Products
Essentials
Everyone's hair reacts to things differently. This is why it is important to understand and experiment with your own hair to find what works best for you. However, there are essential products that everyone should use to help get their hair to a healthy state. Today, you can find so many different versions of the same product, here we're going to go over where to start and what everyone should have in their stash of products.
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With the many products the world has to offer, you want to be careful with what you pick. Typically, a rule of thumb is no sulfates, no silicones, and no parabens. Now some people find that they like using products with these ingredients in moderation because it just works for their hair. Here is when understanding your own hair comes into play.
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When going natural, everyone should have the following products to take care of their hair:
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Shampoo
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Conditioner
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Deep-Conditioner
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Leave-in Conditioner
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Curl Activator
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Are all these products needed? Not necessarily but they are highly encouraged. Lets get into why each one is important.
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Shampoo & Conditioner
Shampoo and conditioner is no stranger to most. Their role is pretty self explanatory. Shampoo cleanses your hair and scalp. Ideally, you want a shampoo that cleanses your hair but does not strip it of its natural oils. It is also important that you make a shampoo schedule. personally, I only wash my twice a week. Depending on how much oil your hair generates, you can alter your own schedule. However, the last thing you want to do is wash your hair everyday.
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Some like to wash their hair with a clarifying shampoo once a month, this usually contains sulfate for a complete clean. Then they'll use a co-wash or gentle shampoo for the remainder of the month.
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I have 3B & 3C hair so usually I always use a conditioner and a deep conditioner to get moisture. I use the regular conditioner to help detangle my hair and restore some moisture after the wash. The following are good sets to looking into:
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Deep Conditioner
Deep conditioner is a girls best friend! Deep conditioner is such a crucial part in taking care of your hair and retaining its moister. If you have high porosity hair like me, it's hard to retain moisture. So, it is important to deep condition at least once a day. Apply this in the shower and let it sit for 20-30 mins. Rinse it out with cool water, this closes the hair cuticle and allows the hair to retain more moisture. The following are some great deep conditioners to look into:
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Leaving-in Conditioner & Curl Activator
Leave-in conditioner and curl activator can be used interchangeably. Some don't always find a need for a curl activator after they apply their leave-in. Again, it's all up to how you maintain your hair and what works best for you. Both help maintain moisture and get curl definition. These products can be applied after you washed your hair. Most typically contain silicon so give it "slip" so it is important to pay attention to the ingredients when looking for ones that work for you. The following are ones that I have had great experience with:
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