Heat Styled Naturals

Update: March 2011

2011-03-19T17:46:00.000-07:00

:-/

I straightened a week ago and just got around to posting the pics. I trimmed my hair (by myself :-/) 6 days after taking these pics.

My hair is in better condition than I thought it would be but there were still some issues.
Because I've been wearing my hair natural since November and have not been trimming every three months like I used to, the SSK's took over. They weren't playing either. Some of them were a couple inches up the strand!! They were EVERYWHERE.

I did not have a ton of split ends although I havent been moisturizing or oiling regularly but that could be because they broke off. My growth-retention did not impress me and my hair seemed thinner to me in some places.

I've been thinking about going back to my old regimen until the end of the year just to go hard in 2011. I'm still not sure yet though. If I find a decent, natural looking wig, I'll let you guys know.

*please excuse the pantylines lol*

State of the Union 2011 :)

2011-03-04T18:48:00.000-08:00

Twist-out

So after my hair reached the longest it's ever been in my life, I stopped "going hard". No more half-wigs, no more braid extensions, no more long stretches of protective styling with a hardcore moisturizing regimen. I was over it. Bored with it. Done.

Right now I've just started my spring break and I plan on straightening for the first time since late last year. I want to do it right before I go back to school. I'm nervous and excited to see the "State of the Union" if you will. What effect will the deviation from last years regimen have on my progress. Will there be any significant progress? Regress? I'm not going to kid you, my expectations are low. I know that my strict, protective-style-heavy regimen was a major factor in my length retention.

Anyway, we shall soon see...

2011 Let's Go!!!

2011-01-04T00:57:00.000-08:00

(Pony Tail) Taken Nov 11th 2010

(2 week old braid-out) Taken Oct 15th 2010

(Pseudo-length check) Taken Oct 15th 2010

Hi, Followers old and new! I'm back with my end-of-the-year update and New Years goals. I can't believe 2011 will bring me into Year Three of my healthy hair journey. I started this blog in December of 2008, and although I wasn't able to keep it up the way I wanted to, it's great to have a photo journal of my progress and if it helps others-even better! Currently my longest layer is MBL and I'm not too far from WL sooo *pops champagne?*. I have not been the best at documenting over the past months due to my FT job and being a FT student but as you can see, I made a few attempts. :/

Looking over my "Moving On" post from January 2010, I cannot believe how fast this year went by! Under my list of challenges in 2009, I can say that Ive made some progress in 3 out of the 4:

-I have not been able to find a protective style that I love. It's not due to a lack of styles available. It's definitely my lack of skill lol.

-I have cut the amount of breakage from detangling down on wash day with the help of my seamless wide-tooth comb, my steamer and pre-pooing with oil.

-I have also managed to put the scissors down. Split ends are not a chronic issue for me but if I happen to find them I'll dust or do the search-and-destroy method.

-As far as questioning protective styling, I have cut down drastically from my strict regimen in 2009. I did not use any braid extensions, half-wigs or weave in the last 6 months. I used heat more frequently than I'd like because it was convenient and gave me consistent and predictable results. I even experimented with twist-outs and braid-outs and after a couple failed attempts I fell in love with them.

Challenges in 2010:

-Single strand knots (hate them!). Wearing loose natural styles like braid-outs and twist-outs often lend itself to SSK's for my hair. If I dont stretcch my hair with a cold blow-dry, I notice more SSK's. I just cut them out.

-Because of my full schedule, my diet has suffered. I dont remember when I last took a multivitamin and I've been eating way more fast food than I'm accustom to. I noticed the difference immediately in the strength of my nails so I'm pretty certain that it has had adverse effects on my hair.

-My scalp has recently been flaky and itchy. I started washing more frequently but it has not helped. I know it's tied to my diet because I started noticing it after I stopped taking my multivitamin and omega oil capsules.

-My moisturizing regimen has fallen off a cliff. I just have not been consistently moisturizing at all. My hair was less pliable, drier and more susceptible to breakage.

-Product junkism surfaced during the last six months of 2010. Because I was experimenting with different styles and using more heat, I'd try out new products and deviated from my regimen.

What I've learned this year:

-Moisturizing is important. The ends of the hair are the driest and they need that extra attention.

- In a recent youtube video Anthony Dickey said something that stuck with me "Take advantage of the blow-dry." That goes against what Ive learned about heat-styling in the past two years. When I heat-styled, my hair was free of product because they say that product weighs the hair down and it actually may promote heat damage. Anthony D uses a moisturizing leave-in to blow-dry then flat-iron natural hair. You can see his explanation in THIS video around the 10 minute mark. I'll be experimenting with this when I decide to flat iron my hair again.

-For a short time I experimented with clean eating, drinking green smoothies, eliminating processed sugar and cardio exercises and the results were great: better sleep, more energy, clear skin, soft skin and best of all accelerated hair growth. I had the time to make my own meals, exercise and do green smoothies in the morning for breakfast because I was on break from school. After school started back, I slowly crept back into my old habits...

-Less protective styling for me meant drier hair and less retention-period.

-Finally, Ive learned that longer hair equals more responsibility. More time spent in the shower, more time spent detangling, more product used, more time spent styling.

In 2011, I'd like to be waist length. I plan on using less heat, stretching my hair more, moisturizing and sealing consistently and getting my diet and exercise in check.

Even with all the challenges I faced in 2010 I definitely fell in love with my hair this year. Having this head of hair is not easy but it's all mine and I absolutely love it! *Sesame Street muppet dance*

Late May Update.

2010-06-08T15:52:00.000-07:00

Ive gained more thickness from leaving my hair alone.
It's not for everyone but I do protective styles that dont have to be detangled on wash day i.e braids/cornrows under a half-wig . I also only comb on wash day. Low- manipulation has been KEY for me.

Other than that my steamer and my seamless comb help with losing less hair and my regimen is pretty simple now: I always pre-poo under a heat cap w/ olive oil or coconut oil then detangle(which reminds me! I dont detangle with conditioner. I detangle with oil because I have fine strands). Wash w/ shampoo (in Celie plaits- not loyal to any brand), do an ACV rinse and DC. Im a fan of AOHSR and Aveda DR.

TTYL :)

Moving on...

2010-01-27T19:48:00.000-08:00

It's 2010. Renew your goals.
(my wrapping skills suck btw)

This is my starting point this year.

Challenges last year:

-Finding a cute protective style: Half-wigs only worked for so long because my hair underneath was too thick and single braids with my own hair wasn't cutting it. Fake hair is not really my cup of tea anymore although they did help me reach my goal.. I'm still trying to find a style that works for me.

-Cutting down hair loss on wash day: Having dense hair (meaning a lot of strands) is a challenge but when you have fine hair, you better proceed with caution whenever manipulating it. Towards the end of the year I learned that dry detangling with EVOO before washing was better than detangling with conditioner for my hair. I think I made a significant reduction in breakage from detangling.

-Putting the scissors down: I dont know what it is about self-trims that make me feel as if I've just remodeled my bedroom. I just need to develop a schedule and stick to it instead of sporadic urges to trim my hair. I haven't had any issues with splits. That is definitely due to moisturizing and sealing.

-Questioning protective styles: I want to do more styles that I love. So Im going to experiment with not wearing protective styles & see how my hair responds in 3 months. Not wearing protective styles means more frequent trims because of more frequent manipulation & exposure to the elements as well has harsh fabric. I may have to extend my goal if things go left lol. We'll see what happens...

Successes:
-Less product trials, therefore, less money wasted. I pretty much have my set products for heat-styling as well as my normal routine products.

-My regimen is predictable with certain set variations depending on what I plan on doing to my hair and how my hair is behaving (i.e hot oil treatments & light protein). Listen to your hair!

-I found out that my hair doesn't like hardcore protein treatments, Ive been trying to force feed it and it hasn't turned out well. My hair craves mostly moisture.

-Keeping it simple is easier. I gave away products I don't use and I stopped looking for reasons to add things I don't need into my routine. Less really is more for me.

-Investments: I bought two Hercules combs (they were expensive) and I realized after buying all those cheap wide-tooth combs that snagged my hair, I could've bought the Hercules earlier and saved a lot of money and hair strands! I also bought a steamer in December while they were on sale. Heaven. On. Earth. My detangling sessions have decreased, so has hair loss. My moisture level is retained longer and my scalp feels so much better. If you want to take your DC's to a whole new level, get a steamer...NOW. I wish I had bought mine much earlier.

2010 Goals:
Full MBL would be nice. I mean, is that so much to ask?
TTYL...

A year later

2010-01-27T17:34:00.000-08:00

<---We're retiring the old profile pic.
A few things have changed...

January 2010...

A year later, this is where I am now. Setbacks and all.

Fuller. Shinier. Softer. Longer. It's been a pretty decent year.
I've made mistakes and learned from them. Ive been inconsistent and switched things up.
That's what the first year is all about. That's what this journey is all about. Learning, re-learning, dispelling myths and getting better before you ultimately get it right.
Overall, I'm very pleased with my current progress.

End of '09 Random Pics

2010-01-26T20:05:00.000-08:00

These are just some pics I had in my phone of a length check, my hair wet with conditioner and a bantu-knot fail. I have another set of pics for January. I'll go into detail, telling you what I've been doing, changed, my new goals for 2010, etc...

I just want to say. It has NOT been easy. There were days when I got really frustrated but... long hair don't care lol!

Recent Random Hair Pics July 09-April09

2009-08-14T17:16:00.000-07:00

Since I began my hair jounrney, my hair has become shinier, stronger, thicker, longer and much healthier overall. More updates to come in DEC.

LAAATEE I know: A look back on the befores...

2009-08-13T17:27:00.000-07:00

10th GRADE!! HAIR-CARE IGNORANT BUT YOU COULDNT TELL ME NOTHING!

THE BIRTH OF HEAT-STYLED NATURALS (JAN 2009)

BANANA CLIP MARCH 2009

MARCH 2009 (hit APL)

MY HAIR JOURNAL (started in Sept 2008)

I wish I had better starting pics but ...

I Spy Some Healthy Hair Care.

2009-05-30T00:27:00.000-07:00

Ain't love grand?- You know the love between a black woman and her head tie.

While ignoring the criminal beside her, I noticed RiRi's strategically placed scarf. The positioning indicates special attention to the hairline. I did wonder how she managed to keep her edges intact with that high maintenance hair of hers. Ursela sure doesn't travel around with her and daily heat would be disastrous. So the secret is in the scarf ladies. I wonder what the bedding fabric is because her ends... lemme stop! lol.

Thumbs up to RiRi for some healthy hair care, hopefully some healthy relationships will follow?

Do you guys cover your entire forehead with your head tie? I couldnt do it. My skin would breakout from the oil.

Product Review: Redken Smooth Down Butter Treat.

2009-05-25T12:48:00.000-07:00

Redken Smooth Down Butter Treat (not to be confused with Redken Smooth Down).

The promise: > Ultra-rich, cream treatment> Provides intense, deep moisturization> Delivers super, long-lasting conditioning, nourishment and control> Leaves hair streamlined, manageable and shiny.

My experience: After leaving this treatment on for a couple of hours without heat while I cleaned, my hair was very soft after rinsing. I didn't think it would be because the consistency of the conditioner isn't buttery at all. It's very light in comparison to the moisturizing conditioners that I normally use. My hair was also much easier to detangle and I lost less hair than I usually would on wash day. I would say this product delivers on it's promises without the use of the exaggerated adjectives like "ultra-rich", "intense" and "super, long-lasting".

I haven't invested in the normal retail size. The sample is $4 at Ulta. I cant be certain whether my positive experience with this product is due solely to it's efficacy because I also cowashed on that day rather than my normal shampooing. So... Idk. If you've tried it, I'd love to know your experience.

Give Good Face

2009-05-25T11:28:00.000-07:00

We spend so much time, money and effort on our hair, but it's also important to invest in the preservation and beauty of our skin. Some of the many things we do for our hair (products, vitamins etc.) can inadvertently effect the health of the skin. So finding the right products and regimen for our skin is just as necessary.

