You’re no doubt used to having a wash day, whether that’s inside of a beauty salon, leaning over your kitchen sink or utilizing an inflatable basin. But sometimes your hair and scalp require more than a good massage with your favorite shampoo and conditioner. With all the hair oils, fenugreek (or other hair growth remedies), hairsprays and oil sheens you’re already using, in addition to curling irons and flat irons, a hair detox may be what you really need.

Is a Hair Detox for Dreadlocks Only?

For natural hair, a hair detox can help clarify and restore the natural curl pattern or texture of the hair. Being part of the Natural Hair Movement isn’t the only time that a hair detox applies though. While there is a hair detox regimen for people with locks, this hair cleansing procedure can come in handy for those with a relaxer, a silk press, a blowout and a multitude of other black hair types.

What Is a Hair Detox?

The point of a hair detox is to remove buildup of products, toxins and pollutants in your hair. Over time, styling products like gels, oils and sprays can leave hair residue. Even if the hair products (i.e., mineral oil and petrolatum) claim to add moisture to the scalp, they could potentially be doing no favors for your actual hair strands. This buildup can then weigh the hair down, making it look dull and lifeless. Even with the best of curling irons and hair wraps, hair will tend to feel stringy and look stiff on your head. Detoxifying can help remove these residues and restore hair’s natural shine and volume.

Additionally, a hair detox should result in a cleaner, healthier scalp by removing excess oils, dead skin cells and buildup from hair care products. Instead of desperately trying the latest hair growth home remedies, a hair detox can naturally improve hair growth and get better control of dandruff or scalp irritation. A cleaner scalp also allows for better circulation and can help hair follicles function more effectively. Detoxing can also unclog pores, making it easier for hair to grow freely.

After detoxing, hair is more receptive to deep conditioners, natural oils and serums. This makes treatments more effective, helping to repair damage and hydrate the hair.

How Do You Do a Hair Detox?

The good news about a hair detox is it’s not overly complicated and is something you can do from your own home. There are a considerable amount of products such as clarifying shampoos that can be purchased for a black hair detox. Or, stick to the basics in which you already know the ingredients: apple cider vinegar rinses.

Hair detox with clarifying shampoo (monthly maximum): Wet your hair thoroughly, and apply the product. Then, massage it into your scalp and work it through the hair. Rinse thoroughly, and repeat if necessary.

Hair detox with apple cider vinegar (ACV) rinse: Mix one to two tablespoons of ACV with a cup of water. After shampooing your hair, pour the ACV mixture over your scalp and hair, then gently massage. Let it sit for 2–3 minutes before rinsing it out thoroughly. Follow this up with a deep conditioner to restore moisture, especially considering relaxed hair tends to be drier. Choose products with ingredients like shea butter, avocado and oils (coconut, argan, etc.) for hydration. Leave the product on for 15–30 minutes, preferably under a plastic cap or heat, to allow the ingredients to penetrate.

How Do You Protect Your Hair After a Hair Detox?

The tricky part about a hair detox is while it removes buildup and toxins, it can also do a number on hair moisture. While it still needs to be washed and conditioned, the scalp produces natural oils to maintain cleanliness and keep hair shiny. Apple cider vinegar helps to strip away leftover and unwanted products, but it also strips away these natural oils you want to keep. If a hair detox is done too often, it can lead to thinning and breakage of hair.

After a hair detox, you’ll want to restore any lost protein from detox treatments (and chemical relaxers). Although this is not required, another option (on top of deep conditioning) is to use a protein treatment or a strengthening mask once every four to six weeks, especially if your hair feels weak or brittle. Follow the instructions on the product carefully to avoid protein overload, which can lead to dryness or breakage. Then, give your hair a break. Consider protective hairstyles such as braids, twists and updos to keep hair healthy and minimize breakage.

Can a Hair Detox Ruin a Hairstyle?

For women with straight hair from presses and relaxers, detoxing too frequently can defeat the purpose of these styles. By a hair detox restoring your natural curls and hair type, the “straight” look may be more difficult to maintain if you do a hair detox too often. The goal is to have balance. While you don’t want a hair detox that permanently strips your hair of natural oils and leads to dryness, you also should have the option of maintaining whatever healthy hairstyle you choose. Balancing hair detoxes with moisturizing and nourishing care is the end goal.

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