Hey Curlies,
Are you new to the natural hair community? If so, learning the basics will be pretty helpful.
Going natural without any guidance is a no no. Why do it alone when you have websites such as these, natural hair forums and YouTube to help?
Let ClassyCurlies guide you.
NOTE: Need a little extra help? Schedule a 1-on-1 healthy hair consultation with me. Request your appointment HERE.
The Mental Process
Making the decision to go natural is just as much of a mental process as it is a physical one. Once I went natural not only did I monitor what went on my hair (from a health perspective) but I also watched what went into my body and on my skin. It’s about finding inner beauty and accepting yourself flaws and all. Having a presence and confidence about yourself is what’s important. Here’s your pep talk.
Pre-poo
Pre-pooing refers to the steps one takes before cleansing their hair. It consists of doing some sort of hair and or scalp treatment. This could include applying oils to the scalp or conditioner to the hair. The purpose is to add moisture to the hair and make the washing and detangling process easier.
Washing & Conditioning
No one can tell you how often you need to wash your hair. Yes, they can give you recommendations, however this is a time for you to learn your hair. Does your scalp accumulate buildup or itch after a few days or weeks? Is your hair dry and in need of moisture? Use your own judgement. Here’s how to wash curly hair correctly.
Conditioning your hair is a must. Washing your hair with shampoo without applying a conditioner after is asking for trouble. I have many post on recommended conditioners on this site.
Cowashing involves washing hair without shampoo and using conditioner instead. This is a way of cleansing the hair without stripping it of its natural oils. Recommended cowashing products are also on this site. If you choose to wash with a shampoo, choose a sulfate-free product.
Scalp Care & Detangling
Scalp care is very important. The scalp is where your hair grows from and if not taken care of properly, your hair health will suffer. If necessary apply oils to your scalp, conditioners and other special treatments such as natural powders. Here are some products that promote healthy scalp care.
Always detangle starting from the ends of your hair to the roots, not the other way around. This techniques minimizes damage and breakage. Using a wide toothed comb is best.
Moisturizing & Sealing
The key to maintaining healthy hair is keeping your moisture levels up by deep conditioning and sealing in that moisture. Using a creamy moisturizer or conditioner is best and then applying an oil or butter to seal in that moisture helps keep hair healthy. More on this method here.