Black hair is naturally coarse and dry, making it more susceptible to breakage and damage. However, softening black hair is possible with the right hair care regimen. Moisture is key to softening black hair, and this can be achieved through the use of moisturising shampoos and conditioners, deep conditioning treatments, and leave-in conditioners. Additionally, drinking enough water and using hair masks with natural ingredients such as honey and oil can also help to soften black hair. For those seeking a more permanent solution, amino acid treatments or relaxers can alter hair texture.
Characteristics of products to use to soften black hair
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Moisturizing | Shampoos, conditioners, deep conditioners, leave-in conditioners, sprays, masks |
| Natural oils | Flax, olive, almond, jojoba |
| Other natural ingredients | Honey, egg yolks, coconut milk, yoghurt, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, vegetable oils, plant extracts, herbs, linden broth, chamomile |
| Chemicals | Amino acid treatments, relaxers, hyaluronic acid, lanolin, citric acid, vitamins A and E |
| Water | Drink 8 glasses a day, use cooler water to wash hair |
| Frequency of washing | Wash hair once every 3 days, not more frequently |
What You'll Learn
- Moisturising shampoos and conditioners
- Steam treatments
- Amino acid treatments
- Natural remedies
- Water intake
Moisturising shampoos and conditioners
Black hair is naturally coarse and dry, but that doesn't mean that softening it is impossible. Moisturising shampoos and conditioners can help to soften your hair and make it more manageable.
Moisturising shampoos often contain natural oils that moisturise the scalp and increase blood circulation in that area, reducing breakage. It is important to note that shampoos, especially those with sulphates, strip hair of its natural oils, making it easier for moisture to evaporate. Therefore, it is recommended to reduce the frequency of shampooing to help retain moisture and keep hair soft. It is also important to choose shampoos with vegetable-based broth and minimise the content of aggressive substances.
After shampooing, it is always important to follow with a conditioner. Alternatively, you can skip the shampoo and use a silicone-free conditioner to wash your hair. You can also use a moisturising conditioner to make your hair softer and easier to manage. Look for conditioners formulated for dry, damaged or coarse hair. These types of conditioners are designed to moisturise and soften your hair, making it easier to comb through and style.
Deep conditioners differ from regular conditioners in that they have a stronger or higher concentration of ingredients that penetrate into the hair cortex, making them more nourishing. They generally require slightly more time to work than a regular conditioner (10-15 minutes compared to 3-5 minutes). A leave-in conditioner is another great product to give your hair an extra boost of moisture. It usually comes in a spray bottle and helps prep your hair for styling. It is also available in liquid form, which is more suitable for African American hair.
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Steam treatments
If you want to try a steam treatment at home, you can use portable steamers or easy DIY methods. One DIY method is to microwave a damp towel, wrap it around a shower cap, and place it on your head.
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Amino acid treatments
Amino acids are small, organic molecules that make up keratin, the protein found in nails, hair and skin. They are essential for human health and can be found in all types of food, from meats to nuts. Amino acid hair treatments work by infusing your strands with essential nutrients that promote healthy hair growth and improve shine, texture, and manageability.
Amino acids are vital tiny protein molecules that play a crucial role in maintaining healthy hair. They are packed with properties that promote hair growth, repair, and overall health. These molecules are rich in moisturizing qualities, ensuring your scalp stays hydrated. Using amino acids in hair treatments can significantly fortify and nourish your hair from within, enhancing its strength and appearance.
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Natural remedies
Black hair is naturally coarse and dry, but there are several ways to soften it using natural remedies.
Firstly, it is important to ensure your hair is well-hydrated. Drinking at least eight glasses of water a day is vital for your overall health and the health of your hair. Water will reward your hair with softness and shine from within.
You should also avoid washing your hair too frequently, as this can strip your hair of its natural oils, making it easier for moisture to evaporate. Shampoos, especially those with sulphates, are a common culprit of dry hair. It is recommended to wash your hair no more than once every three days, and to use a moisturising shampoo with natural oils that will help repair damage and increase blood circulation to the scalp.
Deep conditioning is also important for maintaining soft hair. Even if you co-wash regularly, it is beneficial to use a deep conditioner with a higher concentration of ingredients that penetrate into the hair cortex, making them more nourishing.
Natural hair masks can also be used to soften black hair. A mixture of honey and oil in equal proportions can be applied to the hair for half an hour before washing. Masks of burdock or olive oil are also recommended, as well as a mixture of egg yolks and almond or jojoba oil.
Finally, it is important to be mindful of the temperature of the water you are washing your hair with. Very hot water can cause activated sebum and make the hair get 'oily' faster. It is recommended to wash your hair with water between 40-45°C.
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Water intake
Black hair is naturally coarse and dry, but that doesn't mean that softening it is impossible. One of the most important things you can do to soften your hair is to increase your water intake.
Drinking enough water is vital for your overall health and the health of your hair. Water is a key ingredient that supports vitamins, which contribute to hair growth. Water makes up almost 25% of the weight of a single strand of hair. Drinking at least two litres of water a day will help strengthen your hair and increase growth. Dehydration can immediately halt hair growth.
Drinking the right amount of water will help your hair from within, rewarding you with softness and shine. Water hydrates your hair from the roots, eliminating problems like dandruff. It also helps to prevent hair from becoming dry, brittle, brassy, and dull, and can prevent an itchy, flaky scalp.
However, it is important to note that simply applying water to your hair will not have the same effect as it will quickly evaporate. To retain moisture in the hair strand, you need to use products that moisturise your hair.
In addition to drinking enough water, you can also soften your hair by reducing the amount of shampoo you use, as shampoos can strip hair of its natural oils, making it easier for moisture to evaporate.
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Frequently asked questions
Black hair is naturally coarse and dry, but softening is possible. Moisturising is key, and this can be achieved by drinking plenty of water and using the right products. Shampoos with vegetable-based broths and minimised aggressive substances are ideal. Follow up with a conditioner, or co-wash, to retain moisture.
There are several home remedies to soften black hair. A hair mask made from honey and oil, left on for half an hour, will nourish and soften hair. A mixture of egg yolks and almond or jojoba oil is another effective mask. A soothing mask can also be made from blue and black cosmetic clay mixed with herbal decoction.
A leave-in conditioner is a great way to give hair a moisture boost. These conditioners usually come in a spray bottle or liquid form and help prep hair for styling. Deep conditioners are also recommended for extra nourishment.
Frequent washing can strip hair of its natural oils, so it is recommended to wash hair at least once every three days.
