The holiday season is in full swing, so what does that mean? Traveling. And lots of it. Admit it, when checking your bags you say a prayer asking the hair gods to smile on you and get your products to your destination safe and sound. But what if the hair gods are napping between their own travels and you lose all of your luggage? No more clothes or shoes, and worst of all, your products—gone.
As scary as it is, it can happen to any of us. Three NaturallyCurly personalities—all different hair types—have put together a list of three emergency travel replacements that you can find at any drug store or grocery store. It’s better to be prepared than stranded and wondering what to do next!
Evelyn—Type 4
Honestly, there’s only one product for me that is 100% necessary—conditioner. It serves as a light cleanser, a detangler, and adds to the overall manageability of my naturally kinky/coily hair.
My pick is an old favorite: Suave Humectant. It’s cheap, creamy, smells great, and most importantly, has amazing slip. My comb will have no trouble at all gliding through my hair. I used Suave Humectant during my transition so I know it works. Suave Damage Care is almost identical to it, so that’s a close second choice.
The next two products aren’t necessary to having a good hair day, since I don’t style my hair stretched out very often. Believe it or not, I’d actually travel to the grocery store and pick up some coconut or extra virgin olive oil before I’d buy these two. But for the sake of a list…
The “ethnic” hair care section (it’s maybe 3 shelves, really”> doesn’t have that many products for styling your hair in it’s curly state. My next option is to style it stretched.
I’d choose Cantu Shea Butter for twists and twist outs. I used this early on in my natural journey. It’s light, smells nice, and makes the hair soft but not oily. If you’re worried about flakes or residue, just remember: a little goes a long way!
Next, I’d choose a leave-in spray. Aussie Hair Insurance Leave In Conditioner is great for this! Again, it has a lovely scent, and gives my hair a boost without making it crunchy. Great for softening up that afro bed head in the mornings. I’d spray it before I hop in the shower and a little bit afterward when I’m “styling” (aka wearing a head band”>.
