Naturally you: Naturalistas, don’t turn into hair product junkies

One of the biggest problems natural girls have is finding products that work well for their hair. 

Many naturalistas turn into product junkies because they will try just about everything under the sun to keep their hair moisturized.

I’ve been super lucky with the Shea Moisture line since I started using it in November. 

I use the curling gel soufflé, the curly milk and the curl enhancing smoothie.

I generally mix a little bit of each product together when styling my hair. But not everyone is so lucky to immediately find products they like.

Bearing all that in mind, I reached out to our experts —
Samaela Cannonier, owner of S Factor Salon and Maxine Famous, owner of Maxilous Salon.

Asked what are the best products for natural hair, Samaela said: “Products that promote moisture. Most people complain about lack of moisture, so anything with water as the first ingredient in a product is good.

“I usually recommend Uncle Funky’s Daughter and La La Curls to my clients in the salon.”

Maxine added: “There is no one product that’s best for natural hair. It is dependent on one’s hair texture that determines what works best for an individual.”

As far as washing natural hair goes, Samaela recommended not washing too often.

“Naturals should wash their hair at least once if not twice a week. Because excess product is being used, build-up tends to occur quicker than those who wear processed hair.

“I recommend at least weekly for a decent hair shampooing regimen.”

But Maxine said: “Shampooing your hair too often is not recommended as this can strip your hair of its natural oils, resulting in dull, dry, brittle hair.”

Finally, I asked our experts what the best hairstyles for naturals are.

Samaela said: “Hair styles can be difficult for growers and shorter lengths can start to look untamed very fast.

“Once hair gets to a twistable length, I recommend twist-outs. They look a little more groomed than an untamed afro.

“For those who have in
between lengths, I suggest getting a thin elastic bandana to push the front back behind the ears. That can offer a more tamed look until hair reaches a more desirable length.”

Maxine added: “Suitable hairstyles for persons transitioning will vary from person to person. Braids, barley rolls, rods, are a few depending on the lifestyle, length and texture of the individual.”