Let’s be clear, every Naturalista wishes for soft, easy-to-maintain hair. While some possess soften hair naturally, others have coarse hair that would need some form of treatment to get it softened. However, it is possible to have naturally soft hair.
The question then is“How can my natural hair be made softer?”It is possible to soften your natural hair at home by using moisturizing agents and following healthy hair care practices. Over time, your hair will be soft.
Let’s take a look at seven easy ways that natural hair can be softened, no matter how hard it is.
How to Soften Natural hair
1. Moisturize your hair regularly
Dryness can result from the loss of natural oils in the hair. Dry hair can make it coarse. For natural hair to stay supple, it needs moisture. To keep your hair soft, you must maintain moisture. You can do this by using a moisturizer, such as water or leave-in conditioning. Then seal in the moisture with butter or oil to prevent it from drying out.
Your hair should be moisturized regularly. Let’s just say it should be at least 3 times per week. Hydration matters. It is also important to get enough water every day.
2. Always do a Prepoo treatment before shampoo
Pre-poo is the process of applying oil (preferably penetrating oils, such as coconut oil), to your hair. Then let it sit on the hair for up to 15 minutes before shampooing. This allows the oils to remain in the hair while shampooing. It also keeps the hair soft and shiny.
3. 3.) Oil rinsing should be done regularly
Another way to soften hair is with this technique. This is a different method than pre-poo, as it is applied to freshly washed hair. Oil rinsing is a method to retain moisture in the hair. Your hair will become softer the more moisture you are capable of retaining. Oil rinsing offers the following benefits
- It penetrates the hair shaft, locks in water and increases moisture retention.
- Improves hair shine
- Softens natural hair, making it easier to manage.
MethodAfter shampooing, massage your scalp with any penetrating oil like coconut oil, avocado oil or olive oil. Allow sitting for approximately 3-5 min. Do not rinse. Continue to apply conditioner. Allow it to rest for 5 minutes before you rinse with water.
Some people enjoy mixing the conditioner and oil together before applying. This works just as well.
4. Caramel treatment
Sounds like eating caramel candy for your hair? LOL, You know what caramel treatment means. Cassandre Benccai, a beauty professional, developed this technique. The treatment uses ingredients that draw moisture from the air.
Method1/4 cup honey and 1/4 cup coconut oil are required. 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar is also needed. 1/4 cup of molasses is required. One ripe Banana. Mix the banana in a bowl with other ingredients. Divide your hair into sections and apply the mixture thoroughly. Cover your hair with a shower cap and let it dry for 30 min. After shampooing, apply conditioner to your hair.
Bonus tipBananas can be substituted with bananas for baby food. It is easier than regular bananas to wash off.
5. Do deep conditioning on your hair regularly
Deep conditioning is the best way to soften your natural hair. If you are able to master the art and practice deep conditioning your natural locks regularly, your hair will soften.
Deep conditioning refers to the process of moisturizing your hair or restoring it with a protein-based conditioner. This is done using heat to freshly washed hair.
The deep conditioner can be applied to freshly washed locks and left to sit for around 30 minutes to one hour. Rinse your hair with lukewarm warm water.
6. Steaming natural locks is an effective way to keep them healthy.
Steaming your natural hair refers to using moist heating to open the hair follicle, lift the hair shaft cuticle and allow conditioners to penetrate each hair strand.
Hair steaming can be beneficial because it helps to hydrate dry hair, leaving your hair silky soft. The moist heat encourages blood circulation, which promotes hair growth.
7. Use Bentonite Clay mask
Bentonite Clay Mask is a miracle mask that will soften your hair and restore your natural hair.
Bentonite clay has a variety of minerals that are beneficial for hair. It softens, conditions, moisturizes, and reduces the appearance of frizz. The clay helps to create curl definition and shine.
Make a paste by combining 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar and 1/2 cup of bentonite clay powder. Distribute the paste evenly throughout your hair. Allow drying for 30 minutes. Do not cover with plastic caps. Rinse thoroughly.
Use this Clay at a minimum once a month, and your hair will feel soft.