PSA: Black Women.

Going natural has been one of the most eye-opening experiences for me. I learned so much that I should have known a long time ago.  Black hair is different and needs different products and care.  

The Golden Rule: 
Many products that are marketed to Black women are not really good for Black hair. 




Now this was one of the most difficult things for me to understand.  It meant that 95% of the products on my dresser were going into the trash.  It was difficult but it was all for healthier hair.  Knowledge is power ladies.  Be an educated shopper and know what to look for.


1.  No Sulfates!


-Most shampoos contain harsh sulfates that strip your hair of it's natural oils.  When your hair is stripped, this leads to breakage and dryness.  Many shampoos that are "created for Black women" contain sulfates.  My favorite example is the Pantene Pro-V Shampoo for "Relaxed and Natural Hair."  The second ingredient is Ammonium Laureth Sulfate.

Harsh Sulfates to look out for

• Sodium Laurel Sulfate
• Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
• Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
• TEA Lauryl Sulfate
• TEA Laureth Sulfate

2.  No Mineral Oil or Petrolatum!


Take a second to look at the ingredient list of the products on your dresser.  In many of these products, you will see mineral oil or petrolatum listed.  This is not good!  Mineral oil and petrolatum are two of the most common ingredients found in moisturizing products for Black hair. 


Mineral oil and petrolatum coat the hair and actually end up keeping moisture out.  Think of when you use vaseline on your skin.  Water beads up on your skin.  For permed hair, keeping moisture out is usually seen as a good thing because if that water gets in, your hair will revert.  For natural hair, getting moisture inside the hair shaft is key.  In addition, research shows that these products containing mineral oil and petrolatum clog pores and end up stunting hair growth. 


3.  No Alcohol!     '


 "Avoid products with alcohol, especially if you have a perm or colored hair.  This will only dry out your hair."  
This is something that I have read over and over in my research but am still learning about. I encourage you to do your own reserach as well and post the info that you find.  I have found many differnt opinions on the topic of alcohol so maybe not "No alcohol"..  


Here is a very helpful piece about how alcohol works with your hair.


These are all of the must-knows for now...more to come.