KNOWING MY HAIR TYPE AND WHAT IT NEEDS
The first thing I need to know before embarking on my hair journey is my hair type which is categorised by it's texture (fine, medium or coarse), density(low, medium and high)and elasticity (straight, wavy,curly, coily or kinky).
After much research from hair forum to hair forum, I have been able to put together a helpful outline that will assist you in getting to know your hair texture,de and elasticity.
Understanding your hair's texture and elasticity is important because these 2 factors can have a big impact on the way you care for your hair.
All black hair is different and should be treated as such. What your sister or mom does to her hair may not be necessary for your hair.
What is Hair Texture?
Hair texture is basically your hair strand's thickness, and it will generally be fine, medium or coarse.
Fine hair typically means skinny strands (the kind that end up all over the house, but you don't notice because- individually- the strands are quite hard to see). Now, just because you have fine hair it doesn't necessarily mean you don't have a lot of hair. Although thinning or sparse hair can go hand in hand with fine hair types, it is typically the case that people with fine hair often have a lot of strands.
Medium hair is made up of strands that are of a medium width-and is the most common kind of hair texture, and this is one instance where being just like everyone else is a plus.
Coarse hair has the thickest strands and usually the most bulk and weight. It can be hard to control due to its sheer volume
What is Hair Elasticity?
Hair elasticity refers to whether your hair's straight,wavy and curly, and the relationship between your hair's texture and elasticity could affect the kind of hairstyle you want.
Hair elasticity is quite simple and you can get a good idea of your own hair's elasticity by looking in the mirror.
Straight hair is "straight" because it doesn't have any kinks or bends.
Wavy hair is a result of your hair forming a bend or slight "S" shape, and it can either work for you (lovely romantic looking tresses) or against you (say "Hello frizz ball!").
Curly hair comes from a definite "S" pattern that also forms loops and will spring away from your head (as opposed to waves which tend to be flatter near the scalp).
All natural black hair is falls under either wavy or curly
There are four types of Hair.
Remember, this is for your hair in its natural state, so if you’re relaxed look at your new growth to decide.
Hair Type 1
Type 1 hair is straight with no curl or wave pattern and tends to be oily and usually has a shine to it. You should use a light-weight conditioner if you find it difficult to comb your hair after washings, but be careful not to apply it directly to the scalp. Because of the abundance of natural oil, type 1 hair does not need much to keep it moisturized.
Hair Type 2
Hair with some waves but no distinct curl defines type 2 hair. This type of hair clings to the scalp and is more coarse than type 1. It is best to wash type 2 hair daily to maintain a healthy sheen and to make your waves look their best. Washing daily tends to strip the natural oils in the hair so use a good conditioner to make sure your waves are properly moisturized. In fact, a good leave-in conditioner is beneficial to keep those waves looking voluminous throughout the day.
Hair Type 3
Type 3 hair can be defined as “ringlets” as there is a distinct “S”shape to the waves. The hairs are tightly formed but have a fairly soft texture to it despite having less shine to it than types 1 and 2. You should wash your hair in moderation as your hair has less natural oils and will tend to dry out and look flat if washed too often. Between washings, you can “co-wash” which is washing your hair with conditioner instead of shampoo. This will help moisturize and soften your hair without stripping the natural oils from it, and you can co-wash your hair more often than if washing with shampoo.
Hair Type 4
Finally, type 4 hair is usually very fragile with a lot of kinks and coils. This type of hair tends to be very dry because the oils from the scalp are unable to reach the rest of the hair due to all the bends and curls along the hair shaft. Most Africans have type 4 hair and it is very important to moisturize this type of hair because of its tendency to be dry and brittle. It is not necessary to wash your hair often, once a week is sufficient. Use an ultra-moisturizing shampoo and conditioner specifically made for coarse or dry hair. Co-washing your hair is an excellent alternative for type 4 hair to keep it moisturized and frizz-free. Deep-condition your hair at least once a week and use a hot-oil treatment once a month to give your hair a boost.
My hair type is 4a/4b which means MOISTURE!! MOISTURE!! PROTEIN!!!
So now the next step is to go out and find that hair shampoo and conditioner that works best for me.
Coming up!! Building a Healthy Hair Regimen
