Did you know the average drugstore hair-care aisle displays more than 600 products? This can be so overwhelming for anyone on the hunt for hair care products.
I know navigating this world of hair products can be pretty tough for anyone learning to care for their own hair for the first time. I definitely was there, but I learned a few things along the way, some of of which I want to share with you now.
Learn your hair
I’m not only talking about your curl type, like 3b or 4c, but really learning your own hair. Learning and knowing your hair is a big part of determining what products are best for yo
curl type (the amount of wave/curl in hair), hair texture (thickness/width of individual strands), density (number of individual strands close together on scalp), porosity (how hair strands retain moisture), and moisture and protein balance (balance in strength and retained moisture of hair) are all important things to know about your own head.
Once you find out what ‘kind of hair’ you have specifically, you will be able to know what products you will need to look for and create an effective hair care regimen to continue on your healthy hair journey.
Decide on your styling options
Not every product is great for every style, which is good to know. When you learn your hair and find out what you actually need, determine what products and styles would be best for you and your lifestyle.
Are you interested in low manipulation styles or protective styles? Do you like to switch your styles up on a weekly basis or do you like to leave your hair alone for a long-term duration?
When you plan what styles you are most interested in, that will help you to know what products to purchase. You may need some gel, but not a mousse or you may need a few co wash products, but just one clarifying shampoo*. Most naturals tend to have fewer shampoo’s than they do conditioners because natural hair tends to be dry.
Know exactly what you need in a product
Once you find out what ‘kind of hair’ you have and what styles you want, then you can move on to searching for products. Searching and trying out products can be fun, but also expensive.
There is nothing wrong with being a product junkie and finding out what works for you, as long as you are a smart one.
Does your hair react well to protein, if you have fine hair then your hair might like products that have a little protein in them.
If you have low porosity your product cabinet might have a ton of moisture based products and only one or two protein based ones.
