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10 Essential Hair Care Tips Every Black Man Deserves to Know
- Stephanie Jean
- Jul 13
- 3 min read
This is a safe space, so let’s be real: most Black men were never taught how to take care of their hair—and it shows. But that’s not your fault. If you grew up in a Haitian household like I did, or anywhere in the Black diaspora, chances are the solution to any hair issue was simple:
cut it off.
No questions, no explanations—just clippers. But here’s the truth: your hair deserves more than a buzz cut. Proper hair care isn't just about looks—it’s about self-respect, self-care, and showing up confidently in your own skin. Whether you’re loc'd, keeping it short with waves, or just going with the wind, it starts with knowledge.
So let’s get into it—10 Essential Hair Care Tips Every Black Man Deserves to Know:
Stop Washing Your Hair Every Day
Washing daily can strip your hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry and brittle. Most Black hair thrives with a gentle cleanse once a week. If you have scalp conditions like psoriasis or eczema, tailor your wash schedule accordingly.
See a Doctor for Scalp Issues
If you’re dealing with flakes, irritation, or buildup that won’t go away—don’t guess. Get a prescription shampoo from your doctor or dermatologist. Many of these are covered by insurance and work better than over-the-counter stuff.
Moisture Is Everything
A solid leave-in conditioner will keep your hair soft, manageable, and protected—especially if you smoke, live in a dry climate, or use heat often. Make this step a non-negotiable part of your routine.
Protect Your Hair at Night
Cotton pillowcases absorb moisture and create friction that leads to breakage. Wrap your hair in a durag, satin scarf, or bonnet—or sleep on a satin pillowcase to keep your strands intact.
Trim to Grow
If you’re trying to grow your hair, regular trims actually help. Snipping off dead ends means less breakage, less shedding, and a cleaner path to growth.
Eat for Your Hairline
Before you roll your eyes—hear me out. A balanced diet packed with protein, iron, biotin, and healthy fats strengthens your hair from the inside out. And if you’re dealing with a receding hairline or thinning areas, hair vitamins can make a real difference.
Good news! We’ve got you with something that can help. [Find out more here.]
Don’t Skip Your Beard
Your beard needs love too. Wash, condition, and moisturize it just like the hair on your head. A well-groomed beard not only elevates your look—it also helps prevent irritation and ingrown hairs.
Need a pro’s touch? Book with Terry at Skin by Terry in Medford, MA. She’ll help you figure out exactly what your beard (and skin) need.
Ditch the 3-in-1s
Avoid those all-in-one shampoo-conditioner-body washes. If you ignore every other tip, PLEASE don’t ignore this one. Sure, they're convenient, but too harsh. Black hair needs moisture, care, and ingredients that don’t strip or dry it out. Go for sulfate-free shampoos and hydrating conditioners that actually nourish your hair.
Care for Your Protective Styles
No matter the style: braids, twists, cornrows, locs, etc, make sure your scalp stays clean and moisturized while your hair is tucked away. Use a light oil or scalp spray between washes to keep buildup and dryness in check.
Confidence Starts at the Root
You don’t need to know everything from the jump, just start somewhere. Whether you're loc’d, wavy, or taking it day-by-day, how you care for your hair reflects how you care for yourself.
Taking care of yourself is a form of self-respect. When you look good, you feel good—and it all starts with showing your hair the care it deserves. Your future self will thank you.
Final Thoughts
Hair care isn’t just for women—and it definitely isn’t “extra.” It’s hygiene. It’s confidence. It’s culture. And it’s yours to maintain.
Whether you’re just starting your journey or refining your routine, the time you invest in your hair is time you invest in yourself.
By: Stephanie Jean
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