Locks during Lockdown

Contribution by Dr. Stavonnie Patterson, dermatologist and expert in skin of color and black hair care

Covid 19 has changed every aspect of our lives. This includes our hair care.  In an effort to protect us all, hair salons are closed and many of us are needing to adjust our hair care routine.  Like many Black women, I visit a hair salon regularly for styling and maintenance.  I’m on week 4 of quarantine and my hair is telling proof.  My locs have seen better days. I have many friends and coworkers turning to pony tails and decorative scarves. As we are forced to be our own stylist over the next several weeks, below are a few tips to help make it through the quarantine.

1.       Shampoo and condition regularly.  As long and laborious of a process it may be, it still needs to be done every 1-2 weeks.

2.       Moisturize frequently.

3.       Detangle, comb and brush routinely.  Though we may not be going out into public, we still need to comb through our curls and tresses regularly. Use a good detangling conditioner and be gentle.

4.       Take out braids and weaves when it is time. This varies depending on the type of braid/weave, but usually is within 6-12 weeks of having them done.  We may be tempted to leave in braids and weaves longer than usual.  However, don’t leave them in too long. This can lead to hair breakage and an unhealthy scalp.

5.       Avoid tight pony tails.  Many of us may need to rock a pony tail for the next couple of weeks.  Avoid putting too much tension on your hair when pulling it back.  This can pull out your hair, particularly your “edges”, and lead to a condition known as traction alopecia.

6.       Avoid tight braids and twists.  Similar to tight pony tails, tight braids can also lead to hair loss known as traction alopecia. Tension on the scalp from any tight hair style may also contribute to a hair loss condition known as central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia (CCCA).  Remember, your hair style should never hurt.

7.       Chemicals should generally be left to the professionals.  If you have specific questions about your relaxer or color, ask your stylist.

My hair stylist is one of the first persons that I want to see after the quarantine.  Until we all reunite with our stylists, I hope these tips help to make your stylist proud when you meet again.  Don’t forget to support your stylist as businesses safely reopen.