Want to get serious about transforming the health of your hair? Take the time to research factual information from resources that specialize in hair science. The internet is filled with an abundance of natural hair care knowledge these days, but there also is some misinformation that is spread from time to time. Like the inaccurate hair porosity test for example (learn more about the real way here).Here are the best of the best cosmetic hair scientists, websites and authors that you should check out:
Audrey Sivasothy, author of The Science of Black Hair
In about two to three days I read this book from front to back and loved every bit of it! It has a wealth of information about what is needed to grow black hair, how chemicals like dyes or relaxer affect the structure of our hair, building a regimen and managing the moisture/protein balance our hair needs. Audrey Davis-Sivasothy is a certified trichologist, lecturer, a health scientist and member of the Society of Cosmetic Chemists.
JC of the Natural Haven Bloom
I love this blog because it features information based upon articles from peer reviewed academic journals. The facts shared here have been tested and proven in studies, not info merely based on hearsay. The author of the blog JC has the credentials to effectively evaluate the info she provides, which is why I consider her a go to source when there is something I want to learn more about. Any of the latest natural hair crazes from rice water rinses to max hydration have all been evaluated here. She also has a series entitled The Long 4c Hair Case Studies, that will helpful to anyone with kinky textured hair who is struggling with understanding how to grow longer hair.
Erica Douglas AKA Sister Scientist
Erica Douglas is the second source that I have seen thoroughly debunk the old junk science hair porosity test and provide a real explanation of determining your hair porosity. She effectively breaks down hair science into simple terminology in a must see series on YouTube that more naturalistas need to be exposed to. Her Fact or Crap video covers her professional opinion on Apple Cider Vinegar for hair and products that make hair growth claims. Erica holds a BS in Chemical Engineering and a MBA.
Science-y Hair Blog
This blog is an exceptional source for a scientific breakdown about product ingredients. It cites sources from studies and peer reviewed journals. It covers everything from alcohols in hair products, silicones, PH balance and more. When you need more info about product ingredients this is a great place to start.
The Beauty Brains
This blog features real cosmetic scientist answering your beauty questions. They explain what the different ingredients in our products do, how they are tested for effectiveness and ultimately will help guide you in making better product purchasing choices. The authors of the blog are two cosmetic scientist with over 50 years combined experience.
Google Scholar
Do your own hair science research! Find free scholarly articles from peer reviewed journals using Google Scholar’s search. You can get the professional opinions and review the data from scientific studies about almost any product ingredient you are curious about; leaving you to draw your own conclusions.
Some of the best hair vitamins for black hair growth and for the growth of other hair types are Biotin (Vitamin B7), Vitamin C and Niacin (Vitamin B3). Two of the best minerals for healthy hair growth are Iron and Zinc.