Black people have unique hair texture and characteristics, and they need special knowledge and skills to manage their long hair. If you don’t know how to handle your long hair, here are some tips on how to handle long hair for black people.
Hair Care Basics
Moisturize Regularly
Black hair tends to be more dry and brittle due to its natural curl pattern and structure. It’s essential to moisturize the hair frequently to keep it healthy and prevent breakage. Use a good quality moisturizing shampoo and conditioner. Look for products that contain ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and glycerin, which are excellent for hydrating the hair. After washing, apply a leave-in conditioner or a hair moisturizer to lock in moisture. You can also use natural oils such as olive oil or jojoba oil as a weekly deep conditioning treatment. Heat the oil slightly, apply it to the hair, and cover with a plastic cap for a few hours or overnight before rinsing.
Protect from Heat
Heat styling tools can cause significant damage to black hair. If you must use them, such as a flat iron or a curling iron, use a heat protectant spray beforehand. Try to keep the heat setting at a moderate level to avoid overheating the hair.
Additionally, limit the use of heat styling tools to give the hair a break and allow it to recover its natural strength. Air drying the hair as much as possible is also a good idea. If you need to use a hairdryer, use a low heat setting and a diffuser attachment to distribute the heat evenly and reduce frizz.
Gentle Detangling
Detangling long black hair should be done with care to avoid breakage. Start from the ends of the hair and work your way up gradually using a wide-toothed comb or a detangling brush. You can also use your fingers to gently separate the knots first.
Be patient and take your time during the detangling process. Consider detangling the hair while it’s wet and coated with a conditioner or a detangling product, as this makes it easier to comb through. Avoid pulling or tugging on the hair forcefully, as this can lead to damage and hair loss.
Styling Options
Braids
Braids are a popular and versatile option for long black hair. They not only look stylish but also help protect the hair and promote growth. There are many different types of braids to choose from, such as box braids, cornrows, and French braids.
When braiding, make sure the tension is not too tight, as this can cause traction alopecia (hair loss due to excessive pulling). You can leave the braids in for several weeks to give your hair a break from daily styling and manipulation. While the braids are in, moisturize the scalp and the hair along the braid line using a spray moisturizer or a light oil.
Twists
Twists are another great way to style long black hair. They can be done in small or large sections, depending on the desired look. Twists are similar to braids but are created by twisting two strands of hair together instead of braiding them. You can leave the twists in for a while or unravel them for a more textured, curly look. To maintain the twists, you can use a small amount of styling gel or a natural butter to keep them in place and prevent frizz.
Buns and Updos
Long black hair can be styled into various beautiful buns and updos. A simple high bun or a low messy bun can be a quick and easy option for a casual or formal look. You can also create more elaborate updos by adding twists, braids, or hair accessories. To make a bun, first, smooth the hair back using a brush or a comb. Then, twist or coil the hair around itself and secure it with bobby pins or a hair elastic. You can leave some strands out to frame the face for a softer look. Updos are a great way to show off the length and beauty of the hair while keeping it out of the way.
Curls
If you want to wear your long black hair in curls, there are several methods you can use. You can use a curling iron or a wand, but as mentioned earlier, be careful with the heat. Another option is to use flexi rods or perm rods. These can be used on wet or damp hair. Roll the hair around the rods, secure them, and let the hair dry naturally or use a hairdryer with a low heat setting. Once the hair is dry, remove the rods to reveal beautiful curls. You can also try a natural curl method by using a curl-defining cream or gel and scrunching the hair. This allows the hair’s natural curl pattern to shine through while providing definition and hold.
Scalp Care
Keep the Scalp Clean
A healthy scalp is essential for growing long, healthy hair. Wash the scalp regularly using a gentle shampoo to remove dirt, oil, and product buildup. However, avoid overwashing, as this can strip the scalp of its natural oils. You can also use a scalp scrub once in a while to exfoliate and remove dead skin cells. This helps to unclog the hair follicles and promote better circulation, which is beneficial for hair growth.
Massage the Scalp
Regular scalp massages can stimulate blood flow to the hair follicles and promote hair growth. You can use your fingertips to gently massage the scalp in circular motions for a few minutes each day. You can also use a scalp massager tool for added convenience. Additionally, applying a scalp oil, such as peppermint oil or rosemary oil, before massaging can further enhance the benefits. These oils have invigorating properties and can help improve the health of the scalp.
Protect the Scalp from the Sun
Just like the skin on our face and body, the scalp is also vulnerable to the sun’s harmful rays. When spending time outdoors, wear a hat or use a hair product with SPF to protect the scalp. Sun exposure can cause the scalp to dry out and damage the hair follicles, which can lead to hair loss and a decrease in hair quality. A wide-brimmed hat is a great option as it provides shade not only to the scalp but also to the face and the hair.
Conclusion
In conclusion, taking care of long hair for black people requires a combination of proper hair care, gentle styling, and scalp attention. By moisturizing regularly, protecting the hair from heat damage, detangling carefully, and choosing suitable styling options, you can maintain healthy, long, and beautiful hair. Additionally, taking care of the scalp is crucial for promoting hair growth and overall hair health. With patience and consistency, you can enjoy the versatility and beauty of long black hair. Experiment with different styles and techniques to find what works best for you and your hair, and always remember to treat your hair with love and care.