My natural hair journey has had it's ups and downs. Although I've been natural my whole life, I only recently stopped using heat as frequently. Now that I only straighten my hair 3-5x year, I've had to tweak my twist out regime every so slightly.

For a while my twist outs were looking dry and dull. They barely lasted two days before I had to retwist and my twist outs typically last for a week or more. So I incorporated some new products and techniques that have brought my hair back to life! All of the products I use are under $20 (great for those on a budget) and can be found at your local pharmacy, beauty supply or Target. I've managed to grow my hair past BSL (bra strap length) and aiming for MBL (mid-back length) by the end of the year. See below for deets!

I typically wash with a sulfate free shampoo, my go to products are Giovanni Tea Tree Triple Treat Shampoo or SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo. I'm currently trying out SheaMoisture Yucca & Plantain Anti-Breakage Strengthening Shampoo and liking the results so far.

I then detangle with a cheapie conditioner like Aussie Moist Conditioner or Herbal Essences Hello Hydration Conditioner. I have to switch these up quite a bit because my hair adapts to the product after months of use.

I then apply a deep conditioner and sit under the dryer for 30 minutes. My fave deep conditioner is SheaMoisture Marfura Oil Hydration Intensive Masque. I've had the most amazing results with this conditioner! My hair is super soft and moisturized, I also love the smell. I also sometimes use SheaMoisture Superfruit Complex 10-In-1 Renewal System Hair Masque.

Rinse out the conditioner and now it's time for styling. I typically do a flat twist-out, using Kinky Curly Knot Today Leave in Conditioner, followed by SheaMoisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie or Camille Rose Curlaide Moisture Butter. Then apply Kinky Curly Curling Custard, twist and put curlers on my ends.

Let it dry overnight or under the dryer if I'm pressed for time. Remove twists, fluff out hair and you're ready to go! For maintenance I typically add a little bit of oil, such as Mielle Organics Mint Almond Oil or Jane Carter Solution Scalp Renew, and/or water.