My version of skin care was soap and water, twice daily, for a very long time. After watching some videos from one of my favorite youtubers, RiceBunny and learning that she started using anti-wrinkle cream at 8-I had to know more. Now, I'm learning more about my skin, moisturizing, DIY facials, diet and I'm starting to see a difference. (Link to skin typing here)

This wonderful article from cnn.com is a great starting point:

Overwashing, overapplying, and product overkill won't improve your skin. Rein in your regimen to get real results.

Want beautiful skin like model Megan Gale? Don't overdo it, experts say.

Cleansing and exfoliating

You don't need to wash or scrub as often -- or as vigorously -- as you may think. "Many women go overboard here, figuring it will make their skin look better if they do both more frequently," says dermatologist Leslie Baumann. "But that only damages the skin's natural barrier and creates dryness and irritation."

Combination skin

How often: Wash your face twice a day, and gently exfoliate once or twice a week; this is enough to keep skin balanced and encourage cell turnover, according to experts.

What to look for: A mild cleanser that isn't too rich or too drying, says Mary Lupo, a dermatologist in New Orleans, Louisiana. Use an exfoliant that contains gentle particles or acids to remove dead cells without abrading your skin.

Where to find it: Cleanser -- Purpose Gentle Cleansing Wash, $6 at drugstores. Exfoliant -- St. Ives Elements Microdermabrasion Scrub, $7 at drugstores.

Dry skin

How often: Cleanse skin at night, when it's dirtiest. Rinse with cool water in the morning to help maintain natural oils. If skin is flaky, exfoliate once a week, says Lisa Donofrio, a professor of dermatology at Yale University.

What to look for: A cleansing oil or creamy wash that has moisturizing ingredients, such as glycerin. If you have sensitive skin to boot, avoid products that contain fragrances or alcohol, which can irritate.

Where to find it: Cleanser -- Laura Mercier Purifying Oil, $40, www.sephora.com; or CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser, $11.50 at drugstores. Exfoliant -- Your safest bet is to use a wet washcloth.

Oily/acne-prone skin

How often: Lather up two to three times a day (as needed) but never more; overwashing kicks oil glands into overproduction. Exfoliate once or twice a week, but skip this if you have acne; the friction can make it worse.

What to look for: An oil-free, non-comedogenic foaming cleanser that contains salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to prevent breakouts. The scrub should contain mild acids to keep the pores open and clean.

Where to find it: Cleanser -- Aveeno Clear Complexion Foaming Cleanser, $7 at drugstores. Exfoliant -- Bioré Pore Unclogging Scrub, $6 at drugstores.

Sensitive skin

How often: Wash once a day if your skin is irritated by nearly everything or if you have eczema or psoriasis; twice a day if your skin is dirty. Forget about exfoliating, as it's too abrasive for your skin type.

What to look for: Hypoallergenic and fragrance- and soap-free cleansers. Calming ingredients, like green tea, chamomile, feverfew, and aloe, are a bonus. As a general rule, the fewer ingredients in a product, the better.

Where to find it: Cleanser -- La Roche-Posay Toleriane Dermo-Cleanser ($19.50, www.laroche-posay.com). Apply with your fingers. "Think of the way you'd touch a newborn," says Barbara Reed, a Denver, Colorado, dermatologist.

Portion control

• Use a quarter-size amount of cleanser on most skin types.

• A dime-size dollop of scrub will do.

• A pea-size dab of cleanser is plenty for sensitive skin. Real Simple: Best facial cleansers

Moisturizing and protecting

No matter what your skin type, moisture is important. "If your skin isn't hydrated, it can't protect itself from the free radicals that cause damage, discoloration, and wrinkles," says dermatologist Leslie Baumann.

Year-round daily sun protection is also a must. Fortunately there are moisturizers with SPF available for every complexion.

Combination skin

How often: Each morning, apply moisturizer with SPF after cleansing your skin. Reapply if you're spending more than 30 minutes outside, as sun-screens break down in sunlight over time.

What to look for: A medium-weight lotion with skin-protective antioxidants, such as green tea, coenzyme Q10, and vitamin C, and broad-spectrum sun protection with an SPF of 15 or higher.

Where to find it: L'Oréal Paris Revitalift UV Daily Moisturizing Cream with Mexoryl SX SPF 15, $22 at drugstores; or Clinique Super-defense SPF 25 Age Defense Moisturizer Dry Combination, $43, www.clinique.com.

Dry skin

How often: To help seal in water, apply moisturizer with SPF once a day, right after cleansing, while your skin is still damp. Reapply at midday if your skin begins to feel tight, and use a cream at night.

What to look for: A rich cream that contains antioxidants, plus hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides. "Hyaluronic acid and glycerin bind in moisture, and ceramides prevent water loss from the skin," says Donofrio.

Where to find it: Dove Pro Age Day Moisturizer SPF 15, $14 at drugstores; or Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer SPF 15, $10.50 at drugstores.

Oily/acne-prone skin

How often: Moisturize every morning. Oily skin needs the right type of moisture and lightweight, non-comedogenic sun protection. Reapply as needed, since blotting away shine can remove sunscreen.

What to look for: An oil-free, featherweight lotion, serum, or gel with antioxidants. If you're acne-prone, avoid products with cocoa butter, cinnamon, or coconut oil, as they can trigger breakouts, says Baumann.

Where to find it: DDF Ultra-Lite Oil-Free Moisturizing Dew SPF 15, $38, www.ddfskincare.com; or Clean & Clear Soft Oil-Free Day Moisturizer SPF 15, $8.50 at drugstores.

Sensitive skin

How often: In the morning, apply moisturizer to skin that has been dabbed dry. Ingredients penetrate wet skin more deeply, which is often a good thing, but this can irritate sensitive skin.

What to look for: Fragrance-free lotions or creams that contain anti-inflammatories, such as chamomile, green tea, feverfew, and caffeine. Avoid lipoic acid, as it can be irritating.

Where to find it: Eucerin Redness Relief Soothing Moisture Lotion SPF 15, $14 at drugstores; or Dermalogica Super Sensitive Faceblock SPF 30, $45, www.dermalogica.com for locations.

Portion control

Use a nickel-to quarter-size amount of moisturizer with SPF for face coverage. Real Simple: Seventeen affordable moisturizers

Treating and troubleshooting

Nighttime is best for targeting fine lines, blemishes, and discoloration. That's when the skin repairs itself, and the sun isn't around to degrade the active ingredients in the treatments. Careful and consistent use of effective products (most also provide moisture) will gradually yield great results.

Combination skin

To keep it smooth: Four nights a week, use a cream with retinol, a potent, tried-and-true wrinkle reducer. Try: Philosophy Help Me Retinol Night Treatment, $45, www.philosophy.com.

To clear it up: Use a 5 percent benzoyl peroxide or 2 percent salicylic acid gel nightly. Try: B. Kamins Medicated Acne Gel 5, $26, www.bkamins.com; or Neutrogena Rapid Clear Acne Eliminating Gel, $8 at drugstores.

To even tone: Retinol evens tone, but for darker spots, at night use a formula that also has skin-lightening licorice, kojic acid, soy, or vitamin C. Try: RoC Multi-Correxion Night Treatment, $25 at drugstores.

Dry skin

To keep it smooth: As dry skin can be sensitive, apply gentle retinols every other night with a moisturizer. Try: Avène Rétrinal Cream .05, $56, www.skincarerx.com. Other nights, just moisturize.

To clear it up: Heal blemishes using a moisturizing 2 percent salicylic acid treatment or a sulfur-based salve once or twice a week. Try: AcneWorx Gentle Moisturizing Clear Acne Treatment Gel, $20, www.amazon.com.

To even tone: Slather on a rich cream that contains skin-brightening ingredients, like coffeeberry extract, each night. Try: RevaléSkin Night Cream, $99, www.skincarerx.com.

Oily/acne-prone skin

To keep it smooth: Nightly use of a retinol gel or serum softens fine lines (skip it on nights you treat blemishes, as below). Try: Replenix Retinol Plus Smoothing Serum 3X, $56, www.skincarerx.com.

To clear it up: Oily skin can take a 5 or 10 percent benzoyl peroxide gel twice a day, says Sonia Badreshia-Bansal, a dermatologist in Danville, California. Try: Clean & Clear Persa-Gel 10, $5 at drugstores.

To even tone: Each night smooth a thin layer of a lightweight vitamin C serum over your face to gradually lighten any discoloration. Try: Avon Anew Alternative Clearly C 10% Vitamin C Serum, $20, www.avon.com.

Sensitive skin

To keep it smooth: Every third night, apply a mild retinol (see dry skin). Or use peptides nightly on lines. Try: Olay Regenerist Night Recovery Moisturizing Treatment, $18 at drugstores.

To clear it up: Treat blemishes with a 2 percent salicylic acid treatment and follow with moisturizer. Try: Exuviance Blemish Treatment Gel, $16, www.exuviance.com. Avoid benzoyl peroxide, which can be irritating.

To even tone: Consider a nightly application of a lotion with a gentle lightener, like a niacin derivative or vitamin C. Try: NIA 24 Intensive Recovery Complex, $110, www.skincarerx.com.

Portion control

• A pea-size amount of a retinol cream is adequate.

• A dime-size dollop of a skin brightener or moisturizer will do the trick.

• A sunflower seed--size dot of an acne salve is all your spots require.

Remember her?

2009-05-21T19:05:00.000-07:00

Kim Wayans?!? I was shocked to say the least. Her hair looks fab, she looks fab. Why has she been ghost all these years though?

Celebrity Corn-Rows

2009-05-14T17:12:00.000-07:00

Is this the unofficial "I actually have hair" style for the usually wigged up celebs these days? OK, gelled up corn-rows it is!
Cute.

41 days

2009-05-12T20:35:00.000-07:00

This is a fist full of hair next to my mouse. It's the result of 41 days of braids.
As I was taking the braids out, I glided down my hair with my hands to remove shed hair. I pre-pood with oil overnight, mixed Nexxus Therappe with Suave conditioner and water and shampood in sections. Then I added about half a tablespoon of baking soda to a large glass of water and poured that over my hair, waited a minute, then rinsed. Then, I did an ACV rinse similarly. I followed with a hard protein treatment using Nexus Emergencee for 10 minutes. After that, I mixed the Aura conditioner with some coconut oil and honey and DCed for half an hour. Next, I applied Lustrasilk and the GVP version of Paul Mitchell The Detangler over my hair, detangled with a wide tooth comb and rinsed.

I'm now rocking a 3/4 wig and I'll post pics soon. I'm due for a trim because it's been over 4 months since scissors have touched my hair. I haven't encountered any splits, my hair has basically been in protective styles 98% of the time, even when straight. But I have to confess that I haven't exactly been consistent with the daily moisturizing and sealing. It's so easy to get lazy when your in a protective style...

LaterZ.

Heat-Styled Natural: Alicia Keys

2009-05-10T14:42:00.001-07:00

Just when you thought straight hair went into hiding...
Alicia Keys broke out the flat-iron and sported a sleek, split down the middle, heat-styled hair do for the White House Correspondents Dinner.

The middle part never did quite fit me. I always opt for a slated part at the side.

If you didn't get to see the Prez's speech, you can check it out here. It was surprisingly funny unlike some of the usual cornball jokes that get recycled in Washington DC.

Joy Bryant's Summer Hair Tip

2009-05-07T00:00:00.000-07:00

From her Q&A with AOL Black Voices
Q: Can you share some of your summer hair care secrets?
A: "I don't really have any hair secrets. I just think that some sort of pomade should always be handy." There are a variety of great pomades for our hair, including Kizzy "Stay-Put" hair pomade by Carol's Daughter. You can use this awesome product to give your hair moisture and shine.

I've seen Joy in wigs, weaves & phony ponies, but I'm pretty sure she's natural. Several people have said her hair always looks a mess and some say it's simple, fresh and natural. You be the judge.

Cheaper Alternative: Aura Rosemary Mint

2009-05-06T00:00:00.000-07:00

The Aura Rosemary Mint line can be found in Sally's where the generic value products are located. It is supposed to be comparable to Aveda Damage Remedy.

Both lines tout Jojoba oil as a prominent ingredient. Aura is only 5.99 for 13. oz., but I got it on sale for 4.99. Aveda DR is about $24 for 8.5 oz. No Aveda. Hell no.

