You might be blowing out, relaxing or braiding your child’s hair for convenience, but that could be harmful in the long run.
Parents are usually careful when it comes to the food their children eat, but, are rarely vigilant about the damage certain hair products and styles might cause to their child’s hair and health. Generally, a child’s hair and scalp is extra sensitive compared to an adult. Inadequate care can harm their health. Dark and Lovely professional expertise field and national education manager, Hanson Ndabeni, says you should never use adult products on your kids.
Product Care
Most products that are formulated for adults have chemicals that are too harsh on a child. This is because children have a soft and sensitive scalp, which is still developing. Using products designed for adults could harm them. ‘Always opt for products with natural ingredients because they come in different textures and porosities, and will be gentle on your child,’ Hanson says. Nevertheless, there is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to haircare regime for children. Shampoo and condition the hair from a toddler age, using a mild and sulphate-free shampoo to cleanse. Moisture, Hanson adds, is the most important factor to healthy hair and due to the natural dryness of our hair, over-washing it can also cause damage. You should only relax or use chemicals to soften or straighten your baby’s hair when they are older than 10, he advises. And even then, only use products formulated for children; hair dyes are harsh and should never be used on them. Hanson says you can even wash your child’s hair with the same products you use to bath them. He adds that aqueous cream is also a great option because it is gentle, and helps to restore nutrients.
Hair Extensions
Due to the sensitivity of children’s scalps and hair, extensions leave their hair brittle and broken. They cause pressure on the hair and roots, which can ultimately lead to hair loss overtime, with a condition called traction alopecia. Hanson suggests that you grow your child’s hair with minimal manipulation to avoid breakage.
Repair
You can rescue damaged hair by shaving it off, especially if the roots are not damaged. Hanson adds that allowing the hair to grow will help repair it, and reverse the breakage process. Additionally, you should seek professional or medical assistance for a damaged scalp.
Written by Keletso Modisakeng
Also see: Winter care for natural hair
