As we approach the new year many can’t help but to make resolutions and set hair goals. It’s just something about January 1 that screams fresh start. With all of the good intentions of reaching your goals, sometimes the best thing to do is take on a challenge to keep you accountable.
So grab a few of your curl friends or even some of your relaxed sistas and take on one or all of these 5 hair challenges to jumpstart your 2016 hair goals!
1. No Heat Challenge
As I personally have taken on a vow to apply no heat to my hair in 2016 until my 27th birthday in July, I am automatically entering myself into this No Heat Challenge. All you have to do is set a range whether it be 90days, 6 months or a year and commit to no heat, easy right?!
You can decide what exactly this means on an individual level. Some may say no heat means no straightening with a flat iron*, no blow drying (including diffusing) and no sitting under a hooded dryer* while others may just say no to straightening. Either way it’s a challenge and its fun to see how committed you can remain!
Try other techniques to stretch your strands like banding or try diffusing your wash n’ gos with cool air.
2. Protective Style Challenge
Another challenge you could try is the protective style challenge. I typically do a period of using a protective style at least 2 months out of each year. My go to style is box braids. With proper maintenance these work the best for me. I like that I can still wash my scalp and keep nicely oiled as well.
Other styles you could try are sew-ins, Marley twists, faux locs and/or crochet braids just to name a few. Have one of these styles installed and you can typically go for a couple of months.
Between styles ensure that your are properly caring for your hair by cleansing it well and applying the necessary treatments. This challenge does not mean going 2 years with the same sew in! Give your hair a break from the frequent manipulation and protect it with a long term style. I can guarantee you will see how it will flourish underneath.
3. Castor Oil* Challenge
The castor oil challenge is a common one that is typically done all throughout the year. Because castor oil* carries ricinoleic acid and omega- 6 essential fatty acids, which accelerate blood circulation to the scalp, it is known to promote healthy hair growth.
One of the top hair goals for many women out there is to gain more inches to their strands. All the more reason to take on this challenge.
The challenge consists of repeatedly applying castor oil to your scalp and strands for a period of time, typically 1 to 6 months or longer.
Besides hair growth, you can also expect your hair to have a healthier appearance after regular use including shine and moisture retention.
I’ve been two strand and flat twisting since day one. Bored with that moving on to roller and rod sets. First try today was a fail but try, try again!
I’m excited about the new year! I already have crochet braids now and will continue the protective styles until at least my birthday (July). I’m now going to add the castor oil as well after reading this article. Thanks for the info!