Hands in My Hair: Guest Blog Post by Marketta…

I’ve had so many conversations with friends and family members, asking why their hair “won’t grow” and what can they do or what products can they buy to make it grow faster? I have some friends and family who always come to me asking what I did, as if I did some magic trick or something “special” to get my hair to be healthy and/or long (even in my relaxed-hair-days). Let me just say, I get the best results when I do LESS to my hair. I truly believe less is more, when it comes to our hair. No need to try all these different “potions” and tricks to create this fabulous head of hair. The key is: STOP DOING TOO MUCH.

So, what is “too much”? Everyone is different. What works for one person may not work for someone else. You have to stick with what works FOR YOU. Which brings me to #1.

1. Stop trying different products every week and wondering why your results are not consistent. If you find a product that gives your hair sheen and body, and makes it feel good, keep using it. No sense in trying something new just because you heard someone talking about this new product on youtube or on a hair blog if what you’re using already works.

2. Low-manipulation. Try not to do too much to your hair as far as styling goes. What I mean is, if you style your hair, try to keep that style for at least a week without manipulating it too much. For example, if you do a twist-out, if you can preserve it for a few days, do that. The longer you go without manipulating your hair too much, the better off your hair will be. Trust me, I know how we like to have different styles all the time. I, too, get bored VERY easily. But it’s worth it.

3. Small-tooth combs are NOT your friend. This is more for the natural chicas. I hate to see rat-tail combs used on our hair to comb out sections. And really, the only time naturally curly hair should be combed (with a wide-tooth comb) is when it’s wet and preferably with conditioner so that it glides through your hair easier. You get less breakage of your hair strands that way, therefore maintaining length.

4. You don’t need a ton of products on your hair everyday. Remember that natural hair loves water. I find that my hair keeps moisture better if I apply my oil/moisturizer while my hair is wet, rather than dry. But you typically don’t need a lot of product piled onto your hair every day.

5. Lastly, remember that kinky/curly hair is fragile. Yes, it may look strong & tough, but it really requires care and consistency. It’s important to keep it protected as much as possible - ESPECIALLY at night. Sleep with a satin bonnet or scarf at night, or if you’re like me and don’t like the bonnet too much, sleep with a satin pillowcase. The key is to be consistent. One or two nights on a cotton pillowcase with no bonnet/scarf can cause lots of unnecessary dryness.

I hope these tips helped. It’s the small things that count. Just take care with your hair and be consistent in your efforts, and the growth and health of your hair will come!