My Night Time Natural Hair Routine

Illustration by Coily and Cute

As you know, taking care of natural hair is pretty much a full-time job. But it doesn't always have to feel so laboring. Here I'll be sharing my night time routine for natural hair, and the current products I'm using.
My routine is pretty simple. Actually, it may not differ too much with how I regularly moisturize my hair. It all depends on the style and hair needs at the time.

Water and/or Water Based Moisturizer 

I love to start moisturizing my hair with water, especially when my hair is really dry. I add warm water to a spray bottle and separate my hair into 4 sections. I lightly spray my hair and use my fingers to lightly detangle. Then I further separate each section into 2 so I can better moisturize thoroughly.

I apply a small amount of a water based, leave in moisturizer. My favorite is SheaMoisture’s Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen, Grow & Restore Leave-In Conditioner I work it through each section with my hands in a downwards, roots-to-tips to avoid tangling.

Oil Me Down!

Next, I'll grab my handy dandy raw and unrefined Coconut Oil jar from Trader Joes and I get to work. In each section, I apply a very small amount of oil. Again paying attention to the ends. If needed at this point, I'll pass a wide tooth comb through a few times.

I often have trouble with dry scalp, so I always make sure to treat it during my nighttime routine.
I will often use coconut oil and rub that through my scalp. However, my favorite oil to use is the Carols Daughter Mimosa Hair Honey. The smell is AMAZING, the texture is great, and it's super moisturizing. A little bit goes a very long way.

Twist and Wrap It Up!

Finally for styling, I always flat twist my hair in the 8 sections. Or I'll part my hair in 4-6 chunky sections and flat twist; 2 framing the face, with the rest going straight back. For me, this is a recipe for a BOMB twist/braid out. Then wrap your hair with a silk scarf.

I'll usually follow these steps about 2-3 times a week. Especially if my hair has been in a twist out or in single mini twists (minus the detangling). Otherwise, if it's in a style (flat twists, Bantu knots, cornrows, etc.) then I'll make sure to lightly spray my hair with water and then in much smaller amounts, work the conditioner in. If the ends are out I'll concentrate on those, or spread the product in my hands and apply the product in a patting motion.

This is my method that is pretty simple, but as we always say this may not work for everyone. You could give this method and products a try, or add to your own routine. Let me know how it goes!

What's your nighttime routine?