How to thicken your natural hair

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Natural hair is thicker than chemically relaxed hair, but it is not automatic that when you go natural, the volume will follow.

Ashraf Katongole, a hairdresser, says that hair volume can be affected by illness, genes stressful hairstyles, lack of care, too much heat application and many other factors.

However one can improve the volume following a few tips.

1. Deep condition weekly 

Katongole says deep conditioner adds volume to the hair along with softening it.

"Even if it is a Do it yourself concoction, the application followed by heat, like a heating cap or a warm towel activates the conditioner and it permeates the hair better," he says.

2. Use castor oil or coconut oil

Katongole says these organic oils are great for different uses. Olive oil softens hair really well, while castor oil and coconut oil thicken hair.

"Apply them to the scalp or during styling or even as part of any recipe for your hair," he says. 

3. Avoid manipulation

Paul Kamya another hair stylist advocates for minimal manipulation. 

"Do not pull or tag at the hair often. If you must wear a protective style, choose one that requires less styling because too much manipulation causes breakage and reduced volume," he says.

4. Avoid too much plaiting

Constantly plaiting hair will break it because it gets weak and thins.

"Give the hair a break between plaiting sessions so it can regain its strength and do not hold very tight hairstyles when it is plaited," he says

5. Cover with a satin bonnet at night

To avoid friction between the pillow case and the hair, wear a satin bonnet to keep it from breakage and shedding.