Hair Routines

What is my hair type?

The main hair types are straight, wavy, curly, and coily. Straight hair is naturally smooth and sleek without any visible curl or wave. Wavy hair has a slight curl pattern that can range from loose and subtle to more defined waves. Curly hair has a well-defined S-shaped curl pattern and can range from loose to tight curls. Coily hair has a tightly coiled, zig-zag curl pattern and can range from fine and delicate to thick and coarse. These hair types are often used as a classification system to help people understand their hair and determine the best hair care and styling practices for their individual needs.

 

Hair Porosity - What is it?

Hair porosity is the measure of the hair's ability to absorb and retain moisture. It refers to the cuticle layer's openness and how easily the hair can absorb moisture, oils, and products. There are three types of hair porosity: low, medium, and high. Low porosity hair is resistant to moisture and can be difficult to penetrate, while high porosity hair absorbs moisture quickly but has difficulty retaining it. Medium porosity is considered the most balanced.

 

How Does Hair Porosity Affect Me?

Porosity can affect different hair types in various ways, as it determines how easily the hair can absorb and retain moisture. Low porosity hair, which is often found in straight and wavy hair types, can be more resistant to absorbing moisture and may require extra care to ensure that it stays hydrated. On the other hand, high porosity hair, which is often found in curly and coily hair types, can absorb moisture easily, but may also lose moisture quickly, making it prone to dryness and breakage.

For low porosity hair, it is recommended to use lightweight, water-based products that can penetrate the hair cuticle and moisturise the hair from within. It is also important to avoid heavy, oil-based products that can build up on the hair and weigh it down. For high porosity hair, it is recommended to use heavier, oil-based products that can help seal in moisture and protect the hair from damage.

Understanding hair porosity can also help determine the best hair care practices for each hair type. For example, those with low porosity hair may benefit from using a clarifying shampoo to remove buildup and help the hair absorb moisture more effectively, while those with high porosity hair may benefit from using protein treatments to strengthen the hair and reduce breakage.

Overall, understanding hair porosity is an important factor in determining the best hair care practices and products for different hair types, and can help individuals achieve healthy, hydrated hair.

 

Straight Hair

Caring for straight hair involves several key steps to ensure the hair remains healthy, shiny, and smooth. First and foremost, regular washing and conditioning are essential to keep the hair free of oil buildup and impurities. When washing, it is important to use a gentle shampoo and conditioner specifically formulated for straight hair to maintain its natural shine and moisture.

In addition to washing and conditioning, it is crucial to avoid excessive heat styling, as straight hair can become damaged and prone to breakage. When heat styling is necessary, it is recommended to use a heat protectant spray or serum to minimise damage. It is also a good idea to limit the use of heat styling tools to prevent excessive damage.

Lastly, maintaining a balanced diet and staying hydrated can also benefit straight hair. Nutrients like biotin, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids are essential for healthy hair growth, while drinking plenty of water can help keep the hair hydrated and healthy. By following these steps, those with straight hair can maintain its natural beauty and achieve a sleek, polished look.

 

Curly Hair

Caring for curly hair requires special attention to maintain its natural shape, bounce, and definition. First and foremost, it is important to avoid washing the hair too frequently, as this can strip away natural oils and cause the hair to become dry and frizzy. Instead, curly hair should be washed 1-2 times per week with a sulfate-free shampoo and a moisturizing conditioner.

When drying curly hair, it is essential to use a microfiber towel or a cotton T-shirt to gently blot the hair dry, as rough drying with a regular towel can cause damage and frizz. Additionally, curly hair should be styled with care to avoid disrupting the natural curl pattern. It is recommended to use a leave-in conditioner or curl-enhancing product to define and shape the curls, followed by air-drying or using a diffuser on low heat to dry the hair.

To maintain the health of curly hair, it is important to avoid excessive heat styling and protect the hair from the sun's UV rays. Wearing a hat or using a UV protectant spray can help prevent damage and preserve the hair's natural shine. Lastly, regularly trimming the ends of curly hair can help prevent split ends and breakage, allowing the hair to maintain its natural shape and volume. By following these steps, those with curly hair can maintain their hair's natural beauty and achieve healthy, bouncy curls.

 

Coily Hair

Coily hair, also known as type 4 hair, requires extra care and attention to keep it healthy and defined. The key to caring for coily hair is to keep it moisturised, as this hair type is prone to dryness and breakage. Coily hair should be washed 1-2 times per week with a moisturising shampoo and conditioner, and it is recommended to use a deep conditioning treatment every 2-4 weeks to keep the hair soft and supple.

When styling coily hair, it is important to use a leave-in conditioner or moisturising cream to hydrate and define the hair. Coily hair can be styled in a variety of ways, including twist-outs, braid-outs, and wash-and-go styles. It is important to avoid excessive heat styling, as this can cause damage and breakage. Instead, coily hair should be air-dried or dried with a diffuser on low heat to minimise frizz and maintain the natural curl pattern.

To protect coily hair, it is recommended to wear a satin or silk scarf or bonnet to bed to prevent friction and protect the hair from drying out. Regularly trimming the ends of coily hair can also help prevent split ends and breakage, allowing the hair to maintain its shape and volume. By following these steps, those with coily hair can maintain their hair's natural beauty and achieve healthy, defined curls.

 

Wavy Hair

Caring for wavy hair requires a balance between maintaining the natural wave pattern while keeping the hair hydrated and free from frizz. Wavy hair should be washed 2-3 times per week with a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner to maintain its natural texture and moisture. It is also important to use a wide-tooth comb or detangling brush to prevent damage and breakage.

When styling wavy hair, it is recommended to use a leave-in conditioner or curl-enhancing product to define and enhance the natural wave pattern. Wavy hair can be air-dried or dried with a diffuser on low heat to minimise frizz and maintain the natural shape of the waves. It is also important to avoid excessive heat styling, as this can cause damage and disrupt the natural wave pattern.

To maintain the health of wavy hair, it is recommended to protect the hair from the sun's UV rays and avoid exposing it to chlorinated or saltwater. Wearing a hat or using a UV protectant spray can help prevent damage and preserve the hair's natural shine. Lastly, regularly trimming the ends of wavy hair can help prevent split ends and breakage, allowing the hair to maintain its natural texture and volume. By following these steps, those with wavy hair can maintain their hair's natural beauty and achieve healthy, defined waves.