Confession: I used to dread wash days because they only seemed to bring me a headache. I braid my hair often, so it can be pretty sensitive and hard to detangle once I undo the braids. I would spend hours just combing through the knots and crying out in pain. Since meeting a hairstylist this summer who's familiar with my hair type and taken the time to educate me, I now know that the right products make everything a breeze.
In a not-so-surprising turn of events, I've come to cherish the ritual of washing my hair. From the prewash treatment that softens it to the deep condition that nurtures it, I've learned about the products needed in each step and the purpose they serve. No matter where you are in your natural journey, I bet you'll find something from this list that will nourish your scalp and make you look forward to wash days, too. I'm finally sharing my secrets, so get ready to take notes.
This Terre & Botanique Pre-Wash Scalp Treatment ($6) is made from natural ingredients that hydrate your hair while adding shine and promoting growth. These include ginger, fermented rice, and coconut water. I massaged it into my dry hair and let it sit for at least 15 minutes, and it softened plus moisturized my hair.
Anything from SheaMoisture delivers results, and this SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Shampoo ($4) is no exception.
I also like to use this SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Moisture Retention Shampoo ($12), which I'd recommend in a heartbeat.
This SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Growth Leave-In Conditioner ($4) deeply hydrates your scalp, making it so easy to style your hair postwash.
If you have a lot of product buildup and damaged hair, use this SheaMoisture Strengthening Shampoo ($12).
Soften and detangle your hair easily with this SheaMoisture Strengthen and Restore Rinse Out Hair Conditioner ($12).
I like anything from Mielle Organics, and I'm planning to add this Mielle Organics Avocado Moisturizing Hair Milk ($15) to my beauty arsenal.
You'll swear by this Mielle Organics Styling Gel With Honey ($16) for your sleek hairdos.
Show your scalp some love with this Cantu Tea Tree Jojoba Hair Scalp Oil ($6).
If you lay your edges often, you know how important a good edge control is. This Cantu Extra Hold Edge Stay Gel ($6) will do the trick.
Before a blow-dry, use this Cantu Shea Butter Thermal Shield Heat Protectant ($5) to reduce any potential heat damage.