No Mineral Oil or Petroleum-based products

This one points right back to keeping your hair moisturized. Mineral oil and petroleum-based products can really be counterproductive to that goal. These types of products work well at either sealing moisture in or keeping moisture out. Problem is, the porosity of nappy hair make it difficult for the cortex (the hair’s inner core) to retain moisture in the first place. So if your hair doesn’t hold moisture, there is nothing to seal in. And if you’re using mineral oil or petroleum-based products you’ve now created a water-resistant barrier that will keep moisture from getting in. And since nappy hair is inherently dry, you’re only compounding your problems with having dry hair. Again, if you’ve got issues retaining moisture to begin with, best to steer clear of these types of products. And if you must use oils, opt for essential oils and butters. They’re permeable, meaning they mix well with water and allow your hair to breath.

Moisturize

Nappy hair needs moisture — no ifs, ands or buts about it. If you want your hair to be healthy, thrive and retain length, figuring out how to make your hair retain moisture should be the most important goal on your list.

 

Why is that you say? Well, because nappy hair is inherently very dry. It all has to do with its coiled structure which also twists and turns as it grow. This makes it virtually impossible for the cuticles on the hair shaft to lay flat. So there they are like loose shingles on a roof, causing nappy hair to be very porous. They let water in but also make it easy for nappy hair to dry out quickly and making it very hard to stay moisturized.

 

In the summer, try water-based moisturizers that contain humectants like honey, glycerin or propylene glycol that will help your hair attract and retain moisture from the humid air. Since humectants don’t work well in drier climates or during the winter months, you may need to, if you’re not already doing so, add essential oils or butters to your winter routine to help keep your hair moisturized and stay feeling soft and supple. Keep a small spray bottle handy to freshen up your do throughout the day. Never let your hair get bone dry to the touch. You don’t have to walk around with your hair sopping wet or dripping like you have jheri-curl juice in it, but it should always feel ever so slightly moisturized.