4 Natural Hair Care Tips for Fathers

By Natural Hair Kids | 

Many times when it comes to black hair care, the narrative that is told is usually all about the struggles women have with regards to dealing with their natural hair. But the truth is, men oftentimes experience the same struggles. There are daddies all across the world, whether single or married, who are trying to understand how this natural/curly hair thing works. If you’re a father of a curly kid, then this post is definitely for you!

 

1. Get Educated

 

Curly/natural hair is very unique and needs to be handled with care. Most people aren’t just born with the natural ability to care for natural hair. Luckily, there is plenty of information out there to help you deal with your child’s delicate natural mane. Comb through our blog, search forums online, read books, or scour YouTube for natural hair vloggers.

Some excellent books to get you started on the natural hair care journey are:

• Better Than Good Hair: The Curly Girl Guide to Healthy, Gorgeous Natural Hair
• Chocolate Hair, Vanilla Care: A Parent’s Guide to Beginning Natural Hair Styling
• The Science of Black Hair: A Comprehensive Guide to Textured Hair Care
• If You Love It, It Will Grow: A Guide To Healthy, Beautiful Natural Hair

 

2. Create a Regimen

 

One of the most important things in Natural Hair Care 101 is to create a regimen. Just because mommy is away does not mean you can become lax with doing your child’s hair. Ideally, you should wash and condition your child’s hair weekly. You need to stay on top of moisturizing appropriately. Utilize the L.O.C. method for moisturizing, make sure your child is getting regular trims, and of course, you can’t forget about deep conditioning! If you need help finding a basic natural hair regimen for your child, check this out!

 

3. Practice Makes Perfect

 

Hey, no one knows better than us, how challenging natural hair can be. It can take a grown woman years to become masterful at styling her own curly fro. So don’t get frustrated if you aren’t able to create natural styles for your young one over night. The best way for you to progress as a natural hair pro is simply practice and keeping it simple. Don’t rush! Really take the time to get to know your child’s curls. You’ll find that the more you do it, the easier it becomes to manage it over time.
  
Some basic hairstyles to get you going are:

The Signature Puff Ball
Really. This is the simplest, easiest hairstyle to master. All you need is moisturizing spray, Eco Styling Gel for the edges (this is optional), a brush and a hair tie. Gather all of the hair at the top of your child’s hair while simultaneously brushing upwards from the bottom to the top of the head. Secure the hair with an elastic hair tie and fluff.

  

The Sock Bun
This isn’t as easy as the signature puff ball, but it can be done with minimal steps. Check out this demonstration from another dad that’s mastering his daughter’s natural hair.  

  

Four Basic Ponytails
This hairstyle takes some serious patience, however, it is well worth the effort.

  

4. Tell Them They’re Beautiful

 

After you finish styling your little one’s do, compliment them! Their natural hair is something to be cherished and they should be proud to have hair that is so unique. Sure, your work may not be perfect, but never let it show. Always tell your baby girl how beautiful they are. And if you’ve got a little man that’s natural, tell them they are handsome. You’d be surprised at how much of a confidence booster those few words can be.

 

Regardless of how you choose to navigate this natural hair journey, know that it will definitely be an investment of patience and time. Practicing often, creating regimens, and getting educated will take you well above the learning curve and boost your confidence when it comes to tackling wash day. Most importantly, however, just know that there are people out there to assist you. Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask the natural hair community, especially us, if you need help. If you keep the above tips in mind, you’ll be a natural hair pro in no time! Even if you don’t master your child’s hair, at least you tried and you’re not alone. Just remember, you’re never too old, too masculine or too experienced to learn anything!