AFRO HAIRDRESSER IN NEWCASTLE

How often should I wash my Afro hair?
As a general guideline is every 7-14 days. Over-washing can strip natural oils, leading to dryness, while under-washing can cause product buildup and scalp issues. If it feels dry, wash it less frequently; if it feels greasy or itchy, wash more often.

Why is my Afro hair often so dry?
Afro hair's natural oils from the scalp (sebum) have a harder time traveling down the tightly coiled, spiral-shaped hair shaft. This makes it prone to dryness. Combat this by: Using a Leave-In Conditioner: After every wash. Sealing with Oil: As part of the LOC/LCO method. Protective Styling: Wearing buns, braids, or wigs to minimize manipulation and environmental exposure. Deep Conditioning Regularly: At least once a week with a moisturizing deep conditioner.

What is the difference between moisturizing and protein treatments?
Moisturizing Treatments: Provide hydration and soften the hair. Ingredients include water, glycerin, aloe vera, and lightweight oils. Use these frequently to maintain flexibility and prevent breakage.
Protein Treatments: Strengthen the hair shaft by filling in gaps and cracks in the cuticle. Ingredients include keratin, collagen, and amino acids. Use them sparingly (every 4-8 weeks) or when your hair feels overly soft, mushy, or stretchy. Balance is key; too much protein can make hair brittle.

How can I reduce breakage and retain length?
Gentle Detangling: Always detangle on damp, conditioned hair using your fingers or a wide-tooth comb, starting from the ends and working up to the roots. Low Manipulation Styles: Wear styles like twists, braids, and buns that don't require daily combing. Satin/Silk Protection: Always sleep on a satin or silk pillowcase or use a bonnet/scarf. This reduces friction, which causes breakage.

Is coconut oil good for Afro hair?
Look for products made for curly or coily hair. Good things to find on the label are shea butter, coconut oil, and aloe vera. These ingredients help keep your hair from getting dry..

How can I get more defined, bouncy curls in my afro?
Wash your hair with a shampoo and conditioner. Your curls will look best when they are damp, and ready to soak up product.
Use a curl cream or gel made for textured hair. Look for ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, or aloe vera. These add moisture and hold your curls in place without making them feel hard or crunchy.
Part your damp hair into 4-6 sections and clip them up. This makes it much easier to ensure every piece of hair gets enough product and attention.
Take a small amount of your cream or gel and smooth it through one section of hair at a time. Twist small sections around your finger ("finger-coiling").This will help the curls form.
You can let your hair air dry for a natural finish. For faster, bouncier results, use a diffuser on your hair dryer on a low heat setting. Tying your hair up loosely in a high puff (a "pineapple") while it dries can also help keep the shape.
Once you've styled it, try not to play with your hair! Too much touching creates frizz and messes up your curl pattern.
On days you don't wash your hair, you can bring your curls back to life. Just lightly spray them with water or a leave-in conditioner mix, then gently scrunch them with your hands to reshape them.

How often should I come back for a haircut to keep my Afro hair looking stylish?
To keep your Afro hair looking stylish a good general rule is to come in for a trim every 8 to 12 weeks. Afro hair grows outwards and upwards. A regular trim keeps the shape, whether it's a round,tapered, or a geometric shape. Getting regular trims also stops split and keeps your hair healthy. Waiting too long can make your haircut lose its shape and lead to more breakage. Coming too often might not give you enough time to enjoy your hair's growth and natural volume.
If you're growing your hair out, you might stretch to 12 weeks to maximize length. Trimming the very tips is still key for health.
If you have a very precise cut you may need to come more frequently, like every 4-6 weeks, to keep the lines crisp.