pre-poo

What are the uses of Avocado Oil for Natural Hair?

Posted on by Sista Salon Team
Photo by Kenilev Terku: https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-woman-with-afro-hair-while-closed-eyes-12729387/

Introduction

Avocado oil has been used for centuries in various cultures for its nourishing properties, but has recently gained popularity in the natural hair community for its benefits for black hair.

The origins of avocado oil can be traced back to ancient Mesoamerican civilizations, where the avocado fruit was highly valued for its nutritional and medicinal properties. The oil was extracted from the fruit and used for cooking, as well as for skincare and hair care.

Avocado Fruit – By Ivar Leidus – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=114747058

Avocado oil is made from the flesh of the avocado fruit, which is cold-pressed to extract the oil. It is rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals, making it an excellent choice for nourishing and moisturizing black hair.

Avocado Oil – Itineranttrader, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Here are the top 5 benefits of avocado oil for black natural hair:

Moisturizing

Avocado oil is a great moisturizer for black hair, which tends to be dry and brittle. The oil’s high content of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids helps to seal in moisture and keep the hair hydrated.

Repair and strengthening

Avocado oil is rich in vitamins A, D, and E, which are essential for repairing and strengthening damaged hair. It can help to reduce breakage and promote healthy hair growth.

Scalp nourishment

Avocado oil is also beneficial for the scalp, as it can help to soothe dryness and itching, and can even help to reduce dandruff.

Improved manageability

Avocado oil can help to make black hair more manageable and easier to style. Its light and non-greasy texture allows it to penetrate the hair shaft easily, making it easier to detangle and style.

Heat protection

Avocado oil can also protect black hair from heat damage caused by flat irons and other styling tools. Its high smoke point makes it a great heat protectant and helps prevent damage from styling.

Avocado oil is an excellent choice for black natural hair. Its moisturizing, strengthening, and nourishing properties make it a great addition to any hair care routine.

It can be used as a pre-poo, hot oil treatment, leave-in conditioner or sealant. It’s important to note that is always best to use unrefined, cold pressed, organic avocado oil for the best results.

How to protect your Natural Hair during the Winter.

Posted on by Sista Salon Team
Photo by Kenilev Terku: https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-woman-in-a-black-dress-sitting-on-a-chair-14693012/

Protecting natural black hair during the winter months can be a bit of a challenge, as the cold, dry air can strip the hair of its natural oils and moisture, leading to dryness, breakage, and frizz.

However, with the right techniques and products, it is possible to keep your natural hair healthy and hydrated throughout the winter. Here are some tips for protecting natural black hair during the winter:

Use a sulfate-free shampoo: Sulfates are a type of surfactant that can be harsh on natural hair, stripping it of its natural oils and causing dryness. To help protect your hair from the drying effects of the winter air, look for a sulfate-free shampoo, which will be gentler on the hair and scalp.

Use a pre-poo treatment: A pre-poo treatment is a product that is applied to the hair before shampooing to help protect it from the drying effects of the shampoo. This can be as simple as applying a oil or conditioner to the hair before shampooing.

Use a deep conditioning treatment: After shampooing, follow up with a deep conditioning treatment to help moisturize and nourish the hair. Look for a product that is rich in natural oils and butters, such as shea butter or coconut oil.

Use a leave-in conditioner: After styling, use a leave-in conditioner to help seal in moisture and protect the hair from damage. Look for a product that is lightweight and easily absorbed by the hair.

Use a satin or silk pillowcase: Sleeping on a satin or silk pillowcase can help reduce friction and breakage, as these materials are smoother and more gentle on the hair than cotton.

Avoid heat styling: Try to limit heat styling as much as possible, as this can cause damage to the hair and lead to dryness and breakage. When heat styling is necessary, be sure to use a heat protectant product and keep the heat on a low setting.

Cover your hair when outside: The cold, dry winter air can be harsh on natural hair, so be sure to cover your hair when you are outside. Wear a hat, scarf, or hood to protect your hair from the elements.

Avoid washing your hair too frequently: Washing your hair too frequently can strip it of its natural oils and moisture, leading to dryness and breakage. Try to wash your hair every 2-3 days, and use a dry shampoo in between washings to help absorb excess oil and refresh the hair.

Use a humidifier: Running a humidifier in your home or office can help to add moisture to the air, which can be beneficial for your hair. The added moisture can help to keep your hair hydrated and prevent dryness and breakage.

By following these tips, you can help protect your natural black hair from the drying effects of the winter air. With proper care, your natural hair will be able to thrive and look its best, even during the colder months.