So, before we get into preventing dry hair, let us talk about hair texture. Natural, highly textured hair strands are curly and coily and so do not reflect light the same way straight hair can. This coily nature also makes it more difficult for your natural scalp oil (sebum) to travel from the scalp to the tips of your locs. As such, sisterlocks won’t ever look as glossy and shiny as your silk pressed hair would. That said, you CAN absolutely have healthy, moisturised locks. Here are a few tips;
1. Drink up!
Hydration begins from the inside so drink up, and keep sipping on that water all week long to maintain your hydration levels. Remember you can’t expect to drink water on Monday and not feel thirsty on Friday. It’s a daily practice that will improve the health of you hair (and skin!) Water not your favourite drink? add fresh fruit and or vegetables to your water bottle/ jug, to make it more palatable AND get a vitamin boost. ⠀⠀⠀
Hydration begins from the inside so drink up, and keep sipping on that water all week long to maintain your hydration levels.
2. Wash your hair
Clean hair is the cornerstone of all healthy hair routines and also plays a big part in preventing dry hair. If your Sisterlocks begin to feel really dry, kickstart rehydration with a deep cleansing wash. Follow up with a nourishing conditioner to close the hair cuticles and seal in moisture. With a dry and flaky scalp, a good cleanse ensures your pores remain open and unclogged and will allow the production of sebum- your scalp’s natural moisturiser to work its magic. So, if your hair or scalp is looking a little dry, it’s time for wash day Queen!
3. Eat fresh fruit and vegetables
Just as hydration begins from within, so does healthy hair. Boost your vitamin intake with lots of different coloured fruit and vegetables to build strong and healthy hair that is less prone to breakage and dryness.
4. Sleep in a satin bonnet
So here is the thing; most bed linen is made from cotton or linen which is designed to be absorbent to keep you cool at night. While this is great for your body, its not so great for your hair because it its stripping all the moisture from your locs, leaving them dry. So, to avoid this, sleep in a satin bonnet to protect your hair. Alternatively, switch out your pillowcase for a satin one. Remember; always change your bonnet on hair wash day to keep your locs fresh⠀⠀⠀⠀
5. Use a moisture mist
Products are the last frontier after taking step 1 to 4 above. Look for water based products or those with a high water content (water /aqua should be listed as one of the first 3 ingredients) and infused with plant extracts and emollients that trap the moisture in the hair shaft. I recommend the Almocado moisture mists which come in a range of luxurious scents including Coconut, Peppermint, Cherry vanilla and Sandalwood.
Here is bouncy, well moisturised locs that you love, embrace and wear with pride.
