Special Needs of Ethnic Hair
We are all aware of the visible differences in Ethnic hair, however, few people realize that there are less visible differences as well. The obvious difference, of course is texture. However, ethnic hair also tends to be porous, which means that moisture easily passes through the cuticle layer of the hair. Since ethnic hair is very often coarse, the cuticle layer of the hair shaft is raised, which means that even though it can easily absorb moisture it also loses moisture quickly.
Thus, Ethnic hair needs more specialized care in order to stay healthy. For this reason, products designed for Ethnic hair are formulated with intense moisturizers, oil and fats to help hydrate and lock in healthy moisture levels.
Another major concern for Ethnic hair is breakage. Sixty percent of women with Ethnic hair report this is their number one hair care problem. While you would think that the lack of moisture which caused the dryness would be the major contributor for this problem, but in actuality it is the method in which women with Ethnic hair style their hair that is the culprit. Whether it be from chemicals such as relaxers or heat styling tools like flat irons and blow dryers. Additionally, color or better yet, bleaching is also a contributing factor to damaging Ethnic hair.
As Ethnic hair is traditionally black (or a level 1 in colorist lingo) nearly all hair color changes require some degree of lightening i.e. bleaching. This process needs to be done very carefully. It is not recommended that hair color and/or bleaching be lifted more than 4 to 5 levels from the natural color. Any additional lightening can result in straw-like texture for Ethnic hair, even when done professionally. Attempts to do this by anyone other than a professional could result in hair loss.
For this reason, it is imperative to use products designed for Ethnic hair which are formulated with intense moisturizers, oil and fats to help hydrate and lock in the moisture that Ethnic hair may lose. Gentle shampoos and conditioners which contain moisture rich ingredients should be used along with light oil-based treatments in order to lock-in moisture and to help prevent damage from styling. Finally a deep conditioning treatment should be used at least once a week along with protein treatments on a monthly basis.
Your hair care professional will be able to guide you to a healthy hair regimen! Sanctuary specializes in the needs of all backgrounds and ethnicities and invites you to stop by and meet our team of experts to find a style that’s right for you.
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