One thing I am working on improving is my hair routine. I became natural in April of 2008. Relaxers did a number on my hair. So much that people asked me if I had gotten a haircut.
When I was completely natural, not only did my hair become thicker and fuller, but my scalp improved too. No more dandruff and my texture was softer and almost silky.
It has definitely been a natural hair journey. After over 10 years, I’m still learning about proper hair care and what products work for me. I learned my hair was low-porosity, which means my hair doesn’t absorb moisture that well, so it needs heat to open up the pores.
The most important thing I learned about natural hair, is that every ‘fro isn’t the same. The rice water trend, coconut oil, and all the other hair trends just don’t work for my hair. You got to find the best products for your hair. Doing my own research I found some products to put in my routine.
Low-porosity hair requires water-based products to hydrate the hair. This keeps your curls soft and bouncy.
This is my natural hair routine for 2021(with links).
1. Oat Protein & Henna Deep Cleansing Shampoo by Design Essentials
Keeping your hair clean is important to help the scalp absorb moisture. I dyed my hair a few months ago so I used an Aphgee shampoo to revive my hair. Now I use Design Essentials and I love the results.
With the oat protein and henna, my hair is soft to the touch. I notice my hair is getting a bit more volume and bounce. The smell is great and it takes all the product buildup from my scalp. You can literally feel your scalp getting cleaner.
2. Aussie Miracle Moist Conditioner w/ Avocado and Jojoba Oil
I love that this conditioner can be found in any store. For $5.00, this product has a lot to offer. It’s paraben free, so it’s safe to use.
I usually do a deep conditioning treatment. After I wash my hair, I apply the conditioner and place a plastic bag over my hair. Then I take a blow dryer and blow some heat into the bag. Adding a bit of heat will help the cuticle open up and take in the moisture.
After 45 minutes, I take off the bag and rinse with warm water. My curls are already more defined and smooth. I wrap my hair in a towel and get ready for my twist out.
3. Blue Magic Conditioner Hair Dress
This grease has been a hair staple for my whole life. I know many hair bloggers may say that grease is a no-no. Don’t be afraid to go old-school. This stuff is tried and true
But like I said, you have to find what works for you. Blue Magic creates a barrier that keeps water in. But remember to put it on wet hair because it also keeps water out.
It conditions the hair and prevents breakage. This is the first thing I put on my hair. Then I use a Denman brush to detangle and spread the grease down the scalp.
4. Kinky-Curly Curling Custard
This is the second layer to lock in moisture and keep my curls in shape. This can be used for a wash and go, or used to keep your twist-out looking fresh.
I also use this styling gel to revive my curls in the middle of the week. To be fair, this is my first time using this brand. I put it on wet to keep it from getting sticky. The aloe vera and marshmallow extract is winning me over.
I put this on last because oil is a sealant. Argan oil infuses the scalp with nutrients that prevents dryness and gives the hair shine.
This argan oil is free from parabens and sulfates. It keeps your hair soft and silky. I’ve tried many oils before and argan oil is the only one that really does it for me.
6. Aztec Secret Bentonite Clay
Aztec clay is one of the few hair trends that actually work for my hair. It detoxes impurities and “resets” my hair. I only do this once a month because it’s so strong and potent. It strips your hair of everything and leaves your hair a blank slate.
This clay is made from natural calcium. The clay has antimicrobial properties that help with flaky scalp, reduces frizz, and promotes hair growth.
This is a life saver for my hair. I just mix this with apple cider vinegar and saturate my hair until it hardens then I rinse it out and deep condition.
So, these are the products I use on my natural, low-porosity hair. Remember to continue to do your research to find what works for your hair.
What products do you use? Comment below.
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