Clay Care 101- Essential Dos and Don’ts for Natural Hair

If you have natural hair, you know that finding the right products and techniques to care for it can be a challenge. Clay is a natural ingredient that has been used for centuries to cleanse and condition hair. It is gentle, effective, and affordable, making it a great choice for people with all hair types.

Here are the essential dos and don’ts of clay care for natural hair:

Do:

1: Choose the right clay for your hair type: There are many different types of clay, each with its own unique properties. Bentonite clay is a good choice for oily hair, while kaolin clay is better for dry hair. Do some research to find the right clay for your hair type.

2: Mix the clay with water: To use clay on your hair, you need to mix it with water to form a paste. The consistency of the paste should be like thick yogurt.

3: Apply the clay to your hair: Once you have mixed the clay, apply it to your hair from roots to tips. Be sure to massage the clay into your scalp.

4: Leave the clay on for 15-30 minutes: Leave the clay on your hair for 15-30 minutes. This will give the clay time to absorb impurities and condition your hair.

5: Rinse the clay out: After 15-30 minutes, rinse the clay out of your hair with warm water. Avoid using hot water, as this can damage your hair.

6: Condition your hair: After you have rinsed the clay out, condition your hair as usual. This will help to keep your hair soft and hydrated.

Don’t

1: Use clay too often: Clay is a powerful cleanser, so it is important not to use it too often. Once or twice a month is enough to cleanse and condition your hair.

2: Leave the clay on for too long: Leaving the clay on for too long can dry out your hair. 15-30 minutes is the ideal time to leave the clay on.

3: Use hot water to rinse the clay out: Using hot water to rinse the clay out can damage your hair. Warm water is the best choice.

4: Condition your hair before you apply the clay: If you condition your hair before you apply the clay, the clay will not be able to absorb impurities as effectively.

5: Use clay on damaged hair: Clay is a great choice for healthy hair, but it can damage hair that is already damaged. If your hair is damaged, you should avoid using clay.