This is one which may seem strange to people from north America or elsewhere, but in Zambia and I am sure many other countries, most people do not see the sense of conditioning their hair. They will buy shampoo and wash their hair, but conditioer is only for special treatments and steaming etc. So, the conept of co-washing is completely foreign.

In my hair-care regimen, I do not co-wash because it is my understanding that shampoo and conditioner serve two different purposes. One takes something away and the other puts something back or leaves something behind when it is washed out of the hair.

I choose my shampoo and conditioner based on whether or not it is made for African hair. This means, unless it is a product specially formulated for black people, I need to buy the range for dry and damaged hair. The idea is to nourish, replenish and restore moisture to my hair. No matter what you may think, normal hair or fine hair for white people and normal hair or fine hair for black people are two COMPLETELY different things.

That being said, not all shampoos and conditioners are the same. I have learned to choose based on how a product makes my hair feel and look (and because I have a sensitive stomach, to a certain extent, how it makes my hair smell).

I wash my hair once or twice a week and no matter how rushed I am, I NEVER skip conditioning my hair. In fact, if really pushed for time, I would rather co-wash and skip the shampoo. As much as possible (at least every three weeks), I try to pre-condition my hair with coconut oil, either overnight or for a few hours, usually when I go to church. I just stick a big duku on my head, over the shower cap and pray on.

The shampoo in the picture is Organics range by UniLever. Ever since my relaxed days, through my dreadlocks and into my natural era, this conditioner especially has served me faithfully. While you can look for the paraben and sodiumlaurelsulphate free products, this works just fine.

Incidentally, if you happen to be in South Africa, head into to any major supermarket, they do stock the Tresemme Naturals range. Major value for money for a massive bottle at only ZAR70. The Body Shop also has sulfate free shampoos and conditioners (at a price).