A child’s natural hair routine does not need to involve a bathroom full of products or an all-day styling session.

Keeping the routine simple can make wash day easier for both parent and child.

Cleanse Gently

Wash the hair and scalp using an appropriate cleanser.

Focus on actually cleaning the scalp rather than creating the biggest possible lather.

Use Conditioner for Slip

Conditioner can make textured hair easier to separate and detangle.

Work in sections if the hair is dense or long.

Detangle Carefully

Start at the ends and gradually move upward.

Use fingers, a wide-tooth comb, or a detangling brush appropriate for the child’s hair.

Avoid aggressively pulling through knots.

Add Moisture

Apply a child-appropriate leave-in conditioner or moisturizer based on the hair’s needs.

You do not need to saturate the hair with several products at the same time.

Choose Comfortable Styles

Braids, twists, puffs, ponytails, and other styles can make weekday hair care easier.

The style should not be painfully tight.

Children’s hairlines and scalps should be treated gently.

The best kids’ natural hair routine is one that keeps the hair clean, manageable, comfortable, and easy to maintain.