People with naturally curly and kinky hair have a common problem, FRIZZ! Many curlies, including myself have spent a countless amount of money trying to find the right product and or technique to gain full control of their mane.
There may be an array of different results using a product but the technique in which that product is used may make a huge difference. The same logic can be applied to using oil to moisturize and tame your hair. Naturally, people with curly hair need considerably more moisture than those with straight hair so oils are used regularly within a daily or weekly hair maintenance routine. Oil rinsing is a technique that is highly effective if done properly, it’s all in the technique.
Benefits of oil rinsing:
• Shinier hair
• Softer hair
• Creates and ease in detangling
• Eliminates dryness
• Allows curl pattern to fully take shape and shine through
Process:
After cleansing hair with your favorite shampoo apply oil to hair (I would recommend avoiding the scalp area) and rinse with warm water, rinsing as much of the oil out of hair as possible. Then apply your favorite conditioner and detangle hair. Either proceed by rinsing out conditioner after detangling or cover hair with plastic cap and allow conditioner and oil to further penetrate the hair, rinse out conditioner thoroughly with cold water. Using cold water as a final rinse seals the hair shaft locking in moisture.
Oils:
The type of oil used should be selected based on your hair needs, the season, and the length of time you will be keeping the conditioner on your hair. One of the most highly penetrative oils available is virgin coconut oil. Due to the penetrative qualities and high fat content of coconut oil it is great for both deep and quick conditioning treatments. Coconut oil is highly moisturizing and is known to soften and leave a wonderful scent on the hair. Extra virgin olive oil penetrates the hair well (but not as much as coconut). Olive oil adds great moisture and coats the hair without being too heavy and causing build up. Castor oil is fairly common among women with thicker hair, as it is a very thick, sticky oil but does provide a generous amount of moisture to the hair. Other oils to consider are apricot kernel oil, grapeseed oil, almond oil, and avocado just to name a few.
The best way to discover the best oil for your hair is to try this technique with different oils.
Oil rinsing may not be for everyone and may not be suitable for every wash. Pay attention to your hair needs and it will be clear when your hair needs a little extra moisture. When the season change some people may experience an unusual amount of dryness, after clarifying, or maybe even once or twice a month. Only you will know what is best for your hair and being realistic about your needs as oppose to forcing a trend that is not for you will be best.
