Trying the Maximum Hydration Method? Brace Yourself!

Every once in a while during my natural hair journey, I get frustrated. The first time I got frustrated was while I was transitioning from relaxed to natural. I hated the stringy, permed ends of my hair. So what did I do? I big chopped it (I really wish I hadn't)! The second time I got frustrated with my fro, I became obsessed with protective styles, and not in a healthy way. Sew-ins, crotchet braids (still my favorite), and braids were my go-to styles, but I still wasn't caring for my hair. I was so insecure about my hair I hid under weave. I didn't take care of my hair and give it the nourishment it needed. Oh, sure I would spray water, conditioner, and some oil in my parts while I was wearing a protective style, but it wasn't enough.The third, and most recent, time I got frustrated with my hair I decided to do something about it. Frustrated and defeated (plus broke...broke will having you doing your own hair lol) after taking down my sixth month of crotchet braids, I took to Google where I randomly searched: "hydration for natural hair." My search returned so many articles and videos on something called the Maximum Hydration Method. I clicked on the first video and I've been hooked ever since.

In short, the Maximum Hydration Method is:

“a 5 step regimen that systematically increases moisture levels in the hair until Max Hydration is reached.” Black Girl, Long Hair

This method promised that I would be able to wear a wash-n-go. I wasn't convinced, but after watching video after video and reading so many testimonies, I figured it was worth a shot. I never thought wash-n-go's were for my hair type, but happily I was wrong! This is my hair before and after the first 7 day cycle:

Before the Maximum Hydration Method, hair products used to sit on my hair, but by day seven, my hair was absorbing the products properly. Also, comparing day one to day seven, my hair had absolutely no curl pattern.

Since completing the initial seven days, I now do the method every three days.

Did I follow the method to the tee? No, but I will on the next seven day cycle. I had plenty of products at home that needed to be used and I couldn't justify buying more and the other products going to waste. Now that I've used up all my old products, I will buy the recommended products or make my own.

Also, the first time around will be time consuming. Most complaints about the method is the time it takes to complete one round. Hang in there! My first day took about 2.5 hours. I had no clue how much to mix, in what bowls I would use, the product was messy and spilling everywhere, my arms were tired, and I kept checking my instructions to make sure I was doing it right. It was draining! But seeing the results everyday kept me motivated to finish. Now I can complete the regimen in 1.5 hours or sometimes I will do the first two steps at night and the remaining steps in the morning before work. Below is an overview of the steps. Also, check out Ms Deekay's blog or visit the Maximum Hydration website for clear, step-by-step instructions.

*Recommended, but optional* Cherry Lola Caramel Treatment (I have not tried this treatment yet, but will on my second cycle of MHM)

Step 1

Clarify with baking soda/conditioner rinse

*ACV (apple cider vinegar is an alternative to the baking soda rinse)* I tried the ACV rinse once and hated it! My hair was so dry and frizzy.

Step 2

Co-Wash & Detangle

Step 3

Clay Rinse

Step 4

Leave-in & Gel

I'll be back with a more in depth article on the pros, cons, and products another time. Have you tried the Maximum Hydration Method before? If so, please share your results. If you have questions, I'll do my best to answer.

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