine and helps to prevent hair breakage and split ends, you need to look no further than this one.

4 “Uncommon” Essential Oils to Try

Elemi Essential Oil

This particular essential oil has a powerful amount of antiseptic, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in it which helps to prevent dandruff and scalp-related eczema flare-ups. Since many people use it to detoxify their system, using it as a scalp massage oil can help to remove hair follicle build-up. Other benefits of this oil are it can help to reduce hair fall and strengthen your hair from the root, so that you can maintain length retention, successfully so.

Hinoki Cypress Essential Oil

This herb comes from a tree that is in Japan. If you’re big on reading hair care labels, you may have seen it on the label of shampoos. This is a wonderful addition to your hair regimen if you happen to be someone who is transitioning from chemically straightened hair to your natural texture because the properties in this oil are beneficial when it comes to healing damaged hair follicles and encouraging healthy hair growth. This is an oil that’s also effective as it relates to increasing blood circulation in your scalp and helping to get rid of any scalp infections that you may have.

Mastrante Essential Oil

If you’re looking for an oil that will promote feelings of extreme calm and relaxation, this is the one for you. It’s also got antibacterial, anti-fungal anti-inflammatory properties in it. And it’s an oil that encourages new cell growth. All of this makes it an oil that reduces dandruff, balances the natural oils on your scalp and, because it’s such a stress-reducing oil, it’s wonderful as a scalp massage oil. And the more your massage your scalp, the healthier your hair can become overtime.

Niaouli Essential Oil

Believe it or not, this herb hails from an Australian evergreen tree. Hair-wise, it will help to increase blood circulation, kill bacteria, promote the absorption of nutrients to your hair follicles and stimulate hair growth. Consider putting a few drops of it into your favorite shampoo and watch the results that you get in a couple of months — all because you decided to give an “uncommon” essential oil a try!

©Shellie R. Warren/2021

Photo @myfashionbreak via @4chairchicks

I’ll tell you what — nothing teaches you more about how to be “patient with the process” quite like going through the process of growing out your hair does. For me personally, what I’ve had to really become an expert at is taking really good care of my ends because, the reality is, our hair is always growing (¼” – ½” a month at that”>. At the same time, the reason why some of us don’t see 4-6” of progress each year is because the ends are splitting, breaking, snapping about as quickly as the roots of our hair are growing out.

Let’s take some real steps towards nipping all of this in the bud, shall we? If you’re ready for your hair to flourish and you know that requires extending some extra TLC to the ends of your hair, here are 10 proven ways to do just that.

Deep Condition Your Ends for No Less than an Hour

If you’re someone who’s good for deep conditioning your hair — not once in a while but every time you have a wash day — I salute that. Just make sure that you don’t only focus on where your new growth lies. Your ends are the oldest (and most fragile”> parts of your hair, so they need to be babied the most. And since deep conditioning helps to hydrate your strands, improve moisture retention, increase elasticity, soften your hair and also — and perhaps most importantly in this case — help you to retain length, it definitely needs to be a part of your hair care regimen. Whether you go with a deep conditioning product or you decide to make one yourself, just make sure that you get plenty of it on your ends and that you let it sit on your clean hair for no less than an hour so that the conditioner can deeply penetrate your hair’s cuticles. Then follow that up by rinsing with cold water. You’ll definitely notice a difference if you do. 

Make Your Own Hair Mask

Something that is definitely an enemy of your ends are split ends. Since they typically arise from hair that has either experienced too much heat or is overly dry and brittle, that’s why I recommend a DIY hair mask, at least once a month as well. Since they’ve got a great reputation for reducing frizz, smoothing cuticles and keeping your hair from becoming dry and brittle, they can be a lifesaving treatment for the ends of your hair. Eugenia Kelcy is a YouTuber that has a mask recipe for 4C hair that you can check out below. 

T-Shirt Dry Your Hair

Oftentimes, when I describe Black hair, I say that it’s a lot like silk — very strong and quite fragile at the same time. This is especially the case when it’s wet which is why you should avoid towel drying after washing and conditioning your hair. The material that most towels are made out of is too aggressive on your hair (especially your ends”>. Plus, rubbing your hair a lot with a towel can actually lead to frizzing. The better route is an old T-shirt. The cotton fabric that most of them are made from will be gentler on your hair while still remaining amazingly absorbent. 

