Introduce yourself!
T: My name is Tamara. I go by TravelingNatural on my blog and YouTube. I was born in Jamaica, but raised in Connecticut!

Why did you make the decision to go natural?
T: My mom travels a lot! So in turn my siblings and I (I have an older sister and younger brother) traveled often on family vacations. The night before leaving (or even a few days before), we would spend practically ALL DAY in the hair salon getting our hair done in preparation for our trip. My hair was always roller set, braided or straightened. It was annoying! I hated how my hair would look by day 3 or 4 of the trip. I would either have to walk around with a jacked up pony tail or find someone to re-style my hair. And I could never really enjoy swimming or water sports because of my hair. Hairstylist had a love-hate relationship with my hair. They loved the fact that it was long and thick, but hated having to detangle, wash and style it.

In university I decided I had enough of the “relaxed life” and started to grow out my hair. I remember the stylist I had settled with at the time did not really enjoy the transitioning process as much as I did. I loved inspecting my newly sprouting roots in the mirror and admiring the texture. But my stylist who had to wash and press my hair would take secret breaks in his supply closet to sip some wine because my hair was a ton of work to manage. I knew learning to wear my hair in its natural state would allow me more freedom. Plus release me from the fear of not finding a stylist who could (or wanted to) “manage” my hair texture when I was traveling. So finally I decided to just cut it all off after a year of growing it out. I loved my hair and it was one of the best decisions I’ve made. I big chopped the first time at Miss Jessie’s Salon in 2006. But I did a second transition in 2008 and in April 2009 I cut the last bits of relaxer off! So I guess now these current tresses that are on my head are 4 years old.

How would you describe your texture?
T: My hair is multi-textured. The front has a different texture from the sides. The sides have a different texture from the middle. The middle has a different texture from the back. It is very thick and quite dense. In the beginning I thought my hair was playing some evil joke by appearing so unified. But through trial and error I learned what products would work for different styles. I had to re-condition my thoughts and ideals as they pertained to my hair and how I identified with my new natural tresses. At one point in my life I really thought my hair had more friends than I, ha ha seriously! People gravitated to it. And then I cut it all off (insert smiley face lol). I fell more and more in love with my new hair and identity, so did my friends.

Describe your styling regimen over the course of the month.
T: Honestly I style my hair in twists 99.9% of the time. Then I will style the twists in some kind of up-do. I try to wear my hair off my face and shoulders and primarily tucked away. Well for one, I do this because I love the idea of protective styling. And two, I’ve learned from traveling the globe that people who do not come into contact with people of color often will exert a fascination with my hair that can only be explained as curiosity. This curiosity has led to my shoulder length twists being pulled and tugged from behind while I innocently sat on the bus or even while I have stood unaware in checkout lines. Thus keeping my hair tucked away leaves my tresses happy! And lastly I’ve become accustomed to the ease of styling twists. When I have worn my hair out I always dread having to detangle it afterwards. Maybe I’m a bit lazy when it comes to my hair. But I rather my hair be an afterthought rather than my focus, since I am so comfortable with it now. So I prefer to do a protective style and go!

What does wash day look like for you?
T: My regimen is fairly simple at best. I wash my hair twice a month. I have tried once a month, but I get scalp itchiness. And I used to do it every week but traveling has exposed me to the world and how other countries and communities utilize the little water they may have. I began to have regret with how much water I may be wasting during my weekly wash days. But that’s just me! I mainly co-wash and deep condition on my wash days. I clarify my hair about every 6 weeks. The timing of the process may change based on my travel schedule but my routine is pretty consistent:
1. Detangle/pre-poo/deep condition (same day or next day)
2. Rinse/condition/rinse
3. Moisturize and Style
My detailed step by step is listed on my blog. As for products, I use natural oils, butters, coconut milk, a bentonite clay mixture for clarifying and Aubrey Organics conditioners.

Describe your favorite go-to hairstyle for days when you don’t have a lot of time to style.
T: For those days I put my hair, that’s probably already in twists, into a French braid. Then BOOM! Out the door ha ha!

How do you combat shrinkage?
T: I don’t “combat” shrinkage, I just embrace it.

What are some of your problem areas (if any) that require special care and attention?
T: I guess the middle section of my hair where my coils are tighter. I think it just likes extra attention honestly lol :)

What are 2 do’s for your texture?
T: Hydrate often and put it in a cute protective style.

What are 2 don’ts for your texture?
T: I would say wearing a wool/knit hat without a satin scarf underneath. The second don’t I would say is sleeping on loose hair. I don’t ever allow this to happen! Even if I am sleeping on a satin pillow case.

Is there a blog/webpage where we can find you?
T: Yes! I travel blog at: www.travelingnatural.com and a YouTube channel by the same name.

