Natural hair is a crown, but even the most regal curls need care and attention.
For Black men, growing and maintaining healthy natural hair can be a journey filled with trial, error, and learning what your hair is telling you.
The good news? Your curls will always give you signs when something’s off. You just need to know how to read them.
- Excessive dryness
If your hair feels like straw no matter how much product you use, it’s likely lacking moisture. Natural hair tends to be drier due to its tight curl pattern, which makes it harder for natural oils to travel down the strands. Skipping regular conditioning or not sealing in moisture with oils or butters can leave your hair thirsty and brittle.
- Breakage and shedding
Seeing a few strands here and there is normal. But if you’re noticing a lot of breakage, especially short pieces of hair on your pillow, shirt, or in your comb, your hair might be weak or over-manipulated. Too-tight styles, lack of protein, or even sleeping without a satin or silk bonnet or pillowcase can contribute to this issue.
- Dull appearance
Healthy curls have a natural sheen. If your hair looks dull, lifeless, or grayish instead of vibrant and rich, it could be due to product buildup or lack of proper cleansing. Using a sulfate-free clarifying shampoo every few weeks can remove residue and revive your curl’s natural shine.
- Scalp issues
Your hair is only as healthy as your scalp. Flakiness, itching, bumps, or soreness are red flags. These can result from neglecting regular scalp cleansing or not moisturizing the scalp properly. Tea tree oil, jojoba oil, and scalp massages can help restore balance.
- Lack of curl definition
If your curls aren’t popping like they used to, it may be time to re-evaluate your routine. You might be missing a step like deep conditioning or using the wrong styling products for your curl type. Sometimes, your hair is simply crying out for a trim to remove damaged ends.
Learning to read these signs early can help prevent long-term damage. With consistency and the right products, your natural hair can thrive, full of life, definition, and pride.
