IT’S NOT A SECRET: MOISTURIZING VS. SEALING

Licensed psychotherapist, best-selling author, and blogger, Curly Nikki, discusses the difference between moisturizing and sealing natural hair for her Hair Tip Tuesday. This simple and straight forward explanation can come in handy when looking to choose products that work best with your hair.

“What is Moisturizing?

Some synonyms for moisturize are dampen, drench and saturate… words associated with water. Simply put, to moisturize means “to make wet”. Therefore, true moisture comes from either water itself or products that are water-based. You’ll know if your product is water-based if the very first ingredient is good ole H2O. Many leave-in conditioners have this makeup and are great follow-ups to your wash session. Aloe vera juice has also proven to be an effective moisturizer.

p.s. Don’t neglect moisturizing your hair from within by drinking lots of water!

Sealing… What’s That?

Let’s be clear: oils and butters DO NOT moisturize your hair.

These are sealants and which are most effective if used while the hair is slightly damp and/or after applying your leave-in or moisturizer of choice to trap or seal in that moisture. If your hair is prone to dryness and you only apply an oil or butter without having moisturized it first, you’re basically sealing in dryness which does nothing for the health of your hair. Instead of having the elasticity associated with healthy hair, it will continue to be susceptible to breakage when manipulated. Dryness is the top cause of breakage for naturally coily/kinky hair so you’ll wanna make sure that you stay on top of this if you want your hair to thrive.” – Curlynikki.com

Sealing in my hair’s moisture is the best way I retain my hair’s length, health, and shine. My favorite moisturizers are Original Moxie’s Everyday Leave-in Detangling Conditioner and Eden Body Works Coconut Shea Leave In Conditioner. My go to sealing products I love are Shea Butter, Jojoba + Castor Oil mix, and Grapeseed oil.

 I am always on the hunt for new products to add to my collection. What products do you use to seal and moisturize your hair?