Hey there, fellow curly-haired enthusiasts! Are you ready to dive into the wonderful world of styling natural hair? Well, grab your favorite detangling brush and get ready for a fun and informative ride!
As a newbie or even a seasoned naturalist, we’ve all had those moments where we’ve asked ourselves, “Where are my edges?”
We know that styling natural hair is like being an artist with a blank canvas, except in this case, the canvas is the fabulous crown of curls that adorns your head. It’s a journey that embraces texture, celebrates diversity, and empowers individuals to rock their unique mane with confidence.
But let’s face it; natural hair requires some extra TLC and a little know-how to keep it healthy, vibrant, and, of course, to maintain those edges!
So, if you’re looking to perfect your twist-out, master the art of protective styling, or simply level up your hair game, we’re here to guide you through the maze of potential pitfalls. Trust us, we’ve been there, and we’ve learned some valuable lessons along the way. So, let’s get right into it!
5 Things You Must Avoid When Styling Natural Hair:
Over manipulation
The temptation to touch and play with our luscious locks is real. But when it comes to natural hair, less is definitely more. Natural hair tends to be more delicate and prone to breakage than chemically processed hair, and over manipulation is the archenemy of healthy tresses.
It’s time to resist the urge to constantly touch, tug, and pull at your strands. Put those hands in your pockets, or better yet, use them to create a killer hairstyle that will have heads turning! Embrace low-manipulation styles that require minimal handling, like protective styles such as braids, twists, or buns. These styles give your hair a much-needed break and allow it to flourish.
Tight and unforgiving hairstyles
We’ve all heard the saying, “beauty is pain,” but when it comes to natural hair, it’s essential to prioritize comfort and avoid excessively tight hairstyles.
Styles like super tight braids, ponytails, or buns can put unnecessary strain on your hairline and lead to traction alopecia—a condition characterized by hair loss around the edges. Opt for looser, more relaxed hairstyles that allow your hair to breathe and minimize tension.
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Neglecting moisture
Natural hair thrives on moisture. Failure to provide adequate hydration can result in dryness, brittleness, and breakage. Avoid using harsh shampoos that strip your hair of its natural oils and opt for sulfate-free, moisturizing cleansers instead.
Follow up with a deep conditioner or hair mask to replenish lost moisture. Regularly moisturize your strands with a water-based leave-in conditioner or spritz to keep them soft, supple, and manageable.
Heat damage
Using heat styling tools without proper precautions can wreak havoc on your natural hair. High temperatures can cause irreversible damage, leading to weakened strands and heat-induced breakage.
When using heat, always apply a heat protectant spray or serum to shield your hair from thermal damage. Opt for low or medium heat settings and minimize direct heat exposure by using diffusers, wide-tooth combs, or your fingers to style your hair.
Ignoring the importance of protective styling
Protective styling is not just a trendy buzzword; it’s a vital practice for maintaining the health and length of your natural hair.
Protective styles like braids, twists, wigs, or weaves shield your strands from daily manipulation, harsh weather conditions, and friction with clothing. They also help retain moisture and reduce breakage, promoting healthier hair growth. Just remember to strike a balance between protective styling and giving your hair enough breathing room.
Styling natural hair should be a fun and rewarding experience that celebrates your unique beauty. Embrace the versatility of your curls, show your tresses some tender love and care, and let your natural hair journey be a joyful and empowering one! Remember, your edges are precious, and it’s time to keep them where they belong—right at the forefront of your fabulous natural hairstyles!
