Rekindling the beauty of Afro Hair
Assalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh, dear sisters,
Type 4 hair is a beautiful blessing from Allah, with its unique texture and strength. It requires special attention to keep it healthy and thriving, especially when it’s often covered under the hijab.
Today, I want to share a hair care routine that aligns with both the needs of type 4 hair and our Islamic values.
Wearing the hijab is an act of worship, but we must also remember to nurture what is underneath. One important Sunnah to incorporate into our routine is braiding our hair, as the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ (peace be upon him) encouraged.
By braiding, we avoid hairstyles like “camel humps” that are discouraged and also prevent tangling and unnecessary damage.
Step 1: Cleanse with Jamaican Black Castor Oil Shampoo
To promote growth and maintain a healthy scalp, start with Jamaican Black Castor Oil Shampoo. This product is ideal for cleansing type 4 hair, which often requires a balance of thorough cleaning and moisture retention.
Benefits of Jamaican Black Castor Oil:
• Boosts Hair Growth: Its rich omega fatty acids nourish the scalp, improving blood flow and stimulating hair follicles.
• Strengthens and Protects: Helps repair damaged strands and reinforces the hair’s natural resilience.
• Seals Moisture: Its thick consistency locks in hydration, reducing dryness and brittleness.
How to Use:
1. Wet your hair with lukewarm water.
2. Massage the shampoo into your scalp, focusing on removing buildup.
3. Work the lather through the lengths without roughing up the hair.
4. Rinse thoroughly, then repeat if needed for extra cleansing.
This step ensures your hair and scalp are clean while remaining hydrated and nourished.
Step 2: Deeply Nourish with Cantu Conditioner
After cleansing, it’s time to hydrate and strengthen your strands. Cantu Conditioner is a favorite for Afro-textured hair because it delivers intense moisture and helps detangle knots effortlessly.
Why Cantu Conditioner Stands Out?
The inclusion of avocado oil makes this conditioner perfect for type 4 hair:
• Hydrates Deeply: Avocado oil is rich in fatty acids and vitamins that penetrate the hair shaft, providing long-lasting moisture to dry and coily hair.
• Softens and Detangles: It smooths the hair strands, making combing easier and reducing breakage and tangles.
• Nourishes and Protects: Packed with vitamins A, D, and E, avocado oil strengthens the hair and supports a healthy scalp while shielding hair from damage caused by environmental stressors.
How to Use:
1. Apply the conditioner generously to your hair, focusing on the ends.
2. Use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to detangle gently.
3. Let it sit for 5–7 minutes to penetrate the hair shaft.
4. Rinse with cool water to lock in moisture and add shine.
This step ensures your hair is soft, manageable, and less prone to frizz.
Step 3: Protect Your Hair Under the Hijab
Protecting type 4 hair under the hijab is crucial to maintaining its health. Using a silk or satin undercap is an easy way to prevent the friction and dryness caused by cotton or other materials. These fabrics help retain moisture, reduce breakage, and keep your hair feeling soft and healthy all day long.
Additionally, always braid your hair under the hijab instead of tying it in a bun. This small act not only aligns with the Sunnah but also prevents unnecessary tension on the scalp and reduces tangling.
DIY Hair Care for Sisters on a Budget
For sisters who prefer a more affordable approach, here’s a simple and effective DIY routine:
• DIY Shampoo: Mix 1 cup of water with 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar and 1 tablespoon of castor oil. This cleanses the scalp gently while promoting hair growth.
• DIY Conditioner: Blend 1 ripe avocado, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 2 tablespoons of coconut milk. Apply this to your hair after shampooing and leave it on for 10 minutes before rinsing.
• DIY Leave-In Moisturizer: Combine 2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel with 1 teaspoon of argan oil. Use a small amount to hydrate and define your hair after washing.
These natural alternatives are nourishing, easy to prepare, and highly effective for type 4 hair.
Incorporating the Sunnah into our hair care routine is a beautiful way to honor our faith and care for ourselves.
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ (peace be upon him) encouraged braiding as a practical and protective way to care for hair, especially for women. He also warned against styles like “camel humps,” reminding us to approach modesty with sincerity and care.
By braiding your hair and protecting it with a silk or satin undercap, you’re not only caring for your hair but also earning rewards for following the guidance of Islam.
It’s important to remember that self-care is an act of gratitude. When we care for the bodies and features Allah has blessed us with, we are engaging in worship by appreciating and maintaining His creation. As Allah says in the Quran:
“Indeed, We have created mankind in the best of forms” (Surah At-Tin, 95:4).
Let this be a reminder that caring for your type 4 hair, whether with premium products or homemade solutions, is a way to thank Allah for the unique beauty He has entrusted to you.
With love and duas,
Your sister in faith