Years ago, when I started in this curly thing, I believed in certain principles that I no longer follow or believe to be absolutes.
Here are some common myths I not only believed but also taught them. Looking back on my first online curl course, which I launched in 2016, I have changed my opinion on some of my own rules.
- Don’t shampoo your hair. It was a “cleanse.” Shampoo was a detergent, and your hair was fine wool, and it didn’t need to be laundered.
I did this on myself first, for almost two years. I found that my natural oils didn’t adapt. I had started with an oily scalp and remained the same—more oily, which resulted in flat.
- Avoid all butters and oils. They both repel water, and water is magic.
Those who have taken online courses with me will say, “wait a minute. You still talk about not using these ingredients”. I probably have a post somewhere saying the same thing.
Let me be clear and break this down further.
Back in the day, it was a NO—a hard pass.
Now, I just don’t want people to rely on them to solve their problem areas.
I will still recommend that clients avoid excess butters or oils in the first 30 days of practicing hydration.
I need to avoid those ingredients in the top 5, or my waves will fall straight.
Yet, when used sparingly or adequately, I no longer say that there isn’t a place for them.
I’ve toned down my rules and prefer to use the term guidelines.
- No silicones. I would teach how to examine your products for anything ending in xane or cone. Avoid at all cost was the advice I passed out.
I use them. I just do.
Many clients would have amazing hydrated hair, and I found them using Kirkland brand shampoo and conditioner. Yes, they loaded in silicones, but the hair was excellent. Also, it helped make my clients’ life more manageable. As a lifestyle teacher, this was important.