I like the smell and the tingling sensation from Aura. I can't give a full review yet because I've only used it while in braids. So look out for that.

Oprah's Ear-Tuck

2009-05-05T16:24:00.000-07:00

*Ok, so this is just an excuse to post another pic of Lady O's fab hair*

I Was Blind, But Now I See.

2009-04-29T00:00:00.000-07:00

How many of us don't think twice about where the money we spend on our hair supplies ends up? Probably most.

In an article about "Taking Back the Black Hair Care Industry", Mika Pettigrew talks candidly about our responsibility, as consumers , for letting the now Korean dominated black hair care industry slip through our hands. She writes:

"In 2004, sales of black hair care products exceeded $1.7 billion, as reported by Mintel International Group, a consumer research company. This figure does not include the synthetic and human hair additions that have gained tremendous popularity in recent years... Korean immigrants “get it” and have gotten it for decades, and now have almost complete control of the industry in 2007. They are sizing us up, assessing our needs, crafting and passing out the products. We, in turn, loyally tithe our dollars to strengthen their communities. It is time to consider the roll we play in the crisis within the Black hair care industry, by examining the choices we are making as it relates to us individually, the Black hair care industry specifically, as well as strengthening our communities and preserving our culture in general."

---When I think about that money going towards the employment of their family, to educate their children and to strengthen their communities it makes me angry-not at them, but at us (including myself) for so blindly spending our hard earned dollars and at the few black-owned beauty supply store owners who I've come into contact with whose service and product selection were less than stellar. You know, the communities where these stores are prevalent sure could use that money. African-Americans can surely benefit from controlling the black hair care industry. Mika continues:

"In the early 1900s, Black-Americans controlled the industry with the likes of Madam C.J. Walker, a manufacture and distributor of Black hair care products, and Anthony Overton, a manufacturer of Black beauty aids as well as a magazine publisher and president of a Black-owned bank...The period between the Great Depression and the civil rights movement was vital, as the industry proved its resilience to economic and social turmoil growing out of racial discord. This was critical since Black manufacturers in the Black hair care industry managed to emerge from the Great Depression while other institutions disappeared. The industries staying power did not go unnoticed. Manufacturers of Black hair care products became the focus of public discourse during the civil rights movement.
The years from the civil rights movement to the early 1990s proved to be pivotal for the industry. Black manufacturers began to lose ground to large white conglomerates prior to the Korean take over, and economic barriers were reproduced for Black professionals in the industry."

---Now, Ive never been a racially sensitive militant conspiracy theorist but to me this sounds like something was stolen from us.

Fun Fact: Madame C. J. Walker, touted for inventing the relaxer, made history as the first female American self-made millionaire. She created thousands of well-paying jobs for African-American women, promoted giving back to African-American communities and she was a major financial contributor to many charities and black initiatives. She was the pioneer of the, then African-American controlled, black hair care industry and I'm sure she's rolling over in her grave at the state of the industry today. SMH. Hopefully, in the near future, products by black owned businesses like Oyin Handmade and Karen's Body Beautiful will become more accessible.

Summer Styles

2009-04-27T15:21:00.000-07:00

Alright ladies, summer is not officially here, but you can't tell by the temperature outside right now in Atlanta.
Even this heat-styled natural knows when to retreat. The summer months are usually the months that my flat-iron doesn't see much action. I'm going to continue with protective styling and hopefully I'll see some significant length retention. I have braids in right now and I hate them. I haven't had cornrows since... years ago. I was debating the idea of getting a short cut sew-in, but I don't know how to do it myself and I have trust issues when it comes to stylists. I'll most likely opt for a half-wig. I retain a lot of length with them.

How will you be wearing your hair? Braids? Twists? Sew-ins? Wash-n-go? Buns? Wigs? Or are you lucky enough to not have to worry about it?

Conditioning tip: Got Frizz?

2009-04-27T00:00:00.000-07:00

Try a Cholesterol treatment.

Apply the treatment liberally, cover with a plastic cap and go under a heat source for 15-30 minutes then rinse thoroughly.

Fine and thin hair types should avoid using cholesterol treatments as they tend to weigh the hair down.

She's One of Us.

2009-04-24T15:35:00.000-07:00

After years of mostly protective styling, Oprah declares, "no I'm not wearing a weave" via twitter. Loves it!

Click here for the article and video in case you missed it.

Great Read: Chee Gates on Being Natural.

2009-04-24T14:58:00.001-07:00

Every black girl I knew—whether she was ebony-skinned or the color of butternut squash—wanted the same thing I did: hair that hung silk-straight. Our collective desire was rooted in the self-deprecating mentality that kinks were gross and had to be concealed, if not corrected. Straight hair promised romance, laughter, abounding beauty. If I wanted to be happy, I had no choice but to unravel every nap on my head. There was only one method that would do it: I'd have to get a perm, also called a "relaxer."

That first perm is like a black girl's bat mitzvah. It's a coming out—a rite of passage into womanhood. What's different is that the initial relaxing doesn't happen at any set age. And waiting too long could retard a girl's social progress. Here's why: Before your hair is relaxed, you're viewed as a child. (Or even a dope. Or you aren't viewed at all.) Because being invisible doesn't jibe with an only child whose astrological sun is in Leo—I could barely wait ten minutes to be in the spotlight—I got my first relaxer before I was even old enough to wear deodorant, thinking it would accelerate my path to stardom.

I was a follower—mimicked whatever was deemed of-the-moment.... Click to continue reading Being Natural.

It's Major: Deep Conditioning

2009-04-22T18:09:00.000-07:00

It has preventative and restorative functions. It's a necessity. Period.

The greatest change in the manageability and elasticity of my hair is most definitely due to deep conditioning consistently.Having been dependent on a hairdresser for many years, I thought of deep conditioning as a special extra $20 treatment that I only had to do once a month. It was only recommended to me once a month. At home, conditioning was using the partner that came with the shampoo on sopping wet hair for the 2-3 minutes directed. The use of sulfate-laden shampoos and heat-styling tools should always be preceded by and followed with a conditioning treatment that provides moisture and strength appropriately.

The most difficult thing initially will be recognizing when your hair needs a specific treatment i.e oils, moisture, protein or cholesterol. That's why it's important to become an expert on our own hair and not a just copy our hair idols.

I thought I knew how to deep condition when I first started this journey. I was wrong. Mimicking my old hair dresser did nothing for my hair. Here's what I changed:

-Give the DCing process it's due respect: I hop out of the shower after squeezing out excess water, lightly pat with a towel and apply conditioner in sections. This is one of the best tips that I've learned. Removing the excess water allows the conditioner to penetrate better and applying it in sections ensures that I haven't neglected patches of hair.

-The cold water rinse: It closes the cuticles and helps to seal in the moisture.

Make sure you have a deliberate and effective deep conditioning experience. :)

BTW, Shout out to CHAKA who so wonderfully pointed out that the header had been misspelled for months. Smh @ anyone who saw and didn't say anything lol.

Also, if you emailed me, I'm currently going through them so be patient with me. AND if anyone has any tips on how to get over a guy in 24 hours, it would be greatly appreciated ::sniffles::

Product Review: GVP Paul Mitchell Detangler

2009-03-29T21:39:00.000-07:00

Get this! Lol. I bought this conditioner and it was like the greatest aha moment ever. All this time I've been missing out on slip.
I used it while I was detangling after I deep conditioned. I didnt wash it out. I used a pea size on small sections. My hair stayed soft and detangling was a breeze. This is a definite staple for me. It's $4.99/ 3.99 with the club card.

Compare to: Paul Mitchell The Detangler
Detangles instantly
Smoothes and softens
Adds instant shine
Diminishes static

The promise: For medium to coarse and chemically treated hair. Used daily, GVP Conditioning Detangler will leave your hair smooth, soft, shiny and static free. Helps to protect hair from harmful UV rays. An extremely moisturizing, fast detangling conditioner.

Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Isododecane, Isohexadecane, Cetearyl Alcohol, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Bisamino PEG/PPG-41/3 Aminoethyl PG-Propyl Dimethicone, Algae, Aloe Barbedensis Leaf, Anthermis Nobilis (Chamomile), Henna, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba), Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary), PEG-12 Dimethicone, Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Leaf Extract, Daucus Carota Staiva (Carrot) Seed Oil, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Citric Acid, Tetrasodium EDTA, DMDM Hydantoin, Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate, Fragrance (Parfum), Hexyl Cinnamal, Yellow 5 (CI 19140), Orange 4 (CI 15510), Red 40 (CI 16035)

Hair Plans

2009-03-27T17:31:00.000-07:00

This week was not a good week for straight hair in Atlanta. It's been raining and when it wasn't raining it was drizzling, and if it wasn't drizzling it was foggy. I've had enough of the duck and cover. I knew I was over it when I got out of the car without opening my umbrella first.

Right now, I'm doing a pre-poo with Lustrasilk Shea Butter ($2.79). If one of my favorite bloggers endorses a cheap product, I'm likely to give it a try. For now, I can say it smells good and oddly familiar! That probably means one of those hairdressers I was paying $50 for a press back in the day might have passed this off as a $10 added treatment. SMH. Review to come.

What are your plans for your hair this weekend?

P.S- If you frequent Sally's, be sure to get their club card. I've only used it twice and it has paid for itself already.

Just Show Them.

2009-03-26T16:42:00.000-07:00

In one of my previous posts I alluded to my mother's notion that hair doesn't grow after a certain age. Every female in my immediate family (including yours truly) is stubborn, so why did I take it upon myself to have a pointless debate with my mother over the hair on my head? Why did I attempt to educate the wrong and strong on the science of hair care? Never again.

She can roll her eyes at my product reserve, continue to point out the time I spend on my hair on wash days and keep talking that old school smack. I'm over it. I don't need a cheerleader or her approval.

My hair is in protective styles 98% of the time. Only I'll know how many inches I've gained, how much the breakage has decreased, how much stronger and thicker it has gotten and the reduction in split ends.

I'm going to hush. I realize the mere mention of hair brings about diarrhea of the mouth for me. Anyone who isn't a hair care enthusiast may understandably get annoyed, so I'm just going to let the progress speak for itself. Rant over.

Who doesn't love a bun!?

2009-03-26T15:04:00.000-07:00

How old were you when you fell in love with the Ballerina bun? It's quite possible that the woman who delivered me was wearing a bun when I was pulled out of the womb, because I cant remember a time when I didn't love a bun.

The bun is so versatile. High, low, centered, tight, loose, messy-from the gym to the ballroom, a bun always works.

The bun for growth challenge on LHCF is very popular but for me it's not practical. I would have to brush the hell out of my thick wet hair to get a somewhat decent natural bun. If I do it on fresh, sleek flat ironed hair I would achieve great styles. But, who flat-irons their natural hair to put it in a bun? Nobody-not immediately at least. When I try a bun on week 2 flat ironed hair, it comes out okay, but I can feel the stress on my hairline from having to pull it back tight. By then, my hair would already be a little fuller. Also, when taking down the band I notice a few strands of broken hair. I think that's where some people run into problems with buns and ponytails.

Rock that gorgeous bun, but if you notice your hairline receding and strands without the bulb coming out when you take your hair down, you should let that bun go:(

Wish List: Emu Oil

2009-03-24T16:43:00.000-07:00

For the past few weeks, I've been looking through online sites that have 100% pure Emu Oil, because I'm pretty sure I wouldn't be able to find it in any store close to me.
I've seen sites with 4 0z. for about $9, but after reading some reviews from disgruntled customers complaining about "watered down" product, I decided not to get it.

One of my favorites sites Honeyfig.com unveiled the oil in it's list of new products. However, I was less than excited after seeing the price tag of $26.00 for 1.7 oz. I'm sure this is the real deal.

The promise: Use lightly as you need very little to reap the benefits of it's high concentration of Omega 3-6-9. Improve the look of fine lines, wrinkles, dry hair and dryness caused by eczema and psoriasis, the natural way; as this is the best pure Emu oil that is available on the market. It is unlike other emu oils that are found, as it goes on light and is absorbed easily into the skin, system and/or hair.

Someday...

