Summer Tips for 4a Hair Textures

If you are like am and have thick curly 4a hair, you have tried man products that claim to define the natural curl and fail to give great results. One reason these "claimers" do not produce definition to the curls in our hair is dye to that fact that the product contains ingredients that dry our hair out. On major ingredient that will make the hair dry is alcohol, it is best to stay clear of products that have this ingredient, especially if your hair is curly. Another key factor in getting and retaining great curl definition to our hair is by using a good moisturizing shampoo and conditioner. You can purchase these from beauty supply y stores such as Sally's Beauty Supply, Ulta and Sephora. I have tried the Pantene Relaxed and Natural hair shampoo and conditioner and it left my hair feeling hard and dry. I get great softness from ION and Slick Line moisturizing products.

Once I am finished with shampooing and conditioning my hair I will squeeze the majority of the excess water out of my hair. I squeeze the water out instead of using a towel because a towel drying creates frizz to my hair and kills and curl definition that I have prior to using a styling cream. Next, by sections I use the product by New Era called Shea Butter Styling Gel , and apply it down the hair. To do this in sections to prevent applying too much product to the hair . Also by applying the Shea Butter Gel in sections I can see how the curl is defining and determine if I need to add more or less as I go on to the next sections.

When I am finished with my hair I will then apply a small amount of Biosilk Therapy to the ends and roots of my hair only. I do this because this is where my hair tends to look dry when it is not. The combination of these products gives my 4a hair a great hold that is touchable, non greasy and cute. As the weather gets hotter and more humid here in the south I use this method of styling my hair as oppose to straightening my hair to give the tresses a break from the heat.

It is key to have a moisture oriented hair regime for 4a hair textures and it is even more important to keep the hair hydrated during the summer months. Depending on your lifestyle you can forgo washing the hair every day by using a good hydrating conditioner everyday in its place. That way you are not stripping your hair of its natural oils . Many people call this co washing and I find it to be working for my hair during the week when I am exercising. However, I would recommend washing your hair with shampoo at least 3 to 4 times a week if your curls become limp.

Another good habit it develop during the summer months is to wear a hat or cute scarf when you are outside working out for long periods of time. The sun will cause damage to your hair just as it will your skin. There are also many leave in conditioners in the form of sprays that have SPF protection for your tresses. Some of these products are Quintessence Q- Sunshade and Vitaman Leave In Moisturizer. Most importantly have fun wit your hair and Happy Shopping.