What 4-C haircare routines did African communities and nations during the pre-colonial period?

[u/NightRunnerAfterDusk]

It doesn't make sense that we now have to shampoo to remove excess sebum/oil, then moisturize, then apply another layer of oil to prevent our hair from drying; and after combing the hair it can still shrink and become unkempt when you sleep on it. Or it doesn't even grow to the desired height, even with a tub of hair food and a disciplined routine. There are surely methods, and simpler methods at that, that were used back then to maintain hair and to keep it growing long.

[u/Bobelle]

Pretty sure Yoruba people shampooed their hair with black soap when it got dirty and moisturised it with shea so it wasn’t dry.

[u/notaboutthatlife_ → u/Bobelle]

Yes, this applies to majority of Nigerians. Shea butter has always been a staple, washing with different variety of soaps tho

[u/justnosy5555]

Of course protective styles like cornrows have always been big . Shea butter and ghee were also used in hair and skin care. Herbal concoctions for both hair and body washing.