Wednesday, May 23, 2012

Keep It Simple, Sexy: Cleanse > Cowashing


 



Keep It Simple, Sexy
Use my K.I.S.S. Method to Build a Solid Healthy Hair Regimen

Hello Beautiful Ones,

Now that we have discussed Step 1 and Step 2, I would like to discuss the third step, Cleansing. This is a very important step of the K.I.S.S. Method. The goal is to remove dirt and product build-up. The goal is for your hair not to feel stripped- maintain natural oils.

In this post, I will discuss only Co-washing for those who prefer this cleansing method over shampooing.

Let’s take a look at the K.I.S.S. Hair Regimen:

Ideally, this process should be done every 7-10 days…

Section Hair

Detangle Hair

Pre-Poo (Optional)

Cleanse Hair >>>Co-wash (optional)

Deep Condition Hair

Moisturize and Seal Hair

Protect Hair


Co-washing is another name for conditioner washing. This is a hair washing method that skips the shampoo stage. Your hair is cleansed with conditioner instead of shampoo. Most women prefer to co-wash because it provides an easier comb-through because it is a moisture-boosting washing method.. It also helps maintain your natural oils. Unlike some shampoos, co-washing reduces the negative effects on hair that harsh sulfate-based shampoos can cause.

Since I workout daily, co-washing is a great way for me to cleanse my hair that will not cause dryness or a tight-scalp feeling. I mainly co-wash in the shower to remove dirt, sweat, and product build-up. Afterwards, My hair feels soft and moisturized and it makes styling easier. Under time constraints, I co-wash when I don't have time to do the entire K.I.S.S. Method.

You can co-wash if your hair is relaxed or natural, although it is mainly used in the natural hair community. Most naturals prefer this gentle cleansing method because natural hair tends to be dry and requires moisture constantly.

Using this method, the hair is simply washed with warm water using a gentle, light-weight conditioner.  Most conditioners on the shelf include gentle cleansers in their formula. Conditioners of this type will do deposit heavy films on the hair strand and  will remove dirt easier. You can co-wash effectively for long periods of time as long as your moisturizers and oils remain light to moderate in use.

The main obstacle in co-washing is managing product buildup on the hair strand. Since there is no shampoo being used, weekly products, especially those containing heavy oils, will build up on the hair strand. If this happens, the hair strand may refuse moisture. This can lead to hair breakage. I recommend using a clarifying shampoo occasionally, at least once per month and the other three weeks in the month you can follow a shampoo free regimen to manage issues with product build up from only co-washing.

Next week I will discuss Part 2 of the Cleansing phase... Shampooing.

I hope this information helps.

Good luck on your hair journey!

Luv,

Hair Kitty Kitty

Reference:
Audrey Davis-Sivasothy, The Science of Black Hair: A Comprehensive Guide to Textured Hair Care, ( Stafford, Texas: Saja Publishing Company, LLC, 2011).

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