Unique in appearance and structure, black hair is particularly fragile and prone to injury and damage. More than half of African American women cite thinning hair or hair loss as their top hair concern. Fortunately, there are many steps you can take to minimize damage and keep your hair beautiful. To keep Afro hair healthy, dermatologists recommend the following tips:
1. Wash your hair once a week or every two weeks. This will help prevent the buildup of hair care products that can dry out hair.
2. Always use conditioner every time you wash your hair. Make sure you condition the ends of your hair as they are the oldest and most delicate part of your hair.
3. Use a hot oil treatment twice a month. This will help add moisture and elasticity to your hair.
4. Use a heat protectant product before styling. Applying to damp hair before styling will help minimize heat damage.
5. Be careful with hair straighteners. To minimize hair damage, always go to a professional hairdresser to ensure the straightener is applied safely. Touch-ups should only be done every two to three months and only on newly grown hair. Never apply straighteners to hair that has already been straightened.
6. Use ceramic combs or flat irons to straighten hair. If you choose to straighten or thermally straighten your hair, use a ceramic comb or flat iron and only do so once a week. Use a straightening device with a dial to ensure the device is not too hot. Use the lowest temperature possible to achieve the desired style. Thicker, frizzier hair may require a higher temperature.
7. Make sure braids, cornrows or plaits are not too tight . If it hurts while styling, ask the hairdresser to stop and do it again. Pain means damage.
8. Consult a board-certified dermatologist if you notice any changes in the texture or appearance of your hair. Even the slightest visible thinning can be the beginning of hair loss. The earlier hair loss is diagnosed, the more effectively it can be treated.
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