Tips and tricks for great hair conditioning

Avoid using shampoos that will strip your hair and leave it dry. Shampoos that are formulated to cleanse well but not strip Black hair are the only shampoos we recommend. Depending on the length of your hair, the chemicals you have in, the natural texture of your hair and the condition it is in, you can manipulate your hair to varying degrees when you shampoo. We will describe two ends of the spectrum.

If you have short, naturally straight hair, with no chemicals processes done to it, then you can give your hair and scalp a good scrubbing and suffer little or no damage, or consequences.

If you have long, relaxed and or coloured treated hair, then we ask that you treat your hair as you would a fine silk blouse. Do not scrub or rub your hair while shampooing, it's not necessary in order to achieve clean hair. You may damage the cuticles of your hair in the process. Gently massage the shampoo into and through your hair, working it into lather on your scalp as you gently remove dirt and dead scalp cells. We recommend that you shampoo two to three times, rinsing well between shampoos.

Condition your hair every time you shampoo it. You may not always have time to do a deep condition but there are conditioners that rinse out after only a few minutes and others that can remain in after applying. Conditioning is one of the most important things you can do to upkeep your hair's appearance and health. After shampooing your hair, press the water from your hair, first with your hands and then with a towel.

Always avoid rubbing the hair at all times, as your hair is at its weakest condition when wet. Avoid brushing or over manipulating your hair when it is wet, doing this may lead to breakage. If you have longer hair, always start the detangling process with your fingers first, then move on to a wide toothpick or comb. Avoid pulling and straining your hair.

Conditioners will not repair your hair once it is damaged. They may affect its look and feel, as well as detangle and improve the wet combability of your hair. But they will not repair any structural damage present in the hair.

A reconstructor, if it has been formulated with the proper ingredients, may be able to repair external and internal damage to some extent. It depends on the amount of damage already present.

The use of a leave-in-conditioner is recommended to seal and protect your hair from airborne pollutants, weather elements as well as to help prevent damage from thermal styling tools. Mineral oils clog pores. They should not be used on your hair or scalp as dressings. Read your products ingredients and if you see mineral oil or any petrolatum product as an ingredient, make another choice.

There are many other products that will do a much better job. Ask your stylist to explain the latest products and make a recommendation for your hair type. Hair can be sunburned, be careful of the sun. If you are going to be spending any time in it, protect your hair with a hat or by a applying sun blocking product.

A thermal protection product is a must if you frequently blow dry, or curl your hair with a curling iron. They contain conditioners and polymers that form a protective barrier around your hair that can help it withstand the heat from thermal styling tools.