If you have kinky/coarse hair, it comes with problems (and benefits) all on its own. African-American and other types of ethnic hair have different needs than a lot of the products out there, and the techniques to care for your hair are very different. Contrary to what many people think, ethnic hair, while thicker and coarser, is actually more fragile than other kinds of hair. You need products that pertain to your hair type or your hair can break and split. Ethnic hair requires special treatment to prevent split ends and keep it healthy, smooth, and shiny.

If you prefer straightened hair over natural curls, one of the things that you can do is purchase a Relaxer Kit and straighten your hair at home. Make sure that you use a gentle straightener, so that you get smoother, silkier, stronger hair with great body and bounce without damage. You also want to make sure that the kit includes conditioners to strengthen relaxed hair and enhance elasticity, so that your hair is protected against breakage, split-ends and dryness. Conditioning is key after the process.

If you want to blow dry your hair, there’s a specific way you should be doing it. To properly blow dry kinky/coarse hair, use a blow dryer, a paddle brush, clips and a comb. Use hair moisturizing oil product on your hair before blow drying to protect it. Oil your scalp after shampooing, blot dry with a towel (DON’T RUB! It will damage your hair) and with your hair still damp, massage the oil into your scalp and brush out to the ends of your hair, then blow dry. One thing to note: Massaging your scalp on a regular basis will stimulate oil production, which will help reduce the dryness of your hair, so make sure to use the moisturizing oil frequently, not just when you are going to use a blow dryer.

If you’re still not sure of the technique involved and you need more information, make sure to watch the video at the top of the post on how to blow dry kinky/coarse hair from a master hairstylist. She has an entire series of related hair care tips, and they are informative and detailed. She goes step by step through the process, so that by the time the video is over you know everything you need to know about that particular styling process.