The Best Scalp-Care Products for Anyone With Thick, Natural Hair
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It goes without saying that proper scalp care is the foundation of healthy hair. But when you've been blessed with super thick, curly or coily hair, getting to said scalp can be a mission.
Often times, products that are said to be meant for the scalp end up all throughout the hair, instead of where they're intended to go. But that doesn't mean you should breeze over nourishing your roots. And when it is hot as hell outside and your roots are sweating, there is nothing more satisfying than a clean, fresh scalp.
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That's why we tapped Brendnetta Ashley, artist educator at The Salon by InStyle Inside JCPenney along with Candace Witherspoon, curly hair expert and founder of the Candace Witherspoon Salon in New York City to get their expert advice on how folks with thick hair can still give their scalps a little (okay fine, a lot) of TLC.
Their pro tips, ahead.
Getting Down To My Roots Is A Lot. What Are Some Tips and Tricks?
Section, section, section. And yes, this sometimes means before you even head into the shower. But we promise the little bit of extra time is worth it. By using thin parts, you can ensure the product isn't getting lost in your strands, but instead being applied directly to the scalp.
"To ensure even distribution, always massage product on your scalp," Ashley says.
Aside from technique, Witherspoon recommends adding a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner to the mix. She's a fan of the Ecru New York Curl Perfect Hydrating Shampoo and Anti-Frizz Conditioner. "Exfoliating your scalp with a scalp scrub once a week is great, too," she adds.
What Are Some Of the Best Scalp Care Products for People With Thick Hair?
Witherspoon swears by the Black Currant + Blood Orange Scalp Balm from Terre and Botanqiue, which also features sunflower seed oil, while Ashley loves Mizani's Scalp Care Calming Scalp Lotion.
"It's a lightweight hair lotion," the JC Penney stylist explains. "It's perfect to keep your scalp moisturized and great for any protective style."
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I'm a Natural Who's Prone to Having a Dry Scalp, What Products Should I Use?
"Adwoa Beauty Baomint Deep Conditioning Treatment is great for dry scalp," explains Witherspoon. "Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Tea Tree Scalp Treatment Serum will help remove dead skin cells and sooth dry patches, too."
The hair expert is also a fan of the Innersense Organic Beauty True Enlightenment Scalp Scrub, which she says helps to restore hydration back into the scalp.
I'm a Natural Who's More Prone To Having an Oily Scalp, What Products Should I Use?
"Dry shampoo is your best friend," Ashley shares. "It will absorb excess moisture while keeping your hair fresh."
She recommends using Ouidad's Clean Sweep Moisturizing Dry Shampoo. "This dry shampoo will absorb the excess oil but also give your curls a nice shine," she says. "Just spray 6 to 8 inches away from the scalp, massage [in], and you're set!"
OK, I've Gotta Ask: What's the True Secret for a Healthy Scalp?
Well, young grasshopper. Let's just say it's not all about what you use topically.
"For a healthier scalp I would recommend to not over wash," Witherspoon suggests. "Take [supplements] like fish oil, which helps to nourish the scalp, and eat a lot of fruits and vegetables." We always said our beauty comes from within.
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