My straightening arsenal

Judging by my recent Instagram pic (above), it’s almost fair to say that I use more products for flat ironing than I do for anything else. That is with good reason. To prevent heat damage, it is incredibly important to protect your hair at every step along the way. And the first step begins 1 or 2 days before you even pick up the flat iron. Let’s jump right in:

Step 1: Start Conditioning Early

Extended conditioning, deep conditioning, pre-pooing… I don’t care what you call it, just start doing it a day or two before you plan to straighten your hair, if possible. Since I can’t be taken seriously in meetings with my hair slathered in DC and covered with a plastic cap, I did my deep conditioning at night. After taking down my bun for the day, I spritzed my hair with Shea Moisture’s Coconut & Hibiscus Hold & Shine Moisture Mist (water and oil), slathered on some Sof n’ Free Nothing But Intense Healing Mask, put on a plastic cap, and called it a night. I chose the Intense Healing Mask because of the ability of behentrimonium chloride to soften and condition the hair, and help lay down the cuticle.

Step 2: Detangle Gently

After getting some conditioning action in, I set my sights on finger-detangling my hair about an hour before I was ready to start the straightening process. Not only does Step 1 help make this easier, but finger detangling in and of itself is one of the best methods to guarantee decreased damage and breakage. I personally use Tresemme Split Remedy Conditioner and water to tame my tangles, but feel free to use whatever super slippery products work best for your hair.

Step 3: Section Wash with Shampoo

When it comes to straightening hair, I do not recommend cowashing. While cowashing is a great way to gently cleanse hair between clarifying sessions, it does not completely remove buildup of products and ingredients on hair. This can be problematic in general, but especially when heat is involved. To successfully cleanse hair and minimize tangling, wash each section individually with diluted shampoo of your choosing, and clip/twist/braid it back up when done. At this stage, I personally use Ion Straightening Solutions Shampoo, diluted in a slanted nozzle tip botle at a ratio of 1oz shampoo to 8oz water. I chose this shampoo for straightening because it contains silicones and other ingredients that make it easier to straighten your hair when heat is applied. It is important to note that the shampoo doesn’t alter your curl pattern in any way; it simply deposits silicones/polymers along the hair shaft that help “weigh” it down. Note: your hair won’t feel greasy/oily weighed down, but you may notice that after a shampoo and condition with the Ion Straightening line, your hair seems to have more “weight” to it. It’s hard to explain, and doesn’t quite make sense…but if you’re curious, try it.

Step 4: Deep Condition

Deep conditioning is an absolutely pivotal step that cannot be missed. Not only will deep conditioning soften and smooth hair, it will also help impart and retain moisture that will be critical later on. Blow drying (if you choose) and flat ironing are drying to the hair, so your best bet is to get ahead of the curve with a great deep conditioner. Depending on my hair’s needs, I start with either Palmer’s Coconut Oil Formula Deep Conditioning Protein Pack, or Giovanni 2Chic Avocado & Olive Oil Deep Deep Moisture Hair Mask. After I’ve selected protein or moisture, I mix in the Ion Straightening Solutions Conditioner (for the same reason that I use the Straightening Solutions Shampoo). My concoction is generally about 50/50. I slather it on from root to end, throw on a Target bag (I have a stash…seriously), and sit under my hooded dryer for about 20 minutes.

My softest blowout EVER!

Step 5: Blow Dry with Care + Heat Protectant Phase 1

After my conditioning concoction has been thoroughly rinsed, it’s time to dry my hair and activate phase 1 of heat protection. If you have the time and prefer to do so, banding and allowing hair to air-dry is the most optimal choice. But if you’re like me and lack the patience or time to let that happen, there is an alternative. For each section you intend to blow dry, blot the excess water away gently with a t-shirt, towel, or microfiber towel. This helps minimize the amount of time you will actually have to spend using the blow dryer on your hair. Next, I like to apply my two handy dandy water-based heat protectants: Tresemme Heat Tamer Spray and ApHogee Keratin & Green Tea Restructurizer. When seeking out heat protectants, it is important to use leave-in products that have a demonstrated ability to protect the hair. Some key ingredients to consider are:

• PVP/DMAPA acrylates copolymer (oxidation reduction – slows thermal decomposition)
• Dimethicone//Dimethiconol//Amodimethicone//PEG-12 dimethicone (buffering/reduce heat conduction)
• Hydrolzed wheat protein (oxidation reduction)
• Centrimonium chloride (penetrating conditioning agent, increases tensile strength with heat)
• Quaternium-70 (oxidation reduction)
• Glycerin (slows water evaporation)
• Propylene glycol (slows water evaporation)
• Trimethylsilylamodimethicone (penetrates and binds to damaged hair)
• Cyclopentasiloxane (buffering/reduce heat conduction)

Tresemme Heat Tamer Spray contains glycerin, PEG-12 dimethicone, amodimethicone, PVP, centrimonium chloride, and propylene glycol. ApHogee Keratin & Green Tea Restructurizer contains trimethylsilylamodimethicone, PVP, glycerin, and centrimonium chloride. I spray both liberally on the hair (ApHogee first, then Tresemme), then blow dry each section of hair on medium heat.

