Spring is the perfect time to refresh and revamp your haircare routine and get ready for a Hot Girl Summer with fabulous curls.
Just like you declutter your home during spring cleaning, your hair routine could use a refresh to eliminate bad hair habits and introduce new practices that promote healthy hair growth. Here are ten common haircare mistakes that might be hindering the growth of your natural curls and what you can do instead:
1. Using Harsh Shampoos
Problem:
Harsh washing agents strips your hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness, breakage and poor length retention.
Solution:
-Switch to a gentler washing schedule. Cleanse your hair once a week or bi-weekly with a sulfate-free shampoo.
In between, use co-washing (conditioner-only washing) to maintain moisture. (This is an optional extra step)
2. Skipping Deep Conditioning
Problem:
Not deep conditioning regularly leaves your hair unhealthy, prone to dryness and damage, preventing growth.
Solution:
- Incorporate a deep conditioning treatment into your routine at least once a week.
-Look for products with natural oils, proteins, and humectants to keep your curls hydrated and strong. Such as our>> TREATMENT MASKS
3. Using the Wrong Products
Problem:
Using products with harsh chemicals can damage your hair, leading to breakage.
Solution:
Choose haircare products free of sulfates, parabens, and silicones. Opt for natural ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and aloe vera that nourish and protect your curls.
4. Ignoring Your Scalp
Problem:
A neglected scalp can become a breeding ground for dandruff and product buildup, inhibiting hair growth.
Solution:
- Regularly exfoliate your scalp on washdays to remove dead skin cells and promote circulation.
- Use a gentle scrub or a soft brush during your wash days.
- Apply appropriate serums to scalp at least once in 2 days.
SEE >> GROWTH BURST SERUM
5. Excessive Heat Styling
Problem:
Excessive use of heat styling tools can cause significant damage, leading to split ends and breakage.
Solution:
- Limit the use of heat styling tools.
- When you do use them, always apply a heat protectant spray and opt for the lowest heat setting possible.
6. Over Manipulation
Problem:
Rough detangling and excessive hair manipulation can cause hair to snap and break, particularly when wet.
Solution:
- Always detangle your hair with a wide-tooth comb or your fingers, starting from the ends and working your way up.
- Apply a leave-in conditioner or detangling spray to make the process smoother.
- Opt for low maintenance protective styles that will keep brushes, combs and your hands out of your hair for at least a few days at a time.
7. Tight Hairstyles
Problem:
Constantly wearing tight hairstyles like very tight braids and ponytails can cause tension on your hair, leading to breakage and hair loss.
Solution:
- Opt for looser styles and alternate the positioning of your ponytails and buns to avoid stressing the same areas repeatedly.
8. Sleeping Without Protection
Problem:
Sleeping with your hair unprotected can lead to friction, causing tangles and breakage.
Solution:
Sleep on a satin or silk pillowcase or wear a satin/silk bonnet or scarf to reduce friction and retain moisture in your curls.
9. Lack of Trims
Problem:
Avoiding regular trims allows split ends to travel up the hair shaft, resulting in more significant breakage.
Solution:
Lightly trim your hair every 8-12 weeks to remove only split ends and keep your curls looking healthy and defined.
10. Poor Diet
Problem:
A diet lacking in essential nutrients can negatively impact your hair growth.
Solution:
Ensure your diet includes plenty of vitamins and minerals essential for hair health, such as biotin, vitamin E, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids. Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet for optimal hair growth.
BONUS TIPS:
Treat Damp Hair with Respect
Problem:
Handling your hair roughly when it's damp can lead to significant breakage, as wet hair is more fragile.
Solution:
- Be gentle with your hair when it's damp.
- Avoid using regular towels to dry your hair, as they can cause friction and breakage. Instead, use a microfiber towel or a soft cotton t-shirt to gently squeeze out excess water.
- Refrain from brushing your hair when it's wet; instead, use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to detangle, starting from the ends and working your way up.
Accept the Frizzies
Frizz is a common struggle for curlies, but it’s not the end of the world. Embrace those flyaways as part of your unique texture.
Embrace the natural volume and rock those curls.
By eliminating these common haircare practices that may be stalling your curl growth, you can unlock you best hair yet this spring.
Remember, consistency is key. Implement these changes gradually, and you'll see improvements in your curls' health and growth over time. Happy spring cleaning!
