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Meet the Experts
Pat Grant Williamsis a hair educator and Creme of Nature hairstylist.
What Is Natural Hair?
Justin Lambert/Getty Images
(And yes, some Black people have naturally straight hair as well.)
This means frequent conditioning and moisturizing and as little direct heat as possible to maintain optimum health.
Hairstyles that work especially well with natural textures include:
How to Color Natural Hair?
Jimena Roquero / Stocksy
“There are three main categories of color, semi-permanent, demi-permanent, and permanent.
Semi-permanent colors last six to eight weeks based on a weekly shampoo and conditioner.
These colors gently fade away, will not lighten the hair, and are formulated to deposit color.”
“The semi-permanent colors are mixed with a low volume developer and last up to 12 weeks.
These color formulations can give a gentle lift.”
Since semi-permanent colors can lift your natural hair color, following-up with a weekly deep conditioner is essential.
Grant recommends conditioners that will help to bond the hair after color applications.
Is Texturizing Safe for Natural Hair?
They usually contain the same active ingredients as relaxers, just in lower amounts.
Is Heat Styling Safe For Natural Hair?
Some womenconstantlypress their locks, however, and over time, their manes become heat-trained.
To prevent damage, apply a heat protectant.
In addition, to prevent heat damage, Grant has a few suggestions.
For starters, using a leave-in conditioner is non-negotiable.
Next, be mindful of how and when you blow-dry your hair.
“Do not blow-dry hair that is really wet.
Hair is in its weakest state when wet.
Always air dry partially before adding the blow dryer.”
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