Use Jamaican Black Castor Oil

Although my own hair grows at a pretty impressive rate, what kept jacking me up, length-retention wise, was that I wasn’t sealing my ends. If you’re not totally familiar with what that entails, it’s a method that helps the end of your hair to retain moisture for days — even weeks — following your wash day. The details on how to do it is featured in our article, “How to Seal Your Hair for Protective Styles”. However, as far as the kind of oil that you should use in the sealing process, I’m always going to sing the praises of Jamaican black castor oil; that’s because it’s thick, a great moisturizer and it contains properties that are able to strengthen your hair from root to tip. My two cents would be to go with an extra dark brand because that kind of oil is the least refined (which means that you’ll get it in its purest state”>. Tropic Isle Living is one company that I can personally vouch for that has a great brand of it, for sure.

Cream-Based Thermal Heat Protectant

OK, here’s the breakdown about thermal heat protectants. If you’re like me and you prefer to blow out your hair on wash days or you flat iron more than a lil’ bit, applying thermal heat protectants will definitely help shield your hair from the damage that heat can do. At the same time, it’s important to never forget that they aren’t 100 percent effective. In fact, a lot of professional stylists say that heat protectants can only protect your hair from about 50 percent of the drama and trauma that heat can bring. Moral to the story is, when it comes to applying heat, proceed with caution, make sure your hair is at least 60 percent dry when you’re using your blow dryer and, if you’ve got thick or 4-type hair, go with a cream rather than a spray. You’ll get fair better coverage (i.e., protection”> that way.

Remove Fairy Knots

Whew. Fairy knots are so freakin’ annoying! Word on the street is their technical name is “trichonodosis” and they happen mostly for those of us with curly hair because we’re much more subjective to our hair twisting and turning into little knots. If you can totally relate to this triggering reality, a preventative measure that you should do is check out our article, “How Do I Avoid Fairy Knots?”. On the other hand, if it’s too late and you’ve already got some, whatever you do, don’t try and “snap” them off by pulling and tugging with your fingers. All that does is damage your ends and definitely set you up for split ends (ones that you have to cut off to get rid of”>. Instead, take a sharp pair of hair shears and clip them. If it’s only a few strands at a time, it won’t be noticeable; plus, the “clean cut” will keep your ends intact.

Wait Two Weeks Between Chemical Treatments

Back in the day, when I used to relax my hair and turn it a different color, at least once a month, it was nothing for me to chemically treat my hair back-to-back. Since I would wear it pretty short, I didn’t care too much about breakage or anything. Now that I’m on the path to growing my tresses out, I wish I had been more careful because it did more of a number on some of my hair follicles than I thought. Because of that, it’s taken a while to get my hair (and scalp”> back to a healthy state. That’s why I can speak from very personal experience when I say that it’s best to wait at least two weeks in between chemical treatments. Meaning, if you relax your hair, it’s best to wait at least two weeks before color-treating it. Honestly, if you can go a month, you’re even far better off if you want to keep your hair as strong and healthy as possible because you can deep condition your hair which will better prepare it for more chemicals on it; especially when it comes to your ends.

Make the Most Out of Buns, Bantu Knots and Updos

If you hop on YouTube and listen to a lot of naturalistas talk about ways that they maintain inches, something that many of them are going to say is they keep their hair up most days of the week and only wear it out on perhaps the weekends or special occasions. A big reason why is because when your hair is up in a way where your ends are tucked in, that keeps them from snagging on your clothes or getting damaged by weather elements like heat or cold wins. So, definitely make the most out of buns, Bantu knots and other looks where your ends can be protected. The styles are cute and they can keep you own the path to longer hair.

Line Your Hats

I don’t know about y’all but I’m good for rocking at hat — especially during the fall and winter seasons. When it comes to protecting my ends, though, a big mistake that I used to make was wearing wool brims and golf caps that either had no lining or torn lining (I’m a big antique shopper and thrifter, so I’ve got some used hats in my collection”>. That’s why it can’t be said enough that you definitely should make sure that your hats are lined. Oh, and if you wear turbans or headwraps often, they either need to be made out of silk/satin or lined with satin as well. That way, your hair won’t dry out while you have them on. For tips on how to line your own hats, check out this video here.

