Can shampoo really damage your hair?
For those of with natural afro styles - black and
African American hair - watching out for damage has
become a way of life. The physiology of black hair
is naturally very kinky and tightly wound. And
though natural oils are in abundance, it is very
difficult for those oils to work their way down the
follicle shaft.This means we suffer from excessive
dryness...resulting in breaking near the root and at the
ends. Thus, we are destined for a life of applying
oils, washing and cleansing half or less than the rest
of the (white) population.
To compound issues, many
"black" hair products are made with
inexpensive shampoos. Really...I challenge you.
Go to your local beauty supply store...start at the
least expensive shampoo and work your way up to the most
expensive. Look at the ingredients label and look
for sodium lauryl or ammonium sulfate...or possibly TEA
or Tea sodium chloride.
All are very harmful to the skin and scalp and make
our hair drier, more prone to breaking and will quickly
strip color treatments.
To guard against many of these problems, many stylist
recommend using
hydrating sulfate-free shampoo.
The non-sulfate products protect from damage, are
color-safe, and increase moisture in the follicle.
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