Sally's GVP Joico K-Pak Reconstructor

2009-03-23T17:16:00.000-07:00

I went to Sally's to look for a moisturizing conditioner to try out, but nothing caught my eye. I went to the Generic Value Product section remembering that I read great things about the K-Pak line, most notably, thickening of the hair strand. Due to current economic uncertainty, I won't be dropping any stacks on the original Joico anytime soon (trying this new concept of living within my means), so I'll be using this for a couple of weeks starting this weekend to gauge its effects on my hair.
So look out for the review.
If you've already tried it, let me know how it worked for you.

"The GVP story: Generic Value Products were formed because a group of experienced chemists and marketing people knew they could produce at "Popular Prices", a product as good as the "higher priced" quality NAME BRANDS"

Ideal Length

2009-03-22T11:35:00.000-07:00

There are many factors that can come into the equation when aiming for a certain length. Some of them include: how the length looks straight or natural, how practical it is to maintain, how it will fit your face, whether you want a blunt cut or are content with a V-shape, layering, etc.
You can have two bra-strap length girls with one having longer hair than the other because of neck length, height, the length of the back, etc. So a hair goal can be relative to perception, features, body and aesthetic preference.

For me, waist length hair was never a desire. Even as a child I thought Rapunzel was over-doing it. I've always preferred hair that hits mid-chest length in the front and somewhere between Bra-strap and Mid-back in the back with a blunt cut. That is my ideal length-straightened. I think it would be a lot of fun to have hair down to the waist, but I don't think it would fit me and I don't think I'd enjoy the detangling process.

What look are you trying to achieve as far as length?

Lisa Akbari on Hair Texture.

2009-03-17T17:05:00.000-07:00

In her book, The Black Woman's Guide to Beautiful Hair, Lisa Akbari states the need to set aside discussing "grades" of hair and instead be attentive to "real information that will empower your hair."
This focus is the hair strand, which tells us the texture and type of hair. She notes that textures come in fine, medium and coarse. As texture relates to heat damage she writes:

"Fine strands cannot tolerate excessive pressing or heat from a curling iron, blow-dryer, flat iron, pressing comb or heat rollers. Fine hair will damage easily because it has fewer protective layers than medium and coarse hair strands. The smaller strands requires the least amount of maintenance products in order to manage.
Medium hair strands are of average size, have a medium quantity of layers and can tolerate heat and chemicals better than fine hair. Although this is true, all hair strands burn if the temperature of a heated tool is greater than 150 degrees. So you must be careful not to overuse heated styling tools or chemicals. I recommend that you avoid pressured heat, instead try a lower more indirect heat.
Coarse hair strands are the largest of the three are thicker and are difficult to damage...."

You can listen to Lisa's radio show on this site: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/Lisa-Akbari

Multiple uses: Tea Tree Oil.

2009-03-16T18:07:00.000-07:00

Tea Tree oil is an essential oil made from Melaleuca alternifolia leaves.

It is known to treat dandruff, foot fungus and acne.
The average cost is around $12 for 1oz., so it's a little expensive but it should last a while.

I really love it for the soothing effect on the scalp. I mix it with conditioner I'm using for a pre-poo and do a quick scalp massage. I also use it for acne spot treatments. It dries the spot up fast, but be careful because it can really dry out the skin when used in high concentration.

***Update

2009-03-15T21:10:00.000-07:00

For almost 2 weeks, I couldn't get my pictures onto my computer. Anyway, I took out the braids after just 2 weeks, rocked a chunky braid-out and then flat-ironed. I can not give a complete review of the Sedu yet, because I fell asleep with half my hair done, loose in a bonnet and my hair got really poofy, I had to pin-curl it and keep on my scarf for the rest of the weekend for it to look decent. I just kept it in a ponytail. But, I was very disappointed in myself. I should know better.
I'm postponing my official length check.

Super Cute Curly Set

2009-03-15T18:18:00.000-07:00

Unavoidable Damage

2009-03-12T17:55:00.001-07:00

Heat-Styling wash day drama.

Before learning how to properly care for my hair, I would say a lot of the damage was accumulated from manipulation and unhealthy practices between wash cycles and when wash day came around, I just expected fists of hair to come out.

Now, I've virtually eliminated damage throughout the days that precede wash day and I've drastically cut down on the amount of hair loss after washing and detangling. With heat-styling though, dry combing (the real devil for kinky hair) can't be avoided.

I detangle, while damp, before blowdrying with the concentrator on cool. When I'm combing out each small section with a rattail comb, there's bound to be some breakage. When I look at those bulb-less pieces of broken hair that could have been , I cant help but think about length being taken off. Right now I don't want anything to come between me and BSL, especially when my mother just told me hair stops growing at 18. (Pray for her). I have doubters to prove wrong!

It may be time for me to start thinking of other methods.

The Baking Soda Treatment

2009-03-10T17:09:00.000-07:00

The first time I heard about this treatment was on youtube from ItsMsHeatherNicole. (Click here if you haven't seen it). I thought it very brave of her to deep condition with baking soda. Then, Traycee blogged about it. Even though Traycee's relaxed, I connect with her simplicity. She's not jumping on every fad and she maintains a pretty consistent routine. So, when she gave it the OK, I decided to give it a try.

I added a Tbsp of baking soda to 3/4 a cup of Nexxuss Humectress, mixed, left it on for 15 mins with a plastic cap and rinsed. I'm a believer! It softened my hair and made it more manageable.

Now, how in the dickens does this work? I have no clue but, I recall someone on LHCF saying that she added a teaspoon of salt to her conditioner and it made her hair very soft. I thought she was crazy.
Baking soda is a chemical salt and a weak alkaline. It acts to neutralize acids and breaks down proteins making it an effective meat tenderizer.

I dont know whether this is harmful or why it does what it does and I havent found any scientific research that would bring to me recommend this as a treatment to anyone. But, if you've tried it, let me know your experience!

The "My Dominican Salon" Blow-Out.

2009-03-06T16:50:00.000-08:00

I've been to a Dominican salon when I lived in Brooklyn. I saw how a blow-out was done on natural hair and decided against getting the service. This salon is in my neighborhood in Lawrenceville GA.

Someone commented on their youtube channel about the amount of smoke coming out of the dryer. This was their response:

"the smoke you are seeing is actually the moisture from the creams evaporating, this process does not damage the hair, infact it grows the hair and keeps it healthy , remember with natural hair always request "deep conditioning""

((???)) I know some relaxed girls rave about these salon services, but I would not want this process done to my hair. Regardless of how it looked at the end, that's far too much heat and manipulation for me.

I don't think I'll ever go to a hairdresser again.

Back to Natural.

2009-03-06T06:41:00.000-08:00

I found a great piece on Associated Content about black women returning to natural hair. Click here to read it and check out some of the comments.

It's interesting how history repeats different versions of itself. Women during the 60's and 70's who wore their natural hair as a symbol of black pride probably didn't envision that a few years later 80% of black females would be relaxed again.

Is this natural movement just a result of the the cyclical recurrence of boredom and changing fashion trends or is something different going on here? Is it too early to tell whether this is a phase or a revolution? Are we leaving behind the black pride argument and simply leaving it up to our aesthetic choice or convenience? Are we more health conscious? Are we more informed on hair care? What if a safer straightening agent is developed? Are we more accepting?

Do you have a different perspective?

Flat Irons: Splurge or Save?

2009-03-06T00:00:00.000-08:00

There are two main types of damage associated with flat irons. High heat leads to heat damage and rusted, chipped or scratched plates lead to mechanical damage.

When shopping around for flat irons, the plates should be the deciding factor. The most effective irons have better plates and straighten the hair easily with less damage. Ceramic plates provide fast, evenly- distributed, constant heat. Smooth plates won't snag hair.

I'm all for savings, but a higher-end flat iron, with better plates, is a smarter deal. There shouldn't be a need for frequent replacements and anything that causes less damage is the wiser investment for your hair.

***Update: Flat Iron's here

2009-03-05T00:00:00.000-08:00

I got my Sedu on Saturday after a little non-delivery scare. I probably need to plug it in to see if it's working because I won't be using it until my next length check ( end of March?). I'm in braids right now. I did them myself. They came out... less than stellar, which was expected given my inexperience. They serve their purpose as a low manipulation protective style, but I forgot how unpleasant braids can be to wear.

When Heat-Styling Isn't For You

2009-03-03T00:00:00.000-08:00

I received a reader comment that I wanted to address in a post,because it brings up an excellent point:
Heat-styling isn't always practical for everyone. I'll give you several instances where I either opted to wear my natural hair or braids and cornrows:

-My trip to Scotland. I happen to enjoy dreary-rainy weather but, once I walked two blocks in that fog, my hair went Diana Ross on me.
-I went to school in the West Indies for 2 years and the heat was no joke. Everyone either had a relaxer or they wore their natural hair. I aligned with the naturals.
-During the summer in NY, after class my friends and I would find ourselves all across the boroughs exploring new places with our student metro card. All that daily walking in the hot sun coupled with the humidity was too much for a press.

Sweating profusely, certain temperatures and thick, coarse resistant hair should be taken into consideration when contemplating any style that involves heat. Otherwise, it could be a waste of time and money.

Product Review: CHI Keratin Mist

2009-03-02T00:01:00.000-08:00

The promise: Specifically developed to work in conjunction with the CHI line. CHI Keratin Mist is an advanced leave-in spray designed to provide hair with strength, protection and softness, while leaving hair silky and shiny with incredible manageability.
Ingredients: Rosewater, Dicetyldimonium Chloride, Cocodimonium Hydroxypropyl Silk Amino Acids, Acetamide MEA and Lactamide MEA, Lauryl Pyrrolidone, Panthenol, Propylene Glycol, Diazolidinyl Urea, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Methylchloroisothiazoline and Methylisothiazolinone, Nettle, Chamomile Extract, Algae, Aloe Vera, Lavender Extract, Rosemary Extract, Parfum, FD&C Yellow 5, D&C Red 33, Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide, Mica, Boron Nitride Powder.

I really love this product. I've tried other leave-ins and nothing compares to this. This leaves my hair strong, soft and slightly silky.
The price varies but it's around $10 for 8 oz. It's pricier than a lot of the leave-ins at the average beauty supply store, but for me, it's worth it.
Some may have a problem with the smell. A few of the CHI products give off the faint smell of men's cologne. It's not over bearing though. I happen to like it.
The only problem I have is the bottle. The circumference is a little larger than other spray bottle products making it somewhat difficult to pump. But, I just transfer the product into a cheap .50 cents spray bottle.
Try this product, you may like it. Let me know how it works for you.

Maintaining Straight Hair.

2009-02-26T16:31:00.000-08:00

You can stretch relaxers, why not heat-styled natural hair?
Here are a few of my tips and tricks to making the straight look last:

-When you shower at night or in the morning, your scarf and your shower cap can't leave your head, especially if your bathroom resembles a sauna when you're showering. Make sure all of your strands are hidden underneath your tightly secured scarf before you put on the plastic cap.

-When it's raining, foggy, humid or any other indication of precipitation, opt for a sleek bun. I usually put on a dab of oil, serum or moisture block before styling. A well-prepared heat-styled natural may also Google her local weather forecast for the week and anticipate having to carry a stylish scarf or hoodie, elastic band and mini-umbrella.

-Try to avoid getting water on your edges when doing your face washing routine. The soap can dry out the hairline and the water will cause it to revert. It took lots of practice but I've become really good at rinsing my face, with my eyes open, in sections.

-If I have to use a product that contains Humectants or a water-based moisturizer, I rub it into my hands and apply a very light amount to the strands before applying a drop of oil.

-I keep my straight style in for, at the very least, 2 weeks. Throughout the week I'm not heavy handed with products and if I feel like my scalp is getting oily I'll use a rag (pointed into a finger shape) or a q-tip dipped in diluted Apple Cider Vinegar to clean my scalp.

Emu oil!