Step 6: Flat Iron + Heat Protectant Phase 2

I’m sure by now, you already know about flat ironing in small sections, and not making too many passes over the same section of hair. Additionally, check out what Jc of The Natural Haven Bloom has to say about the best temperature for your flat iron to be on. I don’t like to make particular heat setting recommendations, because each head of hair is different. Some of our favorite naturalistas are able to withstand temperatures in the 400s, while some barely use anything above 300. My flat irons personally sit between 350 and 380 degrees Fahrenheit.  By the way, if your flat iron doesn’t have a numeric temperature gauge — it’s time to chuck it. You need something that’s going to give you a fairly accurate temperature reading in order to prevent heat damage. Low, medium, and high are not helpful at this point in the game. Before passing my iron over each small section, I smooth some Giovanni 2Chic Avocado & Olive Oil Super Potion Anti-Frizz Binding Serum (fancy name, a lot of fluff, but some solid heat protection), and put a little Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Moroccan Oil Treatment on top. Both are lightweight and silicone based, providing softness and shine. Giovanni contains dimethicone and amodimethicone, while Garnier has cyclopentiasiloxane and dimethiconol. All four ingredients act as a buffer between the heat (flat iron) and your hair, minimizing the transfer of heat. Additionally, because of their slippery nature, they allow for the flat iron plates to glide down your hair with ease, reducing the amount of time you have to hold the flat iron over each section of hair.

Step 7: Wrap It Up!

This little step I borrowed from back in the day when I was in high school, and used to go to the shop to get my hair done. The second I got home from getting my hair done, I would wrap it up and sit under the hooded dryer, to help “seal in” the job. So many years later, I find myself doing the same thing. After flat ironing, I distribute a little bit more of the above mentioned serums (Step 6) throughout, and wrap my hair with a satin scarf. Once I am sure all my hair is completely covered, I sit under my hooded dryer for 20 – 30 minutes. This helps to “set” my straight style for however long I intend to rock it.

Step 8: Adjust Your Expectations

At a certain point in my hair history,my hair was “heat trained” aka heat damaged to the point where it was nearly relaxer bone-straight when flat ironed. But now, with all this healthy natural stuff atop my head, I know that the bone-straight look is no longer an option unless I desire to forfeit my curls. As a transitioner or new natural, it is important to realize that your hair when straightened will never quite look like it used to. You can get close, but unless you are willing to risk heat damage, you will have to settle for a “poofier” straightened look. Don’t be discouraged, though! Straightened, healthy, natural hair tends to have more body and volume! It looks great straight, with curls, waves, or any kind of spin you put on it.  Enjoy the versatility of your straightened natural hair!

By following all of the steps above, I have been able to successfully enjoy wearing my hair straightened, without getting more heat damage.

What are some of your favorite steps to follow and products to use, to avoid heat damage while straightening?

For more from Christina check out her blog, The Mane Objective. You can also find her on Instagram and Facebook.

via SwansonVitamins.com

Scientific research on coconut oil has revealed health benefits that affect your entire body, inside and out. You’ve heard good things about it and now you have a tub of it sitting in your pantry. So how do you use coconut oil?

We asked our Facebook fans and coworkers how they use coconut oil. Here are some of the numerous ways coconut oil is used.

This post lists 50 different ways to use coconut oil and it also links out to a bunch of DIY coconut oil recipes to help you try the different uses. I hope you find it valuable.

