Hair tips: 5 essential tips to keep your Afro hair moisturised

Afro hair is naturally dry due to its curly structure, which makes it difficult for the scalp's natural oils to distribute evenly along the strands. Maintaining the moisture in your Afro hair is therefore essential to prevent breakage, promote growth and retain shine. In this article, we'll explore five practical tips to help your hair stay hydrated and healthy.

The choice of products you use is crucial to keeping your hair hydrated. Look for products specially formulated for Afro hair, which contain moisturising ingredients such as glycerine, aloe vera, shea butter and natural oils (coconut oil, argan oil, jojoba oil).

- Hair lotion and moisturiser : A light hair lotion can be used daily to moisturise hair without weighing it down. For a more intense moisturiser, opt for a rich cream, especially if your hair is very dry.

- Leave-in Conditioner : A leave-in conditioner is a great option for adding an extra layer of moisture after washing. It also helps detangle hair and reduce frizz.

Tip 1: Choose the right moisturising products !

My advice :  ”Apply these products to slightly damp hair to help seal in moisture. Dry hair may not absorb products as effectively...”

- Tatiana

Tip No. 2 : Use the LOC or LCO method !

The LOC (Liquid, Oil, Cream) or LCO (Liquid, Cream, Oil) method is a popular technique for maintaining moisture in Afro hair. This method involves layering three types of products in a specific order to seal in moisture

- Step 1: Liquid : First apply a moisturising liquid, usually water or a water-based moisturising spray. Water is the most basic and effective moisturizer for hair.

- Step 2: Oil : Next, apply a light oil to seal in the moisture provided by the liquid. The oil forms a barrier that prevents water from evaporating. You can use oils such as jojoba oil, avocado oil or olive oil.

-Step 3: Cream : Finish with a moisturising cream to seal in even more moisture. The cream helps keep moisture in the hair and adds softness.

My advice : ”Experiment with the order of products to see what works best for your hair. Some people find that the method works best for them, especially if they have low porosity hair.”

- Tatiana

Tip 3 : Adopt a gentle washing routine !

The way you wash your hair can have a significant impact on its moisture levels. Using overly aggressive shampoos can strip your hair of its natural oils, leaving strands dry and brittle. To avoid this, adopt a gentle washing routine

- Use a Gentle or Sulphate-Free Shampoo : Sulphates are powerful cleansing agents that can be too harsh for Afro hair. Opt for a gentle, sulphate-free shampoo that cleanses without drying.

- Co-wash : Co-wash (wash with conditioner) is a method of washing hair with conditioner rather than shampoo. This technique cleanses the hair while keeping it moisturised.

- Spacing out washes : Afro hair doesn't need to be washed as often as other hair types. A weekly or bi-weekly wash is often enough to keep the scalp clean while preserving the hair's moisture.

My advice : ”When you wash your hair, use lukewarm or cold water, as hot water can open up the hair cuticles and cause moisture loss.”

- Tatiana

Tip 4 : Protect your hair at night !

The night can be a time when your hair loses a lot of moisture, especially if you sleep on cotton pillowcases, which absorb moisture from the hair. To avoid this, it's important to protect your hair while you sleep.

- Use a Satin or Silk Cap : Satin and silk are soft materials that help reduce friction and keep hair moisturised overnight. Wear a satin cap or scarf to protect your hair.

- Satin or Silk Pillowcase : If you prefer not to wear a cap, a satin or silk pillowcase is a great alternative. It keeps your hair moisturised and reduces the risk of breakage.

- Twist or Braid Out : Before going to bed, divide your hair into sections and do twists or braids to keep it detangled and protected. This also helps to keep your curls defined for the next day.

My advice : ”Don't overtighten your twists or braids to avoid tension on your roots, which could lead to breakage or pulling.”

- Tatiana

Tip 5 : Eat a balanced diet and drink plenty of water !

Hair hydration doesn't just happen on the outside. What you eat and drink has a direct impact on the health of your hair. A balanced diet and good internal hydration are crucial to keeping your Afro hair moist.

- Drink enough water : Water is essential for hydrating the whole body, including the hair. Make sure you drink enough water every day to maintain internal hydration, which will be reflected in the health of your hair.

- Omega-3 rich foods : Omega-3 fatty acids, found in oily fish, walnuts and flaxseed, are excellent for hair health. They help to keep the scalp moisturised and prevent dry hair.

- Essential Vitamins and Minerals : Make sure your diet is rich in vitamins A, C, D and E, as well as zinc and iron, all of which are essential for healthy hair. Green vegetables, fruit, nuts and wholegrain cereals are excellent sources of these nutrients.

My advice : ”If you find it difficult to obtain enough essential nutrients from food alone, consider taking vitamin supplements, but consult a health professional first.”

- Tatiana

In conclusion, keeping your Afro hair moist is an ongoing process that requires patience and special attention.

So follow these five essential tips:

- Choose the right moisturising products,

- Adopt the LOC or LCO method,

- Use a gentle washing routine,

- Protect your hair at night,

- Maintain good internal hydration

Not only can you keep your hair hydrated, you can also strengthen and beautify it.

Hydration is the key to healthy, vibrant, shiny Afro hair. By taking the time to incorporate these practices into your hair routine, you'll see significant improvements in the texture, manageability and overall appearance of your hair.

Have a lovely day ! 

Tatiana.