2009-02-24T16:16:00.000-08:00

I came across an article about essential oils and the author mentioned carrier oils, Jojoba (you know I ride hard for Jojoba) and Emu for dilution. She singled out Emu because of its nutrients, anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties.
I've seen Emu oil mentioned in passing and I assumed it was one of the Ayurvedic regimen's many oils- that's why I've ignored it. My inquisitive nature led me to do a quick search and imagine my surprise when I read that the oil is derived from the fat of a bird called the Emu. ((Gross)). After going through a few web pages, I also learned about it's healing properties. A quick Google image search will bring up pictures of scars and dry skin.
Like Jojoba, some claims say it reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and that it's non-comedogenic. It also contains high amounts of omega 6 and 3.

Here are some of the benefits claimed on one site:

Anti-inflammatory, with effects comparable to ibuprofen;
Bacteriostatic, does not promote the growth of bacteria;
Hypoallergenic, not known to cause skin irritation or have any side effects;
Highly penetrating, non-greasy, absorbs without leaving a greasy feel;
Non-comedogenic, does not clog pores.

Vitamin E, a major antioxidant and healing agent;
Vitamin A, a known skin repairer and antioxidant;
Linoleic acid, which eases muscle aches and joint pain;
Oleic acid, a proven skin cell regenerator, anti-wrinkle agent;
Sapogens, proven skin softeners;
Terpines, known antiseptics.

There's also another article on why you should exercise caution when using Emu oil. To read it click here. And if you care, you can read up on Demi Moore's use of the oil here.

I don't know about you, but I'm intrigued. If anyone uses it, please let me know how it works for you!

Sedu v. Sedu Revolution.

2009-02-24T15:13:00.000-08:00

I decided to get a new flat iron and I went with the original Sedu iron. I told you guys about the Folica sale, which ends today and after carefully reading reviews and revolutionary claims, I wasn't impressed enough to go with the latest model.

The new iron touts it's design as it revolutionary feature. It says that the curved and anti-slip edges lower heat damage by reducing the need for multiple passes on hair that may fall out of a traditionally shaped iron. ((Eyes roll)) I'll just avoid overloading the iron. With the sale it came up to $88 and change.

My Best Tressed Hair Set Experience.

2009-02-23T00:02:00.000-08:00

Rosemary Mint Shampoo with Sea Moss, 8 oz.- Hated it.
Black Vanilla Leave-In Conditioner, 8 oz.-::shrugs: like the smell.
Lisa’s Hair Elixir, 8 oz.- Liked the product, not exactly loving the smell.
Hair Milk, 4 oz.-Liked the product, hate the smell.
Mimosa Hair Honey, 4 oz.- Liked it, but wouldn't use it often.

Honestly, if I had paid $58.00 for this set, I'd be dissatisfied and underwhelmed. This line is over-hyped and poorly marketed. Someone with less knowledge of ingredients or a less refined taste in product lines may be intrigued by the scents, the celebrity endorsements and the crafty product titles, but do not be fooled! This is not the end all be all in natural hair care. There are better alternatives (and much cheaper) that will give you the same, if not better, results.

Having been raised in Brooklyn, I would love to see a fellow resident succeed, and I think Lisa means well, but these products and the price could benefit from some tweaking.

What is an Emollient?

2009-02-20T18:25:00.000-08:00

I often heard the word emollient used to describe Castor oil, but my understanding of what it meant was limited only to my inference skills rather than actual research.
I'm glad I took the time to look it up because what I found was very interesting- to me at least.

Emollients serve three basic functions for skin and hair:
-Increasing the ability to retain moisture (hold water)
-Providing a layer of oil to prevent water loss/ evaporation
-Lubricating the skin and hair

Emollients and moisturizers are often used interchangeably, and emollients are specific in their ability to soften skin and hair as well as treat dryness.

Common emollients are: Jojoba oil, Avocado oil, Soybean oil, Vitamin E.
This is where the "oils that moisturize" movement gets it's validity.

I called it!

2009-02-20T16:33:00.000-08:00

I don't know if anyone recalls my review of Carol's Daughter Hair Milk, but I stated that for my hair type it would probably be great for twist-outs and braid-outs.
Well, I almost passed for a curly girl today! Lol!
Yesterday, I bravely took my braids out not knowing if the results would be acceptable for work but after taking them down, I thought I could upgrade the crimps and crinkles
I added some Hair Milk to 8 sections and tightly braided each one. I then tied my hair down (already parted) with my satin scarf. (No comb was used during any step)
The morning results were FAB! ------HERE'S THE BEFORE:

Product Review: Lisa's Hair Elixir

2009-02-19T00:01:00.000-08:00

Experience why Jada Pinkett Smith attributes her beautiful hair to this long time favorite. Sage and rosemary essential oils condition the hair and combat dry scalp while peppermint gives a refreshing tingle. (8 fl. oz. 19.00)
Benefits: Essential oils of rosemary and peppermint promote circulation, strength and contain scalp-protecting antioxidants. Performs double duty as a daily shine solution and a weekly hot oil treatment. Ingredients: Soy Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, Olive Oil, Essential Oils Of Peppermint, Sage, And Rosemary And African Gold Fragrances

This product, along with the hair balm, is apparently part of Jada's Dynamic Duo. At a whopping $19.00, it's the most expensive product in the Best Tressed Hair set. I was apprehensive about using it because of my lack of knowledge on Soy bean oil but after a fellow blogger gave it the go ahead, I tried it.

I like the consistency, it's a little lighter than Jojoba oil. It does seem to be penetrating and moisturizing. While the smell is not as offensive as the hair milk, it reminds me of my grandmother's Sunday morning church perfume. It also contains some pretty good ingredients but... $19.00 for 80z? Really? I'd rather take a trip over to GNC and get a 16oz. bottle of Jojoba oil for $15.00.
I'm looking forward to using this as a hot oil treatment to see what results it yields. Stay tuned...

Ingredients: Soybean Oil

2009-02-19T00:00:00.000-08:00

Soybean Oil is the first ingredient listed in Lisa's Hair Elixir.

It contains about 60% polyunsaturated fatty acids and is a good source of Vitamin E, used frequently in soaps and bath oils. The oil is extracted, consisting of emollient properties such as oleic, linolenic and saturated acids. Ancient traditions cultivated soybeans for its protein, oil, and lecithin content – believed to be a superior moisturizing agent that helps soften skin.
Soybean oil has a relatively high proportion, 7–10%, of oxidation prone linolenic acid, which is an undesirable property for continuous service, such as in a restaurant. Soybean oil also contains natural antioxidants which remain in the oil even after extraction. These antioxidants help to prevent the oxidative rancidity.
Source

Flat iron sale!

2009-02-18T19:04:00.000-08:00

Folica's having a one week sale of $20 off all Sedu appliances. I dont know whether to pounce on the Sedu Rev or wait for another promo because they do this all the time! Developing...

R.I.P: Denman D3

2009-02-18T00:00:00.000-08:00

I bought the Denman months ago because of the rave reviews and recommendations it got. I was attracted to the promise of getting rid of knots, tangles and shed hair. It delivers on those promises. It even helps define curls.
Unfortunately for me, it's also a killer on fine hair. I had to carefully examine the bundle of hair in the brush and, to my horror, among the strands with the root bulb were broken pieces of hair of every length.
I wanted this brush to be for me but, my hair thrives with low-manipulation and the denman is too much manipulation for it.
What are your experiences with this brush?

Heat Styled Natural: Nicole Fiscella

2009-02-16T00:00:00.001-08:00

Nicole is 29. She was born on September 15, 1979 in Rochester NY. Her ancestry is a mixture of Indian and St. Lucian . She has a self-professed addiction to blogs.
Love her look.

Testing The Temperature.

2009-02-16T00:00:00.000-08:00

When using any heat-styling tool on your hair, you should test the temperature first:

Get a paper towel and moisten it until it's damp. Press the tissue paper
between the heating plates of your flat iron and hold for a few seconds. Discoloration, smoking and sizzling of the paper, would be an indication that the iron is too hot.
For hot combs, place the comb on a dry piece of paper and leave it for a few seconds. An imprint of the comb is normal but any discoloration or burning would also signal the need to rest the comb or turn down your heating oven.

Heat-Styled Natural B.Scoot drops some knowledge.

2009-02-12T21:51:00.000-08:00

Sugar Addicts Anonymous

2009-02-12T15:24:00.000-08:00

There's a reason we can't just have one.

The more sugar you eat the more you need to eat to taste the same level of sweetness. Just be highly aware the next time you eat ice cream. Notice how sweet that first spoon or two tastes. Then notice how the subsequent spoons just don't have the same level of taste or sweetness, as if your taste buds have become numb to the taste of the sugar. The more sugar you eat, the more you need to eat to keep tasting the sweetness. That is part of the addiction of sugar. The increased energy boost is another part of the addiction of sugar. The increase in short-term energy leads to a real let down, increased fatigue, and depression in the medium and long term.
Source

Product Review: Black Vanilla Leave-in Conditioner

2009-02-12T00:01:00.000-08:00

Promises: A deep-conditioning treat for dry hair.Damaged hair will say "hallelujah" with one use of this great-smelling, every day conditioner, which detangles, detoxifies and restores tresses to their natural splendor. Lavender, rosemary and marigolds rejuvenate dry, damaged tresses while delicious vanilla soothes the senses.
-Super-conditioning nettles naturally restore lost shine. Conditioning formula replenishes essential moisture and manageability. ($11.50) 8 oz.
Ingredients:Rosa Centifolia Flower Extract, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Extract, Urtica Dioica (Nettle) Extract, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Extract, Trifolium Pratense (Clover) Extract, Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Leaf Extract, Water (Aqua), Ceteth-20, Cetrimonium Chloride, Peg-8, Polysorbate 60, Glycerin, Peg-12 Dimethiconeglycerin, Panthenol, Fragrance, Phenoxyethanol(And)Caprylyl, Glycol(And)Potassium Sorbate(And)Hexylene Glycol

(BLANK STARE)

This product smells good...That's all. I'll leave it up to the individual to decide how much they're willing to pay for hair perfume.

Youtubers We Love: Lov3sponge

2009-02-12T00:00:00.000-08:00

I stumbled upon Lov3sponge a couple days ago. She's sweet and fun and I look forward to more vlogs from her. Seeing her vlog with her hair straightened was a little eye opening for me.
How does a change in appearance affect you?
One thing I noticed about having my hair straightened is that I tend to carry myself differently. My demeanor changes. I once referred to the first day my co-workers saw me with my hair straightened as my "shut it down, don't sleep on me" day. I pretended to ignore the stares and passively answered questions about whether it was real and what I "do to it". Inside I was beaming with my pride. My posture may have even straightened up a little.
It's not that I'm ashamed of my natural texture. Don't get me wrong, I once was. But, I'm really just getting acquainted with the "how-to's" of my natural texture. I heat-styled about every 2- 3 weeks non stop for six years at the hairdressers because my mother didnt have time for my hair anymore and I couldn't manage it.
Today, I know more, I continue learning and I love the versatility of both. Still, there's something about that first day of heat-styled hair that brings something out in me. It may be because natural hair doesn't really show off it's true length, or because I enjoy swinging and flinging it when someone comes up to talk to me or it may be the "ear tuck". Whatever it is, it affects me to a certain degree (even if it's superficial and meaningless).
How does it affect you? Does it make no difference to you either way? Do you feel the need make sure your clothes are on point? Do you feel fake? Does it make you miss your texture more? Are you more confident? Louder? More shy? How does it change you, if at all?

Pomade ingredient: Beeswax

2009-02-11T00:01:00.000-08:00

Wiki on Pomades & Beeswax:
Pomade (also called pomatum) is a greasy or waxy substance that is used to style hair. Pomade makes hair look slick and shiny. Unlike hairspray and hair gel, pomade does not dry and often takes several washes to remove - a special shampoo though, may be used. Other de-greasers include olive oil dishwashing liquid and lemon juice. Most pomades contain petroleum jelly (and in fact petroleum jelly can be used alone as a pomade) and mineral oil, and many also contain some sort of wax. They may also contain perfume and coloring agents. A plethora of pomades are still in production today and vary in factors such as weight, shine and scent. The stiffest will have a higher proportion of beeswax while the lightest may have a higher proportion of oils.
Beeswax is a natural wax produced in the bee hive of honey bees of the genus Apis.

