Chemical-free Hair

Penny's back with some tips for those of you who have decided to go 'au naturale' and get chemical-free! More and more Penny has been approached by those who have given up the 'creamy crack.' That's right...chemical relaxers seem to be addictive for many.  But they can also be very damaging to the hair over time. Although hair relaxers give hair styling flexibility, and manageability, women today are opting for better health in the form of natural hair and products. Not only are most women looking for ways to manage their natural hair styles...they are also looking for more natural and/or organic products to do so with. The first step to "going natural" is to stop all chemical treatments. Temporary treatments (things you can wash out) are okay. (Read full story...)

The fastest way to get rid of a chemically relaxed hair is to cut the relaxed hair all off of course. But most women don't necessarily want to go instantly short and natural. Going short will help you avoid some of the more frustrating phases of managing your new hair growth. However, if you plan to grow your hair out gradually, here are some key things to remember:

• Practice a good hair care regimen which includes shampooing and conditioning hair regularly. Penny goes through this process weekly using various moisturizing shampoos and deep conditioners. The best products are those that are natural and/or organic, sodium lauryl sulfate-free and paraben-free.
• Use moisturizing products. Penny does not believe that you can over-condition your hair. Pamper your hair with things that lock in moisture which helps to promote growth. Not just deep conditioners, but there are several leave-in conditioners and styling aids that are moisturizing.
• Pay attention to your scalp. If necessary use products to prevent dry scalp, dandruff, and any other scalp irritation possibly caused by other chemicals.
• Trim your ends on a regular basis. This should be done at least every six to eight weeks preferably by a professional.
• Wear "protective hair styles" when possible. Protective styles will cause the least amount of stress on the weakest part of your hair, the line where relaxed hair meets new growth. Protective styles will also keep the ends of your hair from drying out. Styles that are beneficial during the growing out process include buns, ponytails, braids and twists, but try not to pull the hair tight too often.
• Minimize your use of heat styling products that may cause the hair to dry out or become weakened. If you're like Penny, you don't mind wearing natural styles, but every once in a while you want to spice things up with a 'relaxed' or straight style. Be sure to always use a 'heat/thermal protection' product before using blow dryers, flat irons, curling irons, or hot combs on your hair.
• Most hair problems comes from using hair product that contains mineral oil or petroleum which clogs up the scalp and prevent it from hair growth. You can buy hair oils like rosemary or coconut oil because it is not only natural but stimulates hair growth and keep the hair moisturize and full of sheen.
• Be sure to use hair accessories that don't pull or break your hair off.
• Be patient. It is said that hair grows an average of one-half inch per month.

In my previous post you will find several websites with product lines that cater to natural hair. Many of those products are also considered natural and/or organic. Other product lines to aid in your 'grow out' process include:

• KeraCare - (they have a great product for dry itchy scalp. http://www.avlon.com/)
• Creme of Nature - (they have a good moisturizing shampoos)
• Motions - (they have a new natural line with Marula Oil)
• Aphogee - (they have a good products for damaged hair)
• Keratase - (Oleo-Relax line treats dry, course hair, is pricey but  has gotten great reviews)
• Pantene Relaxed and Natural - (they have a good conditioning/moisturizing products)
• Queen Helene or Lekair Cholesterol - (deep conditioning treatment; a Penny pick!)

If you need tips on specific products, let Penny know.

Penny asks that you please share your favorite products and additional tips if you have been successful in your attempt to go natural. Penny and the posse would be grateful. Hope this was helpful.

Be blessed. Be beautiful.