If you are new to having natural hair you might find that you have a few basic questions about hair styling, and general hair care here are some perfect tips.

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How do I do a successful braid/twist out?

There are 3 elements to a successful twist or braid out style:

• The size of the twists or braids. If your twists or braids are too big or too small, the style won’t look right. You need to experiment with the size of the sections you use to create the wave or curl pattern that you like best. In general, if the braids or twists are too small you will get a crimpy looking style, if they are too big, you might not get the amount of waves or curls that you were hoping for. A general good size for longer hair is to have a twist or braid that is about 3/4 inch thick.
• The products used. You want to use the proper moisturizing and shine products so that the resulting texture in the curls or waves is shiny and it holds. You will need to experiment with the amount of hair gel or shine serum to use on each braid or twist to achieve the desired result. Straightening serums for flat ironing or blow drying often work very well for these styles even though you aren’t applying heat.
• The dryness of the hair when the braids or twists are removed. Make sure that your hair is completely dry before removing the braids or twists. Its best to set under a bonnet hair dryer to get the hair properly dry. Otherwise you have to allow it to air dry for a significant amount of time.
• It’s a good idea to take pictures and note the products and technique that you use every time you try a new style so that you can recall what worked or did not work and duplicate or make adjustments the next time.

What are the best coloring products for natural or transitioning hair?

When coloring natural hair it is important to look for coloring products with non-peroxide and non-ammonia. That usually narrows it down pretty fast. Hair coloring without those ingredients is least damaging to the hair. If you are going from light to dark, covering grays, or are going red you might also try henna. Natural henna powder will also work for darkening or reddening. You’ll have to experiment with which colors work best with the natural tones and highlights in your hair. Henna also adds the added benefit of conditioning and strengthening your hair.

How do I prevent knots in kinky hair?

You can prevent knots by avoiding a lot of manipulation of the hair, keeping your hair in protective styles, and keeping your hair moisturized. It also helps to sleep with your hair covered with a satin scarf and sleep on a satin pillowcase. Also, whenever you comb out your hair, make sure to do so when it is wet with conditioner in it. Don’t try to comb through dry hair. This causes breakage which can leads to knots in the frayed ends.

How do I prevent or cure frizzy ends?

The best prevention for frizzy ends is proper moisturizing and proper care. Never comb or brush your hair when it is dry. Twisting your hair and then sealing the ends with an oil and moisturizer mix is a great way to tame frizzy ends. Other things to make sure of are to:

1. trim or get your hair trimmed on a regular basis (every 6 – 8 weeks)
2. avoid too much combing, brushing, and manipulation
3. wear protective styles often and be sure to moisturize while your hair is in the style

How do I roll or set my hair without getting frizzy ends?

Use end papers to cover the end of the hair before you put it on the roller. Also add a bit more of product to the end of your hair and smooth it out over the roller before you roll it up. This is also a great way of moisturizing and sealing your ends to protect them.

What is the best way to curl kinky hair?

The absolute best way to curl kinky hair is doing a twist out style using pipe cleaners to curl the ends. If you want a more straightened look, blow dry the hair then twist and use pipe cleaners.

What is the best way to blow dry natural or transitioning hair?

You need to have a quality hair dryer, preferably with adjustable heat settings and with a comb attachment. After that, your main goal is to dry your hair quickly and with minimal breakage. Section your hair then work from tip to root combing/blowing through each section until it is dry. Don’t put on any product except heat protectant until after the hair is dry. Having product on the hair causes it to take longer to dry.

How to flat iron my transitioning or natural hair?

To flat iron or straighten your hair you want to make sure that you have a blow dryer with a comb attachment, a very good flat iron, and the following products:

• straightening serum
• anti-frizz product
• heat protectant
• moisture block
• natural oil

Beyond using the correct products, you’ll also have to use the right technique especially to make sure that you do not cause damage to your hair. Use the lowest heat setting that will still straighten your hair. Make small sections and run the flat iron over your hair from root to tip. Only pass the flat iron over your hair 2 or 3 times.