When it comes to hair and water, the two go together like cereal and milk. Just as milk adds moisture to dry cereal. Water adds moisture to dry hair. But, water alone is not enough to moisturize dry hair. 

On its own, water is not a moisturizer. Take a moment to think on that… This is not to say water is useless. What it is saying is that it may not be as useful by itself. Multiple studies on the moisturizing of skin and hair reveal that although skin and hair will absorb water, both will also lose water  (The Natural Hair Haven). 

In other words, when used alone, water provides no benefit to the hair.

Why is this?

According to The Natural Hair Haven, hair absorbs water but, it also loses water as well. Hair cannot and will not hold on to water. So, when you spray your hair with water, your hair will get rid of any excess water. Eventually, over time, your hair will get rid of all of the water and thus become dry.

The first thing is to make sure you are not using water alone. Water sealed with shea butter or another oil is not enough to keep your hair moisturized for days on end but, it will help your hair retain water longer.

In establishing an “equilibrium” or moisture balance with the environment, our hair naturally absorbs and releases moisture. A study was done on the absorption and release of moisture on various hair samples treated with oils. The samples were compared with samples of hair not treated with oil. Researchers found that oil slows down the evaporation of water from the hair, thereby reducing the loss of moisture from the hair (Effect of oil films on moisture vapor absorption on human hair)

We must keep in mind that oil sealants are not permanent, they only reduce moisture loss, but they do not completely prevent the loss of moisture.

What does this mean? 

Secondly, to maintain moisture, you may have to spritz your hair daily or even multiple times a day to keep a healthy moisture balance.

This may be why some naturals complain that by the end of the day their curls are back dry and thirsty.

Thirdly, make sure your moisturizers have great conditioning and moisturizing ingredients.

Note: The primary goal of hair conditioner is to replenishing and maintain moisture. To accomplished this, your conditioners should have a variety of ingredients, from water to oils

You will find the first ingredient listed in most conditioners is water. This is because it is the main ingredient in the conditioner. Furthermore, panthenol and glycerin help bind water to the hair. The next ingredient is usually oil. Lanolin, olive, honey, various seed and fruits are the best oils for replenishing moisture. In thicker conditioners, for more intense moisture, butters are also used.

Remember not all oils are moisturizing and not all oils make great sealants, so do your research!

What do you use to moisturize and seal?

How often do you have to moisturize your hair?