The second step is to make sure that the hair underneath
is completely dry. With an oily scalp this can mean tak-
ing time to add dry shampoo and use the cold air setting
on a blow dryer in between washes.
For A Dry Scalp
For those with dry scalps, dandruff deep cleaning is
needed less frequently, but is just as important. While
oil and sweat may not be building up, excess dry skin
and dandruff can be just as annoying and damaging.
You’ll want to double cleanse with a moisturizing
shampoo, making sure to be extra through.
For Both
Regardless of how oily or dry your scalp is, you’ll want
to follow some simple care steps. As mentioned, you’ll
still want to use a deep conditioning treatment that pen-
etrates deeply though braided hair into the scalp and
pores. You’ll also want to make sure that when you’re
cleansing you’re getting as deeply as possible. When
dealing with masses of braids or wefts, it helps to use
a shampoo bottle with a pointed applicator. You can
buy these at most stores and transfer your shampoo into
them, or you can try the amazing line by Girl+Hair if
you want an easier solution.
While both should use deep conditioners on occasion,
for those with dry scalps, a conditioning step is even
more important. Conditioners alone can’t be relied on
here though most don’t penetrate the skin as easily and
when they do, they can cause buildup. Instead, try a hot
oil treatments that fully penetrates both the natural hair
and scalp. We recommend argan oil mixed with vitamin
e, alternatively organic olive oil is just as good. When
using a hot oil treatment let it sit on the scalp for at least
30 minutes and remember to cleanse well with a gentle
shampoo.
Another great way to care for your hair is to add gentle
massage into your routine, during both the moisturizing
and shampooing stages. This can help remove debris,
work in the shampoo and conditioner, and gives the
added benefits of improving blood circulation and re-
lieving tension on the scalp. This step will ensure your
natural hair continues to grow happily and healthily un-
der your style.
Prevent Stress and Pulling
For healthy hair, look to your foundation. We all know
that tight braids can cause discomfort and headaches,
but the effects of too tight braids can be more lasting
than a headache. Traction alopecia along the hairline
is one symptom that many women face, but it can also
occur all throughout the head where it often goes more
unnoticed. Along with excess pulling, a too-tight foun-
dation makes it harder for shampoo and conditioners
to penetrate the hair, for debris to be removed, and it
makes drying take significantly longer increasing the
risk of bacterial growth.
Wearing weaves and installed extensions can be an ab-
solute lifesaver for a variety of reasons, and with these
steps, you’ll never have to worry about damaging your
natural hair. A clean and healthy scalp is the basis for a
healthy head of hair.
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