Having Natural Hair Doesn’t Mean You Have To Avoid Water

When it comes to caring for natural, Afro-textured hair, water is often the unsung hero. Contrary to common misconceptions, having natural hair doesn’t mean avoiding water – in fact, it’s the key to unlocking the full potential of your curls. Let’s delve into why water is a game-changer for natural hair care and explore the vital practice of moisturizing and sealing.

The Power of Water
Water, in its purest form or as a base in hair products, is like a magic potion for Afro-textured hair. Unlike some conventional beliefs, wetting your natural hair doesn’t ruin it; instead, it provides much-needed moisture and hydration. This hydration makes combing easier, and can help styles hold better and longer. Afro-textured hair tends to be drier due to its unique structure, making water a fundamental source of moisture that helps soften and nourish each strand.

How To Moisturize With Water

Incorporating water or water-based products into your hair care routine is quite simple. Whether it’s with a water spray (simply fill a spritz bottle with some water and spray onto your strands), a hydrating product containing moisturizing plant-based water like coconut, rosemary or guava leaf water, or water-based products like moisturizing sprays or deep conditioners, help prevent dryness and breakage. Moisturizing with such products helps maintain the elasticity and manageability of natural hair.

The Science Behind Hydrating Your Hair With Water
Water molecules penetrate the hair shaft, hydrating the cortex and improving elasticity. This not only enhances the hair’s natural curl pattern but also reduces the risk of breakage.

Sealing in the Moisture
While water is the catalyst for hydration, it’s equally important to seal in that moisture. After moisturizing with water or a water-based product, apply an oil or butter to create a protective barrier that prevents moisture loss. This sealing process helps lock in the hydration, preventing moisture loss and keeping your hair moisturized for an extended period. Oils like castor and butters like shea butter also nourish the hair, making it appear more vibrant.

Bottomline
Water is great for your hair. While this doesn’t mean you should be washing your hair everyday or excessively moisturizing your hair, finding a balance while incorporating moisture can yield great benefits for your strands. By understanding how water hydrates and incorporating a sealing step with nourishing oils or butters, you can unlock the true potential of your Afro-textured hair.