Product Review: Mimosa hair honey

2009-02-11T00:00:00.000-08:00

Ingredients:

Corn Oil, Lavender, Rosemary, Nettles, Red Roses, Sage, Blue Malva, Marigolds, Red Clover, Beeswax, Shea Butter, Cocoa Butter, Annatto Seeds, Alkanet Root For Color, Essential Oil Of Sweet Orange, Fragrance.

Promises:

This herbal infused pomade improves manageability and tames fly-aways while delivering a sweet citrus scent. The blend's lack of water makes it ideal for those combating frizzies. ($9.50)

This pomade is very light in consistency (think Hollywood Beauty Castor oil grease) and it smells great . I kept smelling it over and over because the scent was familiar, it smells like many of the drugstore pomades hair dressers use. Honey is not listed as an ingredient, so it must be the beeswax that gives the scent. Natural hair care enthusiasts, who don't have locks, may take issue with the beeswax because it's known for being hard to wash out. I saw a customer review calling this product "scented lard".

When I got cornrows last year, the braider used this nasty petroleum based green grease. Just like the grease, MHH tames fly-aways but it's a better alternative to those heavier pomades when you're getting braids. Or you can always opt for old faithful -Shea Butter, adding essential oils for fragrance. Shea butter is listed as an ingredient in this product but again at 9.50 for 4oz, corn oil and beeswax as a base is disappointing. I wouldn't purchase this because I've never finished a pomade in my 20 years of life, I dont even remember purchasing one. It's just always in the house under the bathroom sink, collecting dust.

Hair Milk Hustle

2009-02-10T16:33:00.000-08:00

-Carol's Daughter is on HSN.
-Apparently this is marketed as a styling product.

Carol's Daughter Hair Milk

2009-02-10T00:00:00.000-08:00

This light, fast-absorbing lotion for the hair is made with essential oil of lemongrass to stimulate natural oil production. Vitamins C and E provide an antioxidant boost while a hint of lily of the valley fragrance perfumes hair beautifully. Hair Milk is ideal for defining natural curls and giving hair loads of shine and bounce. ($12.00 for 4oz.)

Benefits: Lemongrass stimulates scalp circulation and adds luster to dull hair.Sweet almond oil, a natural nut oil that is high in fatty acids and easily absorbed by the scalp.

This product delivers on some of it's claims. I used this to smooth a ponytail overnight with a scarf and I was pleasantly surprised in the morning, I had no fly-aways and my hair had some sheen to it without looking greasy.
For my hair type I think it would be great for twist outs and braid outs. I used this before I did large twists on blow dried hair and I almost didn't want to style my hair when I took them down! The twist-out looked great. It goes on feeling a bit sticky so I think that helps to provide some hold.
My advice to the company would be to market it, not as a moisturizer, but as a natural styling product. Someone looking for a natural moisturizer may be disappointed. My hair wasn't soft and the moisture didn't last.
I also was not a fan of the smell. It's the kind of smell that would give me a headache. When my little brother came in my room he asked me what it was- it was that strange. But it faded eventually
Overall, this is a good product that I'll use until it's finished. However. the smell and the price would not draw me to this product again.

Bored with protective styling...

2009-02-09T17:42:00.000-08:00

so I switched to another protective style.

I really didn't know what to do with my hair this weekend. I've been wanting braids (extensions) but I'm very hesitant when it comes to a fine tooth comb, an unprofessional braider- focused on speed and unconcerned with healthy techniques- and second day hair tangles. Not to mention the $150-$200 price tag.
The half wig was seriously depressing me. I started to feel...just down. That's what lack of variety can do to a person. But I was inspired by a youtube video that I saw of a girl braiding her natural hair in small individual braids. I remember how much I really enjoyed braiding my dolls hair as a child. So in the spirit of doing-it-yourself, I went to task.

After deep conditioning, I did the tension blow dry method on cool, added leave-in, then started small-medium sized single braids in the front and back, trying out some Carol's Daughter products as I went along.
It knew I'd probably get lazy and start doing them large so that's why I went small around the perimeter.
Not to toot my own horn but, the braids were coming out really neat and uniform and it got me excited about potentially seeing how it would come out with extensions if I did it myself. I think I have a general sense of the technique after watching some tutorials.

I'll keep learning until I build my confidence then give it a try with some cheap braids.
We'll see...
**3 people asked if it was my hair at work. (Kool-aid smile)

Corn Oil

2009-02-09T15:37:00.000-08:00

One of the Carol's Daughter products I used contains corn oil so I took it upon myself to do a little wiki research on it.
Here's what I found:

Corn oil is extracted from the germ of corn . Its main use is in cooking, where its high smoke point makes it a valuable frying oil. It is also a key ingredient in some margarine's. Corn oil has a milder taste and is less expensive than most other types of vegetable oils... A high consumption of omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids, which are found in most types of oils, including corn oil, may increase the likelihood that postmenopausal women will develop breast cancer. Similar effect was observed on prostate cancer. Other analysis suggested an inverse association between total polyunsaturated fatty acids and breast cancer risk.

I'm not alarmed about the cancer risk because I didn't cook with the product but I am less inclined to purchase a product with a high price tag if it contains cheap ingredients.

R.I.P: Carol's Daughter RMHS w/Sea Moss

2009-02-09T00:00:00.000-08:00

Rosemary Mint Herbal Shampoo with Sea Moss.

Here's some info on this shampoo:

Parched, damaged, and unruly hair doesn't stand a chance against this soothing blend of lavender, rosemary, nettles, and sage, blended with organic oils of coconut, olive, jojoba, conditioning sea moss, and detangling rosemary.What it is formulated without: Parabens, Sulfates, Synthetic Fragrances, Synthetic Dyes, Petro, Chemicals, Phthalates, GMO, Triclosan (price 12.50)

When I applied this product to my scalp it lathered quickly. I experienced the expected tingling that comes along with products containing mint. I enjoyed that. However, my enjoyment faded when I rinsed my hair. My hair almost immediately felt stripped and tangled. This product claims to combat "parched" and "unruly" hair but I could not vouch for any moisturizing benefits.

Overall, it's a pretty average shampoo but it's over priced and I would not purchase it again.

I think there's a common consensus that a lot of natural shampoos are disappointing but what was even more disappointing with this set was a notably absent conditioner to combat this harsh shampoo. I thought that was weird. I know Carol's Daughter sells treatments but I'm cautious of a hair care line that wouldn't include that combo in a set.

Stay tuned for more reviews!

Detangling tutorial.

2009-02-07T15:18:00.000-08:00

Lisa Akbari would be proud.
Take notes...

Patience is key

2009-02-07T14:48:00.000-08:00

Last night was definitely a test of my patience. I went to bed after 5 in the morning doing my hair-granted I started after 1.

When I wear a half wig I keep the back of my head in braids, the braids usually stay in for 4-6 weeks. Sometimes 2 weeks if I feel like playing with my hair or doing something different but for the most part it's around 1 month. I'll wash and condition as usual and I normally don't have any issues when I want to take my hair down. This is a low maniupulation method.

Something was different this week. In the first pic my braid resembles a lock (lol). It was matted! I've never experienced that and I've been doing this for about 6 months on and off.
I had to bust out a squirt bottle with diluted conditioner, another spray bottle with water, Jojoba oil and S-curl . I tried my best to detangle with my hands, working section by section first, but it wasn't working out well so I heavily relied on the comb.

The only thing I changed in my regimen was the Blackstrap Molasses. Maybe it wasn't the smartest decision for me to do a sticky treatment in braids.
I had a little more breakage than I was prepared to cope with. You live, you learn.

So this is what a prize winner feels like!

2009-02-05T16:01:00.000-08:00

Okay so remember my hair horror story? I entered that story into a contest and I won!!! The prize was a Carol's Daughter gift set. I'm actually less excited about the prize and more excited about actually winning something.

There are many strong opinions about Carol's Daughter and I'm going to pretend like I haven't read them in order to give an unbiased review of some of these products.

The list of heavy weight celeb endorsements for this company is impressive. We'll see if they've invested wisely.

Click here for a CNN money article on Carol's Daughter.

The BSM Experience

2009-02-03T13:21:00.001-08:00

It was everything everyone said it would be. I noticed:
-Less breakage
-Soft yet strong feel
-Looser curl (temporary)
-Easier detangling

The negatives:
-The evidence of my Blackstrap Molasses Experience is all over my beige rugs in the bathroom
-It stained my shirt
-My 9 year old brother refused to go into the bathroom until every trace of BSM was cleared from the sink. I was in such a haste that I missed a spot. He's such a diva.

My method:
I poured some BSM into an old conditioner tub, added some EVCO and Aussie moist conditioner. I didnt measure. I just mixed and added to get a semi thick consistency and when I realized it wasnt going to get any thicker without me adding more product that was likely to be wasted, I stopped. I did a prepoo w/ just Organix tea tree conditioner, then I shampood with Nexxus Therappe and clarified w/ baking soda to make sure I got the full effect of the BSM treatment.

Overall- The mess is a little discouraging for the potential of adding it into my weekly rotation. The results alone would cause me to use it when I feel like I need a special treatment or when I'm in the mood for that mess again. It may be better as a pre-poo because it's humectant capabilities dont seem to be as potent as honey.
Love the immediate results. Hate the mess.

Heat Styled Natural: Mystic!

2009-02-02T00:01:00.000-08:00

Why stay natural ?
I went natural by accident. I started clipping the ends of my relaxed hair, and before I knew it, it turned into a BC.

I stay natural because I hate the feeling of the demarcation line between new growth and straight hair; natural hair is less time consuming - I do not have to baby it as I did my relaxed hair. I have not been to the hairdresser in years - I couldn't do that relaxed. I retain more length as a natural than I did relax.

What’s your usual regimen?
For convenience, whenever I am in school, I box braid with kinky extensions, and spray a daily moisture solution (water based on my braids. Every Saturday, my choice of shampoo is to rinse my hair with Shaikarai (mixed with hot water), massage the scalp, rinse and air-dry. When my hair is out of braids and loose, I henna every month; every Saturday I rinse with my Shaikarai mix, DC under my pibbs for 30 minutes and I alternate between flat ironing (maybe 4 X per year), twisting or a loose up-do.

What's your heat styling regimen?
I slept overnight with henna applied to my hair. On wash day after rinsing the henna out I rollerset and stayed under the dryer for 35mins. Products used:
Karmin Iron to straighten
Redken Heat Glide for protection
Elucence Silk hydrating elixir for moisture and shine
Damage Control Leave-In
Water for setting hair
After taking the setters out, I brushed the hair out, sprayed protector on each section and flat iron. I turned the iron up to 350, flipped the back up when I curled and that's about it.

Any tips for fellow heat styled naturals?
Try to minimize heat as much as possible. I am 4a, recently experimented with rollersetting, and I love it! It is the perfect way to get the hair straight with no heat damage. A rollerset before flat ironing is a healthier way to get natural hair straight. It minimizes the need to go over the hair strands with the flatiron more than once. This reduces heat damage.

See more of Mystic on her Fotki.

R.I.P: The Body Shop detangling comb.

2009-01-30T00:00:00.000-08:00

The description:
Best if you want to: Teach wet hair to co-operate with a wide-tooth wooden comb that evenly distributes conditioner and detangles without splitting ends. $7.00

I have tried so many combs but I had such high hopes for this one.
Wooden combs are supposed to be great for fragile hair because they are seamless and smooth.

The problem for me was more in the structure than the material. The comb itself is 5 inches long and it's teeth are 1.2 inches long. The teeth are squared at the ends and the space between them is about half a centimeter. The teeth are too narrow and short my hair. If I had seen it in person I wouldn't have bought it. The proportions were not listed on the site.

This comb would probably be better for straighter, less dense hair.

I've read that the Mason Pearson also has square teeth so maybe I'll go with a bone comb instead.

Caring for oils.

2009-01-29T00:01:00.000-08:00

I noticed that some of my oils would lose their efficacy faster than the listed shelf life. Oils eventually go bad but extending their properties is easy.

-Keep them in the dark bottles they come in. Sunlight denatures oil.
-Store them in cool places away from heat. High temperatures are the enemy of oil.
-Keep the bottles tightly closed after use. Air promotes rancidity.
-If you transfer your oils to transparent bottles, keep them in a dark place like your closet or dresser.

