by Tamara of Natural Hair Rules!
In the hot summer month keeping frizz at bay can be a challenge. Here are some tips for dealing with frizz. Frizz can be a result of hair lacking moisture that may or may not be damaged. Here we will discuss tips to avoid frizzy hair that is lacking the adequate amount of moisture. As a result you will see smoother, softer and healthier hair.
No Poo Please
As discussed previously your cleanser or cleansing agent is your foundations and the following product and/or techniques build upon it. If you are a regular reader, you know my rant about the benefits of Noo Poo. I won’t go into detail. Co-wash or shampoo with sulfate, silicone and alcohol FREE products. When it comes to all your product try to keep it all natural…
Condition Those Curls
Your conditioner is equally if not more important than your cleansing agent. It can be used as a cleanser and conditioner or conditioner and leave in or conditioner and styling product. Don’t EVER skip your Hair Conditioner. Opt for all natural conditioners and not just the ones that say all natural but read the ingredients. Your conditioner is usually the initial source of moisture added besides water that you add to your hair so choose wisely. Your moisturizing conditioners should be water based.
Leave In and Moisturize
Really, do I need to say more. One of the best ways to combat frizz caused by dryness is to use a good leave in conditioner. I use either Cantu Shea Butter Leave In Conditioner or Giovanni Direct Leave In Conditioner but it really depends on the style. When it comes to moisturizers one of my fellower bloggers says the kinkier the hair the creamy the moisturizers needs to be and I agree. I recommend unrefined shea butter and/or coconut oil. You can whip shea butter with a hand mixer and add an oil or aloe vera gel to maintain the whipped consistence. (My personal recipe for Shealoe)
Drip Dry
I’ve said it before I will say it again, NEVER towel dry your hair. This only causes frizzness especially if you’re using a terry cloth towel. Drip dry, t-shirt dry or use a microfiber towel. If you have not invest in a hood dryer and you live in cold climates, please do. Drying your hair under a hood dryer is less damaging than blow drying with a diffuser and minimizes shrinkage as well. Partially or completely dry your hair before you step outside or go to sleep allows the style to set in place with smooth defined curls.
Carry a Spray Bottle
When I first heard this I thought it was a little silly but then I tried it. The benefits of regular misting with water are undeniable. Add your fav conditioner or oil and these benefits increase infinitely. Don’t believe me try it. Not only will your hair look and feel better but your scalp will as well. In cool climates I only recommend misting if you’re going to be indoor it can have adverse effects in the cold. Read more!
Minimize Gel Use
When it comes to styling products if you use the previous tips you won’t need gel to keep frizz at bay. Limit your use of gel because even the alcohol free can make hard and dry if used in excess. If you must use gel opt for Aloe Vera Gel which moisturizes. I encourage styling products such as Kinky Curly Curling Custard. Only a small amount is needed to achieve desired style. These products work with your conditioners and moisturizers to maintain soft and smooth hair. Also don’t be afraid to try Hair mousse for curling hair.
Re-Twist and Tie That Head Up
Regardless of how you are currently styling your hair it is imperative that you cover your hair while you sleep with a satin scarf or bonnet. If you don’t like to cover your hair invest in a satin pillow case. The satin is smooth and will not pull at the hair or absorb the moisture in the hair. If you are wearing a twist or braid out, re-twisting your hair will help to keep your style longer and keep frizz at bay. For more info on re-twisting see here
Let me know if these tips were helpful. http://www.naturalhairrules.
I'm surprised to see a "no gel" recommendation.. gel always gives me frizz after it's dried, which is why I gave it up completely.
Great information! I've been no pooing for a while and use an organic moisturizing conditioner for coarse hair to cleanse it. This really eliminates a lot of my frizz and weighs my kinky-curly hair down.
Cantu has cones and mineral oil in it
I agree with most recommendations but have two comments: first, Cantu Shea Butter Leave In Conditioner has many synthetic ingredients even though you said "try to keep it all natural…"; also, satin pillowcases used to be made from 100% silk but are now made with with polyester, acetate, nylon, and rayon (less expensive). Check fabric content before purchasing or just look for silk pillowcases.