Moisturizers and Strengtheners
3. Panthenol
Great for moisture because it binds moisture to the hair preventing dryness. This ingredient is a humectant, a detangler, emollient and a glossifier. It is water soluble and can be easily washed out despite rumors that accuse it of leaving a waxy film on the hair strand.
For some people panthenol in products is hit or miss, because even though it leads to great moisture retention it can also lead to frizz or poofiness in hot and humid weather.
4. Ceramides
Ceramides are lipids that fill the gaps in the outer portion of the hair cuticle. They work kind of like glue for the scales of the hair cuticle; they keep the scales flat leading to a healthier appearance and better moisture retention.
For relaxed hair, ceramides are especially important because the cuticles are lifted when a relaxer is applied and ceramides will help to fill in the gaps that are naturally created from the chemical. Ceramides help with reducing friction and damage caused from manipulation and general wear and tear.
5. Glycerol (Glycerin)
Some women like glycerin others do not and some like it depending on whether it happens to be summer or winter, either way it may be used as a way to moisturize dry hair and add slip to your conditioning product.
This ingredient is a matter of preference, if your hair likes glycerin make sure it is high on your list of ingredients so that you can get the maximum benefit of it.
6. Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis)
This healing plant extract has so many health benefits it that it has it’s own separate post here. Aloe Vera is rich in vitamins*, soothing to the scalp and it’s also very moisturizing. In fact it is extensively used in the cosmetics industry for these properties.
7. Cetyl Alcohol
Yes, not all alcohols are drying, cetyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol that is derived from coconut oil* and palm oil and is responsible for making hair soft. It is a great emollient and can be found if many commercial conditioners.
Pamela says
Since I have been natural for a few years now, in the beginning it was growing looking well. Now it’s falling out and breaking off especially the back middle part of my hair………..I have a pic at church attached…….HELP I am 52…..Thanks
Sussa says
I was under the impression to never buy anything that had a hydrolysed protein in it because it was too strong for natural hair. Is this on a case by case basis?