This article will show you how to stop hair shrinkage by using a few specific hair shrinkage products and methods.
Have you noticed the change in the length of your hair when it’s wet versus when it's dry? If your hair decreases in length, you definitely aren’t alone! Welcome to the world of natural hair shrinkage.
The amount of shrinkage you’ll experience is dependent on your hair type as well as hair porosity. Women with kinky, curly hair may see their hair shrink by up to 90% once it's dry.
The good news is that hair shrinkage is not only normal, it’s a sign that your hair is healthy. Shrinkage is proof that your hair has good elasticity and is retaining plenty of moisture.
Though curly hair shrinkage comes with the joy of having textured hair, the good news is that there are many options to maintain your length, no matter the temperature or humidity levels outside.
Keep reading to learn about some of the best ways to deal with hair shrinkage.
Use an Anti-Frizz Serum
So, how to stop hair shrinkage?
For all curl types, one product that you’ll always want to have handy is an anti-frizz serum. Have you ever walked outside on a hot summer today, only to come back inside with endless frizz and poof?
Frizzy hair is caused by humidity. By applying an anti-frizz serum, you’re able to seal your hair to protect it from humidity. While you will still notice some frizz here and there, there will be a great improvement.
If you're looking for something a little more luscious to protect your curls from frizz, check out Miss Jessie's Pillow Soft Curls. Get naturally soft, frizz-free curls with this lightweight product that will give you touchable hair all day long.
Try Bentonite Clay
Over the last few years, bentonite clay has become quite the trendy product. If you use social media, you’ve likely seen videos or read articles about combining this clay with apple cider vinegar. And while it may seem a little weird, it works!
Bentonite clay defines and elongates natural curls. You may experience slight shrinkage, but your hair will retain most of its length.
For even better results, add some moisturizing compounds to the mix. We recommend Miss Jessie’s Curly Buttercreme.
This hydrating curl cream contains some of the best moisturizing and softening ingredients, including:
- Wheat germ oil
- Cocoa butter
- Shea butter
- Glycerin
Because this product will keep your hair moisturized and hydrated, your longer curls will retain their length. Take that, shrinkage!
Use Beeswax or Silicone
In efforts to keep natural hair shrinkage at bay, countless women make the same mistake of using the wrong type of hair products. To prevent shrinkage, you need to use products that attract humidity versus repelling it.
Some of the top ingredients that draw humidity in include beeswax and silicone. When applied to your curls, these ingredients seal the hair. In turn, you’ll not only keep curly hair shrinkage at bay, but frizz as well.
Blow Your Roots
Be very careful about how often you treat your hair with heat. Applying too much heat too often can cause breakage, dryness, and overall poor hair health.
When done sparingly, blowing your roots is a great way to minimize shrinkage. Always use a good dryer with a diffuser attachment such as Miss Jessie’s Pik Defrizz Diffuser.
You’ll also want to apply a creamy heat protectant versus a spray one. This is especially true if you have thick, curly hair.
For best results, focus on making your roots as straight as possible. The straighter your roots, the longer your hair will look and the less natural shrinkage you’ll have throughout the day.
Braid Your Hair at Night
Braiding your hair at night offers all sorts of benefits. Whether you want to stretch out your natural texture or if you want your blowout to last a little longer, a braided or pineapple style is best.
After applying a moisturizer, finger part your hair and braid it. It doesn’t have to be even. Just make sure that there’s very little tension and that your braids are on the larger side of the part.
If you’re in a rush, pull your hair up into a pineapple, which also helps to minimize shrinkage.
Finish things off by wrapping your hair with a silk or satin cloth to protect it overnight. Once you wake up, you should notice very little shrinkage.
Protect Your Hair from Shrinkage and More
Curly hair shrinkage can be frustrating, but there are ways to keep your hair from getting shorter once it dries. By following these tips, and by using the right products, your hair will retain its length, shine, and glory.
With the wide variety of hair shrinkage products on the market, it's important to know which ones are right for your hair. Miss Jessie’s offers all of the products you need to protect your curls all year round. From moisturizers to conditioners to cleansers, we’ve got just what your curls need to look their best.
