How To Care For Different Hair Types

There are various styling and care techniques available for various hair types. Your hair type determines your hair care and routine. Just like caring for other parts of our body, hair care is also important and is a form of self-care. The following are some useful hair tips for different hair types:

A) Straight hair

1. Use a dry shampoo and conditioner

Dry shampoos and conditioners are specifically designed for oily hair, as they aid in maintaining oil-free hair.

Avoid using butter or heavy serums.

Straight hair is prone to oil and dirt; therefore, avoid using butter or heavy serums as they contain high amounts of oil. A texture spray is a better alternative.

Reverse washing

Apply conditioner for 3 to 5 minutes before shampooing your hair. This technique is known as the reverse washing method. It is recommended for people with greasy or fine hair. This method keeps the hair moisturised and prevents frizzy hair.

Avoid excessive brushing, perming, or heating

Straight hair is fragile and much thinner than other hair types. Excess heating can lead to hair breakage, while excess perming can lead to damaged hair follicles, which can result in hair loss.

B) Wavy hair

Detangle your hair properly

The first step in detangling wavy hair is to lubricate it. This makes your hair silky and soft. Next, you divide your hair into sections, gently comb with a detangling brush or a wide-toothed comb, and gently comb out each session.

Deep condition your hair thoroughly

Wavy hair is prone to dryness and therefore needs moisture and hydration. Deep conditioning provides much-needed hydration as it penetrates through the hair shaft. It also helps to control fizziness. Ensure that the conditioner is sulphate-free.

Apply a leave-in serum

Shortly after your hair wash, apply a few drops of leave-in serum to your scalp. Massage gently for a few minutes to ensure maximum absorption. This helps to control and prevent your hair from being frizzy.

4. Avoid applying heat-styling product Blow dryers, hair straighteners, and other heat styling methods predispose hair to dryness. Wavy hair lacks moisture, and excess use of these styling products or methods can lead to hair breakage and thinness. I recommend air-drying your hair with a towel after washing.

Select the right hair shampoo

Wavy hair gets frizzy when compared with other hair types. Therefore, it’s advisable to use a sulphate-free shampoo to prevent fizziness and dryness.

6. Use silk materials when sleeping.

Silk caps or silk pillowcases are best to use when sleeping. They cause less friction between your hair and the pillow, thereby reducing the chances of fizziness when you wake up.

C). Curly and kinky hair

Avoid over-cleansing your hair.

Curly and kinky hair turns out quickly, and over washing your hair increases the chances of hair dryness. Washing your hair at least once a week or once every 2 weeks with a sulphate-free shampoo will give you the best results. Always use cold water during your wash section to lock in moisture and close hair cuticles.

Apply a leave-in conditioner after deep conditioning your hair.

Leave-in conditioner reduces the chances of dryness. Hence, it is advisable to apply a small dose of leave-in conditioner after deep conditioning your hair. This helps to retain moisture for at least 24 hours.

3. Apply hair oils generously.

Jojoba, rosemary, coconut, and olive oil are examples of oils that help maintain healthy hair. Apply a few drops of any of these oils and massages to prevent dryness.

Conclusion

Different hair types require different care techniques, so it’s important to know your hair type. Once you have figured that out, it helps you tailor the routine that is best suited for you. When caring for your hair, be gentle when washing, combing, or styling. Also, avoid over washing, over combing, over styling, and excess heat application. Finally, if you need more clarification on products or brands that are compatible with different hair types, consult your hair stylist.