Why Long Hair?

Comment by Bernice

July 13, 2007 @ 1:36 pm

Hi,

Thanks for the pointers on washing long hair. I’ve been wearing my hair in sista locs for approx five years now. It started out 2 inches long and is now past my shoulder blades. I really enjoy it, and frankly don’t baby my hair. However, lately I’ve begun to swim daily and that means I shampoo daily also. Any pointers for me in caring for my locs when I’m a daily swimmer??
Thanks in advance. God Bless.

Comment by Stephanie

July 13, 2007 @ 9:32 pm

I’ve heard some people say that they lightly oil their hair before swimming. Something light, such as jojoba. Another alternative is to wet your hair first. The idea is that if it is already wet it will absorb less of the chlorinated water from the pool.

Beyond that, glad you’re washing daily so that it doesn’t build up too much chlorine. I’ve always been a fan of periodically changing my shampoo and conditioner. I just have a basic rotation of favorites.

I hope that helps. I’m not a hair stylist, but I love figuring out how best to care for my hair and sharing tips.

Comment by Tracey

January 24, 2008 @ 3:16 pm

Hi,

Can you use this method to wash long clip in hair extensions? or is this generally only suitable for your own hair?

Tracey

Comment by Stephanie

January 25, 2008 @ 1:47 pm

I have no idea. If you wash it the way you do regular hair I would imagine you could use the basic principles.

Comment by Emo Hair

February 3, 2008 @ 5:26 am

What do you think of long emo hair? To be honest I prefer that and it’s not that hard to wash.

For conditioner, I use the L’Oreal one that also preserves the colour naturally.

Comment by Tyciol

February 19, 2008 @ 4:10 pm

I have been doing cold water on the final rinse for a while now. I still prefer to use hot for before and after shampooing though. It’s not just the relaxation, hot water is simply superior for cleaning dirt, and then cleaning the abrasive shampoo out of your hair.

Obviously since conditioners are meant to stay in the follicles somewhat, gentle cold water (I would use less force too, than with high pressure washing) is used so that the excess gently slips out while the cold water closes the follicles around the conditioners it has absorbed.

I do see your point about wanting to avoid hot water altogether though, if you could always keep the follicles closed they could not open and (can they do this?) close onto each other causing tangles. However, in that case, we should also never sweat since sweat is also somewhat hot, and never be out on hot days. Considering how much I enjoy hot showers and these factors, it is too much an inconveniance to avoid hot liquids on the hair altogether.

Comment by Mishelle

September 2, 2009 @ 12:36 am

I have very long hair that is chemically treated to light blonde, and I also do ALOT of swimming in the ocean, which tends to dry out hair very quickly. It has taken me years to find the best products to use, but finally I have gotten a routine that has turned my hair from being very dry and prone to split ends to having my hair silky and beautiful. I have my hair proffesionally lightened, and never do it at home. I found that Aveda has the best nutrient rich colors out there. I use Aveda’s Damage Remedy Shampoo and Conditioner. While my hair is still wet, I apply Morrocan Oil to the ends. This is a pricey product, but is by far the best I have ever used, and the reults from it are immediate! Trust me, if you are going to use any product, use this. It is worth every penny, and is great for all hair types. It smoothes the hair, and the results are drastic. Another one of the best products that I have found for healthy long hair is a weekly hour long application of pure coconut milk. The natural fats and proteins in the milk strengthen and protect the hair, and leave it glossy and incredibly soft. To avoid heat damage and still get that wavy beach godess look, I wash my hair and then take 1/2 inch sections, wrap them into tight wringlets close to the head and secure with a bobby pin. In the morning when I take it out, I spray a salt water mixture that I make (Vitamin E oil and salt water from the ocean) and it is gorgeous every time! I prefer ocean water, but there are some great products out there if you don’t have access. While salt is a little drying, it will give you the hold that you need without having to apply hairspray, which is 10 times worse. This is my routine for long and beautiful, healthy beach goddess hair. Enjoy!