Cooking and Eating
1) Cooking at High Heat - Some oils are unsafe to cook with at high temperatures, coconut oil is a great alternative.
2) On Toast Instead of Butter - Simply use coconut oil instead of butter on your toast.
3) Eat it by the Spoonful - Coconut oil is that delicious and healthful. Enjoy one spoonful each morning.
4) Smoothies - Add one tablespoon of coconut oil into your favorite smoothie recipe and increase your energy with the oil’s MCTs. Check out this post for the Top Smoothie Ingredients.
5) Fry Eggs - Lightly coat the bottom of your skillet with coconut oil to create a non-stick surface and delicious eggs.
6) Popping Popcorn - A sweet twist on a classic snack! To make stovetop popcorn, you need a heavy-bottomed pan. First, add the coconut oil and popcorn to the pot. Coat the area of the pot with the oil, and use just enough popcorn to make a single layer over the bottom of the pot. Give the pot a little shake to make sure all of the kernels are coated with oil. Next, place the pot over medium heat. Put the lid on the pot, leaving it slightly open so that steam can escape. It should take about five minutes for the popcorn to pop completely.
7) Popcorn Topping - Instead of butter, melt a little coconut oil and pour it over your popped popcorn. Then sprinkle lightly with Himalayan crystal salt.
8) Oven Baked Sweet Potato Chips - Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. Thinly slice sweet potatoes to about 1/8” thick.  Place slices on a baking sheet and brush lightly with coconut oil. Bake for about 15 minutes or until chips are lightly brown.  Add salt to taste, and serve with salsa or dip. (Or just eat them plain – either way they’re delicious!)
9) Replace Vegetable Oil for Baking - Next time you make your favorite brownie recipe, replace the vegetable oil with coconut oil. Your friends will be begging you for the recipe.
10) Pan Frying - Next time you fry up a batch of sweet potato fries or a piece of chicken, use coconut oil.
11) Grilled Cheese with Coconut Oil - No need for butter the next time you are making a grilled cheese sandwich.
12) Coconut Oil Coffee - Adding a spoonful to your coffee is a delicious way to start your day with a huge energy boost! Here is a great recipe for coconut oil coffee.
13) Homemade Granola - Check out this delicious recipe for coconut granola.
14) A Spoonful in Tea - Allow some coconut oil to melt and mildly flavor your next cup of tea.
15) Salad Dressings - A simple recipe for a salad dressing with coconut oil can be found here.

Skin Care
16) Cheekbone Highlighter - Apply a small amount on cheekbones over makeup.
17) Shaving Lotion - Close shave and a moisturizer at the same time.
18) Facial Scrub - Combine coconut oil with Himalayan crystal salt and apply to face each night. Washing it off is optional.
19) Body Scrub - Combine coconut oil and sugar. Check out this DIY Sugar Scrub recipe.
20) Makeup Remover - Healthier, stronger and longer eye lashes are just a bonus!
21) Homemade Deodorant - You only need a few ingredients in addition to coconut oil to make this simple deodorant recipe.
22) Homemade Lip Balm or Lip Gloss - Apply directly or create a flavored version with this simple lip balm recipe.
23) Diaper Rash Cream - Apply regularly to the baby’s bottom to improve skin health.
24) Sexual Lubricant - Our Facebook fans swear by this one :)
25) Stretch Mark Preventer During Pregnancy - This safe, healthy oil can be applied multiple times each day to help moisturize your stretching skin.
26) Nipple Cream During Breastfeeding - Coconut oil is a popular choice for nursing mothers because it is a natural safe product.
27) Massage Oil - Coconut oil is the perfect choice for a massage oil. Not too greasy and with a relaxing scent.
28) Body Moisturizer - Apply directly after showering.
29) Fade Age Spots - Rub on hands or other areas daily.
30) Sunburn Care - A great moisturizer to use after you’ve gotten a bit too much sun.
31) Facial Moisturizer - After you wash your face, massage a light layer on your skin.
32) Mix in Bath Water - Melt about 1/4 cup in the microwave and add it to your bath water and soak.
33) Tanning Oil - Put in a spray bottle and bring to beach. Spray on to keep skin moisturized.
34) Dry Feet Treatment - Mix with salt to form a foot scrub.
35) Elbow Rub - Helps manage the dry skin on your elbows.

Hair Care
36) Leave-in Overnight Conditioner - Looking for a deep conditioning hair treatment? Rub a small amount of oil into hair (mostly at ends), comb through and put hair in a loose bun before bed, and wash out in the morning.
37) Hair Flyaway Tamer - Use very sparingly on ends or areas with flyaways.
38) Defrizzer of Split Ends - Just put a tiny amount on your hands and run them through the frizzy areas.
39) Static Reducer - Rub your hands together with a little bit of coconut oil on them and run them through your static-y hair.

Other Healthy Uses for Coconut Oil
40) Homemade Toothpaste - Combine equal parts coconut oil and baking soda. Sweeten with stevia and flavor with your favorite essential oil.
41) Aromatherapy - Whether you like coconut or not, the soothing aroma of coconut oil is pleasing to us all and can help us wind down after a long, stressful day. Read The Beginner’s Guide to Aromatherapy.
42) Wound Care - Although you may not be ready to give up your Neosporin, coconut oil can even be used as a topical protector for wounds, shielding them with a thin chemical layer from outside contaminants. You can apply a small amount of coconut oil to small scrapes and cuts.
43) Metabolism Booster - 2 tablespoons per day are proven to rev up your metabolism.
44) Thyroid Supporter - Regular coconut oil consumption has been shown to support healthy thyroid function.
45) Energizer - 1 teaspoon can give you a burst of energy instead of turning towards a caffeinated energy drink.
46) Oil Pulling - Swish coconut oil around in your mouth for 10 minutes before brushing.

Using Coconut Oil Around The House
47) Season a Cast Iron Pan - Here is a nice explanation of how to season a cast iron pan with coconut oil.
48) Use it as a lubricant on small motors/electronics - One Facebook fan uses it to keep his juicer’s motor in top working condition.

