Curls on a Budget
Hair is such an important part of our lives, arguably a defining feature of people of african-descent that taking care of it should feel like a celebration, not a financial burden. In 2023-2024, hair care expenses across North America have climbed as folks dived into premium products and specialized products. Don’t get us wrong, our hair deserves the best and is worth every ounce of care but we don’t need to empty our wallets to keep our curls, coils, or waves thriving.
What Are We Spending on Hair Care Anyway?
The numbers don’t lie. On average, North Americans spend about $300 to $400 annually on hair care products. For us rocking textured hair, that number is almost double—because let’s be real, those deep conditioners, detanglers, and edge saviors don’t come cheap! A lot of this spending is fueled by promises of revolutionary results from new brands and products, but it’s possible to keep your hair healthy and fabulous without overspending.
Tips to Keep Your Hair Gorgeous and Your Bank Account Happy :
1. Get to know your hair
Understanding your hair’s needs is key. When you focus on quality over quantity, you avoid unnecessary purchases and ensure your hair gets what it truly craves. Translation: Invest in products that work for you, not just what’s trending on TikTok. If you’re unsure of what would be the best for your hair, the best investment to make is sit down with a certified hairstylist and find out what products would actually work for you. You can book a Consultation on the SWAYED platform with certified hairstylists and salons in your area.Â
2. Simplify your Routine
Look for products that celebrate the beauty of textured hair without overcomplicating things. Afro hair was always a thing and we really can’t imagine our ancestors having a 17-steps hair care routine with 4 types of scented conditioners and 3 types of brushes. Obviously, times are a-changin’ and we’re now exposing our hair to more pollution, different climates, more toxins and we definitely don’t have the same access to natural products as they did. But the simplicity of their methods can still prove to be efficient, the hair is after all, the same.Â
In reality, we need a product to clean, a product to keep moisturized and a product to keep our scalp happy… paired with a good diet and drinking a lot of water of course!
3. The Word of the Year Is DE-FLUENCING
Raise your hand if you’ve ever been seduced by a “holy grail” product only to realize it’s collecting dust on your shelf. Simplifying your routine can save money and time. A solid shampoo, conditioner, and a few styling essentials tailored to your hair type are often all you need. Again, get to know your hair and what ingredients work for it. You do have a favourite that has done wonders, stick to it, your hair will thank you!
4. Find and Buy your Product
Time to raid the kitchen! DIY hair masks are cost-effective and work wonders for hydration and shine.
A few ideas:
Coconut oil + honey:
A deep-conditioning duo to combat dryness.
Avocado + olive oil:
Your hair’s new BFF for added strength and elasticity.
Apple cider vinegar rinse:
Perfect for clarifying your scalp and balancing pH.
Not only do these treatments save money, but they’re also free of mystery ingredients.
- Multi-Purpose Products
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Why buy three products when one can do the job? Think of a conditioning mask that moonlights as a leave-in or a styling cream that’s also a heat protectant. Multi-taskers like these cut costs without sacrificing your hair goals. For example, Melanin Haircare’s Multi-Use Softening Leave-In Conditioner hydrates, detangles, and protects all in one.
5. 10 Ways to Grow and Maintain Afro Hair on a Budget
Let’s sprinkle in some extra wisdom for those serious about hair growth. This can be done with the 3 to 4 same products:
- Keep your scalp clean and hydrated—it’s the foundation of healthy hair.
- Massage your scalp daily to boost circulation and stimulate growth.
- Use protective styles like twists or braids to protect your ends.
- Trim regularly to avoid split ends.
- Hydrate from the inside out—drink that water, boo!
- Sleep with a satin bonnet or on a silk pillowcase.
- Deep condition every week (DIY or store-bought).
- Minimize heat styling to prevent damage.
- Use oils like castor or argan to seal in moisture.
- Stick to a routine—consistency is queen.
Saving money on hair care doesn’t mean compromising on the love and attention your hair deserves. Make informed choices, embrace multi-purpose products, and maybe even whip up a mask or two at home. You CAN keep your hair healthy and your budget intact.
Let’s Talk About It!
Got your own money-saving hair care hacks? Drop them in the comments below! At SWAYED, we’re all about sharing tips, celebrating every curl, and keeping it real. We can keep our crowns thriving—without the sticker shock.
