Patience Chodokufa, owner of Chiggy’s Touch

By Gillian Downes

Q: I AM AT my wit’s end with my hair. I wear it in a natural, short (chemical- and colourfree) afro and usually it’s very easy to handle. I just wash and go. Lately, however, my hair’s been acting up. In the winter it’s dry and frizzy, and in the summer it just looks greasy (sort of like a Jheri Curl which I’ve never worn). Is there any way to get it back to its natural, healthy state? I already deep condition my hair once a week, but it’s not helping. Ideally, I’d like to tame the frizz and get rid of the oily sheen, but I don’t want ringlets or spirals — just a look that’s smooth and conditioned.

A: FIRST OF ALL, I would like to commend you for keeping your hair chemical-free; it is a difficult thing to do so you should give yourself a pat on the back. Generally, curly hair tends to be dry and frizzy during winter months, so I recommend you wash and deep condition your hair once or twice a week, as this gives time for your natural oils to travel down the hair shaft and make your hair soft and shiny. During the summer, however, your body naturally produces more oils. So wash at least two to three times per week to get rid of any excess oil. Try Blended Beauty Soy Cream Shampoo ($16, www.blendedbeauty.ca or www.chiggyonline.com) and daily conditioner; it’s light and won’t cause build-up.

Patience Chodokufa lent her expertise in curls and locks to the Toronto salon scene for more than 10 years before opening up her own salon. She specializes in transforming played-out locks into diva-worthy ’dos. Chiggy’s Touch, 184 Davenport Ave., lower level. 416-619-5477. www.chiggyonline.com