The world is filled with rules, guidelines, shall and shall not’s so is there really any surprise that the natural hair community has them as well? Some are vital to make this journey easier while others are less important and you can’t forget the ones that are downright silly. Despite all of that, we have to give them their “just due” or we would never forgive ourselves for omitting them!
” src=”https://diana-cdn.naturallycurly.com/Articles/T0_satin-scarf-pineapple-1.jpg” alt=”satin bonnet”>
Thou Shall…
Always wear a satin bonnet and/or use a satin pillowcase at night
Oh honey, don’t even get me started on how important this actually is. Wearing a satin scarf, satin bonnet, or using a pillowcase is the difference from looking our best in the morning or looking like you have an extra dry bird’s nest living above your shoulders. It is also important because allowing your hair to rub against a cotton pillowcase or sheets can cause dryness, which can lead to breakage.
Thou Shall…
Be patient with your hair and your journey
Going natural is not for the trendy. It is a lifestyle change that requires commitment and patience. Your hair is learning how to be natural and it takes time for you and your hair to figure out what the two of you are doing! Understand the process will be different for everyone and that your journey is a personal one that should be appreciated and nurtured.
Thou Shall…
Read ingredients in your hair products
Product are trying to get you to buy them so they may have all kind of promises on what they can do or what they have in them. It’s up to you to turn them around and see what they really have in them. Remember that the first five ingredients are the most important and that’s the major components of the products. Your shampoo and conditioner should have water as one of the first three ingredients.
Thou Shall…
Be a product junkie
It comes with the territory, especially when being a newbie to the journey, so embrace it and know that some of us just love trying new products that come out on the market.
Thou Shall…
Love your natural hair
It’s yours and it’s unique. Love your hair and it will respond by being healthy and happy. It’s a part of you so why wouldn’t you love it?
Thou Shall Not…
Use mineral oil in your hair
Most of us should already know how bad this is for our tresses. It weighs down your hair, robs the skin of vitamins, causes acne, and it is contaminated with carcinogens. It’s just not a good thing to mix with natural hair so don’t use it. I have since stopped using it on my overall body in replace for natural oils for my skin.
Thou Shall Not…
Skip on protein treatments or deep treatments
You need both of them and you need a deep conditioning during every wash. They are important for the strength and the moisture of your hair. Protein treatments can be used monthly or less, but neglecting either will not go over very well with your tresses. Listen to your hair because it will tell you which one it’s missing.
Thou Shall Not…
Think there are natural relaxers
They do not exist no matter what you hear! To permanently alter the texture of your hair you need chemicals, and the chemicals needed for that process will not be natural. Not only are the chemicals that relax your hair not natural, but they actually weaken the hair and are harsh on your scalp.
Thou Shall Not…
Be rough with your tresses
During detangling, washing, and the styling process we need to be gently. Being rough will leave you with more hair in our shower and sink than on our heads. Allow conditioner and carrier oils to aid in washing and styling, as they can make the process easier and smoother.
Thou Shall Not…
Judge other naturals
Every natural’s journey is her own. What she sees as beautiful may not mirror your perception of beauty and that’s ok, as we are all beautiful and all have a right to be who we are. So what does all this mean? We should not be judging someone else and their path. Also, remember that naturals have bad hair days too…but not too often because our curls, coils, and waves are always amazing!
