LOVE YOUR KINKY HAIR

KINKY HAIR DEFINING CHARACTERISTICS

Displays a springy, tightly coiled or “Z” shaped pattern

ORIGINS OF KINKY HAIR

Homo Sapiens originated on the African continent and it is believed that these early humans possessed the appropriate coily, springy hair texture and dark skin tone to better protect against the sun’s harsh UV rays that are prevalent in that part of our world.  The tighter the hair’s coil, the more volume it has, which prohibits its ability to grow long past the shoulders.  It stands away from the head allowing air to pass between it and the scalp ultimately creating a cooling affect.  (The more humidity in the air, the more the hair stands away from the head)  Also, tightly curled and kinky hair does not hold moisture like straighter hair does.  It dries very quickly and doesn’t stick to the scalp when wet.  This makes for a more comfortable experience in hot, humid climates.  As humans began migrating to other parts of the world, they developed a variety of physical traits to help them adapt to life in other climates.  This is what accounts for the many varieties in hair types and textures that we see today.

KINKY HAIR PROS

Very infrequent haircuts

Built in volume makes you look taller

Hardly ever need to shampoo.  Mostly just condition.

KINKY HAIR CONS

Naturally dry and prone to breakage

Most prone to frizz

Hardest hair type to wear in sleek styles

Needs lots of oils, serums and anti frizz products to keep it hydrated and soft.

Hardest type to wear long.  Tends to shrink up 50 to 80% of its length.

TOP 3 STYLING TIPS FOR KINKY HAIR

1.  Moisturize your hair as much as possible.  Limit shampoos to about once a week (or as needed) and always finish with a strong, very moisturizing conditioner.

2. Oil is your friend.  Serums and oils should be used to help lock in moisture after wetting and conditioning.  Periodically re-moisturize and oil the hair between shampoos.

3. Be gentle with your hair.   Avoid styles that require combing and brushing since it usually results in broken hair.  If you want to wear sleeker, less voluminous styles try buns, braids, twists or something that results in little manipulation.

A KINKY HAIR PEP TALK

If you are a woman who fights with her kinky hair, insisting that it only looks nice smooth and straight or soft and curly, you are wrong!  Begin to embrace the beautiful hair you have by first understanding that the less you do to it, the better it will look.  I know there’s not a woman alive who enjoys slaving for hours over their hair.  We all want to wash and wear our hair and with kinky hair, you can pretty much do just that.  With the right moisturizing routine, you’ll have no need for styling products, brushes and blow dryers.  So this truly is the one thing in life you don’t have to worry about! You’ll also enjoy the extra inches it adds to your height.  Most ladies wouldn’t mind looking taller, so here’s your chance.  Plus it’s a lot more comfortable that wearing high heels!