Coconut Oil for Animals
49) Feed it to your Dog or Cat - Coconut oil isn’t just healthy for humans. Here is some good info on the benefits for dogs and cats.
50) Put It On Your Cat’s Paw - Put half a teaspoon on your kitty’s paw to keep a shiny coat and cut down on hairballs.

Who knew coconut oil had so many uses! Ladies, have you tried any of these? Do you have any additional uses to add?

Taniese

Valentine Avoh of blog.valentineavoh.com

Dress & Scarf- Self Made

`Shany

all pieces from H&M 

Introduce yourself!
T: My name is Tynette and I’m from Houston, TX.

What is your style philosophy?
T: I believe quality is better than quality and that your wardrobe should be built around classic pieces.

How would you describe your sense of style?
T: I really don’t know how to describe my sense of style. I love to dabble in a little bit of everything. It depends on what side of the bed I wake up on, but I’m currently loving clean lines and very contemporary looks.

What is your process of deciding what to wear in the morning?
T: Honestly, I dress for my blog posts. I look at what I’ve worn and really just try to mix it up. It causes me to dig deep in the depths of my closet and pull out things that I’ve either forgotten about or haven’t worn in a long time. Sometimes it’s very easy and effortless, and other times it’s extremely difficult.

What are the three favorite things in your closet?
T: I love my single-sole heels. I just think they’re so feminine, chic, and just an all around classic shoe. Anything leather (jackets, pants, and shorts) are also a wardrobe favorite along with any top or sweatshirt I own with a tiger on it.

What are some of your favorite shops/websites for clothes, shoes and accessories?
T: Zara, Asos, Pixie Market, Jessica Buurman, and Supermuse come to mind for online shopping. I work at a luxury department store that I do most of my purchasing because of the generous employee discount.

How long have you been natural?
T: I have been natural my entire life.

How and why did you transition into natural hair?
T: There was no transition for me, but initially I never got a perm because my mom wouldn’t allow it. When my mom became friends with a lady who exclusively styled natural hair, she introduced me to her. This woman educated me about the harm perms and other chemicals can not only do to your hair, but also your body, and I knew from then on I would always be natural.

What is your signature hairstyle?
T: I’ve been growing my sisterlocks for the past 13 years, so I would have to say that is my signature hairstyle.

Describe your styling regimen over the course of the month.
T: Once a week I will wash and deep condition my hair with Taliah Waajid’s Black Earth hair products and keep my hair moisturized with organic coconut oil. Very simple. For styling I’ll either braid or bantu knot my hair and use the Lock it Up or Crinkles N Curls by Taliah Waajid to hold my style.

Is there a blog/webpage where we can find you?
T: http://caramelalamode.com
http://instagram.com/dreadheadd

Introduce yourself!
L: My name is Laisha, and I’m from Cali.

Why did you make the decision to go natural?
L: This journey found me! I started coloring my hair too much. Every time I saw any roots, I had to color. To keep a long story short, my hair starting drying out and falling out. After buying tons of products that claim to save your hair from breakage and even going to the salon a few times for a haircut, I had enough. One day while in the shower using those products that claim to save your hair (and this was right after a china doll cut) I thought, “Why are you trying to save this dead hair?” I remember thinking as soon as I get out of the shower I’m going to cut my hair, and that’s what I did!!

I starting cutting the front first because I knew if I started in the back I would find myself at the salon trying to save my hair. At the time I didn’t know I had big chopped. I was just waiting for my hair to get long enough so that I could start having it pressed again. While waiting for my hair to grow back I found YouTube after googling a protein conditioner. Videos of women with natural hair started popping up, and I starting watching those videos and started to fall in love with all the beautiful natural hair. I knew I wanted to try to wear my hair natural. So thank god for YouTube ;-) It’s been 2 years and 10 months.

How would you describe your texture?
L: I don’t use the a b c d e f, 1 2 3 4 5 6 system, but I would say 3c. My stands are medium and I have low porosity, medium density, kinky hair.

Describe your styling regimen over the course of the month.
L: I get bored easily, so I sometimes find myself changing my hairstyle, but I’m not style savvy so thank god I’m a true wash and go girl. I can turn a wash and go into a casual updo, to a fancy updo, braid out or twist out. As far as products I love trying new products, but I don’t think of myself as a product junkie. I’m sure the hubby would say different, LOL! When I want fly hair I always reach for one of my HG products; products that always have “Bitchin” (my hair), looking her best. (Editor’s note: Laisha’s product staples are listed at the end of this article.)

