Dear ZedHair,  Which Products should I use for my natural hair?  

Part 2: Co- washing In Part 1 of this series on product choices we discussed various products used for cleansing the hair and scalp. It is not always necessary to use products specifically designed for cleansing and some natural opt to wash their hair with conditioner. This is known as co washing. The kind of conditioners used for this purposes are those with instructions to wash out of the hair after a few minutes rather than deep conditioners. As a result of the natural hair movement there are now a few conditioners that are specifically for cleansing.

These conditioners are used after shampoo or as co washes. They tend to be primarily moisturising conditioners which help to soften hair.

PROS

• Gentler than Shampoo

As you will see if you have read Part 1 it is not always easy to find products that are both gentle on the hair and cleansing. Co washing is a good way to avoid some of the harsh chemicals that can be found in shampoos. Conditioners are generally used to add nourishing nutrients to the hair while shampoo takes product away; however, conditioners also have cleansing properties.

• Quick and Easy

Whether you use shampoo with or without sulphates chances are you will have to pre-poo to protect your hair from drying. Co washing cuts on the dreaded wash day by eliminating this step. It is a great way to wash your hair in between shampoos or when you don’t have much time. I always recommend that newly naturals co wash because going natural can be a daunting experience even without having to become immediately accustomed to new hair products.

• Softer Hair

If you choose the right conditioner you may have an easier time keeping your hair moisturised and soft. CONS

• Product build up

This is not necessarily a problem if you are co washing as part of a regimen that includes shampoo or other clarifying products. If you choose to exclusively co wash then it is best to use a silicone free conditioner. This is because silicones coat the hair stand and can cause build which leads to an itchy scalp and dry hair. The build up may also prevent nutrients from entering the hair strand. Silicone can be quite deceptive in that they make the hair look shiny and fell soft without necessarily keeping it healthy. Read more about silicones here.

TRESemme Natural Conditioner

There aren’t many silicone free conditioners available in Zambia. TRESemme Naturals is the most popular as it is available in most leading supermarkets.

Do you have a question about natural hair care? Send an email to mwanabibi@zedhair.com