Trying the Maximum Hydration Method? Brace Yourself! *Update*
- Jessica
- Apr 12, 2018
- 5 min read
Updated: Sep 11, 2018
It's hard to believe that I started MHM exactly a month ago! I finally have hope that I can pull off a proper wash-n-go without looking a hot mess by the end of the day lol!
In my last post about the MHM (my second 7 day round) I incorporated the recommended products. Well, this round (my third) I added a few things and experimented with other products as well.
So what's new?
Cherry Lola Caramel Treatment
I still love this treatment! It's recommended use is either every two weeks or monthly. I may stick with monthly, but I haven't decided yet. This step is extremely time consuming! In my second, 7 day round, I did a very modified version using only baking soda, yogurt, and liquid amino acids. The next time I do the CLCT I will more than likely use the full ingredient list (yogurt, baking soda, ACV, liquid amino acids, unsulfured molasses, banana, and maybe the egg).
Baking Soda Rinse
I have a love/hate relationship with this step right now; in particular the baking soda. On one had, I love how it makes my hair feel. On the other? Using it daily (for me) caused me to break out on my eyelids! What? On my first, 7 day round, my bathroom was a mess and product was everywhere; including my face and running down my shirt! The frequency and amount of product caused my scalp to itch like crazy too. I did a Google search and learned that my PH may have been thrown off (oops), so I've modified the frequency and amount since then. I've scaled back to once per week and I'm still wavering between using one tablespoon or 1/2 of a tablespoon. We'll see, but I'm not throwing out this step altogether. I tried the ACV rinse, but it left my hair super dry (it could have been because I didn't use the raw ACV with the "mother" in it). I think (I haven't tested it yet) I'm 4C, low porosity so that's why I use the baking soda. I read somewhere that high porosity hair can use ACV, but please test your hair first or get a professional opinion!
Co-Wash
I'm still using the Trader Joe's Tea Tree conditioner. It feels really tingly on my scalp which is a good thing right? However, it doesn't provide as much slip as I would like in my conditioners, but I'm going to finish the bottle before I decide to try another botanical conditioner. All in all, I like the Tea Tree Tingle and highly recommend it (I even added some almond oil to it one day).
Deep Conditioner
In my first, 7 day round I was winging this step; doubling the Trader Joe's Tea Tree Tingle as my conditioner for the co-wash step and the deep conditioner step. I've since purchased the DevaCurl Deep Sea Repair Seaweed Strength Mask . After years of inconsistently caring for my hair, I decided that it needed some extra TLC during the deep conditioning stage. I'm kind of enjoying the DevaCurl brand (I purchased another one of their products as well. Read below.) However, I made a HUUUUUGEEEE mistake. I've slept with the strengthening mask on my hair overnight which apparently is NOT apart of the directions. Ok, so reading really is fundamental. So, once I actually complete this step properly, I'll come back and provide a more accurate review.
Bentonite Clay Rinse
This step is still one of my favorites in the MHM. I've also been using it as a facial mask as well (more on that in another post) while it's sitting on my hair. I ran out of olive oil so I used the Vatika almond oil and added it as well as the honey. The clay is not expensive at all ($6.99 local) and I'm able to use it frequently and for multiple uses (hair and skin). I purchased the Aztec Indian Healing clay from a local organic market, but you can purchase it from Amazon if you don't have a organic market near you. The bentonite clay is here to stay!
Leave-In Conditioner
So in this step, I was not only using the Trader Joe's Tea Tree Tingle as my co-wash and deep conditioner, but I was also using it as my leave-in conditioner (I'm a beginner remember lol!). Mid-way through my second, 7 day round I purchased DevaCurl One Condition Original Daily Cream Conditioner. I haven't used this product enough to provide a fair review, but I will as soon as I get the hang of this natural hair regimen thing!
Gel
Ok, I have a confession to make...this is the only step where I haven't been using the recommended, botanical products. I've been using ECO Styler! I love ECO Styler and the hold I get from using it. Eventually I will use a botanical gel. In my defense I got really frustrated with the Kinky Curly Curling Custard. I used it mid-way between my second, 7 day round and my third, 7 day round. It left white flakes and left my curls looking ashy. PLUS, for only an 8 ounce jar it was $19 (including tax)! No bueno! I try to never say never, so who knows, I may end up trying KCCC again, but not any time soon.
Oil
If you read my previous post, I mentioned Vatika almond oil (purchased from a local Indian store). Well, I used it once during the second, 7 day round to seal in my leave in and gel...I hated it and my hair hated it too! However, I did use it as a much needed hot oil treatment after the co-wash step and before the deep conditioner step. My hair loved it! I have to remind myself that I'm still in the experimental stage and I am working out a regimen that's good for my hair and schedule. I think my initial experience with oil had more to do with what step I was adding the oil with the other product ingredients. I'm still experimenting with different oils to see which one my hair likes and at what stage I should be applying it in my regimen.
So, I'm a month in and I've made some mistakes and I've had some small wins. I'm going to give the Maximum Hydration Method a little longer to see what results I end up with. My hair desperately needed this surge of hydration. According to other bloggers, max hydration can take a while (I read somewhere that it could take months) which is understandable especially for naturals like me who have neglected their hair in the past. I'm learning, as with my body, mind and spirit, I have to care for my hair as well. These things take time and I have plenty of it. I will follow up later about this journey (hopefully with more pictures)!
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