Oil vs. Moisture

2009-01-29T00:00:00.000-08:00

A hot oil treatment enriches the scalp and hair especially when using oils with penetrating properties. The oils contain essential fatty acids (EFA's). The sebum produced naturally by the scalp also contains EFA's. EFA's can help porous and dry hair become more soft flexible.

Moisturizing conditioning treatments contain humectants that help keep up the moisture level in the hair which also makes hair softer and more pliable.

A good treatment should contain both. That's why one of the best ways to enhance a mediocre conditioner is to add some extra virgin olive oil (high in EFA's) and honey (humectant).

Dickey on the First Lady's sleek look.

2009-01-28T00:00:00.000-08:00

Michelle Obama

Her sleek hairstyle
If you have naturally curly or kinky hair, the least-damaging way to straighten it is to blow-dry hair with a comb attachment, says hair stylist Dickey, whose celebrity clients include Michelle Obama. Before styling, use a sulfate-free shampoo (try Hair Rules Daily Cleansing Cream, $22) to minimize the dryness your hair texture is prone to, and a leave-in conditioner or heat protectant to seal in moisture and buffer heat, he says.

More on Michelle's hair and look at:
http://www.totalbeauty.com/content/gallery/p_michelle_obama/p21732/page4

**Not trying to start another heated debate**

Blackstrap Molasses

2009-01-27T17:01:00.000-08:00

I've been very curious about blackstrap molasses for about a year now.
I don't know if I looked hard enough but I couldn't find it in Publix or Walmart. I went to Kroger during my lunch break and found it on a bottom shelf with the other organic products.
I thought I got the wrong kind but the only ingredient listed on the label is "Organic Blackstrap Molasses". I went on their site and confirmed that I had the right kind.

The smell is so familiar. I know it's probably used to make some kind of treat that I've smelled and disliked in the West Indies. The taste is bitter. I commend those who drink it for it's health benefits. I don't think I'd be able to get it down.

I've heard many testimonies of soft yet strong hair (and who doesn't love that) after using this stuff. I have to do a little more research before deciding how I'm going to apply this treatment.
I found one way of doing it on a site that promotes natural remedies but I can just imagine trying to glide this super sticky substance (try saying that 5X's fast) down my strands and ending up causing more harm than good.

Simply massage about 1/4 to 1/2 cup of blackstrap molasses (depending on the length of your hair) into your tresses, then cover with a shower cap and allow it to set as long as possible (for an hour or even more, if you can.) Rinse with warm water.

I'll definitely keep you guys posted and if any one has any suggestions on how to use it, I'd very much appreciate them.

Night time care.

2009-01-27T00:00:00.000-08:00

Every night, I massage my Extra Virgin Coconut oil (EVCO) mix into my edges and around my hair line. The mix is about 1.5 tbs of EVCO, and 3 drops of peppermint, rosemary and tea tree essential oils.
I do not believe that this brings about any significant or accelerated growth but I know moisturizing my edges consistently has yielded great results like any other healthy hair care practice would.
During my hair care ignorant days, I used the curling iron daily on my edges and nape. Needless to say, this caused damage. Today, my edges are fuller and my hair line is not falling out or breaking.

Jamaican Black Castor oil and Jojoba oil are also excellent carrier oils to use along with your essential oils.

Perm rod tutorial

2009-01-26T17:31:00.000-08:00

Saleema rocks.
This is when she was transitioning to natural.
I'm sure my perm rod set won't come out like this.
It'll probably be a little cuter. Lol!

Cathy Howse on Protein/Hairdressers

2009-01-26T14:12:00.000-08:00

I once had a hairdresser who told me that too much protien will make your hair weak and brittle. I use to use a protien conditioner and she said that I shouldn't do that because it wasn't good for the hair to use constantly. So, I guess I'm asking you if there is such a thing as "too much protien?"

Not if you soften it with moisturizers. Remember who you got that information from. Sorry but hairdressers are not the most reputable people to get hair care information from, if they were, there would have been no need for my research or book. Use protein but ensure your hair is moisturized to keep it softened. I have used protein since I found its benefits for over 12 years. I still use it 2-3 times per month if I need it. Believing hairdressers, is the reason we don't have hair now. I have proven what I say and protein is very needed but you must soften it.

Experimental "Straw set"

2009-01-26T12:07:00.000-08:00

This weekend, I was in a very experimental mood. I don't know what brought on this sudden bout of boldness but in the midst of it all, my eyes landed on some old straws and an unused bottle of S-curl purchased during my days of stalking Aijo's fotki.

I've never tried roller-setting of any kind and I have no reason for using any particular product. I just winged it- curious to see what the end result would look like, and prepared for a hot mess.

On freshly washed and conditioned hair I sprayed water (to smooth), CHI keritan mist leave in, and applied S-curl. I did two strand twists and rolled the hair onto straws securing with a pin. I only did the front of my head. My inexperience was evident because as I was rolling, my twist was unraveling in the opposite direction.

After air drying for about 6hrs, I took out the straws.

The reason I even bothered to show you this mess is because I think it would be an excellent style for transitioners . There's no heat involved and if mastered it can turn out super cute. I'm highly motivated to go on a perm-rod shopping spree because I think they'll yield much better results.

The spirals came out defined and had a lot of hold. A

I tried messing them up but they were very tight because of the short straws
so I smoothed it back with my hands and put on a kinky half wig. My hair is still really soft.
Probably from the S-curl.

With practice, maybe my hair can come out like these two women.

Blow drying tip: Air flow direction

2009-01-24T15:32:00.000-08:00

One of the most common mistakes made during this heat styling step is the direction we guide the flow of air coming out of the blow dryer.
The cuticle layers of the hair are comparable to that of scales on a fish. If you have some experience cleaning fish, you know that the best way to raise those scales are to use the knife against the way they lay.
The cuticle layers of the hair are pointing toward the end of the hair strand. Blasting air in the opposite direction lifts the hair cuticles and making it more prone to damage, tangles and roughness.
Guide the air flow in the direction the hair grows for shiny hair and flat cuticles.

Intro guide to trying new things

2009-01-23T00:00:00.000-08:00

The experimental stages of your hair journey can be an exciting and fun exploration period. It can also bring about setbacks and pitfalls. Experience really is the best teacher, especially when it comes to your hair.
Everyone's hair has specific needs. A product or technique that worked well for someone else won't always work for you. Trial and error is common and necessary to find the perfect fit.

So you're overwhelmed by all the information and products out there, where do you start?

Simplicity is your best bet: the last thing you want to do is go out and buy all your hair idol's products and follow her specific regimen. Follow a basic regimen first and then slowly add the trimmings as you learn more about your hair.
Find your hair twin: Again, there's no guarantee that her methods will work but you can use key details as a guide to finding what will work for you.
Research: If you're thinking about purchasing a line of products, search multiple unbiased sites for customer reviews. Hair boards are particularly helpful if the hair type and texture of the reviewer is listed.
Youtube: Youtube was a tremendous help to me. It's one thing to read a method and it's another to have a clear visual aid. Take advantage of the many hair guru's that post helpful video tutorials.
Learn from bad experiences: If your hair suffered from using a product, toss it. Even if you spent a grip on it, it's not worth keeping if it's causing harm to the health of your hair.

What would your starting out tips be?

Ingredients: Panthenol

2009-01-22T21:00:00.000-08:00

Doesn't Panthenol sound like something you'd want to avoid in a hair product? It did to me.
Panthenol is actually a vitamin B5 derivative.

Used for:
-Humectant properties
-Lubrication
-Provides slip

Drain Maintenance

2009-01-22T20:38:00.000-08:00

A low-manipulation regimen usually entails a small palm full of shed hair on wash day.
If you prefer to detangle your hair in the shower, like I do, you know getting all that shed hair in the comb is nearly impossible.
I noticed that the water was taking a little longer to go down the drain than usual. I really was in no mood to purchase Drano so I found a natural alternative online:

You will need: baking soda, vinegar, boiling water, bleach(optional)
-Pour one cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by one cup of vinegar, then pour a kettle of boiling hot water.
Problem solved!

Product Review: Biolage UHB

2009-01-21T00:00:00.000-08:00

Biolage Ultra-Hydrating Conditioning Balm. (HydraTherapie Line)

When I initially moved to Atlanta, I went to a salon that used this conditioner on dry hair before shampooing.
The stylist kept telling me how great my hair felt after the treatment. I thought she was trying to get me to buy the product so I just smiled and nodded.
When I got home, I researched the product reviews and after getting a general consensus, I ordered it online. I had to see how well it would hold up at home.
After using it for my steam treatments, I knew it was a definite keeper.
The consistency was just right-not too light or heavy. It made my hair more manageable and soft, the smell was fresh not strong and overbearing, and I had less breakage. I had no complaints.
This is an overall great moisturizing conditioner.
I'm still in the experimenting stages when it comes to my moisturizing conditioners but if I don't find anything better (and I haven't), this is my old faithful. Love it!

Heat Styled Naturals: The Obama Girls

2009-01-20T00:00:00.001-08:00

You can only fully appreciate the enormity of a historic moment when you take a look at the past struggles of a people.
People fought and died for this day so future generations wouldn't see anything impossible about a black man being the leader of the free world.
It's possible. Anything is possible.

Here's Johnny Wright on Michelle Obama's heat styled hair:

I say go back to basics and just keep it simple. Sometimes I flat-iron her hair under, or I use a ceramic curling iron to flip it out at the ends a little bit. With a flat iron she’s going to be able to lock the moisture in the hair. Because she has to get her hair done so often, the flat iron is probably the best tool for her. For an updo, I might do some cascading curls according to how formal the event she’s attending is, but mostly I give her a clean sweep up.

Also, to keep her hair moisturized, I use the Shea Butter conditioner from Fekkai and Glossing Cream. It really keeps the hair moisturized. And Fekkai Coiff Anti-Frizz creme is excellent for that. It’s probably one of my favorite products.

http://discoveringhair.wordpress.com/2008/09/09/michelle-obamas-hair-tips/

So they say...

2009-01-20T00:00:00.000-08:00

In this video, Dr Jindal says we should rub our fingernails together for hair growth ::side eye::
I'm not going to pretend like I didnt do it for three days until I got bored with it, but what benefit does he think it has? Here's what I found on one site:

Rubbing your left and right hand nails with each other is a powerful hair loss solution and causes faster hair growth. It is extremely simple yet very effective. You need to fold both your palms inwards and place the fingernails of both hands against each other. Then with regular swift motions, rub them against each other. There are nerve endings below the nails which are connected to your scalp. This rubbing procedure increases the blood flow to the scalp and helps in strengthening the roots. It not only helps in curbing hair loss, but also leads to regrowth of lost hair in people suffering from baldness or alopecia areata. And if that is not good enough, it also brings back the color naturally thus getting rid of the problem of gray hair. Trust me, it is the best thing you could do for your hair. It is simple and can be done anywhere anytime. Do it for about 5-7 minutes twice a day. It is tried and tested and will definitely show results. You need to be patient though. You will begin to notice a difference in about a month and by the end of 6 months you would probably be successful in ridding yourself of all your hair problems.

I found that this belief is common among Indians and hasn't been given any credibility from many (if any) Western doctors.

Dangers of reusing water bottles

2009-01-19T00:00:00.001-08:00

I got really sick this week. I immediately knew why. I haven't been properly cleaning the water bottle I take to work everyday.
I've skimmed articles saying not to use plastic bottled water and I've seen videos of experts saying glass is better, but I guess who don't hear, does feel.
I've been taking antibiotics and I'm feeling better now.
Here's what you need to know:

Because water bottles aren't typically washed out and often don't even dry out completely, they become an excellent place for bacteria to take hold. Also, many of the commercial bottles are made with a plastic that is designed to break down over time. The longer the bottles are used, the higher the level of plastic compounds being dissolved into the liquids. (Canadian Journal of Public Health)

Source

Product Review: Extra Virgin Coconut Oil

2009-01-19T00:00:00.000-08:00

EVCO is one of the few oils proven to penetrate the hair strand.
Continued usage provides strength and flexibility to hair.

It high in saturated fats and antioxidants which give the oil a long shelf life.