What does wash day look like for you?
L: I like to keep things simple when it comes to nourishing my hair. I shampoo my hair once a week or when needed, and deep condition once a week. Depending on what my hair needs at the time I give myself a monthly protein treatment to strengthen it, or use an intense hair nourisher for moisture. I use cleansing conditioner three times a week and I always seal my hair after moisturizing. It’s hard for me to name products since I’m a vlogger. I’m always trying new products, but when my hair needs a bit of tlc, or if she misses her fave products I always reach for my staples. (Editor’s note: Laisha’s product staples are listed at the end of this article.)

Describe your favorite go-to hairstyle for days when you don’t have a lot of time to style.
L: This is easy. I always go for the updo because I feel like it’s one of those styles that you can dress up or down, so updo for sure!

How do you combat shrinkage?
L: I don’t. I embrace my shrinkage, but it wasn’t always that way. I never found anything to combat it.

Tell us about your hair color?
L: As far as my hair color, I have no idea of the name of the color in my crown area. I have a stylist that colors my hair now, LOL! The back and the lower sides of my hair are still its natural color, dark brown.

What are some of your problem areas (if any) that require special care and attention?
L: I always pay my ends extra attention. I might not seal throughout my hair, but I always seal my ends to “reduce” not prevent, single strand knots.

What are 2 do’s for your texture?
L: Use lots of conditioner when detangling and sleep with a satin pillowcase or scarf.

What are 2 don’ts for your texture?
L: I never ever detangle on dry hair and I never use a small tooth comb to detangle with.

Is there a blog/webpage where we can find you?
L: Yes. I’m MakeupAnBeautyJunkie on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram. I’m MbeautyJunkie on Twitter ;-)

Laisha’s Product Staples
Cleansing Conditioner
DevaCurl No-Poo

Daily Conditioners
Tresemme Naturals Nourishing Moisture
Oyin Honey-Hemp Conditioner
MopTop Daily Conditioner
VO5 Tea Therapy Conditioner
Trader Joe’s Tea Tree Conditioner

Deep Conditioners
Curl Junkie Curl Rehab
HairVeda Sitrinillah
Blended Beauty Curl Quenching Conditioner
Camille Rose Algae Deep Conditioner

Leave-in Conditioners without glycerin
Darcy’s Botanicals Pumpkin Seed Curl Moisturizing Conditioner
Bask Silk & Honey Latte
CoilyHeadChicks Ultimate Hair Treat
Camille Rose Naturals Curl Love Moisture Milk

Leave-in Conditioners with glycerin
Oyin Handmade Juices & Berries
Oyin Honey-Hemp Conditioner
As I Am Leave-in Conditioner
Curl Junkie Smoothing Lotion

Hair Treatments
Bask Y.A.M Nectar
Curl Junkie Repair Me
Shea Moisture African Black Soap Purification Mask

Stylers without glycerin
Uncle Funky’s Daughters Curly Magic
Komaza Care Califia Care Styling Pudding

Stylers with glycerin
Donna Marie Dream Curling Creme
As I Am Curling Jelly Coil and Curl Definer

Finishers
Knotty Girl Vanilla Cupcake Leave-in
Bask Java Bean & Honey Hair Balm

Moisturizers
Oyin Handmade Hair Dew
Oyin Handmade Whipped Pudding
Bask Silk & Honey Latte
Bask Palm Tapioca Deluxe Hair Cream

Twisting Butters/Creams
Bask Palm Tapioca Deluxe Hair Cream
Camille Rose Aloe Whipped Hair Gel

Sealers
Bask Sevenfold Butter Blend Hair Butter
Bask Java Bean & Honey Hair Balm
Original Moxie Twist Mist

You know how you get an itch and you just have to go through with whatever it is? Well I had this “itch” to color my hair a couple of weeks ago. So what do I do? I walk in to a random salon that said “walk-ins welcome”. Well they said I was welcome no?

Oh my gah!! I should have known better when she said she’s never dealt with my “hair type”. I really should have known better but I thought color has nothing to do with texture so as long as she can color as she says she can, I’ll go ahead and have her blow my hair out to eliminate the texture factor.

I think it would have worked out except for the itty bitty fact that she knew zero, zilch, nada, nothing about hair coloring concepts and techniques.

I (kinda) blog about hair so it wasn’t too hard to find a picture to show her that I wanted my hair exactly like it was before I dyed it black a few months prior. In fact, I found a thousand and one pictures and walked her through how I just want the top bits colored and how I want three different shades to create the highlights/lowlights combo I had prior.

Like So

and so

Exhibit A: after color application, wash and conditioner. I dunno what happened but my hair looked so freaking dull. I think she didn’t use the right developer? So the color didn’t show up. But she said she can fix it so I say maybe all is not lost.

Exhibit B: lady woman here decides that bleaching will solve things.

Exhibit C: she bleaches it a second time to get it to the right “tone”

Exhibit D: she puts a toner over it which is supposed to give me a coppery red color because at this point I had given up on my highlighting dreams and a coppery red color was something I could live with.

