Let me present you with a frustrating conundrum: curly hair looks great at any length (opens in new tab), but growing out extra-long curls is a feat due to a myriad of factors. For one thing, natural curls are very fragile (opens in new tab), which makes hair prone to dryness and breakage. When hair breaks, amazingly, growing it to the waist seems an impossible goal. Additionally, hair-damaging treatments and hot tools (feel my guilty? (Opens in new tab) So, please explain how some women can have naturally curly hair that hits the floor." While some of it may be due to genetics, good hair care, or pure luck, there are also cultural habits, like chebe powder, that hold the key to long, healthy curly hair. If you love the secret of long hair as much as I do, you've just stumbled upon a gold mine.

Traditionally used by women in Chad, Africa, chebe powder is a mixture of seeds and local ingredients used to strengthen hair so that it grows without breaking. The hair grows from the shoulders to the waist. This product is especially beneficial for those with curly, textured hair.

Chebe Powder's moisturizing, deep conditioning, and pH balancing powers are available to everyone, but it has traditionally been used for women with curly hair; it is best for curl types 3A through 4C (opens in new tab). If your hair is fine and straight you can still use Chebe Powder.

Here's some fun news: Chebe Powder can be used in a variety of ways to make it easier on you. While some products contain chebet powder, the traditional way to use chebet powder is to mix the powder itself with other ingredients and use it as a treatment. One popular way to get the benefits of chebe powder is to use it as a hair mask. Because of its deep conditioning properties, it can be used in place of a weekly hair mask. Another option is to mix a tablespoon of the powder with your favorite hair conditioner and leave it on damp hair overnight. Alternatively, instead of mixing it with conditioner, mix it with your favorite hair oil for a more moisturizing effect.

Chebe powder can also be used as a styling agent on its own. While hair is damp, work the powder throughout the hair. When the powder is mixed with a liquid, it takes on the consistency and color of mud. Style hair protectively and cover with a shower cap to protect sheets and clothing. After a few uses, you will feel your hair become stronger, more hydrated, and healthier. Length will follow!