Because it is not broken down easily, it holds moisture keeping hair soft while preventing breakage.

Other components of EVCO include high amounts of lauric acid, vitamin E and anti-dandruff capabilities.

When I add EVCO to my deep conditioning treatments, my hair comes out soft, manageable and shiny. It's one of my favorite oils for hot oil treatments and it added strength to my hair like nothing I've ever used for my daily regimen. I try to use it in different steps throughout my routine. Love it!

Source 1
Source2
Source3

Get more zzz's for growth?

2009-01-18T16:15:00.000-08:00

Jeany asks, "I read on one blog that you should sleep more to grow your hair. What does sleep have to do with hair?"

Well, I assume the idea is that cell renewal is most active at night when resting thus enabling new hair growth.
Other than that basic principle, I'm not aware of any correlation between hours of sleep and hair length.
I do know that when we're asleep, our hair isnt subjected to the elements or styling manipulation.
If anyone else can provide any other information, please inform us!

Don't forget your hairline.

2009-01-16T16:50:00.000-08:00

A receding hairline is no joke and it's never cute (Naomi). It's one of the most noticeable signs of unhealthy hair. We have an obligation to those delicate hairs that line our scalp. Having a healthy hairline is key to a polished and healthy look.

Here are a few tips that helped me sprout and keep some of those delicate hairs.

-Skip the small and tight braids an weaves. I honestly cannot fathom any amount of growth in the middle of your head being worth a hairline that has eroded two inches back. Opt for larger and looser braids in the front and tell the person braiding your hair to be gentle on the hairline.

-Cover them at night. Every night when I put on my scarf, I make sure to cover as much hair as possible. That includes the little hairs on the nape and as far down the side burns as I can go. A night of tossing and turning can reek havoc on those fragile hairs.

-Don't forget moisturize or lubricate. I used castor oil for a while and saw great results and now I use coconut oil mixed with essential oils around my hairline every night. I used to fake "baby hair" in H.S, now I have them naturally!

-Watch out for sulfates in your facial cleanser. When I'm doing my face regimen, I'm always mindful of any product coming in contact with my hair. I always rinse well with water afterward and follow with my bedtime hair regimen.

If you have any other tips that work for you, I'd love to hear them.

My scarf issues

2009-01-16T15:56:00.000-08:00

You ever have those nights where you're so ready to just melt into the bed that you tightly tie your satin scarf to your head without any regard for the circulation to your brain?
I've done this countless times. It results in headaches, dents and bruises.

I found a little tip that helped: Either put a stocking (wave) cap over the scarf after tying it or put a head band on to hold the scarf in place. It's simple and it works.

The cotton pillow case also made me a little weary so that caused me to tie my scarf tighter for fear of it coming off when I tussled and turned at night .
I'm looking into making the switch to satin or silk pillow cases.

Fear of Glycerin

2009-01-15T15:44:00.000-08:00

Glycerin is hailed as an effective natural hair moisturizer by many who use it. I was well on my way to Publix to try some out before I found some troubling user reviews. The accounts were all similar. They went outside and ended up with dried out hair.
Why would a humectant dry out hair?
If you live in a very dry environment, a highly concentrated humectant can pull moisture from your hair onto the surface where it evaporates.
This is why it is important to factor in the climate when measuring out the glycerin to water ratio.
Dry hair scares me to death. I'm too intimidated to experiment, even with all the reviews from people who use it successfully.
How does your mix measure up?

Flat Iron Temperature

2009-01-14T14:45:00.000-08:00

Everyone loves a Sedu iron. It's the popular kid in the flat iron class. I'm not lucky enough to own one, so this is not a review of it's functions. My concern is the instructions that come with this iron:

Adjustable temperature: 240 ^oF~410^oF (120^oC - 200^oC) for all hair types. For normal hair, temperature setting at 370-390^oF is recommended; for bleached, fragile, damaged and fine hair, the lower setting is advised; for coarse, thick, ethnic and resistant hair in healthy condition, maximum heat on high setting is used to save time and effort.

Sedu gets most things right. Fine, damaged hair should use a lower setting and healthier hair can take more heat. It's the use of the word "ethnic" that may confuse some people. These instructions are not unique to Sedu. Most flat irons have a similar guide. I'm just picking on Sedu today.
We know that ethnic hair is not necessarily coarse hair. We also know that heat softens the keratin of hair. But there are some people who don't know. Some people may read these instructions thinking that heat setting should be dictated by ethnicity.

Even with very coarse hair, the highest heat setting can still damage or "train" hair. This is how straighter ends/ pieces can come about. The lowest possible setting, to get the desired results, should always be used.

Here are some tips for getting a sleek look without high direct heat:
-Your hair should be well-conditioned and detangled before you begin the straightening process.
-Blow dry or roller set first. I use the tension blow dry method on cold.
-Flat iron in smaller sections
-Pull the hair taut with your hand as you are straightening
-Do the final pass of the flat iron with a comb (comb chase method to ensure even distribution of heat)
-If you still don't have the desired straightness, try wrapping your hair with Saran wrap or a head tie and sitting under a dryer for 10-15 mins.

Product Review: Burt's Bees Hair Repair

2009-01-13T03:00:00.000-08:00

Burt's Bees Hair Repair, Shea and Grapefruit Deep Conditioner.

This conditioner is about $8-$8.50 for 5oz.

Ingredients: water, cetrimonium bromide, cetearyl alcohol, sucrose laurate, glycerin, honey, butyrospermum parkii (shea butter), glucose, betaine, citrus grandis (grapefruit) seed extract, citrus aurantium dulcis (orange) peel oil, citrus medica limonum (lemon) peel oil, citrus tangerina (tangerine) peel oil, citrus aurantifolia (lime) oil, zingiber officinale (ginger) root extract, citrus reticulata (tangerine/petitgrain) leaf oil, acacia senegal gum, polysorbate 60, glucose oxidase, lactoperoxidase

-The consistency is somewhat creamy, almost like a balm. So someone with fine, thin hair may not like it.

-This product left my hair feeling more lubricated than moisturized but, it didn't provide a lot of slip for me.

-Overall, I'm not impressed with this product enough to purchase it again. It's a small amount of product for mediocre results. I got two uses out of it.

Transitioning Style: Half Wig

2009-01-12T18:01:00.001-08:00

Divide the hair in two sections. I did a 1:4 ratio.

Section the back portion to prepare for braids.

Leave the front portion out.

Tuck the single braids into themselves.

You can cornrow or flat twist the front portion.

Put a satin wig cap over the back.

Secure the half wig around the satin cap.

This is my protective style choice for now.
I learned how to flat twist from a youtube video. I'm not perfect. Flat twists grab all the hair on the edges without pulling them out (at least in my experience).
I wish I had a kinkier half wig but I live in the funny part of Metro Atlanta, so they are hard to come by. NY I miss you!
This wasn't the best pictorial, I know. If you have any questions feel free to ask.

Getting it straight: Coarse vs. Fine

2009-01-10T22:01:00.000-08:00

Tara asks, " Why does my friends type 4 hair get straighter and stay straighter than my type 3 hair if we use the same heat setting?"

Hey Tara,
The outcome of your results actually have more to do with your hair texture, rather than the type.
You may be surprised to learn that your hair is likely more coarse than your friends. That is, the measure of the circumference of your hair strand is larger than hers. Coarse hair is stronger and less susceptible to damage. It tends to resist processing and straightening.
Conversely, fine hair is very easy to process and is most susceptible to damage from chemical, heat and daily styling. Medium or normal hair doesn't carry any special tendencies (so lucky).
One person can have a mixture of textures on separate areas of their head. You can also find the various textures throughout all hair types. However, a large percentage of type 4's commonly fall into the fine-normal category. Of course, we all know of some exceptions.

Cheaper Alternative: Steam Treatments

2009-01-10T16:15:00.000-08:00

I just finished watching a documentary on CNN called I.O.U.S.A. It was about America's financial crisis: how we got here, who got us here, & what steps the American people should take.
The documentary featured an SNL skit in which Steve Martin and Amy Poehler parody an American family struggling with debt. An "expert" gives them a book with a simple title. "Don't buy stuff you cannot afford". The book's straight forward message was something seemingly incomprehensible to Steve.
So here I am, thinking about the new flat iron, steamer and dryer that I want to buy. The guilt always sets in. Can I afford this? Do I need this? It's this hesitation that keeps me from spending beyond my means-lately. Sure it would be great to have these new things, but right now, for my particular situation, it's not smart.
The D.I.Y Steam treatment has been doing the job just fine. For the cheapest ultimate moisturizing experience:
-Apply your favorite oils or moisturizing DC or both to your hair (this is great for hot oil treatments)
-Take a hot steaming towel an wrap it around your head
-Place a shower cap over it.
-Repeat steps 2&3
-Sit under a heat source (heating cap is okay if you can fit)
-Remove after 15-30 mins

*Turbie towels can be found at Sally Beauty Supply.
*Steam treatments should not be overdone, this can lead to moisture overload.

When I see you again...

2009-01-09T16:01:00.000-08:00

It's Friday and because I have a clear schedule, as usual, I decided to get an early start on my overnight pre-poo. My work bun can finally rest.
The pre-poo included my staples: Extra Virgin Coconut oil, Honey, and Extra Virgin Olive Oil. I added Organix TeaTree conditioner and Nexxus Humectress to the mix because... they were there.
I mixed the ingredients with a relaxer brush and then applied it to my hairline/edges first as the last pic is supposed to show.

A pre-poo can serve many different purposes but I am using it specifically to encourage reversion, counteract the harsh detergent in my shampoo and for added moisture.

Heat Styled Naturals

Update: March 2011

State of the Union 2011 :)

2011 Let's Go!!!

*Late* May Update.

Moving on...

A year later

End of '09 Random Pics

Recent Random Hair Pics July 09-April09

LAAATEE I know: A look back on the befores...

I Spy Some Healthy Hair Care.

Product Review: Redken Smooth Down Butter Treat.

Give Good Face

Remember her?

Celebrity Corn-Rows

41 days

Heat-Styled Natural: Alicia Keys

Joy Bryant's Summer Hair Tip

Cheaper Alternative: Aura Rosemary Mint

Oprah's Ear-Tuck

I Was Blind, But Now I See.

Summer Styles

Conditioning tip: Got Frizz?

She's One of Us.

Great Read: Chee Gates on Being Natural.

It's Major: Deep Conditioning

Product Review: GVP Paul Mitchell Detangler

Hair Plans

Just Show Them.

Who doesn't love a bun!?

Wish List: Emu Oil

Sally's GVP Joico K-Pak Reconstructor

Ideal Length

Lisa Akbari on Hair Texture.

Multiple uses: Tea Tree Oil.

***Update

Super Cute Curly Set

Unavoidable Damage

The Baking Soda Treatment

The "My Dominican Salon" Blow-Out.

Back to Natural.

Flat Irons: Splurge or Save?

***Update: Flat Iron's here

When Heat-Styling Isn't For You

Product Review: CHI Keratin Mist

Maintaining Straight Hair.

Emu oil!

Sedu v. Sedu Revolution.

My Best Tressed Hair Set Experience.

What is an Emollient?

I called it!

Product Review: Lisa's Hair Elixir

Ingredients: Soybean Oil

Flat iron sale!

R.I.P: Denman D3

Heat Styled Natural: Nicole Fiscella

Testing The Temperature.

Heat-Styled Natural B.Scoot drops some knowledge.

Sugar Addicts Anonymous

Product Review: Black Vanilla Leave-in Conditioner

Youtubers We Love: Lov3sponge

Pomade ingredient: Beeswax

Product Review: Mimosa hair honey

Hair Milk Hustle

Carol's Daughter Hair Milk

Bored with protective styling...

Corn Oil

R.I.P: Carol's Daughter RMHS w/Sea Moss

Detangling tutorial.

Patience is key

So this is what a prize winner feels like!

The BSM Experience

Heat Styled Natural: Mystic!

R.I.P: The Body Shop detangling comb.

Caring for oils.

Oil vs. Moisture

Dickey on the First Lady's sleek look.

Michelle Obama

Blackstrap Molasses

Night time care.

Late May Update.