Hey Curlfriends!
I hope you're having a wonderful day!
We've had some beautiful weather here in Virginia, and I'm getting ready to enjoy a walk by the river. There's something about getting outside, clearing my head, and taking a little time for myself before another busy week.
Ladies, we have to remember to take care of ourselves, too. We spend so much time taking care of everybody and everything else. Sometimes we need to do something just for us!
But before I head out, there's something I want to talk to you about.
Have you ever finished washing your hair, looked in the mirror, and thought, why does my face look so GOOD?
Your curls are freshly washed, your hairline looks cleaner, and somehow your whole face seems brighter.
I know I'm not the only one who's noticed this!
Wash Day Is a Workout, Curlfriend!
If you've been natural for any length of time, you already know where I'm going with this.
Sectioning your hair, washing, conditioning, DETANGLING, twisting, styling. Girl, sometimes wash day feels like an entire workout!
Depending on your hair length, thickness, and the style you're creating, you might spend quite a bit of time in that bathroom.
And don't even get me started on detangling!
Between the warm shower, moving around, and getting your hair together, you might even work up a little sweat.
But does all that activity actually explain why our faces sometimes look clearer afterward?
Let's talk about it.
Why Your Face Can Look Brighter After Wash Day
Part of what you're noticing may simply be the difference freshly washed hair makes.
Think about it.
Over time, oils, sweat, styling products, and everyday buildup collect on our hair and scalp. Some of that residue can collect around the edges and hairline, too.
Once you cleanse your hair and remove that buildup, your curls look fresher, your hairline looks cleaner, and everything framing your face can appear brighter.
Warmth and activity can also make your skin look temporarily flushed.
Now, I do want to clear up something about pores. They don't open and close like little doors, and sweating isn't a way of flushing toxins out of your skin. Washing your hair isn't a substitute for washing your face, either.
But there's definitely something to be said for how wonderful we look and feel after a good wash day!
Hairlines, Heat, and That Fresh-Washed Look
Let's talk about our edges for a minute.
If it's been a while since your last wash day, you may have accumulated a little product buildup around your hairline.
And because our hair frames our faces, keeping that area clean can make a noticeable difference in our overall appearance.
The same goes for styling.
A freshly styled twist-out, braid-out, or defined set of curls can completely change how your face is framed.
And yes, sitting under the dryer can leave your skin feeling warm, but it isn't tightening your pores or giving you a facelift.
Sometimes we're simply enjoying that fresh, put-together look. Nothing wrong with that!
A Little Extra Self-Care
Since we're already talking about taking care of ourselves, why not make a little room for skincare on wash day?
You don't have to do anything complicated.
Wash your face gently, rinse away any shampoo or conditioner that may have gotten onto your skin, and follow with your usual moisturizer.
I also want you to be careful with facial steaming. Holding your face over boiling water can cause burns, and adding essential oils to hot steam may irritate your skin. A comfortable warm shower is plenty if you enjoy a little warmth and relaxation.
And if you're using our Tree Naturals Detoxifying Earth Mask, follow the product directions for the area you're treating rather than adding unnecessary steps.
Self-care should feel good, Curlfriend. It shouldn't put your skin at risk.
How Often Should You Wash Your Hair?
This is another conversation worth having because everybody's hair and scalp are different.
If you have fine hair: You might notice oil showing up more quickly because it can travel down your strands easily. You may prefer cleansing more frequently.
If you exercise regularly: Sweat and buildup can make your scalp feel like it's ready for a wash sooner. Pay attention to how your scalp feels.
If you're trying to grow longer hair: Keeping your scalp clean is part of a healthy routine, but washing more frequently doesn't automatically make your hair grow faster.
And don't forget about your ends! You want to protect the length you're growing, not create more dryness or breakage by treating your hair roughly.
The right wash schedule is the one that works for your scalp, your hair, and your lifestyle.
Now, Let's Talk!
I still love that feeling after a good wash day.
Fresh curls, a clean hairline, and that little boost you get from taking some time for yourself.
Sometimes that's exactly what we need!
So tell me, Curlfriends: How often do you wash your hair? And have you ever noticed your face looking brighter afterward?
Come talk to me in the comments. I want to hear from you!
Comment
Would you wash your hair everyday if it takes hours to dry?