As a woman who has been natural for my lifetime, I have noticed the trends: co-washing, banding, fros, dying the back of the hair, cutting the hair, dying hair outrageous colors and others.
Most naturals want to try the newest hairstyle out there, but fear keeps us maintaining the same ole style year after year.
If you want to try a trend, do it but I am here to give you some cautionary tips for those of us, who are like me and are scared to try something new.
Ask a professional first
I love DIY, but I am not trying to have my hair burned off because I left chemicals on it for too long. Please consult a licensed professional before trying anything that uses harsh chemicals for color or straightening your hair.
A professional may be able to warn you if your hair is too damaged to pursue chemicals. Professionals can also tell if your hair is strong and healthy so please heed their advice it will save you money, and hair in the long run!
Get to know your hair type
I know a lot of you have read articles on why hair typing is not suitable, but actually hair typing can save you a lot of trouble.
If you know that the YouTuber you follow has a 3b and 3c hair type, then you should not expect your 4b and 4c hair to come out looking the same way when you use the same process she/he does.
Know which products your hair likes
Your hair responds to certain products by its growth rate, the amount of healthy luster it has, its softness, and shine.
You will want to examine the products you put into your hair to make sure that the products you use are working correctly and according to the product description. Additionally, you want to change the products you are using according to the changes you have made to your hair.
This means that if your hair is chemically treated you will need products high in protein as well as use techniques that will give your hair its normal balance.
