Aunt Jackie's

Caring for natural tresses shouldn't feel like a challenge.  Once you really begin to understand your hair type and texture, you can identify the right products to care for it and the right styles that compliment it.

One of the biggest issues from my 100 percent Naturalistas, and those in transition, is that their hair has mixed-textures all throughout.  Some areas are tight and kinky, some are soft and bushy, some spots are thick, some are thin, etc.  There can be a lot of stuff happening on one head!  But, don't worry...once you've figured out what you're working with, there are little tricks to bring them all into a unified, finished style.  

Keep visiting this site for my regular posts, as I'll address various issues that help your natural hair look and feel its best!  This month, I'm sharing basic care tips for Summer hair.  Depending on your texture, you may have some different needs.  Let's see if you can find yourself in one of these areas:

Waves:  Loose waves tend to go limp fast and require regular cleansing to prevent oiliness and build up.  Summer culprits like extreme heat, chlorine from pools and humidity contribute to lifeless, flat looking waves.   Both water and light oil-based moisture therapy are needed to keep waves moveable and frizz-free.  Just a bit of Aunt Jackie's Curl La La Defining Curl Custard can keep waves in check.  It's best not to co-wash wavy hair. It will make hair feel weighed down.

Curls:  Curls need definition!  But, you want to avoid products that make the hair feel crunchy and brittle.  Humidity is one of your biggest enemies during the Summer months, causing your curls to separate and become frizzy.  A good leave-in moisturizer like Knot On My Watch should help, along with Curl La La Defining Curl Custard.

Coils:  Coily and Kinky hair types are usually very dry. These textures drink up moisture like a sponge.  A good combination of humectants and oil-based moisture helps to maintain a healthy look and feel.  During the Summer months, humidity and heat make coils draw up and shrink.  Deep Conditioning will help to soften and elongate coils, so they look springy, soft and vibrant. Use In Control Moisturizing and Softening Conditioner for a healthy dose of deep, reconstructive conditioning.  Co-washing with In Control can also help to keep tighter textures loose and easier to comb.

Regardless of your texture, Summer presents a great opportunity for funky up-do's, braids, twists and other low-maintenance styles that can help you enjoy your fun in the sun.  Let me know how these tips work for you.  Keep getting your curl on, Naturalistas!

Until next time,
Aunt Jackie