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A DIY hair mask for curly hair seems to be just what the doctor ordered when you need a little extra TLC outside of your everyday hair care routine. Sometimes your type 4 hair is begging you for a boost- you know, a hot oil treatment, a good wash and condition, maybe even a blow dry if you’re feeling risky feeling risky.
That’s right, we’re talking about… wash day. Dun dun dunnnn.
Now, the results of a good wash can leave your hair feeling refreshed but let’s be honest- it can be a pain in the butt. Constant combing, hours out of your day. And if you’re not seeing the results you want, it can be irritating to do all that work for nothing!
This DIY hair mask for curly hair doubles as a hot oil treatment and deep conditioner. It is made with natural ingredients that help fight itch, grow and retain length, detangle type 4 hair, and encourage your scalp’s overall health.
Tip: You’re definitely going to want to wash this out. It can smell a little too strong to walk around in the office with.
Ingredients: How To Make DIY Hair Mask For Curly Hair
1. African Shea Butter
When trying to make a DIY hair mask for curly hair, there’s nothing better to use on type 4 hair than a natural ingredient that comes straight from our native land. African Shea Butter is a remedy that our ancestors have been using for centuries. It softens skin, heals cuts and burns, treats skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis, and repair hair from sun and environmental damage.
Make sure you get the yellow one!
2. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil naturally cleans and moisturizes hair. It is antimicrobial, which means it fights threatening germs bacteria, viruses, and fungus from growing on the scalp. It is also anti-inflammatory which means it soothes an irritated scalp.
The smell of this oil can be a little strong but don’t worry. Remember, you’re gonna wash it out!
3. Protein Pack
Did you know that just like the rest of your body, your hair needs protein too? If you remember, this is one of our favorite everyday hair products.
Why? Protein helps increase shine and manageability, decrease breakage, and smooth damaged hair. Plus, it’s made with coconut oil, Tahitian monoi oil, and vitamin E oil for the ultimate moisture boost.
4. Apple Cider Vinegar
ACV is known to decrease hair loss, help with dandruff, flaking, and itch. It’s natural healing properties help balance the scalp’s pH, kill bacteria, and unclog the hair follicles to get rid of build up on the scalp.
Make sure to get natural apple cider vinegar with the mother. That is where most of the health benefits and nutrients come in.
5. Rice Water
Rice water is a nutrient rich hair product that can be made at home with 2 simple ingredients- rice and water. It has been praised and used since ancient times for it ability to grow hair like crazy and fast. Not to mention make it stronger healthier, and reduces split ends.
To make it put ¼ cup brown or white rice (rinse it off) and 1/2 cup water in a sealable container. Let it soak overnight or for 24 hours. Strain the rice out and the water is ready to use.
6. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil feels and smells great, but what it can do for your hair health is even better. It can reduce the effects of damage, moisturize and nourish hair, prevent protein loss, and fight off bad bacteria.
Not only does it help on the inside, it keeps your hair style on the outside looking good. It’s great for taming frizz, reducing flakes, and protects against styling damage.
7. Conditioner (Optional)
Not only is conditioner great for healthily detangling hair, it’s also good for retaining moisture. It also helps add creaminess to the paste.
Directions: How To Use DIY Hair Mask For Curly Hair
- Before washing your hair, mix all the ingredients together in a bowl. Measurements don’t matter much for this recipe, just make sure to put more of the creamy/thick ingredients than the watery ingredients. This way your DIY hair mask for curly hair will be more of a paste than a soup texture.
- Place the bowl in the microwave and heat it until the mixture melts (about 30 seconds to a minute). Tip: Test it on your wrist first to make sure it’s not too hot. It gets really hot and will burn you!
- Use a spoon (or something similar) to apply the paste directly onto your scalp in sections of your hair. Run the and make sure to get it on the ends also
- Allow to sit for at least 10 minutes. You can even comb your hair out while you wait and gently scratch your scalp (optional).
- Continue with your regular wash day routine.
Alright curly heads! Now turn on some tunes, put on your patience, and get started. Your hair will thank you for it! <3
