Tips on how to keep your perm healthy:

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1. Don't use a weave unless you are an expert, as this can make your hair worse. 

2. Fiction on a pillowcase can break off relaxed hair. Use only silk or satin pillowcases.

3. To keep your hair very thick and fill, use a very wide-tooth, seamless comb and comb hair very gently and from tips to roots. This will prevent pulling out hair from the roots and will help to prevent breakage.

4. To strengthen the hair before getting a relaxer, use a protein treatment 7 days prior (Aphogee Treatment For Damaged Hair is an excellent protein treatment). Always follow protein treatment with a moisturising deep conditioner to soften the hair and ease combing and styling. Repeat the treatment every 6-8 weeks if the hair is damaged easily.

5. If your hair tends to fall out when you are stressed, avoid washing it frequently during these times and use very gentle water pressure from your shower.

6. Purchase a shower head that allows you to adjust the water pressure. Only use medium or gentle water pressure when you wash your hair, this will help to prevent thinning.

7. Not all shampoos and conditioners will work with your hair type. Try different brands until you find 2 or 3 that work for you. If a particular product dries out your hair throw it away. If it makes your hair silky and bouncy then keep it!!! Some really great shampoos/conditioners are Ultra Black Hair, Tresemme for damaged hair and Creme of Nature (red or green label).

8. If you experience breakage from a particular brand or type of hair oil, discontinue using it immediately and try something new. Never use products containing mineral oil or petroleum which can weight hair down. Choose lighter oils such as Jojoba, Meadowfoam, Extra Virgin Olive, Coconut Oil, Safflower Oil, Carrot Oil, Tea Tree Oil, Sunflower Oil, Canola Oil or Soybean Oil.

9. Avoid hair care products containing alcohol and silicone (cones) as they may be damaging to your hair.

10. Avoid overconditioning the hair. Pay attention to the hair on a regular basis to determine if the hair needs special treatment. Be careful not to oversaturate the hair with product on a daily basis, especially if washing less frequently. If the hair is healthy this will do more harm than good.

11. Remember that shampoo is meant to clean the scalp and roots, and conditioner maintains the hair. Do not handle wet hair roughly when shampooing in an effort to get the hair clean - This prevents tangles.

For more information on relaxed hair go to:

 http://www.wikihow.com/Take-Care-of-Relaxed-African-Hair