Best Moisturizer for Black Hair

Oil: Best Moisturizer for Black Hair

African-American hair has a tendency to be dry, which is exacerbated by a structure that can make it difficult for oil to properly penetrate both the scalp and the ends of the hair. Thus, you should adopt a daily, weekly, and semi-regular treatment method for your hair to keep it looking its best.

What's Wrong with Petroleum-Based Products

Your grandmother may have used plain old petroleum jelly on her hair and still swears by it. This can be great for really rough patches on elbows and knees, but when you use too much mineral oil or petroleum, your pores will get clogged. What causes acne on your face will create more dryness on your scalp, because as you continue to apply it to clogged pores, they will not absorb the moisture and your hair will be prone to more damage.

Shea Butter and Other Natural Moisturizers

Instead, opt for something like organic shea butter. Full of healing properties, shea butter is one of the healthiest moisturizers for hair and skin alike. Jojoba or papaya oils are also very healthy and popular. You can also try ayurvedic oils found in health food shops and Indian beauty supply stores. Obviously, the texture of the hair is very different, but an ayurvedic-based hair oil will be natural and gentle enough for daily use and will promote softness and resiliency.

You can also moisturize straight from the kitchen cupboard. Coconut, olive, and safflower oils are excellent for the hair and skin. If you need to do a hot oil treatment once a week, try using one of these oils, gently heated in the microwave. Apply carefully from scalp to ends, wrap a towel around your head for about twenty minutes, and then rinse out using lukewarm water.

Moisturizing Basics

While opinions can vary as to the absolute best moisturizer for black hair, everyone is very definite that you can’t just slap some moisturizer on your head, give it a rub, and call it done. When applying oil, massage it gently into the scalp to assure maximum penetration. This also helps to improve your circulation and stimulate the skin’s own natural oils.

To maintain good moisture, don’t wash your hair frequently - for some, that means no more than more than once a week. Washing hair can be very drying to the strands and scalp. You may also want to invest in a silk or satin pillow case. The fabric is softer on your hair, helping you avoid excessive tangles and split ends. It also helps your hair retain more moisture – cotton can wick out oils and conditioners. (Extra note for those who suffer allergies – silk repels mold and dust mites too!)

Moisturizing From Within

Hydrate internally.

By far one of the best moisturizers for black hair, as well as skin, is a diet for healthy hair. Lots of water is good for the whole body and will help keep your hair in excellent condition. On hot days, use a spritzer bottle to cool your skin but also to spray on your hair.

The oils that are so good for external use should also be taken internally. Cook with olive, safflower, or coconut oil to improve the look and condition of your skin and hair. If you are concerned about dietary fat, these are actually some of the best fats you can eat, because they are not saturated and provide essential nutrients.

You should also be sure you are getting your essential vitamins and proteins. Fish, eggs, nuts, and dark leafy green vegetables promote moisture in hair and skin. If you are concerned about getting the full complement of vitamins, there are a number of supplements you can try, many of which are targeted for hair health.

Finally, find a hairstyle that suits your face and hair and doesn’t require an excess of styling or product. This helps you retain moisture and keeps your hair healthy and beautiful.

The best moisturizer for black hair is one that can help hair retain its natural moisture without excessive chemicals or clogging pores. Try different moisturizing techniques to discover the one that works best for you and you’ll soon find you have strong, healthy strands to show off.