What Silicones Really Do to Hair

As of late, the spotlight has really been on silicones, a trending subject in both the online curly hair community and the global beauty media. As major commercial hair care brands pivot toward natural hair care to align with the informed preferences of consumers, silicones have become a focal point of discussion.

 

The Basics of Silicones:

Silicones, synthetic polymers resembling plastics, have garnered attention for their hair-coating properties, rendering hair smooth, lustrous, and healthy in appearance. This is achieved by filling gaps in the hair strand, facilitating detangling and imparting a "slip" effect, particularly beneficial for damaged (high porosity) hair.

 

However, the flip side is that these plastic-like coatings form an impervious barrier to water, obstructing essential moisture from penetrating the hair follicle. Given that adequate hydration is a cornerstone of vibrant curls, this can be problematic. While water-soluble silicones exist, most tend to accumulate with prolonged use, potentially leading to buildup over time.

 

A day in the week of using silicones

Day 1: on wash day, remarkable slip offered by silicones can ease detangling. However, curls won't be as hydrated and defined.

Day 2: curls suffer dryness and a need for rejuvenation. A conventional silicone-free regimen typically stretches to day three or four, occasionally even day five, depending on the product and routine.

Day 3: The itch factor will likely emerge, signalling accumulated buildup stifling the hair and scalp.

Wash Day: when going to reset your curls and rid them of silicones, it is likely that some will remain. Curls will dry subpar to what they could be. It will likely take a few washes, treatments and deep conditioners to fully rid the residue.

 

Final Takeaways:

Firstly, silicones obstructed regular products from effectively tending to curls. Secondly, residue buildup imparts a weighty sensation to the hair. Thirdly, the absence of much-needed hydration leads to dry, fragile strands and compromised curl formation. Lastly, the ordeal of an itchy scalp is a notable deterrent.

 

While silicones offer manageability benefits, over-reliance on sulfates can deplete hair moisture. Achieving a delicate equilibrium tailored to each individual's hair needs remains a complex task. It is best to embrace silicone-free products like those from Bouclème, Innersense and Inahsi. Prioritising hair health remains non-negotiable.