 

The Less “Manipulation”, the Better

When I first started getting serious about growing out my hair, a mistake that I would make is “over-caring” for it. What I mean by that is I would braid it every day, I would wash it (so that I could condition it”> too over and I would oftentimes let my fingers play with my ends too much. Aristotle once said that the excess of a virtue is a vice and that can definitely apply to length retention. While your hair — definitely your ends — do require some consistent care, it’s important to also remember that balance is key. If it’s in a DIY protective style, try and leave it like that for a week before doing something else. Remember that Black hair leans towards being drier so washing it every other week is usually enough. And, by all means, leave those ends alone.

Low-manipulation is one of the best ways for your ends to stick around so much longer and for your hair to get significantly longer — sooner than later. Good luck!

©Shellie R. Warren/2021

Photo by Suad Kamardeen on Unsplash

If there’s one thing that will trigger me (no matter how much I try and deactivate the trigger”>, it’s the fact that the left side of my hair is so much thicker and grows so much faster than the right. It’s pretty much always been that way, so I know that DNA has something to do with it. Plus, as much as I try to rotate, I prefer to sleep on the right side which doesn’t help (basically because I’m compressing my blood vessels which can hinder those hair follicles from getting all of the nutrients that they need”>. I don’t like it — especially now that I’m more intentional about growing my hair out — yet I know that it’s something that “just is” (meaning it’s the way I was born and there’s not much that I can do to change that fact”>. Plus, it’s not like I’m the only person who goes through this. A lot of us do. 

That’s why I thought it would be a good idea to offer up a bit of support if you’re someone who finds yourself constantly frustrated with hair that seems like it wants to give you a late 80s Salt-N-Pepa asymmetrical look whether you want it to that way or not. If you just read that and you’re nodding your head up and down because you can totally relate, I’m hoping that these tips will help you to make peace with your hair’s so-called lopsided reality. 

Accept That It’s Pretty Normal

So, here’s the deal. There are approximately 100,000 different hair follicles on your head and each one comes with its own individualized blood supply. As you probably already know, the left and right side of your body is not identical — your eyes are not the exactly the same, neither are your eyebrows, your hands, feet, breasts, etc. So, off top, that can be a part of the reason why you’re noticing that one side of your hair grows faster than the other. Then you’ve got to factor in things like genetics, your sleeping patterns, your diet, your hair routine and other factors. While I will get into a few things that could help to “even out” your hair, the main thing to keep in mind is if you do notice some lopsidedness, there’s nothing weird about it. It’s very normal. So much that, people who don’t have this issue fall more into the rare category. Real talk.

Is It Shorter or Thinner?

OK, so when it comes to my hair, if the right side would act like the left, I’d probably have hair down my back by now. But between it being about 1 ½” shorter and even a bit thinner than my left and me being suck a stickler that I don’t always know how to leave well enough alone, I’m constantly cutting my hair to “even things up”. Anyway, when it comes to your own hair not being as even as you want it to be, before coming up with strategies that can help, first figure out if one side is shorter, thinner or both. If it’s shorter, your best bet is going to be to leave it totally alone (other than regular trims”> for a season because if you keep cutting the shorter side, you are never going to see any real progress. If it’s thinner, consuming foods that will give your hair more protein and help to thicken it over time (like meat, poultry, quinoa, avocados, berries, dark leafy greens and mangoes”>, using a volumizing shampoo and conditioner, and taking a hair supplement that is high in biotin can prove to be super beneficial.

“Baby” the Shorter Side

The side of your hair that appears to be thriving? You definitely shouldn’t neglect it. However, the side that isn’t flourishing as much as you would like for it to be, you definitely need to “baby it” as much as possible. For the record, this doesn’t mean constantly keeping your hands in it. However, it is important to be gentler to that side when using styling tools, to keep heat off of it as much as possible, to exfoliate that side of your scalp (so that its hair follicles don’t become clogged”> and, when you’re deep conditioning your hair, that you apply some pure Aloe vera to the “weaker” side. It’s great for your hair because it’s high in vitamins A, B12, C, E and folic acid. Regular use of Aloe vera is proven to both repair and strengthen hair strands over time. 

