I grew up viewing photos of my parents with big, beautiful afros in the 70s and 80s. Photos. I had my first relaxer in the early 90s. I spent 2 more decades with relaxed hair until I moved to Cincinnati for my internship and residency. I barely had weekends off. I had absolutely no time to drive to my hometown, Cleveland, where my favorite salon was located. I cut my hair prior to moving here. Out of pure lack of time, I allowed my hair grow back in its natural state. It is daunting that I did not remember my hair in its natural state. It was like meeting a childhood friend as an adult and asking what types of things they are into these days. I found out that my hair is in the type 3c. It curls in a cute pattern but also gets tangled and forms knots. I learned that trimming every 8 weeks helps prevent knots. For the past decade I have allowed it grow longer than I usually would tolerate. Every few years, I would cut it short because my relaxed hair was flat and boring. My natural hair is always interesting. It reminds me of those photos of my parents from prior times. However, I reached my breaking point during pandemic times as I have not been able to have it trimmed regularly. I almost asked my husband to cut my hair into a fade like he does for himself. Then I discovered the power of weekly hair masques and deep conditioning. This “wash day” hair routine saved me:
- Wash and rinse hair with Aussie Miracle Moist Shampoo, Target 2.99 for 12 oz
- Apply treatment. I prefer either:
- Dr. Miracle’s “Feel It” Formula Deep Conditioning Treatment, Amazon 11.87 for six 1.75 oz packets
- SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Treatment Masque, Amazon 9.89 for 12 oz
- Detangle with wide tooth comb or brush
- Sit for 30-60 mins with your hair in a shower cap (I soak in the tub for this part)
- Rinse hair
- Apply SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Leave-In Conditioner, Target 9.99 for 11.5 oz
- Detangle, style
Just in time for Valentine’s Day, I hope that I can help you avoid any home fade experiments with your partner. Best wishes on your hair journey!
Dr. Anisa Shomo
Owner of Health is Love Co.
www.healthislove.com