When we decided to use chocolate as one of the hero African Pride Moisture Miracle ingredients we knew there’d be at least a few people who’d suspiciously say…chocolate…for hair?
Unfortunately there are a lot of hair care products and ingredients on the market that are based purely on fads or internet hacks and not scientific research. Buzzwords and whatever is a current trending topic tends to find its way into the ingredient list of many skincare, haircare, and beauty products.
This can make understanding what’s good for your hair slightly more challenging and might even make you a little more jaded when it comes to trusting that the ingredients in your natural hair care products will do what they claim.
The benefits of chocolate however, have been recognized for quite some time (think ancient Mayans) for both hair, skin, and overall health. Maybe you’ve heard that eating dark chocolate in moderation is good for your health and thankfully this is true (because sometimes the universe is kind like that).
Dark chocolate is packed with antioxidants that work to help keep your immune system healthy and promote good circulation. It also contains a surprising amount of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals like fiber, magnesium, zinc, potassium, and so much more.
Studies have shown that eating small amounts of dark chocolate is also great for supporting your heart health, and helps provide an extra boost of energy.
While we all love (or depending on your willpower) hate this sweet treat, somehow using chocolate for natural hair care has flown largely under the radar. Considering all the amazing health benefits dark chocolate has, it seems only natural that it will do wondrous things to your hair as well.
How Chocolate Benefits Your Body
Dark chocolate is rich in Vitamins A, C, D, and E, plus calcium, zinc, and iron. Some of its compounds may also lower blood pressure, reduce the cholesterol that is bad for the body, and increase the cholesterol that is good for the body.
Those affects combined can reduce a person’s risk of developing heart disease. Dark chocolate’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties also soothe the body internally and the skin externally. In moderation and in the purest form possible, chocolate can be good for your body and your soul.
Why Chocolate is a Game Changer for Your Natural Hair
Dark chocolate is more than just a sweet snack packed with vitamins. Its value is two-fold in its capacity to benefit your body and those curls on your head. Its fatty acids are perfect for nourishing and moisturizing the hair strands, restoring shine and health, and making your curls softer and shinier.
Applying chocolate to the hair also increases blood circulation to the scalp, which can encourage your follicles to grow stronger and longer hair while similarly combating hair loss. Those incredible anti-inflammatory properties also help to soothe the scalp and protect it against infection.
As we’ve mentioned, dark chocolate is rich in vitamins and minerals. But how exactly do these translate to better, healthier natural hair? Let’s break down the benefits of these further:
Antioxidants = Fight free radicals that contribute to aging
Copper = research shows this aids in the production of collagen.
Phosphorus = prevents hair loss.
Potassium & Magnesium = stimulates hair growth.
Vitamin A = contributes to thickening and strengthening hair.
Vitamin B = encourages growth, shine and hair strength.
Zinc = aids in cell renewal, reinvigorating dead or flaky hair follicles.
How to Get the Most Out of Chocolate for Your Curls
Okay, we’ve established that chocolate is great for our bodies and our hair, so what’s the best way to use it? Instead of applying raw cocoa to your hair, which can be damaging since it’s difficult to find the correct formula of cocoa that’s not overly processed, opt for natural hair care formulas that don’t just include chocolate but harness it’s nutrients to their maximum power.
Our Moisture Miracle Honey, Chocolate, and Coconut Oil Conditioner utilizes a combination made specifically to nourish and protect tighter textures, curls, and coils. Coconut oil conditions and helps repair damaged hair while honey naturally retains moisture. The chocolate works to moisturize while promoting healthy hair growth.
All three ingredients work together with chocolate’s restorative properties as the star of the formula. Leave on our Moisture Miracle conditioner for 10-15 minutes after washing and let the yummy chocolate goodness transform your hair into soft, shiny, and moisturized curls. Even better? You’ll smell like a dream.