Vulnerable confession here! Today as I write this article I am suffering from devastating hair loss due to severe heat damage from my last hair appointment. The tears still don’t compare to the large clumps of hair that I have seen hit the drain over the last 3 months. After crying and going through major bouts of disbelief, I had to dust myself off long enough to pray for wisdom on how to proceed. Can you relate, sis? In an attempt to salvage what’s left of my hair, I am having to go back to the basics that got me to my almost waist-length hair just earlier this year. I decided to share my 5 top tips for long & luscious natural hair with you so that we can get into this hair journey together!

Let’s get into it!

1. Moisture is Key For Length Retention

Kinky hair tends to be dry due to the natural oils having a harder time traveling down the coiled hair shaft. However, Keeping your tresses well-moisturized is one of the crucial elements to healthy hair. With all of the products claiming to be “moisturizing” for our hair, but in fact, contain harsh ingredients that strip the hair, this can be tricky. Despite what the pretty marketing claims for a hair product, you should always read the back of the label for any hair product you purchase. (Time-consuming yes, but well worth your time). Look for products that have a water base, and stay very clear from products that contain sulfates and other stripping agents such as parabens, silicons, and mineral oil.

2. Protective Styling For Long & Luscious Natural Hair

Protecting your hair from harsh elements and excessive manipulation is essential for retaining length. Consider protective styles like braids, twists, buns, or updos that keep the ends tucked away. Protective styles help minimize breakage, tangling, and exposure to environmental stressors. Our favorite go-to protective style is the ever-trendy box braids. No matter the size, length, or style you choose, box braids are timeless and bring the perfect balance of style and function, while protecting your hair from the elements. (Have pictures of you rockin’ your favorite protective style? Submit them to info@shetalkslife.org)

3. Gentle Detangling For Long & Luscious Natural Hair

Detangling is a delicate process for natural hair and a gentle hand is an absolute must. Start by applying a good amount of conditioner or detangling spray to soften the hair follicles. It goes without saying that wide-tooth and detangling combs are our best friends on our natural hair journey and the right one can make the world of difference. (Invest in a few options to find the right one that works for your hair type). Next, separate the hair into manageable chunks and add a generous amount of detangling spray. Start combing from the end of your hair, working your way up to the root, gently stopping to finger-detangle larger knots as needed. Try not to rush through this process, as it may result in unnecessary pulling and hair shed.

4. Regular Trimming For Long & Luscious Natural Hair

I know, I know! I personally hate the idea of cutting my ends because I work so hard for every single inch of hair growth and I know you probably feel the same! However proper and regular trimmings bring your hair back to life, plus, it has all the feels of a brand-new hairstyle without the extra work. The bottom line: regular trims are essential for maintaining healthy hair. Trim your ends every 8-12 weeks to remove split ends and prevent them from traveling up the hair shaft, causing further damage. This promotes healthy hair growth and prevents breakage. If you don’t trust yourself seek help from a professional. (Just remember to emphasize you want a TRIM and not a haircut; we don’t want NO surprises). Don’t forget to use sharp scissors for your trims! Remember dull scissors actually cause more harm to your hair than leaving the split ends alone. (Ouch)

5. Proper Nighttime Routine For Long & Luscious Natural Hair

Protect your hair while you sleep to prevent friction and damage. Use a satin or silk pillowcase, or secure your hair in a satin bonnet or scarf to retain moisture and reduce friction between your hair and the pillow. Additionally, moisturize your hair and/or scalp before bed to keep it hydrated overnight. Additionally, wrapping your flat ironed hair ensures the longevity of your flat iron and helps to lock in the moisture for longer periods of time.

6. BONUS: Pray Over Your Hair For Long & Luscious Natural Hair

The Bible tells us that the Father knows exactly how many hairs are on our heads, which tells me that He is invested in every part of who we are, including our HAIR. Over the last few months, I have spent a great deal of time praying over my hair because of all the breakage. It has been difficult but I have been so thankful for His peace, love, and guidance through this process that I truly hate that it’s taken me this long to include Him on this journey with me. No matter which methods or products work for us, adding prayer to our regime is a winner all day long.

In conclusion

It’s no secret that we all desire a head full of healthy hair, but amidst all of the trending new tools, the latest hairstyles, and new products claiming to be for “natural” hair, we can easily lose sight of the basic necessities most kinky-curly hair types need to thrive. Hopefully, these 5 easy to remember steps to maintaining and/or growing healthy hair, made it a little easier.

As naturally kinky sistas our haircare journey is not always easy and is an ever-changing learning process, but we are in this together! For our article on 7 tips for naturally removing that dreaded scalp buildup, click HERE.

Have any other tips for growing and maintaining long & luscious natural hair? We want to hear from you in the comments.

She Talks Life, Jae Teague