How to Care for Dry, Damaged & Weak African American Hair

Dry, damaged, weak African-American hair needs a balanced hair care regimen. Chemical and heat styling may offer convenience, but over time can rob hair of moisture, luster and sheen, thus making it limp and lifeless. A restorative regimen that provides proper nourishment in order to bring it back to life need not be complicated. With some effort and a few extra steps, malnourished hair can thrive once again.

Step 1

Style your hair in a manner that does not involve heat or chemicals. These styling processes are the leading cause of dry, damaged, brittle African-American hair.

Step 2

Purchase the proper comb or brush for your hair types. A wide-tooth comb and wide-bristle brush work best. Avoid small-tooth combs and brushes as these will tear the hair out.

Step 3

Trim away damaged, split ends away to give your hair a fresh start. Trimming your hair every eight weeks helps keep your ends healthy.

Step 4

Shampoo and condition hair at least once a week with shampoo and conditioner specifically formulated to repair damaged hair. Ensure the conditioner you use is the moisturizing kind. Use a clarifying shampoo every four to six weeks to remove build-up from gels, pomades and shampoos.

Step 5

Detangle your hair when it is wet only, preferably after applying conditioner. Combing your hair using downward strokes allows the tangles to fall away easier. Conditioner provides the hair with slippage, allowing for ease of combing.

Step 6

Apply a pomade or lotion to the hair to add moisture, sheen and luster to the hair. Look for products containing natural ingredients such as Shea butter. These types of ingredients provide nourishment to dry, brittle hair. Avoid using products containing alcohol. Alcohol is very drying to the hair and will cause further damage and breakage. Avoid hair products containing mineral oil or petroleum. These products are not easily absorbed into the hair and clump up on hair follicles and cause blockage.

Step 7

Incorporate protective styling options into your hair regimen. Braids, hair pieces, weaves and wigs are all effective ways to style your hair without heat or chemicals.

Step 8

Hydrate your body with at six to eight glasses of water every day to help restore moisture to your hair.

Step 9

Eat a well-balanced diet full of fresh fruit, vegetables and good protein to provide your body with the proper nourishment. Supplement your diet with a multivitamin.