Back to Square One - Constructing a Simple Hair Regimen

This post is not only for those who are new to the healthy hair lifestyle, but for those of us with over-complicated regimens that need to be simplified in order for us to carry on on this journey without feeling burdened by all the steps we have to execute.

My Hair Journey

Believe it or not, there are (only) four basic tenets we need to consider when building a regimen; cleansing, conditioning, styling, and maintenance. What, when, why and how you choose to execute each is totally up to you. Let's get to it.

Cleansing

Simply put, this is the means by which your hair is made clean.

• What - you can use clarifying, chelating, sulfate or sulfate-free shampoos. Contrarily, a cleansing conditioner or even a plain conditioner can be used. Additionally, natural products such as clays and ACV (apple cider vinegar) may be employed for this process.
• When - Anywhere from a few times a week to once a month. After a pre-poo, before you deep condition or even after - you decide
• Why - build-up, frequent sweat sessions, to add moisture
• How - in braids, in sections, in the shower, over the sink

Conditioning

This is the act of bringing your hair back to its optimal state.

• What - It may be done by adding moisture, cholesterol or protein.
• When - On a schedule (weekly alternations), or preferably on an as needed basis
• Why - dry, brittle, breaking, stretchy, limp, lackluster hair, maintenance
• How - regular conditioner or a deep treatment, with or withhout heat, for 30 minutes or overnight, before cleansing (pre-poo) or after

Styling

This is the step where hair is transformed and arranged in the manner in which it will be worn for days to come.

• What - air dried, low manipulation, protective style, heat-styled, relaxing
• When - Everyday, once per week, once every 4 - 6 weeks (protective styles), every 12+ weeks (relaxers)
• Why - aesthetics, functionality, goal-oriented (length retention)
• How - tools used: hands, hot tools, rollers and rods, accessories, lye vs. no-lye relaxers, preferred brand...

Maintenance

The means used in the up-keep of the selected style and the optimal condition of the hair.

• What - Moisturize and seal, rebraid, wrap hair at nights, hair-friendly scarf or pillowcase
• When - 2X each day, every day/ night
• Why - prevent hair drying out, keep style in tact, prevent friction/ breakage
• How - M&S, LOC, LCO, oils vs butter, silk/ satin material

Everything else, such as GHE and baggying, oil rinsing, tea rinses, supplements, a barrage of oils, massages, inversions etc are simply add-ons that you can choose to either indulge in or ignore. 

There you have it. A regimen broken down into the four most important steps. 

How do you simplify your regimen? Share your tips down below.

XOXO,

Abbi