Most of our curly and kinky haired girls will understand the struggle of natural hair shrinkage. Depending on your hair type and hair porosity, curly hair can shrink up to 90%! 

But what is shrinkage and why is it actually considered a good thing? 

Shrinkage is the decrease in length when your hair goes from wet to dry. It’s a completely normal sign of healthy hair as it shows your hair is properly moisturized and has good elasticity. Without shrinkage, our hair would not have the definition and texture that makes our crown unique. 

Whilst we encourage you to embrace your natural hair (shrinkage and all) there are ways to minimize shrinkage. 

Photo credit: @gigibellaa

1. Choose The Right Products

Firstly, it comes down to your hair care routine. Choose products that contain nourishing ingredients designed to moisturize and strengthen your hair. Applying a deep conditioner such as our Banana Nut & Avocado Deep Treatment, will keep your hair strong and moisturized. Our Hemp Flaxseed Curling Jelle with Agave Nectar provides a strong hold while sealing in moisture and shine for elongated curls.

2. Use a Heat Protectant

Never let heat touch your hair without a heat protectant. Heat Straightening natural hair without a heat protectant is a No No. Why? Because heat can permanently change the structure of protein and hair is made of lots and lots of protein. Once the protein bonds in the hair have been destroyed by heat, the hair will no longer curl or shrink into its natural shape. Ensure that your hair is properly coated with a heat protectant before adding heat. 

3. Stretching with Heat

Stretching hair with heat is a popular go-to solution. If you’re really looking to maximize your length, a blow-out is your best option although it’s important to prep your hair with a deep conditioner and heat protectant before blow drying. An alternative to a full-out blow dry is to let your hair dry about 80% and blow dry your roots on medium heat. This will result in a little more length but will keep your curls intact down the shaft. 

4. Protective Styling

If you’re looking to stretch your hair without heat, there are various hairstyle techniques including twists, braid outs, low bun, rollers, banding, bantu knots and African threading. These styles allow you to manipulate your hair by stretching it to its true length in order to combat the natural shrinkage

Magical anti-shrinking products don’t exist, but you may reduce this phenomenon with the help of the right hairstyle techniques and products.

Looking for a deep conditioning treatment to strengthen and moisturize your hair? Check out our range of conditioning treatments here.