Hair Products: The Good and The Bad

There are numerous products out there marketed to women of color. Hair serums guaranteed to make our hair grow, conditions that promise to treat our damaged hair, and shampoos that supposedly give our hair the shine we've always wanted are some examples. Since I started my natural hair journey (last relaxer May 2007) I have questioned the promises many hair care products have on their labels.

I am a firm believer that as black women we should be skeptical of products made by people who do not know a thing about our hair. We live in a new era; there is a resurgence of black female entrepreneurs who like Madame C. J. Walker are creating hair care products for us. However, these women are raising the bar and creating hair care products for our natural hair using natural ingredients. It can't get better than that.

Here are a few quick tips that have worked for me when deciding on hair products:

Read the labels. If you cannot pronounce the ingredients, more than likely there may be things in the product that are not good for your hair.

Avoid Sodium Laureth Sulfate or Mineral Oil. One of the two most common chemicals found in hair care products. They're very drying and strip the hair of its natural moisture.

Sistah Support. Research hair products created by women of color. Kinky Curly, Carol's Daughter, and Miss Jessie's are some examples.

Cost Efficient. If all natural hair care products seem too expensive, look for hair products that are cost effective that minimize damage to your hair.

Experiment. I love ramsacking my pantry and refrigerator for everyday household products that I can mix together and use on my hair. Remember you know your hair best, so do what works for you.

 Until next time ladies remember:

Within every black woman is a story, if she never tells it, you'll never know the woman. So black women tell your story or no one else will.

Peace and Stay Blessed!