As you know, we’re big advocates for moisturizing hair. When you embrace natural hair, moisture (or a lack thereof) is just part of the package.

Getting natural hair to accept and retain moisture can be exceptionally challenging. No worries, though, as we're here to help you find what works for you.

Healthy, moisturized hair is elastic and much less likely to break. So, if length retention and reduced breakage and shedding is your goal, then increased moisture can go a long way towards your goal.

These are the best ways to moisturize hair.

During wash day

This one’s a given. The best time to moisturize hair is on wash day. All old product has been removed and hair cuticles have been lifted by pH-appropriate shampoo. Apply moisturizer on and styling products on hair saturated with water.

Before going outside

Depending on the environment, being outside for extended periods of time can cause hair to dry out more quickly. This is especially true in dry, arid environments. Before stepping outside for an extended period of time, massage or spray moisturizer onto hair.

Before swimming

Before jumping into the pool, coat hair with moisturizer. By doing this, less chlorine and chemicals will impact your hair, which means less moisture loss.

Before using heat

We highly, highly recommend avoiding direct heat like blow dryers, curlers, and flat irons. However, life happens and sometimes you need to speed up the drying process or you want to style for a special event. If you absolutely must use direct heat on your natural hair, protect your hair with adequate moisture.

Before going to bed

Before you hit the sack, wrap or cover your curls with a silk or satin scarf or bonnet. You may also want to moisturize before wrapping or covering. This simple step will help your hair retain moisture and extend your style.

The most important thing is to listen to your hair. If it feels dry, give it some moisture because moisturized hair is happy hair.

P.S. No matter when or how you moisturize, it’s important that you consider your hair’s natural porosity - the rate at which it absorbs, holds and retains moisture. Later we’ll cover how to determine your hair’s porosity and how it should affect your moisturizing routine.