Give Yourself Regular Scalp Massages

Remember how I just said that it’s a good idea to exfoliate the side of your scalp that needs a little more help getting it to where you want it to be? Well, something that is great for your entire scalp is a scalp massage. It triggers blood flow (the more blood your hair follicles get, the healthier your hair will ultimately be”>. It increases the thickness of your hair by stretching out your hair follicles. It helps to remove any build-up from sweat and hair products that might be on your scalp. It fights dandruff. It also relieves stress (for the record, stress can also play a role in weak hair and hair fall”>. For tips on how to give yourself a proper scalp massage, we wrote an article a few years ago entitled, “How to Give a Scalp Massage”. What I will say here is, if you’d prefer to do give yourself one on a non-wash day, warm up an oil that promotes hair growth (like rosemary, grapeseed, peppermint, lavender, argan or a combination of these”>, part your hair into 4-8 sections, apply some of the oil to your fingertips and rub your scalp in a circular motion for 10 minutes while watching television. It’s the perfect way to relax after a long day and you’ll be doing your hair a favor by massaging it more than just a couple of times a month.

Avoid Being “Scissor Happy”

When it comes to making peace with having uneven hair, something else that really needs to go on record is the fact that sometimes your hair isn’t lopsided so much as you’ve got more than one texture going on which is also extremely common. This is just one of the reasons why — and yes, I’m totally preaching to the choir when I say this — you need to try and leave your shears alone as much as possible because all of that cutting might be actually contributing to even more unevenness. Not only that but take it from me, constantly “evening up” your hair isn’t really helping you out like you might that that it is. You’ll be far better off just leaving it be in between trim times, so that the weaker side can get more time to make some real progress. Oh, and if you need a visual of someone who can totally get where you are coming from Sista With Real Hair posted a video on her YouTube channel some years back that actually may make you feel like, “OK, I’m not the only one out here with this drama.” You can check it out here.

Get into Some Protective Styles

By far, one of the best ways to be less self-conscious about uneven hair while also leaving your hair alone so that it can grow is to put it into a protective style. It could be braids or twists. It could be a sew-in or a wig. Or it could be like what I do a lot during the week — I braid my hair up and rock a turban. What a lot of us don’t realize is all of the effort and energy that we’re putting into trying to make both sides of our hair look the same could be actually weakening our stands even more because if there’s one thing the weaker (or even stronger”> side doesn’t need, it’s a ton of manipulation. A protective style during the week while being super gentle with the takedown process and wearing it out on the weekends can give the weaker side more time to benefit from some of these other tips so that it can get significantly stronger in a matter of a few months.

Be Patient with the Process

Did you just roll your eyes? Yeah, I hear you. It doesn’t change the facts, though. On average, hair grows between ¼” and ½” each month (regardless of ethnicity, by the way“>. This means that you can gain 4-6 inches on an annual basis. If that’s not happening for you, the main reason could be because you’re not properly caring for your ends so that grow can continue to transpire. Still, no matter how proactive you may be, there are some things that only time can do. So yeah — getting your hair to “even out and grow” is something that you’re going to have to be patient with. Yet if you do all of what I shared and add endurance to it, I’m confident that your weaker side will get stronger and you’ll be more at peace with your hair being…just as it is.

©Shellie R. Warren/2021

Photo by Unsplash

For the past several months now, something that I’ve become a superfan of is herb-infused oil. There are a few reasons why. One, I’ve always enjoyed combining carrier oils and essential oils. Two, in my quest to find the right oils for my hair, I’ve discovered that making my own infused oil is the far better bet. And three, there’s no way around the fact that applying some herb-infused oil to my scalp and hair has taken my hair growth journey to an entire new level.

If you’re curious about what this kind of oil is and how you can make it yourself (which can save you a mini mint”>, this is the article that can hopefully address all of your concerns so that you’ll feel inspired to make some of your own oil — sooner than later.

What Exactly Is Infused Oil?

OK, so when it comes to using infused oil for beauty purposes, what exactly is it? Probably the best way to explain it is, it’s when you use a carrier oil as a “base” and then add some herbs to it in order to get the optimal level of benefits from it.

 

How to Make Your Own Infused Oil

Here’s the thing — there are a lot of companies that sell infused oil. My issue is 1″> you don’t always know if you’re getting what you think that you are and 2″> a lot of them are expensive as all get out. That’s why I prefer to actually purchase fresh dried herbs and a carrier oil on my own and make the oil at home. That way, I can control what goes into it and save a few coins in the process. And just how do I make it all come together?

Step 1. Choose your dried herbs

This can either come from the produce section of your grocery store, a health food store or online. I get a lot of my dried herbs from shops on Etsy. Just go there and put “dried herbs” in the search field to choose the ones you would like (there are a ton!”>. I’ll list my favorites down below.

