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I just found this site and it is just what the doctor ordered. I've been growing for about 4 months and it's getting really, really poofy (particularly in the A.M. when I'm just climbing out of bed.) Add to that the issue to my hair trying to "flip" on the ends and I look really ridiculous before I've showered. My wife is complaining, but I can handle that. I have a few questions:
1. I'm using a mixture of Silk Effects Anti-poof/Straighten-up shampoos and conditioners, but I'm not impressed. Any recommendations?
2. I've heard some horror stories about using chemicals on hair (like straighteners and relaxers, that sort of thing.) Any opinions on this?
Thanks ahead of time for all replies.
Hey man, glad you found the MLHH. To give a general answer to your questions, I have poofy hair that is also pretty curly, and when I was around 4 months of growth I found that different products didn't necessarily do much to help with the "bigness" and such. You'll probably have to wait a bit longer for your hair to weigh itself down.
Also, don't comb your hair excessively unless you need to get any tangles out, and even then use a wide tooth comb. At 4 months, you probably won't have many tangles at all anyway.
For products/ styling tools that alter the look of your hair, I would advise against using any chemical relaxers/straighteners as they subject your hair to unnecessary stress. Flat irons also can be damaging if used in excess, but once in a blue moon (and done properly) won't cause a problem.
Check out some of the links on the link page if you want to read up on some more common hair concerns.
Peace,
Ryan
Hey CrimsonJazz, welcome to a truley remarkable place for hair advice and encouragment!!!
The best thing to do is try out many differnt brands of shampoo and conditioners...sooner or later you will find one that works the best for your type of hair. As for the poffiness, just give it time, weve all had to go through the same thing. Im a huge fan for Laurel Vive pro (or something like that).
All straighteners and relaxers are somewhat damaging to your hair. I would avoid them at all costs. Even brushing can be harmful if not done properly......start at the ends and slowly brush out towards the ends while including more hair with each stroke. This prevents tangles from being pushed into more tangles.
Peace
clayton
First and foremost, Welcome aboard!
Now, on to the questions. I would advise against straighteners. Straightening ones hair frequently can cause severe damage. I suppose straightening in moderation won't cause damage however I would just avoid the straighteners altogether if I were you. I've never heard of the shampoo that you mentioned. Everyones hair type is different so what works for you might not work for me. I recommend you try different brands and see which one you like most. Me, I use moisturizing shampoos due to my hairs curliness and susceptibility to dryness. I am currently using Loreal Vive pro nutri gloss for medium to long curly hair. Also, Make sure to use conditioner. Shampoo strips the oil from your scalp and hair and conditioner artificially replenishes the moisture. Try to air dry whenever possible. When drying, Pat your hair a few times with a towel to remove the excess water afterwards let it dry by itself. Try to use combs with wide teeth. Whenever possible, Try to finger comb. Never brush your hair when it is wet. Hair is weakest when wet. Try to wash moderately. Don't overdo it. And last tip, Avoid scissors. Don't believe the old wives tale that trimming your hair makes it grow faster. That is Bull Breath! If you want long hair, let it grow and avoid the scissors.
Dear Crimson,
What exactly is your wife complaining about. Tell her you are growing your hair out and you want her support and help. Stay away from chemicals, but depending your your schedule, she can help you a lot.
If you are in a hurry to rush off to school or work, she can use a large round brush, and blow dry your hair into control.
If you are not in a hurry, she can set your hair on large rollers, rulled under, and paradoxically, this will not make curls but will straighten your hair. Preferly let them air dry.
It is not easy to get through the awkward stage, but tell your wife you need her help, and find out why she resists.
Caledonian