How to Care for Long, Loose Black Natural Hair
- 1). Use a good quality moisturizing shampoo and conditioner with natural oils such as jojoba oil, sunflower oil, coconut oil, olive oil or shea butter. Shampoo and condition hair once per week. Some people shampoo less often, but this can lead to a dirty scalp and hair that appears flat and oily.
- 2). Comb the hair with a wide-toothed comb while conditioning. Comb gently from the ends towards the top. This makes comb-outs easier because the hair shaft and cuticle are smooth. Rinse and squeeze out excess water, never rub the hair as this will tangle it and make it harder to comb.
- 3). Deep condition hair once a month. Man women choose to apply a good leave-in conditioner, cover with a plastic cap and leave it in overnight. Wash it out in the morning and style as usual. Another option is to apply conditioner, cover with plastic and sit under a hair dryer or heat source for 30 to 60 minutes. You can also wrap a hot, wet towel over the plastic cap for steam heat.
- 4). Wrap hair when going to sleep. Hair can be tangled while sleeping, so it is a good idea to braid it or wrap it in a cap.
- 5). Eat a healthy diet with plenty of protein and fatty acids. Your diet can affect how your looks. Not getting enough protein and vitamins are one cause of hair loss in women, according to the Black Women Beauty Central website.
- 6). Do not forget the ends. The ends of the hair tend to be the driest because the natural scalp oils do not reach to the ends of the hair. Use a little extra moisture on the ends. This can be a moisturizing hair lotion or any good hair product made to condition without adding oil.