Step 2. Stop by the arts and crafts store

Once you’ve got your herbs, swing by a Walmart or arts and crafts store to get a few mason (also called canning”> jars and some cheesecloth (it helps you to strain your herbs”>. Oh, also get some plastic bottles that you can put the oil in. I like the kind that have an applicator tip because it’s so much easier to apply that way.

Step 3. Combine your herbs and oil

The next step is to put all of the herbs and oil that you want to use into a mason jar. 

Step 4. Decide which method to go with

Once you’ve got everything in your jar, it’s time to decide if you want to use a double boiler, if you want to put the jar directly into a larger pot of hot water or if you want the jar to sit in a dark space for about 30 days, so that the herbs can really penetrate the oil. Personally, I prefer the second method. I will put my mason jar that’s full of herbs and oil into a large pot of water. I’ll bring it to a boil and then let it sit on simmer for most of the day (6-8 hours”>, although I do have one jar that has been sitting on one of my kitchen cabinets for about 20 days now (I just wanna see how much I like that method too”>. Anyway, if you’re more of a visual learner, there’s an easy DIY video that you can check out here.

Step 5. Strain the herbs and you’re all set

Once your herbs have either simmered for several hours or sat for about a month, it’s time to strain the herbs out so that you can use the oil on your hair and scalp. After the pot has cooled (so that you don’t burn yourself”>, get yourself another mason jar, put some cheesecloth over the top of it and slowly pour the infused oil over it so that the cloth catches the herbs. While some people keep the “oily herbs”, I discard them (I prefer to use “fresh” ones every time”>. Then transfer to a bottle and you’re all set. If you refrigerate your oil, it can easily last for about two months.

5 Carrier Oils to Try

I’ll get into the type of herbs that are great for your hair in a minute. For now, as far as the kind of carrier oils that you should try, there are five that get my top vote.

1. Avocado Oil

Avocado oil is awesome because it’s loaded with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, along with biotin and essential fatty acids. If you’re looking for the kind of oil that will help to seal your hair’s cuticles while also not leaving a super greasy feeling behind, this is one that will be super ideal for you.

2. Grapeseed Oil

Personally, I’ve been a fan of grapeseed oil for a hot minute now. It’s also got a ton of antioxidants in it, along with a fatty acid known as linoleic acid which helps to stimulate hair growth and help your hair to retain moisture. Something else that’s great about this oil is it contains properties that effectively fight dandruff while providing your hair with lots of natural sheen.

3. Pumpkin Seed Oil

Goodness, talk about an oil that is literally like a multivitamin for your hair and scalp. Vitamins E and K, zinc, omega-3 and phytosterol (which helps to produce collagen so that your hair has more elasticity”> are all in this oil. And since it’s got a reputation for nourishes hair follicles while strengthening hair, of course, it had to make the list. 

4. Sweet Almond Oil

I also like sweet almond oil a lot. Next to rosemary oil (which is also a pretty good carrier oil; although I’ll be shouting it out in a different way in a second”>, it’s my skin go-to. Anyway, sweet almond makes the list because it’s rich in biotin, has properties that can protect your hair from sun damage and, its antibacterial and fungicidal properties can make it a soothing and healing treatment if you happen to have scalp issues like dandruff or eczema.

5. Olive Oil

Another oil that a lot of infused oil experts are fond of is olive oil. Its antioxidant levels are totally off the charts; plus, thanks to all of the fatty acids that are in it, it’s able to deeply penetrate the shaft of your hair in a way a lot of oils cannot. Another cool thing about olive oil is it can block the production of dihydrotestosterone (DTH”> which is attributed to hair loss. Yeah, olive oil is wonderful on a few levels. My only hesitation is it’s a got a slight smell to it (like olives”>, although, based on the herbs that you choose, that could cease to be as much of an issue.

By the way, if some of y’all are huge coconut oil fans and you’re wondering why I didn’t add it here, it’s because coconut oil usually solidifies at some point and while you can just put the container of your oil into a bowl of hot water to liquify the oil again, the extra step can sometimes be annoying. So, I just go with another kind of oil to avoid the hassle. And now, for the herbs to add to your carrier oil base.

Photo by Tatiana Rodriguez on Unsplash

7 Great Herbs for Your Hair

1. Rosemary

Off the top, did you know that if you massage rosemary into your scalp on a regular basis, it can increase your hair growth when massaged into the scalp? Since it also contains anti-inflammatory properties and it can increase blood flow to your scalp, that’s why it tops the list of herbs that are great for infused oil.

