I speak about hair and scalp health a lot on my blog and I think I would be doing you a huge disservice if I didn’t discuss the benefits of steaming natural hair. Steaming is a HUGE part of my family’s hair regimen and I notice that when we skip this step, our hair really feels it throughout the weeks. A practice that can be performed at home, or under the care of a professional- steaming is by far one of the BEST ways to improve the health and condition of your hair. It allows for better product absorption, helps with blood circulation to your scalp which can stimulate hair growth, and it even helps control frizz!
Steaming your natural hair increases moisture retention.
Steam is more powerful (and penetrates the hair shaft easier) in its vapor form than it is in its liquid form. For this reason, steaming is especially beneficial for low porosity hair because it allows the vapor to enter the tightly closed hair cuticle and add hydration that may have been difficult to achieve otherwise. When you incorporate steaming into your deep conditioning session, products can penetrate your hair rather than just sitting on top of your hair. This helps you moisturize your hair from the inside out!
One of the biggest improvements I have seen since I have started steaming my hair regularly is greater curl definition. This is because steaming allows for better product absorption which also helps control frizz (over time).
Experts say that steaming your hair is great for overall scalp health. Safely steaming can help keep your scalp clean and helps with blood circulation to your scalp which can stimulate hair growth. I notice that when I steam my hair during a deep conditioning session and then follow up with light styling products, my scalp is not as dry and irritated, which allows me to hold my wash and go style a little longer.
Some naturals even use steamers to refresh their curls throughout the week, but I find that allowing the steam from my morning showers to plump my curls back up works best for me!
Before you run off and start steaming, here are a few things to keep in mind:
1. Do not steam your hair more than once per week. I try to take at least 15 minutes to steam after each deep conditioning session (which is weekly). You really run a risk of over conditioning your hair if you deep condition or steam your hair too often.
2. Do your research on types of steamers and features that each one has. Remember, use the steamer that works best for YOU. Having a handheld steamer is great for targeting specific areas but I recommend investing in a full steamer that you can sit under, if possible. This type of steamer is more convenient because it allows you to multi-task, and it also encourages a longer session. With a larger steamer, you don’t have to keep stopping to refill it. It’s also a nice break for your arms! *I have the Q Redew and a table top steamer but I will be investing in one of the big boy steamers very soon!
3. Adding to #2: Regardless of the type of steamer that you use, please be careful. Something that I have experienced with both my handheld and my tabletop mini steamer is that sometimes the evaporated water can get trapped and drip back down or leak from the device. Obviously this can be dangerous if hot water is dripping on you so please be careful and always wear a towel over your shoulders. If you are using a handheld steamer, I also recommend pointing it away from your body or keeping your arm at a safe distance when you are holding it.
*The QRedew handheld steamer may not be available any longer. Here is another hair steamer that I own and would recommend, and don’t forget to pair it with a hydrating deep conditioner or hair mask like one of the two below. Need recommendations for a full hair care regimen? You know I got you– check here for a list of my favorites!