Wash Day and Four Shampoos under 12 dollars

WD = Washday #Poo

Every natural needs an effective hair routine that includes a good shampoo for WD (Wash day). It took me several months of hard times and dry hair to figure out what works for me and my mane piece. Coincidentally the most common question I get asked is what type of shampoo do I use…so I gather this is a very common issue for transitioners, and the newly natural. By the way I did not BC (Big Chop)I transitioned. This choice poses a unique set of obstacles depending on what condition your hair was in when you decided to check into CCR (creamy crack rehab). Therefore I decided to share the information that has gotten me to this point.

The frequency of your WD depends on your hair texture, the styling products you use and the condition of your mane. You may poo (shampoo) as often as you want too. Naturals that use heavier products, stylers and
butters may shampoo as often as once a week or prior to every styling session. Clean hair works best or me. So I like a WD just before I get a new style.

If you are the minimalists (one that uses lighter products) you may need to shampoo less frequently. Using the wrong products is a sure way to get to an unscheduled WD. If the product is not working well on your hair or makes it too kinky, greasy, or crunchy for your liking…a quick WD will give you a restart.

I shampoo when my is hair sticky or if I am getting a new style. Usually this is about every other week. Then I co-wash (use conditioner as a shampoo) at least once a week. I saturate my hair with conditioner, then rinse until the water runs clear. Usually I do this twice then spray my hair with vinegar and water then rinse out. I know a lot of people frown about not using shampoo but all I can say is don’t knock it until you try it. I may do a post about co-washing in the future. There has been so much said about it, all I can do is speak from my point of view. It works!

Additionally I will share some information about reasonably priced shampoos that work great for natural hair. Here are four shampoos under 12 dollars that you can get anywhere.
If you have chemically-treated hair, one of the best shampoos without sulfates is by Carol’s Daughter. This moisturizing shampoo not only reduces frizz, but it also gently cleanses and adds moisture to thirsty tresses without weighing hair down. You’ll love the hydrating properties of this gentle shampoo and the addicting vanilla fragrance! You can get it at Target for under 11$

Naturals with curly locks will love this sulfate-free shampoo from Shea Moisture. Shea Moisture makes a great line of organic hair care and skin care products for the family. Try this curl and shine shampoo to moisturize, protect hair from heat and chemical damage, and strengthen add shine to thick, curly hair! Find this at most drugstores for about $10.

Organix is another line of sulfate-free shampoos, conditioners and body care products. Their newest product from their line of hair care is Biotin & Collagen. This shampoo without sulfates also does not contain any parabens and is gentle on color-treated hair. If your hair is thin or feeling lifeless, this shampoo can help add volume and strength to your hair. It is often between 8 and 10$

I also love Mane ‘n Tail shampoo. It is an expensive shampoo. This one is not free, but it has co-surfactant (sealers that prevent drying. I have been using this since High School, and yes it really is intended or horses. Although there are many claims about this product making you hair grow, I can’t verify that. What I can say is it certainly softens your hair after just 1 or 2 uses. You can find this at most drug stores for under 10$

No matter how often you shampoo, moisture retention should be a top priority.

Pre-poo or not to pre poo, deep conditioner treatments, moisturizers, and leave-ins’ these are some of the topics I am researching now. Please stay tuned and feel free to share any questions, suggestions and comments. I look forward to sharing this journey with you.