TEN MISTAKES NATURALS MAKE AND HOW TO AVOID THEM

There has never been a time like this, with so much information at our disposal. It doesn’t matter what it is you are looking for or in what field, you can always find that information online. Instagram, Facebook, Google, specialised websites; there are thousands of places to go for information.

The natural hair world is no different. We are on information overload. It is so easy to get tips about styling, regimens, practices, products, and tools from various websites. While most of these advice are good and come from good intentions, information overload sometimes happens, as well as a lot of misinformation. This is why it is so easy to make many mistakes in your natural hair journey.

Just so you don’t make these mistakes, we’ve complied them for you to take a look at and learn:

Following someone else’s regimen

It is great that people are willing to share their hair care regimen online, and it’s a good thing to learn from such people, but copying someone else’s regimen step for step is a no-no. This is because someone else’s methods may not work for you. As much as there is one huge natural hair community, most things are truly individual. For some people, washing their hair every week is a must because their scalp generates so much build-up. For someone else, washing hair that frequently would be catastrophic. There are basics to natural hair care that we all must learn, but it is important that you never treat someone else’s natural hair regimen as the standard without considering your hair’s own needs.

Purchasing very expensive hair products

When most people transition, they go all out to purchase all kinds of natural hair products without even understanding the ingredient list. You don’t need to buy the most expensive product there is on the market just because you want the best for your hair. This is because that it is expensive does not mean that it is good. Before you buy a product, make sure to read the ingredient list. I advise that you look at the first five to seven ingredients so that you have a good feel of what the product really does. If these are ingredients you are looking for, then by all means go for it. But if you can get a cheaper product with the same ingredient list, why buy the more expensive one? Finally, if these are ingredients you don’t want anywhere near your hair, why buy it?

Obsession with protective styling

Yes, protective styling will help you retain length and prevent breakage. However, one mistake new naturals often make is to become obsessed with protective styling while getting used to their new short do and waiting for their hair to grow out. Don’t make the mistake of installing a protective hairstyle for months on end or for longer than is recommended. It could be more damaging than not having it in.

Overmanipulation

This is the flip side of obsession with protective hair styles. Some of us are obsessed with our newly defined curls that we just want to play around with different styles. Some of those styles need for you to manipulate your hair quite a bit, and over manipulation is not too good for you. As much as you can, try to keep your hair healthy by going for styles that don’t require a lot of combing or pulling to achieve.

Trying to resolve major issues yourself

While it is important that you embrace the DIY/all-natural experience to the fullest, it is also important that you seek help when something doesn’t feel and look right. However, most of us simply Google, read, and seek out natural remedies when confronted with issues such as excessive shedding, bald spots, and hair fall. You, however, need to know that there are times when these things are symptoms of a bigger problem. So, if something doesn’t feel right and your natural remedies are not working, don’t hesitate to consult a professional.

You can visit the Afro Curly Hair Coach here: https://www.theafrocurlyhaircoach.com/haircoaching

Underestimating heat

Using heat once in a while on natural hair is not bad in itself, but when you use heat one time too often, it can set you back on your hair journey. Straighten your hair once in a while if you need to, but don’t do it all the time. And if you must, it is better to err on the side of caution and use a lower heat setting.

Not sticking to what works

We often have to work hard to find exactly what works for our hair. After seeing improvements in your hair’s health and experiencing regular and consistent length retention, why change what works? Yes, there is nothing wrong with trying a new style or shampoo, but I advise that you don’t change your basic routine once you have ascertained that it works. Try a new thing once in a while but if it doesn’t seem to be working or seems to be setting you back, get off it as fast as you got on it.

Comparing your hair journey to others

Why isn’t your hair growing like that person’s? Why don’t you have the same texture? Why can’t your hair do what hers is doing? If you ask yourself these kinds of questions all the time, you are not alone. But it doesn’t make you right either, and this is a major mistake because there are so many things to consider when it comes to hair. Perhaps you think your hair isn’t growing because it’s not the same length as that person’s , but have you considered that their hair may just be giving off that longer length vibe because they have a softer hair texture than you. Please accept the uniqueness of your hair and never compare yourself to others.

Detangling with small-tooth combs

Detangling is a most important part of natural hair care, but it is better to not even detangle than to use the wrong tools such as small tooth combs. This can break your hair and cause split ends. This is why it is important to always use a wide-tooth comb. Also, begin from the tips, and work your way up the length to the roots for a smooth detangling process.

It is also important that you never dry comb your hair. If you need to detangle your hair outside of wash day, add some conditioner and perhaps some water to your hair just to wet it slightly before you detangle.

Avoiding regular trims

Yes, you’ve worked hard for that length and don’t want to lose it. However, you must trim off the split ends of your hair as is necessary. This helps to keep breakage at bay, minimising damage and helping your hair grow strong and healthy.

In conclusion

Now that you have learnt what mistakes to look out for and to avoid, don’t forget the basics of natural hair care. Understand moisturisation and do it correctly. Deep condition your hair. Don’t use the wrong products for your hair type.

And here is one more important thing’ forgive yourself for whatever mistakes you’ve made, learn how to correct them, and then move on. All the while, don’t forget to love yourself and your hair.