Dermatologists recommend the following tips to keep Black hair healthy:
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Wash your hair once a week or every other week to prevent a build-up of hair care products that can dry out your hair.
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Use conditioner every time you wash your hair, especially on the ends, which are the oldest and most delicate part of your hair.
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Consider using a hot oil treatment twice a month to add extra moisture and elasticity to your hair.
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Always use a heat protecting product before styling your hair to reduce heat damage.
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Be cautious with relaxers and visit a professional hair stylist to ensure safe application. Touch-ups should only be done every two to three months, and never apply relaxer to previously relaxed hair.
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If you choose to press or thermally straighten your hair, use a ceramic comb or iron no more than once a week. Use a straightening device with a temperature dial to ensure you're not overheating your hair, and use the lowest possible temperature setting that achieves your desired style. Thicker, coarser hair may require a higher temperature, but exercise caution.
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Make sure braids, cornrows, or weaves are not too tight. If you feel any discomfort during the styling process, ask the stylist to adjust it to prevent damage.
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Finally, if you notice any changes in the texture or appearance of your hair, see a board-certified dermatologist. Even the slightest bit of thinning can be the start of hair loss, and early diagnosis leads to more effective treatment.
Summary:
This article explains that Black people's hair is unique and fragile, making it prone to damage and hair loss. More than half of African American women cite hair thinning or hair loss as their top hair concern.
However, there are several things one can do to help minimize hair damage and keep hair healthy, such as washing hair once a week, using conditioner, using a hot oil treatment twice a month, using heat protecting products before styling, being cautious with relaxers, using ceramic combs or irons to press hair, and making sure braids, cornrows or weaves are not too tight.
It is also important to see a board-certified dermatologist if any changes in hair texture or appearance are noticed as early diagnosis of hair loss can lead to effective treatment.
