Growing your hair to tailbone length might seem like an impossible dream for many, but with the right technique and care, this can be achieved through the method of wash and goes. Contrary to some myths, wash and goes are not harmful to your hair as long as your hair is moisturized. In this detailed blog post, we'll walk you through my hair care routine, which is divided into three simple steps: detox, hydrate, and define.
Understanding Wash and Goes
Before diving into the hair care routine, it's important to establish that there's no 'protective style' in hair care. The term protective style often clouds the basic principle that healthy, moisturized hair is protected hair, no matter the style you choose to wear. So let's break down the essentials.
Step 1: Detox Your Hair
The Importance of Detoxification
Your hair, much like a sponge, absorbs all the dirt, pollution, and product buildup from its surroundings. Detoxifying is the crucial first step in any hair care routine, especially for those with low porosity hair.
“Our hair is like sponges and will attract everything in the atmosphere.”
Using a Detoxifying Shampoo Bar
A detox shampoo bar is my go-to for a squeaky clean start. This product clears away the residue build-up, allowing the hair cuticles to lift and properly absorb moisture. This step is paramount for avoiding any negative consequences of product accumulation, which is often seen with low porosity hair.
Step 2: Hydrate Your Hair
Hydration is key to locking in moisture and ensuring that your hair remains healthy and vibrant. This involves using conditioners and leave-in products that penetrate your hair shaft effectively.
Conditions for Different Porosity Levels
Understanding your hair's porosity is crucial for selecting the right conditioner. For medium to high porosity hair, a thicker conditioner like the Restoring Hair Treatment will provide more substantial moisture retention.
Selecting a Leave-In Product
I recommend using a leave-in conditioner with natural oils and butters, such as the Moisturizing Hair Pudding. Not only does this blend include aloe, shea butter, and castor oil, it’s crafted to smoothly coat your cuticles and hold in moisture effectively.
Step 3: Define Your Curls
Defining curls is the finishing step that completes the hair care process. When doing wash and goes, incorporating a gel is necessary to clump your curls for a polished look.
Choosing the Right Gel
The gel used should be enriched with conditioners, such as pro vitamin B5, to prevent drying out. This product ensures your hair stays strong and defined without the negative effects of typical gels.
Drying Your Hair
Sitting under a hooded hair dryer is my preferred method for drying hair, as it ensures gentle drying without weakening the hair, which is common with air drying.
“I define my hair by sitting under a hooded hair dryer. This dries my hair gently.”
Routine Maintenance
Repeating these steps every seven days is ideal for maintaining moisture and avoiding dryness and tangles. Occasionally, variations may occur, but sticking to the seven-day cycle generally works best for healthy and lengthy hair growth.
Conclusion
By consistently following this structured hair care routine, you can minimize breakage, reduce the need for trims, and encourage the retention of length. The above tips and methods work across all hair types and textures. Your journey to stunningly long and healthy hair can truly start today!
Try out these steps, experiment with the products, and share your experiences. I look forward to hearing about your own hair care successes!
