How important is water?

Friday's food for thought comes courtesy of an email from Dessalina who asks, 'Can too much water cause damage to hair? How can you moisturise your hair and still keep it strong?'



I have previously blogged about hygral fatigue which starts off when hair strands expand when wet and then contract when dry. Repeating this process several times can create damage to the hair cuticle first because it can be chipped off and then later damage to the main strand leading to split ends/breakage etc. It is not really about too much water but really just water, full stop.



Now wetting hair does have its advantages. It makes the hair more flexible. Is there a way to completely avoid water or water based products? In my view, these are some of the best products to use in curly hair to enhance flexibility especially if you intend to manipulate your hair into a style.



I have to repeat my usual line and say that hair is individual. You have to find the right amount of water and type of product. Some people swear by conditioner, gel, glycerin, water misting...or a combination. You absolutely CAN go wrong with water hence the reason for mushy hair, but with a little patience and practice, you will get your routine right.



For further study and paper references, I would recommend reading (use the search button!) posts on hygral fatigue, porosity (towel drying) and ofcourse coconut oil!



Finally, do share your successful routines. Is water an integral part of your routine? How much, how often and what type of product do you use?