Exhibit E: she puts an orange based toner over the bleached hair. And from my Google search, this was the worst thing you could do if you don’t want to end up with orange hair. You need a toner with a blue base to cancel out the orange. But of course my illustrious colorist had no clue.

Okay this is a really long post but I think it mimics exactly how long I was there at that salon. A whopping 5 hours!!!!

In conclusion, I left 5 hours later with orange hair. That.i.paid.for. Because I felt bad for her!!

So after the 5 or 6 hours I spent at the salon, I came home and started Googling like a mad woman. My searches went something like: ”how to cancel out orange hair color”, “hair color gone bad and turned orange how do you fix it”, “my hair is orange how do I fix it” etc. I’m a horrible Googler but I was fortunate in that this is a common occurrence when the wrong based toner is used or when bleach is not left on long enough. The most common response I got was to use hair toner with a blue base or but “ash brown” box color to go over the orange and that should greatly reduce or cancel out the orange tone.

Armed with this info and a desperation (I had Bible study the next day and didn’t want to look terrible), I went to my local CVS to buy the ash brown hair color. I debated getting a semi-permanent color or a rinse to go over it but I nixed that idea because I didn’t want the color fading over a few washes only to be back to square one. So I went with a permanent color which I was fully cognizant meant more damage to my already fragile strands. But you know, you gotta do what you gotta do. And so I did and while I can’t say I’m 100% pleased with the results, it is a marked improvement to the alternative.

I actually went ahead and made an appointment with a trusted stylist (which I should have had the patience to wait for anyways) and we’re going to see about getting some highlights in the crown and front area to brighten up the tone and hopefully leaving me very pleased.

I took some pictures and recorded a video of what it looks like today after I did my usual wash and go. Enjoy!

In the sun

Wow. This is truly a salon nightmare!!! Ladies, have you ever had a nightmarish salon coloring experience? Please share! And to keep updated with Chys as she navigates her hair color situation, check out her blog ChysCurlz.com and her YouTube channel ChysCurlz.

How cute is this?! Singer and actress Jada Pinkett Smith posted a childhood photo of her natural ponytails on her Facebook page today with the caption:

The world has been heavy for me lately. I needed something to make me laugh. Can you say, “apple head”? HA! Find a reason to laugh a lot today.

The adorable picture quickly went viral. The Smith family has often served as natural hair inspiration, from Jaden’s huge curly fro (that he recently cut) to Willow’s colored fades. Now we see where it all comes from :)

Introduce yourself!
F: My name is Franceta and I was born and raised in Toronto, ON Canada. I am a recent Fashion Design & Techniques graduate and current Graphic Design student at George Brown College. I’m slightly cray in every way, pop-culture obsessed, a self proclaimed queen of all things inappropriate and aspiring everything.

What is your style philosophy?
F: Wear whatever you like and don’t apologize for it. There will be people who love it, there will be people who hate it, but at the end of the day, all that matters is your opinion on how you view yourself. Dress to make yourself happy, and no one else.

How would you describe your sense of style?
F: Eclectic and ever-changing. It seems as if every 6 months or so, I head in a completely new direction style wise, so I’ve tried not to box myself into a single style category.

What is the process of deciding what to wear in the morning?
F: Oddly enough, I’m a “night before” kind of girl because if I picked my outfits in the morning, I’d be late for absolutely everything! I usually look at the weather, pick shoes and then plan an outfit accordingly, but when the weather isn’t an issue, I pick the majority of my outfits based upon mood. If I’m feeling great and overly confident, I will try something new. If I’m feeling sort of shitty, I will opt out for all black basics. It’s a day by day process.

What are the three favorite things in your closet?
F: Only THREE? Yikes! I would say that my three current favourites would have to be my New Look black and beige tie-dye pencil skirt, the 5 pack of grey, acid washed t-shirts I just grabbed from H&M and my black and white Nike Roshe Run’s that I have been living in for the past 2 weeks, straight… Seriously, no over-exaggeration.

What are some of your favorite shops/websites for clothes, shoes and accessories?
F: I do a lot of local shopping in independent shops around Downtown Toronto, but my most frequent purchases come from the stores listed below: ASOS.com | NewLook.com | BarefootTess.com | BaubleBar.com | SimplyBe.com | DorthyPerkins.com | NastyGal.com | Forever21 + | H&M | Urban Outfitters | Old Navy | eBay & Etsy.

How long have you been natural?
F: My last relaxer was in 2003, so 10 years now, wow!

