COVID stopped America in her tracks. Everything shut down including African -American hairstylists. When COVID shut down the economy, Black women who were used to going to the beauty salon suddenly had to find another way to maintain their hair. This article will discuss tips for African American women to care for their hair.
For many African-American women, going to the salon was considered a treat! COVID interrupted many lives and livelihood. That includes stylist and barbers. The Governors of many states shut down all beauty salons. African-American women found they were on their own to figure out how to do their own hair.
Tips for African American Women During COVID
Black women decided we had to do what we had to do! African -American hair is especially fragile and can be easily damaged. Dermatologists offer these tips to keep African American hair healthy and beautiful.
Washing African American Hair
Wash your hair once a week or every other week to avoid a buildup of hair care products as the residue can be drying to the hair. Use conditioner every time you wash your hair. Be sure to coat the ends of the hair with conditioner as the ends are the oldest and most fragile part.
Hot Oil Treatment For the African-American Women
Use a hot oil treatment twice a month to add additional moisture and elasticity to the hair before styling with heat.
Apply a heat-protecting product to wet hair to minimize heat damage. If you would like to relax your hair, see a professional hairstylist ensure the relaxer is applied safely.
To minimize hair damage, touch-ups should only be done every two to three months and only to new hair that has grown in.
How to Care for Relaxed Hair and Straightened Hair
Never apply relaxer to hair that has already been relaxed. If you’d like to press or thermally straighten your hair, use a ceramic comb or iron and only do so no more than once a week.
A straightening device with a dial temperature can ensure the device is not too hot. Use the lowest possible temperature setting that gives you the style you want.
A higher temperature may be necessary for thicker, coarser hair. When getting braids, cornrows or weaves, make sure they are not too tight.
If it hurts, when hair is being styled, ask the stylist to stop and redo it. Pain equals damage. See a board-certified dermatologist.
If you notice any changes in the texture or appearance of your hair, even the slightest bit of noticeable fanning can be the start of hair loss. If you have hair loss, see a dermatologist as soon as possible.
More Tips
- Keep Your Hair Hydrated: Hydration is vital for all hair types, but it’s especially crucial for black hair due to its natural texture and tendency to be more prone to dryness. Look for sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners that are formulated to provide moisture and nourishment. Deep conditioning treatments, such as using a hair mask once a week, can infuse your hair with essential hydration. When applying conditioner or deep conditioner, focus on the ends of your hair where moisture retention can be a challenge.
- Protective Styling: Protective styles offer a dual benefit: they protect your hair from environmental factors and manipulation, while also promoting hair growth. Braids, twists, and updos are popular protective styles. However, make sure not to make these styles too tight, as they can cause tension on your scalp and hair follicles, leading to breakage and hair loss.
- Limit Heat Styling: Heat styling tools like flat irons and curling wands can weaken the protein structure of your hair and cause irreversible damage. If you must use heat, apply a heat protectant spray to create a barrier between your hair and the heat. Opt for lower heat settings and avoid using heat styling tools too frequently.
- Scalp Care: A healthy scalp provides the ideal environment for hair growth. Regularly cleanse your scalp using a mild shampoo, paying attention to your hair’s natural oil production. Overwashing can strip your scalp of essential oils, while infrequent washing can lead to product buildup and clogged follicles. Massaging your scalp during washing not only feels relaxing but also stimulates blood flow, delivering nutrients to your hair follicles.
- Use Silk or Satin Materials: Switching to silk or satin pillowcases and hair accessories can make a noticeable difference in your hair’s health. Unlike cotton, these materials create less friction against your hair, preventing breakage and minimizing frizz. They also help retain the moisture in your hair and prevent excessive dryness.
- Stay Mindful of Stress: High stress levels can contribute to hair problems like shedding and thinning. Engage in stress-relieving activities to promote both your mental well-being and your hair’s health. Practicing mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, and engaging in hobbies you enjoy can all contribute to stress reduction.
- Healthy Lifestyle: Your hair’s health is linked to your overall well-being. A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly biotin, vitamin E, and omega-3 fatty acids, can support healthy hair growth. Protein intake is also essential, as hair is composed primarily of a protein called keratin.
- Stay Gentle with Detangling: Detangling can be a vulnerable time for your hair, especially when it’s wet and more prone to breakage. Start by applying a detangling conditioner or leave-in conditioner to make the process smoother. Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers, working from the tips upward to minimize damage.
- Trim Regularly: Regular trims prevent split ends from traveling up the hair shaft, leading to healthier-looking hair. Even if you’re focused on growing your hair out, trimming every few months helps maintain its overall condition and appearance.
- Stay Patient: Achieving and maintaining healthy hair is a journey that requires consistency and patience. Understand that visible improvements might take time to become noticeable. Focus on creating a routine that works for your hair type and lifestyle.
By combining these tips and tailoring them to your specific hair needs, you can create a hair care routine that nurtures and maintains the beauty of your black hair, even during the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.