2. Lavender

Lavender can thicken your hair. It’s got antimicrobial properties that can fight dandruff and other forms of fungus and bacteria too. Also, it triggers the growth of hair cells and the scent? There aren’t too many other herbs that are more soft and feminine.

3. Burdock Root

Burdock Root is a great herb because it helps to strengthen the structure of keratin which is the protein that your hair is made of. As if that isn’t awesome enough, it also contains anti-inflammatory properties, is rich in phytosterols, polyphenols and antioxidants and is quite beneficial when it comes to stimulating hair growth.

4. Calendula

Polyphenols are compounds and calendula is an herb that is full of them. This is good to know because, not only can they help to prevent hair fall but they are also great at helping new hair to form where hair fall once occurred. Also, if your hair and scalp happen to be on the drier side, calendula is good for offering up extra moisture, so that your hair is far less dry and brittle.

5. Peppermint

You know how mint gives you that tingling feeling when you brush your teeth with it or apply it to your skin? That’s thanks to the menthol that’s in it and when you apply something like peppermint to your scalp, that sensation gets more blood flowing to your hair follicles which is always a good thing. Word on the street is peppermint can even increase the amount of hair follicles that you have; so, if you’re looking for an herb that can make your hair thicker, this would be the one.

6. Fenugreek

Two of the main nutrients that healthy hair need are iron and protein — fenugreek has plenty of both. It also contains plant compounds like flavonoids and saponins which help to increase hair growth. And, since it also contains vitamins A, K & C, folic acid, calcium and potassium, putting some of this into your infused oil is literally like giving your hair the ultimate multivitamin.

7. Dandelion Root

Speaking of multivitamins for your hair, this herb has vitamins A, B-complex, C, E, choline, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, calcium — and that’s just for starters! As a bonus, if your scalp is sensitive, it contains properties that soothe it. Plus, this herb is really good at helping your scalp to regenerate cells while strengthening the hair that you’ve already got in the process.

So, there’s a mini-tutorial on how to make your own herb-infused oil and now you know how the blend of certain oils and herbs can help your hair. I’d be shocked if after your first bath, you don’t start making it for your hair and skin on a regular basis. It’s one of the best DIY beauty hacks I know and my hair has been looking and feeling amazing because of it!

©Shellie R. Warren/2021

Photo by Marta Filipczyk on Unsplash

 

It all begins with a hair follicle. Around 100,000 of them, to be exact. It’s literally at the bottom of each follicle that each one of your hair strands begin. It’s within the bulb of your follicles that cells divide and blood provides those cells with the vitamins and minerals they need, so that your hair is able to flourish. Yeah, hair follicles are extremely important which is why they need to be handled with extreme care and intention — this includes the foods you eat.

So, let’s dive into nutrition and your hair follicles today. I’m going to share with you eight different foods that provide eight specific nutrients that will keep your hair strong and healthy — thanks to how your follicles are able to get exactly what they need from each one of them.

1. Vitamin A: Collards

Did you know that your hair is one of the fastest growing tissues on your body? And since all of your cells need Vitamin A in order to thrive, I thought it would be a good idea to start here. One of the main benefits that this particular nutrient brings to your locks is it helps your hair follicles and scalp to produce sebum. This, in turn, keeps your hair nice and moisturized. A food that is high in Vitamin A is collard greens. In fact, if you’re looking to basically eat a “multivitamin”, any dark green vegetable has your back, thanks to all of the other vitamins and minerals that are in it. As a bonus, collards are also good for you because they contain fiber to keep you regular. Plus, they can help to lower your cholesterol levels, improve bone health (thanks to the K that’s in them”>, improve the health of your liver, reduce your cancer risk and, due to the choline that’s in them, collards can even help you to sleep better too.

2. Vitamin B12: Salmon

Oftentimes, when the topic of B vitamins that are good for your hair comes up, it’s biotin that’s mentioned. While that is indeed beneficial, what I’m going to shout-out today is Vitamin B12. Not only can it help to slow down premature greying, it also triggers the production of red blood cells so that your hair follicles are able to get the nutrients that they need. Salmon is high in this vitamin. It’s also rich in omega-3 (more on that in a bit”> and protein (which is what your hair is made of”>. If you’re looking for a way to “feed your follicles” while also being able to reduce your risk of heart disease, fight inflammation, improve your brain health, lose some pounds and regulate your thyroid in the process, salmon is definitely a delicious way to do it.

