Happy Tuesday y’all!

In this edition of Hair Tip Tuesday, we’re briefly exploring the proper uses of certain products for moisturizing your hair versus what you might use to seal.

What is Moisturizing?

Some synonyms for moisturize are dampen, drench and saturate… words associated with water. Simply put, to moisturize means “to make wet”. Therefore, true moisture comes from either water itself or products that are water-based. You’ll know if your product is water-based if the very first ingredient is good ole H2O. Many leave-in conditioners have this makeup and are great follow-ups to your wash session. Aloe vera juice has also proven to be an effective moisturizer.

p.s. Don’t neglect moisturizing your hair from within by drinking lots of water!

Sealing… What’s That?

Let’s be clear: oils and butters DO NOT moisturize your hair.

These are sealants and which are most effective if used while the hair is slightly damp and/or after applying your leave-in or moisturizer of choice to trap or seal in that moisture. If your hair is prone to dryness and you only apply an oil or butter without having moisturized it first, you’re basically sealing in dryness which does nothing for the health of your hair. Instead of having the elasticity associated with healthy hair, it will continue to be susceptible to breakage when manipulated. Dryness is the top cause of breakage for naturally coily/kinky hair so you’ll wanna make sure that you stay on top of this if you want your hair to thrive.

Take a look back at this article for more tips on properly moisturizing your strands!

Tell me, how do YOU retain a good amount of moisture in your hair? What are some of your favorite products to get the job done? Share below! 

xoxo

Toia B.