The Conditioner Wash: Truly the Best Method for Cleaning Your Natural Hair

If you have ever thought your hair was dry, tangled, or didn't feel "right" after washing, the problem may be with your shampoo. Shampoo can be really drying especially for natural nappy hair. Because shampoo strips your hair of its natural oils, your body makes more locking you into a shampooing cycle. Most folks would never guess that you don't have to use shampoo to get your hair clean. All you need is a conditioner wash. Here's how to do it:

1. Start with the conditioner you already use, but know that since you won't be using drying shampoos, you may not need a highly moisturizing conditioner. For example, when I used shampoo, I used a high end conditioner, but now I just use Suave. If you want to experiment a bit, buy small samples or ask to try a friend's conditioner. It shouldn't take long to find a brand you like.

2. Wet your hair and apply the conditioner. (You may need to do this in sections if your natural hair is quite long.) Massage it in thoroughly. When you squeeze your hair you should release just a little conditioner, not too much.

3. Use your fingertips to work the conditioner in. Pay attention to your scalp too. You may want to use a wide tooth comb to comb your hair while the conditioner is in it. If so, remember to start combing from the tip or end of your hair and work your way down to the root.

4. Let the conditioner sit in your hair for at least 2 minutes. If you're in the shower, this is a good time to bathe.

5. Rinse your hair well. If you want to use a towel remember to pat or squeeze dry - never rub. Or you may prefer to let your hair air dry.

6. Style as you like!

Note that, if you use conditioner washes, you may be able to reduce or eliminate the oil you apply to your hair. That's because you've eliminated the shampoo that strips your hair of its natural oils. Also, unlike shampoo washes, you can use a conditioner wash as often as you like - twice or more a day even. I expect you'll find the conditioner wash will transform your hair, making it even lovelier than it already is. Enjoy!

"Life is both too short and too long to dwell on the negative." - Karama Neal