By Isaac Atunlute
Maintaining natural hair should not require you to break the bank just to buy high-end products. You can maintain healthy, soft and stunning hair using the right routine and a roster of simple products you already have in your kitchen.
“The key is to understand your hair language and know what it needs,” urges Bola Ogeyemhe a hairstylist.
Whether you have bouncy curls or ta teenyweeny afro, follow these tips to care for your natural hair using everyday ingredients.
Moisturize with water and oils.
Moisture is needed when working with natural hair. Dry hair leads to breakage, and no one likes that. Water is the most effective moisturiser and the simplest to use. Start by sprinkling water daily on your hair; seal the moisture using natural oils like coconut oil, olive oil or even shea butter to lock it in. These oils soften and make them silky.
Tip: mix water and a few drops of oil in a spray bottle and keep it ready to use daily.
Cleanse gently with apple cider vinegar.
Natural hair does not need too much shampoo because of the natural oil embedded in the scalp. Too much shampoo strips the hair of its natural oil, therefore making it dry. Try using apple cider vinegar (ACV) as a more subtle cleanser instead of those harsh chemicals. ACV removes product build-ups and neutralises the alkalinity that tampers with the pH level of the hair, providing a healthy shine for your hair.
How to use: Mix like 1 to 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar and a cup of water and rinse it through your hair; leave it on for a couple of minutes before rinsing.
Deep hair conditioning.
Deep conditioning is needed to ensure natural hair is kept soft and easy to manage. You can produce an amazing hair conditioner at home using honey and avocado. Honey attracts and retains moisture, while avocado has healthy fats and vitamins that keep the hair nourished.
How to use: Mash a ripe avocado and blend with 2 tablespoons of honey to create a hair mask. Apply to wet hair, cover with a shower cap, and leave for 30-40 minutes before rinsing.
Detangle with Aloe Vera.
Tangles on natural hair are unavoidable; it can sometimes be a nightmare. Aloe vera gel helps soften the hair and easily detangle it while calming the scalp.
How to use: Get fresh aloe vera, take out the gel, and apply it to sections of your hair and comb gently from ends to top.
Safeguarding your hair at night.
Irrespective of whatever product you use, the effects can be reversed if you don’t pay attention at night. Cotton pillowcases can soak up the hair moisture and cause friction. Instead, keep your hair covered with a silky scarf or bonnet.
Final thoughts
Consistency is key when it comes to natural hair care. With some measure of time and these simple kitchen-friendly ingredients, your natural hair can stay healthy, hydrated and beautiful–no fancy products needed.
Maintaining natural hair can be affordable by incorporating simple kitchen ingredients into your hair care routine. Bola Ogeyemhe, a hairstylist, emphasizes understanding your hair's needs. Key practices include daily moisturizing with water and oils such as coconut or olive oil, which help prevent dryness and breakage. Cleanse gently using apple cider vinegar instead of harsh shampoos to retain the hair's natural oils and improve its shine. Deep conditioning with homemade masks using honey and avocado can nourish and keep the hair manageable. Aloe vera gel can be used to tackle tangles effectively by softening the hair and calming the scalp.
Night-time care is crucial; avoid cotton pillowcases that absorb moisture by covering your hair with a silk scarf or bonnet to reduce friction. Ultimately, consistency in using these simple, cost-effective methods can result in healthy, hydrated, and beautiful natural hair without relying on expensive products.