3. Vitamin C: Citrus Fruit 

I’m pretty sure you’ve heard of free radicals before. Still, if there’s a part of you that’s always wondered what they actually are, long story short, they’re unstable atoms that can ultimately lead to illness and aging. A nutrient that helps to keep free radicals at bay is Vitamin C. This is good to know because, since Vitamin C is such a powerful antioxidant, it’s able to protect against the kind of oxidative stress that can cause your hair to age. Vitamin C is also able to help your body to produce collagen which improves the elasticity of your hair which your follicles definitely need. Citrus fruit is loaded with this vitamin. Oranges, grapefruit, tangerines, lemons and limes are also beneficial because they’re low in calories, high in water and fiber (both can help to flush out toxins”>, can help to protect your brain from neurodegenerative diseases (like Alzheimer’s disease”>, will boost your immunity and, since they’ve got a pretty low glycemic index, citrus fruit can keep your blood sugar levels regulated as well.

4. Vitamin D: Mushrooms

If you want healthy hair follicles, Vitamin D is an absolute must because it’s a vitamin that directly attributes to the production of them. In fact, there are many studies that connect hair loss to a Vitamin D deficiency. While a very popular way to get some natural Vitamin D into your system is spending time in the sun, a food that is rich in this nutrient are mushrooms. This is really cool to know because mushrooms can also help to strengthen your bones, muscles and teeth, treat hypertension, fight depression-related symptoms, reduce the risk of breast cancer and help your body to better absorb calcium, so that you can easily receive all of these benefits.

5. Copper: Dark Chocolate

Remember how I said earlier that Vitamin B12 helps with premature greying? So does copper. It’s a mineral that is also really good for your hair follicles because it helps to stimulate them, so that they’re better equipped to receive the blood and oxygen that they need in order to remain healthy. The really wonderful thing about this particular point is a food that’s loaded with copper is dark chocolate. Some other benefits of copper include the fact that it helps your system to produce red blood cells and collagen. Copper also makes it easier for your body to absorb iron (something else that’s really great for your follicles that I’ll get into next”>, turns the sugar that you consume into energy, assists in keeping your nerves in top condition and, it’s another nutrient that is awesome as it directly relates to keeping your immune system in peak condition.

6. Iron: Quinoa

Another nutrient that’s required if you want to avoid hair loss is iron. Iron is super beneficial as it relates to your hair follicles (and your hair overall”> because it helps to increase blood circulation to your scalp so that your follicles can get the vitamins and minerals that it needs in order to thrive. Other benefits of iron include it keeps your blood in good condition, assists with the production of certain hormones, strengthens your heart, improves your muscle function and it helps to significantly reduce the risk of anemia in women. A food that’s a good source of iron is the whole grain (that’s also gluten-free”> quinoa. Honestly, this particular food is one that could get its own article considering that it’s also rich in protein, dietary fiber, B vitamins, manganese, magnesium and so much more.

7. Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acids: Chia Seeds and Avocados

In an article on our site entitled, “4 Things You Should Know About Fatty Acids”, it features some of the reasons why your hair definitely needs “omegas”. Two of the reasons why I like them so much is they’re proven to improve hair’s density and diameter. Plus, they can significantly reduce hair fall by playing a role in preventing hair follicle inflammation. Some other reasons to get some omega-3s into your body is they help to maintain eye health, reduce mood swings, increase joint and bone strength, can help you to sleep more soundly and they’re effective when it comes to reducing breakouts and evening out your skin tone. Omega-6s are also good because they help to regulate your metabolism, maintain your reproductive system, boost your immunity, assist with healthy blood clothing and heal skin disorders like dermatitis. Chia seeds can get you your fill of omega-3 while avocados are loaded with omega-6.

8. Zinc: Cashews

When it comes to getting your hair follicles to flourish, zinc is the ultimate nutrient and a food that is loaded with zinc is cashews. Since zinc plays such a significant role in tissue growth and repair and because that is very important when it comes to getting your hair to grow and retain length, you need to get zinc into your system on a daily basis. While we’re here, some other health benefits of zinc are it boosts immunity, decreases inflammation, helps to keep your blood sugar levels balanced, supports a healthy heart and blood vessels and it’s great at reducing breakouts too. So, if you like to snack on nuts, think about all that you’re doing for your hair follicles, the next time you’ve got some cashews in your hand. Enjoy!

 

©Shellie R. Warren/2021