How and why did you transition into natural hair?
F: I transitioned into natural hair because I was sick and tired of stylists trying to “FIX” my “bad hair.” I come from a household where black hair care was never really discussed. My parents did a fantastic job dealing with my crazy hair as a child, but when the time came for me to take matters into my own hands, all hell broke loose! As a teen with no clue how to handle a head of matted, multi-textured hair, I walked into a black hair salon, told them to “fix my hair” and never questioned a word they said for 5 years. I didn’t know how to deal with my hair texture, I didn’t do any initial research before relaxing, and I honestly had no clue what I was doing to my head. All I knew was that I could comb through my hair with ease and it was a simple “fix.” After 5 years of chemical damage my hair started falling out at the root. I decided that enough was enough and this “fix” just wasn’t working for me anymore. I started looking for healthier hair solutions, I changed salons, and I chopped off 7 inches of fried, chemically damaged hair. It’s been a long and continuing journey, but I am happy that I finally came to the conclusion that there was nothing actually wrong with my hair to begin with!

What is your signature hairstyle?
F: The wake up, shake and go… No I’m kidding, sort of lol. I’m known for my huge, unruly, frizzy head of hair with the center part!

Describe your styling regimen over the course of the month.
F: I can never stick to ONE method! It’s an ongoing process and I’m constantly trying new things, but my most recent method works on a weekly basis. On Sunday I wash my hair. Before washing, I will finger detangle using jojoba oil for the bulk of my hair, and tea tree oil for my scalp irritation and dryness. After an hour or two of the oil soaking into my hair, I wash using Herbal Essences Honey I’m Strong Shampoo and Dove Intensive Repair Conditioner. I’ve tried a bunch of non-lathering, natural based shampoos and conditioners, but I never enjoyed the smell or felt that my hair was clean enough after my washing process. I wash my hair upside down because I find it gives me more volume, and when I am done, I rinse with ice cold water. Once I am out of the shower I section my hair into 6-8 pieces depending on how tight or loose I’d like my curls to be, also keeping in mind where I want my part to remain for the week, and I two-strand twist my whole head. I use Dove’s Nourishing Oil Care Daily Treatment Conditioner for my twist-outs and it seems to be working for me thus far. My twists come out smooth, defined and the ends (no matter how damaged they may be!) end up curling into themselves. The rest of the week is pretty easy. I finger detangle when needed, dampen my hair, and add some more Daily Treatment Conditioner or Shea Moisture Organic Curl Enhancing Smoothie if needed. I sleep with my hair in pineapple formation, and during the end of the week I start wearing my hair in buns and braids until my next wash. Repeat weekly! :)

Is there a blog/webpage where we can find you?
F: For sure! You can find me most frequently at www.francetajohnson.com and on Instagram at www.instagram.com/francetajohnson! :)

‘Her hair is long because of her genes.’ It is a very common comment that you will see especially within the natural community. It is a provocative statement that kindles passionate arguments for and against it. Some will be adamant that the statement is ignorant and others will emphatically argue for it, pointing out how the person concerned may have a looser texture or other factor that may be responsible for length. The truth is…….long hair actually is genetic, here is why:

1. Long Hair IS Genetic
The length your hair will grow to is determined by how long it will stay in the anagen or growth phase. In order to get to APL/BSL, on average you will need your hair to keep growing for 2-3 years. In order to get to waist or hip length, you will need your hair to keep growing for 4-5 years on average. Simply put, your genes will determine whether or not your hair will keep growing and there is pretty much nothing that you can do to change that.

2. Does This Mean Some People Are Bound To Have Short Hair?
Actually, no. Although many people quote the hair growth phase as lasting 2-6 years, the truth is that mathematical calculations estimate that an average normal growth phase may be as long as 12-14 years (J Cosmet Sci, pp 367-378, 2003). This would correspond to around ankle length for many. It would therefore be actually more accurate to say long hair is genetic and most people are genetically disposed to grow very long hair.

3. What if Nobody In My Family Has Long Hair?
We need to separate the hair’s ability to gain length from the person having the hair being able to maintain it for long enough to showcase its length. Often poor hair practices limit the ability for hair to showcase its full potential length. If you inherit those practices, then you inherit those limits too.

4. Why is it that people with long hair tend to have one of the following – looser curls, less kinky hair, hair that can be heat treated repeatedly and easily or locs?
In all the cases listed, hair has a low predisposition to tangling, knotting and breakage when manipulated. Hair that can be heat treated repeatedly without obvious damage is less susceptible in general to physical damage. Locs are the ultimate protective style and hair incurs very little breakage. It therefore stands to reason that those with hair in the categories above should be able to showcase its full potential length with very little damage and breakage along the journey.

If your hair requires gentle treatment even with minimal manipulation, it stands to reason that your hair may break a little more often or require more trims in order to be in the best condition. It does not mean that your hair cannot gain length or grows at a slower rate; it just means that you have to be have to be more diligent and possibly factor in a little more time in order to achieve the same results as hair that does not break as easily.

Ladies, does this provide some clarity for you? Have you ever believed that black women couldn’t grow long hair?