When I decided to go chemical free hair 2 years ago, I had no idea how amazing and free this experience would be. Throughout the various growth stages and styling, the best lessons I learned have been how to clean my hair.
Getting to know my hair has been more like getting to know a new baby. It has it’s quirks and preferences, even moods. Through trial and error you get it. I am convinced that my hair can communicate with me. So over time, I understand the language of my hair.
I get a lot of questions on how I grow my hair to be full and healthy. Before I get into that I need to share my struggles.
I had big time issues with the crown of my scalp. My hair in that area had a different texture, was brittle and the scalp was super tender, itchy and easily irritated. It would grow to a certain point and break off. I started getting sores with so much harsh washing and that made the issue worse. I learned that I had a blood flow issue to the crown and front of my scalp in addition to over washing. With that knowledge I went to work to heal my scalp.
The first thing I learned to do was stop washing my hair with lather shampoos. Since my scalp does not naturally produce an overwhelming amount of oil, harsh shampoos crushes my hair. Instead, I use an apple cider vinegar rinse or fill a spray bottle with half cider vinegar and half water to spray my hair in the shower. Apple cider vinegar’s acids and enzymes have been know to unclog follicles, kill unhealthy bacteria, fungus and other pathogens. It can be used for any hair type.
Another option I have is using non-lather shampoos. They are AMAZING!! I have listed a few of my favorites in the shop below. Ingredients like mint, rosemary and essential oils are super all natural cleaners. My scalp is soothe and not dry after washing.
Although I buy great sulfate-free and parabean-free conditioners, lately I created my own recipe with coconut milk, olive oil and raw honey as an alternative. I typically sit in that solution while doing things around the house vs. sitting under the dryer.
If I need a quick conditioning, I do a leave in conditioner which has become my most likely conditioner and new best friend for hair care.
My amazing hair dresser had advised me to go natural years before I decided I would so she is my friend and hair care ally. I see her once a month or every other month for routine trims, deep cleaning and conditioning. She knows my goal and keeps me on the right track.
Here is a summary of my top hair care tips.
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Avoid using lather shampoo on a regular basis.
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Feel free to create your own homemade conditioning recipe.
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Don’t allow sweat and hair products to build up on your scalp.
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Do yoga or allow your head to hang down twice a day for a few seconds to allow blood to flow to your scalp. A good blood supply to the scalp carries nutrients to the hair follicles for healthy hair growth. Regular exercise and staying hydrated is another way to keep a good blood supply going to the scalp.
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Get a hair care ally. Pick a hair dresser who knows your goals, respects them and can provide you with routine deep care.
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don’t forget to get a scalp massage during your next visit to the massage therapist and hair salon.
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Lean toward chemical free store bought products and home recipes like coconut oil, vinegar, and honey.
