Shrinkage: Friend & Foe

Shrinkage is like a bad omen for most curly hair girls. Though it seems like the most annoying part of your styling journey, here are three reasons shrinkage is a sign of good hair health. I have also included a few tips to manage it.

1. YOU HAVE MORE ELASTICITY: Shrinkage tends to mean that your hair has greater elasticity and doesn’t break as easily. 💡Elasticity equates to stronger hair.

2. SHRINKAGE IS A SIGN OF HAIR HEALTH: If you have tons of shrinkage, it’s a sign that your hair hasn’t been damaged by heat or chemical styling. Your curls’ ability to bounce back means it is in a healthy state.

3. YOU CAN HEAT-STYLE WITHOUT WORRY: This is not a hard and fast rule, but typically those with more shrinkage can revert back without without worry after heat-styling.

Now, see shrinkage is your friend! However, I know most of you do not like shrinkage, so here are several tips to elongate your beautiful curls!!

1. Banding

Banding works by using ponytail holders to stretch out freshly washed, damp/wet hair. Divide the hair into sections and gently wind the ponytail holders around the section from root to tip. Leave the holders in to allow the hair to stretch as it dries. Use ouchless pony tail holders and don't do this method too often because it can lead to breakage.

2. Bantu knots

Take a section of hair and twist it in one direction. Then take that section and wrap it around and continue to do so until it forms a knot. Tuck the end of the hair under the knot so that it is secured in place. Repeat this process until your whole head is done.

3. Blow dry your roots

After washing your hair, allow it to dry about 85%. Lightly tug on your hair and blow dry only the roots on medium heat. Don’t blow dry them straight, just enough to stretch your hair a little and give it a bit of length.

I hope you enjoyed this read about shrinkage, it comes with the natural hair journey. So embrace it! What are your thoughts on shrinkage so far? How do you combat shrinkage?

Love & Light,

JoAnna - McMurrayStyles ❤