In this blog post, we’ll share some tips on how to moisturize dry, brittle African American hair.
African American hair is often dry and brittle, which can be caused by a variety of factors. One common cause is over-processing, which strips the hair of its natural oils and moisture. This can happen from using harsh chemicals, such as dyes and relaxers, or from heat damage from flat irons and curling wands. African American hair is also naturally drier than other types of hair due to its curl pattern, which makes it more difficult for the scalp’s natural oils to evenly distribute down the length of the hair shaft. Additionally, environmental factors, such as humidity and wind, can contribute to dryness and breakage.
More:Â How to Lighten African American Hair Naturally
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
9 tips to moisturize dry brittle African American hair
There are a few things you can do to help moisturize your dry, brittle African American hair.
Avoid over-processing
As we mentioned, over-processing is a common cause of dryness and breakage in African American hair. If you dye your hair, use a semi-permanent or demi-permanent color instead of a permanent one. In the case of hot tools for hair such as blow dryers or flat irons, temporarily breaking those habits can do a world of good for your hair’s moisture levels. If you absolutely cannot give up your styling tools, be sure to use a heat-protectant product before using them.
More:
- List of Top-rated blow dryers for black hair
- List of Top-rated flat irons for African American hair
- List of Top-rated Hair Dyes for Natural African American Hair
Use a gentle shampoo and conditioner
Avoid shampoos that contain sulfates, which can strip natural oils from the hair. Instead, look for products that are specifically designed for retaining moisture. There are some of the best shampoos for dry and brittle Afro hair that you may want to check:
More: List of Top-rated Shampoo & Conditioner Sets for African American Hair
Try a deep conditioner
Applying a deep conditioner to your hair is a great way to add moisture and strengthen your strands. Unlike a regular conditioner, which is meant to be rinsed out after a few minutes, deep conditioners are designed to be left on for 20-30 minutes. This allows the conditioning agents to penetrate deeply into the hair shaft, resulting in softer, shinier hair. Deep conditioners also help to repair damage from heat styling and coloring. If you have dry, brittle, or damaged hair, using a deep conditioner on a regular basis can help to restore your Afro hair’s natural moisture balance and prevent further damage.
There are some of the best deep conditioners for brittle Afro hair that you may want to check out:
Use a leave-in conditioner
A Leave-in conditioner is a conditioning product that is applied to the hair and left in without being rinsed out. Leave-in conditioners are typically used on dry or damaged hair to help hydrate and repair the hair. Leave-in conditioners can be applied to damp or dry hair, but they are most effective when applied to damp hair. To use a leave-in conditioner, apply a small amount of product to the palm of your hand and distribute it evenly through your hair. You can then style your hair as usual. Leave-in conditioners can be used daily, but if you have fine or oily hair, you may want to use them only once or twice a week. Leave-in conditioners are a great way to keep your African American hair healthy and moisturized, and they can help to repair damage caused by heat styling and coloring.
More:Â How to Make African American Hair Softer and Silky?
Use a protective style
For many African American women, protective styles are an essential part of haircare. Braids, twists, and wigs help to keep the hair moisturized by preventing breakage and protecting against environmental damage. In addition, protective styles can also be used to style the hair in a variety of ways. From sleek and sophisticated updos to funky and fun braided styles, there are endless possibilities for creative self-expression. Whether you’re looking for a low-maintenance option for work or school, or you want to try out a new look for a special occasion, protective styles are a versatile and convenient option.
Avoid tight hairstyles
Tight hairstyles, such as cornrows and ponytails, can put unnecessary stress on the hair and lead to breakage. If you must wear your hair in a tight style, be sure to take breaks every few days to give your hair a rest. However, you should totally avoid tight hairstyles if you have any type of hair loss or damage.
Sleep with a satin scarf or pillowcase
One way to help keep the hair moisturized is to sleep on a satin scarf or pillowcase. Cotton pillowcases can absorb moisture from the hair, leaving it feeling dry and straw-like by morning. A satin scarf or pillowcase, on the other hand, will help to keep the hair hydrated overnight. In addition, satin is less likely to cause friction against the hair, which can lead to tangles and split ends. As a result, investing in a satin scarf or pillowcase is a simple way to help keep your hair healthy and damage-free.
Drink plenty of water
From our cells to our organs, each part of our body needs water to function properly. This is especially true for the skin, which acts as a barrier to protect our bodies from the elements. When we are dehydrated, the skin can become dry and cracked, making us more susceptible to infection. The scalp is no exception. In fact, drinking plenty of water is one of the best things you can do for your hair. When the scalp is properly hydrated, the hair follicles are able to absorb nutrients more effectively and produce strong, healthy hair. Furthermore, hydrated skin is less likely to produce excess oil, which can lead to dandruff and other scalp conditions. So next time you reach for a drink, make sure it’s water. Your hair will thank you for it!
Use a humidifier
Anyone with dry, brittle hair knows the importance of moisture. African American hair is particularly prone to dryness, due to its curl pattern and low density. As a result, it is essential to use products and techniques that help to add moisture and prevent breakage. One simple way to combat dryness is to use a humidifier. Humidifiers work by adding moisture to the air, which can help to prevent dryness and breakage. Be sure to clean your humidifier regularly to prevent bacteria buildup.
More:Â How to Soften Coarse 4C Hair With 10 Tips
Final thoughts
Dry, brittle African American hair can be a challenge to manage, but with the right tips and products, you can bring life back to your locks. We’ve shared ten tips on how to moisturize dry, brittle African American hair, but there are many other ways to keep your hair healthy and hydrated. Be sure to experiment until you find what works best for you. Thanks for reading!
More: List of Top-rated Detanglers for Matted African American Hair
