What essential items would you advise for a newbie hair grower

**Jessclewlow** · April 17th, 2009, 03:24 AM

ok.... after masses of you responded to my thread with my million and one questions.... i thought this may be useful for people starting out...
what items would you advise a newbie to get when starting to care for their hair.....

so far i have got:

virgin coconut oil ( but you can get another oil if you prefer)
boar hair brush
sharpe hair dressing scissors - used for hair cutting only!
elastic bobbles ( without the little metal bit)

anyone care to add anything to my little list of goodies? xx

**Isilme** · April 17th, 2009, 03:37 AM

a wide tooth comb, since that brush cannot be used to detangle with (trust me, I tried when I was a newbie

) ehm, what more, knowledge that all hairs doesn't like oils and that the oils can be used for skincare instead, so you haven't bought it for no good if your hair turns to straw from it. And maybe a nice gentle shampoo. And if you like ficcares and aren't afraid of emptying your wallet they are an investment!

ETA, just wanted to tell you that there is a newbie article in the article's section

**kdaniels8811** · April 17th, 2009, 03:37 AM

#What kind of shampoo do you use? I went from cones to coneless, now no shampoo at all. I use indian herbs - smells heavenly and does wonders for my hair! and an occasional dairy whip when I am in too much of a hurry to mix up the herb pack. Take things slow, this can be overwhelming! Treating your hair gently, minimizing cleansing and combing/brushing will all help on your hair journey. I will write more later, on my way to work!

**Jessclewlow** · April 17th, 2009, 03:43 AM

ah yes... i have a wide tooth comb

so you say gentle shampoo.... without sounding like a thicko here.... would baby shampoo like johnsons work??? they have no harsh chemicals etc as they are obviously for baby hair....
but im maybe guessing they wouldnt contain all the neutriants older hair needs?

**nayver** · April 17th, 2009, 04:07 AM

Originally Posted by kdaniels8811

#What kind of shampoo do you use? I went from cones to coneless, now no shampoo at all. I use indian herbs - smells heavenly and does wonders for my hair! and an occasional dairy whip when I am in too much of a hurry to mix up the herb pack. Take things slow, this can be overwhelming! Treating your hair gently, minimizing cleansing and combing/brushing will all help on your hair journey. I will write more later, on my way to work!

Hi, I'm trying Indian herbs (shikakai-amla) but I'm quite confused about the instructions of using :S Can you help me with this? I'm currently no pooing.

**Lamb** · April 17th, 2009, 04:40 AM

Originally Posted by Jessclewlow

ah yes... i have a wide tooth comb

so you say gentle shampoo.... without sounding like a thicko here.... would baby shampoo like johnsons work??? they have no harsh chemicals etc as they are obviously for baby hair....
but im maybe guessing they wouldnt contain all the neutriants older hair needs?

Baby shampoo is not exactly gentle. It is formulated not to hurt a child's eyes or skin, but its PH is not very hair-friendly. (My hair hates baby shampoo, and I tried several kinds.)
Do a search for baby shampoo here, you will find lots of results which explain the science better than I can.

**Arctic** · April 17th, 2009, 04:58 AM

I would add a clarifying shampoo to the list, as well as conditioner (any conditioner your hair likes). Wide toothed, seamless comb, some hair "toys" that are hair friendly so you can put your hair up and away from your face. Bag of patience, box of gentle handling and arms full of love.

**Heavenly Locks** · April 17th, 2009, 05:05 AM

How about a satin or silk pillowcase

It's on my newbie list of must haves!

(also, some honey and aloe gel are nice to have for the SMT (snowy's moisture treatment) )

**Carolyn** · April 17th, 2009, 05:08 AM

I second the advice on staying away from the baby shampoo. I won't recommend brands since I see you are in the UK and I am in the USA. I'd go with something coneless to start. Look for a nice rich moisturizing conditioner. Have you thought about CO (conditioner only) washing? There are a boatload of threads on it if you are interested. I believe it's one of the things that's helped me the most.

**Phalaenopsis** · April 17th, 2009, 06:24 AM

My best tip ever: rinsing with cold water

And squeeze your hair out when wet, but do not twist it.
Pad your hair with your towel, but don't rub with it

Those are the easiest tips too, I think