Learn to Moisturize Your Curls

During the year hair can become dehydrated from exposure to the seasonal elements . To keep your hair healthy and hydrated all year round , you need to take these few simple steps to keep your curls soft and manageable.

First:  Apply a deep condition mask two to three times a week

This may sound excessive but hydrating hair by using a deep conditioning treatment two to three times a week is an important step in summer hair maintenance. A deep conditioning masque is normally left on your hair for 15-30 minutes (maximum of 60) to penetrate the hair strands. Apply the deep conditioning mask to the ends and mid-shaft of your hair and then work into the root area.  Partially rinse, keeping 50% of the conditioner in to coat and protect hair from all of the drying elements that summer can bring.   Be sure to look for products that contain moisture-enhancing ingredients like olive, sesame or sunflower oils, and Glycerin.  Products like Orbie Signature Beautiful Color Masque and Matrix Biolage Aqua-Immersion Crème Masque contain some of these ingredients and are generally good choices.

Second: Use a moisturizing shampoo

Some shampoos can strip hair of its natural oils and moisture. To rejuvenate and hydrate summer hair, be sure to use a sulfate-free shampoo that is specifically designed for dry, curly hair. Just be sure to purchase a moisturizing shampoo that does not contain sulfates in the list of ingredients. As a general rule I always recommend that my curly girls shampoo only when their scalp feels like it needs it. Normally, I only shampoo my hair once a month when my scalp starts to feel dirty.  My hair stays clean, soft and beautiful following the moisturizing treatment I outlined in the first step.

Third: Never rub your hair vigorously with a towel as this can cause tangles and break your hair, particularly if it's already dehydrated. I often use a pillowcase to dry my curly locks.  It’s a great way to gently and lightly remove excess moisture.

Follow these three simple steps and you will be well on your way to beautiful, summer hair.