Common mistakes to avoid when caring for textured hair
Taking care of your textured hair can be a real pleasure… but it can also turn into a headache when you don’t understand what works (or doesn’t) for your hair. Whether you have kinky, curly, curly or wavy hair , we can all fall into a few traps without even realizing it. And that’s normal! The important thing is to understand how to avoid these mistakes to better take care of your hair and finally build a suitable and effective hair care routine .
Not knowing your hair type
It can't be said enough: understanding your hair type (curly, frizzy, kinky, etc.) as well as its porosity , density , and thickness is the foundation of a successful routine. Using an effective product on someone else's hair doesn't guarantee it will be good for you. Your hair has its own needs!
Tip : Take the time to observe how your hair reacts to water, hydration, oils, etc. You can then choose the right hair products for textured hair , adapted to its behavior.
Using products full of harmful ingredients
Many conventional hair products contain ingredients that can be too harsh for textured hair: sulfates, non-soluble silicones, parabens, mineral oils , etc. These components can coat the hair without really nourishing it, cause breakage or even irritate the scalp.
Opt for natural hair products , or at least ones without sulfates, heavy silicones, and controversial ingredients. Your scalp and curls will be delighted!
Washing your hair too often… or not enough
Too many washes with harsh shampoos (often sulfate-based) can dry out textured hair, which is already naturally dry. Conversely, spacing out washes too long can lead to a buildup of products, oils, and impurities that suffocate the scalp.
Balance is key : choose a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo , wash your hair when it needs it (usually every 1 to 2 weeks), and remember to alternate with a co-wash or a gentler cleansing treatment between shampoos.
Neglecting daily hydration
Natural hair needs moisture, and not just on wash day! A common mistake is not moisturizing your hair between treatments. The result: dry, brittle hair with a loss of definition.
Tip : Apply a hydrating mist , leave-in , or light hair cream every two to three days. Then seal in moisture with a carrier oil . It's a simple yet super effective routine for keeping hair soft and supple.
Detangling your hair the wrong way
Pulling out knots with a conventional brush or detangling dry is a recipe for breakage. Detangling textured hair should always be done gently, on wet or well-moisturized hair, with a wide-toothed comb , a suitable brush , or even just with your fingers.
Little bonus : always divide your hair into sections to detangle more easily, without stressing your lengths or your scalp.
Forget the scalp
We often focus only on the lengths, but a healthy scalp is the foundation for healthy hair . Piling on products without ever exfoliating or massaging your scalp can slow growth and cause irritation.
Tip : Remember to gently massage your scalp with your fingertips or a massage brush once or twice a week. You can also use a purifying or gentle exfoliating treatment once a month to remove residue.
In summary
Maintaining textured hair means learning to listen to your needs, choosing the right products, and being patient and gentle. Avoiding these mistakes is already a big step towards healthy, moisturized, and well-defined hair . And the good news is: at Mansa's, we help you find hair products that are suitable for natural hair , effective, and respectful of your texture.
