Can the adult LHCF tips be used on children?

[hillytmj]

I know that I should take a peek at the children's forums, but I've learned a lot about relaxed and natural hair care over the past year on LHCF. My friend is trying to learn more about caring for his 8-year-old daughter's natural hair (he's a full-time single dad), and I wanted to make sure that the advice we use (co-washing, DCing, moisture/sealing, low to no heat, low mani) will work on children before I pass it along.

Also, do little kids have to get trims? I can't imagine their hair being damaged, especially if they're just wearing ponytails and braids all the time.

Any thoughts?

 

[Lady Esquire]

I have two little girls, 11 and 6. And both have super thick, healthy, and long hair. When stretched, each can easily be MBL soon to be WL.

Its easier to do this stuff for them because they wear protective styles all of the time anyway. I still have to find create concoctions for detangling, but that's my major issue. I don't use any rubber bands or tight hair tools, only fabric scrunchies and cute headbands without the teeth.

I trim their hair very seldomly, but I notice my eldest needs more trims as she gets older. And if they are swimming, in the summer they need at least an extra one to keep things healthy.

Just keep the regimen simple, stay consistent on moisture, and her hair will thrive.

 

[wish4length]

If their hair is brushed or combed at all I say they have some type of damage. They need their hair trimmed too, but not as often as those that use relaxers, heat appliances, etc....

 

[msa]

Well I wouldn't use most of the products recommended here on children, but the techniques are fine. In fact, my regimen is based on what worked for me as a child. Anyway, I think your friend should keep his daughter's regimen as simple as possible.

 

[melodies815]

I chime in with the people who do use the adult regimens. I have done the adult regimens with my daughter, and they work just fine.

Unfortunately, I have had to cut/trim way more than I would like because of hard water damage, but it's already starting to get back to it's former length.

* I use mostly shea butter as a moisturizer.
* When it is wet, I use a watery moisturizer first as the base...a cone-free conditioner mixed with water.
* I wash her hair every weekend. I clarify once per month
* I do twists, twistouts, ponytails with ouchless bands, and braided buns now.
* I wash in 5 large braids most of the time.

I think the practices used on us are safe for children with some modifications of style and chemicals. For example, I would not BKT my little girl, though I know some women have had success with it and their childrens' hair is gorgeous...just my personal preference.

Anyway...short answer...a resounding YES!

 

[hillytmj]

I have two little girls, 11 and 6. And both have super thick, healthy, and long hair. When stretched, each can easily be MBL soon to be WL.

Its easier to do this stuff for them because they wear protective styles all of the time anyway. I still have to find create concoctions for detangling, but that's my major issue. I don't use any rubber bands or tight hair tools, only fabric scrunchies and cute headbands without the teeth.

I trim their hair very seldomly, but I notice my eldest needs more trims as she gets older. And if they are swimming, in the summer they need at least an extra one to keep things healthy.

Just keep the regimen simple, stay consistent on moisture, and her hair will thrive.

Which products do you use on your children (i.e. shampoo, conditioner, moisturizer)?

 

[Lady Esquire]

CON Shampoo, I rarely use shampoo, maybe once a month. I usually do quick conditioner washes on their hair, with thick creamy conditioners.

ORS Hair Mayo and ORS Replenishing Paks are regular staples, on their dry hair, under a cap.

Tresemme Remoisture Conditioner is a fave to put on their dry hair. (Heat in microwave for stubborn tangles or dehydrated hair).

Warm oil to help detangle.

Lacio Lacio as fave leave-in.

S-Curl as a daily moisturizer.

If I have prods that I'm trying to get rid of, their hair is great to do that with, if I add oil or something moisturizing.