PR- Jessicurl, Hairveda, Giovanni, Jane Carter Solution

I’ve realized over the past couple of months, my hair LOVES natural/organic products. Initially I was totally amped when I figured out it hates, rather is sensitive to protein and thought it was the end all be all to my dry, unable to retain moisture, brittle hair but nope; it didn’t stop there. My hair doesn’t care for cones either and by the time I figured this out most of my products at the time were packing a moderate, if not heavy cone punch. I immediately began a hunt for products that were cone and protein free and this was rather difficult as most had one or the other, if not both, but I was determined there had to be something out there. So you know I researched like a mutha, until I found what I needed and gave a few things a try. I was totally lucky b/c I got them all right on the first go round and am enjoying the new state of my hair. Check out the products below that have totally transformed my tresses from straw (okay I’m exaggerating) to silk in the past couple of months:


1. Jessicurl Weekly Deep Conditioning Treatment (Citrus Lavendar): Protein/Silicone/Paraben/Glycerin Free
Product Description: Weekly deep treatments with heat really moisturize and strengthen the hair, and they're just plain fun to do. This treatment works best with a plastic cap and left on for 20 minutes. This thick conditioner uses cocoa butter and shea butter to add some serious moisture to your hair.

Ingredients: Water infused with Lemongrass, Nettle, Burdock, Kelp, Marshmallow Root, Horsetail, Basil, Bay Leaf, Oregano, Rosemary, Peppermint, Sage and Thyme, Behentrimonium Methosulfate and Cetearyl Alcohol, Shea Butter, Avocado Oil,Cocoa Butter, Lecithin, Aloe Vera Powder, Diazolidinyl Urea (and) Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate, Fragrance

MY REVIEW: This product is absolutely amazing. My hair loves, loves, loves this stuff. Although the description says 20 minutes I leave it for up to an hour. I’ve only tried on wet hair after my poo or cowash and my hair is left feeling so ridiculously soft and moisturized w/o any build up or residual feel. It definitely gets 2 snaps up and a circle….(am I old school or what). I can’t wait to try the Island Fantasy fragrance.


2. SitriNillah Deep Conditioning Masque by HairVeda:
Product Description: Our ingredients are perfectly infused to bring the life back to your hair. Nourishing Orange oil penetrates deep down to treat lifeless and brittle hair.
Orange peel, used for centuries in Ayurveda hair and skin remedies is known for enhancing the hair's supple nature. SitriNillah contains no silicones.

Ingredients: Water, Coconut oil, Castor Oil, Cetyl Alcohol, Glycerin, SterylAlcohol, Stearakloniun Chloride, Dimethyl Stearamine, Orange oil, Orange Extract, Vanilla Extracts, Lactic Acid, Germall Plus, Fragrance. 16oz. jar.

MY REVIEW: Again, another absolutely amazing product. The smell is reminiscent of an orange cream popsicle or Stew Leonard’s orange cream soda and the plus, not only does it smell great it also works great….my hair absolutely adores this condish. Now I do get a bit of a residual feel when rinsing but it’s not necessarily negative. It’s not like a waxy or build up feel or anything but more like when you don’t rinse all the coconut oil from your hair. The best part about it is when I 1st ordered I was able to get the trial size which comes in a 2 oz jar. This stuff is thick so a little does a lot and being that I’m only SL I was able to use it twice and try it on the hubby. Needless to say I hurried and ordered the 16 0z b/c there was no question whether or not I was gonna use it again! Two thumbs up for this!

3. Giovanni Smooth as Silk Deep Moisture Shampoo with PureOrganic Technology (Certified Organic):
Product Description: PureOrganic Technology, For Damaged Hair, Contains Vegetable Protein to Soothe Dry or Damaged Hair, Control Frizz, Add Shine, Organic Hair Care -Luxurious lather soothes dry, chemically processed hair, Cleanses gently for manageable smoothness, Calms unruly hair to alleviate frizz, Increases shine while smoothing dry or damaged hair, Zero sulfates

Soft and smooth, sexy and sultry. It's how you feel when you have silk against your skin. Now imagine that same feel in your hair. Smooth As Silk Deep Moisture Shampoo has a pearlized formula that glistens in your hand and transforms your hair into a silky palette that's ready for anything. Lather and glow with the flow that begins your style. Smooth As Silk Shampoo wears beautifully on you. *Contains a blend of organic oils, ripe-harvested from renewable plants at the peak of their freshness, cold pressed and refrigerated immediately to ensure maximum purity. Infuses each individual strand of hair with vitamins, nutrients and protein from strength and vitality.

Ingredients: Aqua (Purified Water) With *Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Extract, *Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Valencia Orange) Extract, *Mangifera Indica (Mango) Extract, *Cymbopogon Schoeanthus (Lemongrass) Extract, *Ginko Biloba Extract, *Echinacea Angustifolia Extract, *Salix Alba (Willow Bark), *Macrocystis Pyrifera (Sea Kelp) Extract, *Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Leaf Extract, *Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Extract, *Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Extract, *Glycine Soja (Soybean) Extract, Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Cocamide MEA, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Chloride, Acrylates Copolymer, Glycol Distearate, Amodimethicone, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Decyl Glucoside, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disteareth-75 IPDI, C11-15 Pareth-7,Citric Acid, C12-16 Pareth-9, Glycerin, Trideceth-12, Phenoxyethanol, Fragrance with Essential Oils.
*Certified Organic by Guaranteed Certification Services

MY REVIEW: It’s just what the doctor ordered, not too moisturizing where it doesn’t feel clean. It actually felt like it stripped my hair a little more than I expected but nothing to be alarmed about. If I feel any build up outside of using this I will simply do a baking soda rinse before using it. Been loving the fact that it gets my hair feeling just a little more cleaner than a cowash w/o that clarifying feel. This will definitely remain in my arsenal since I have opted to poo once a week and cowash once a week. This combination has done justice for me esp. since it’s all about picking the right shampoo and zero sulfates is a major factor for me that figures in. A new staple.

4. Giovanni Direct Leave-In Weightless Moisture Conditioner
Product Description: PureOrganic Technology, For all hair types, Organic botanicals moisture and detangle hair while infusing weightless body for easy styling, Organic Hair Care, Restores strength, luster and nourishment to abused hair, Moisturizes and builds body, Detangles for easy comb-out, easy styling
To create condition and style, you need to go directly to the source. Direct Leave-In Weightless Moisture conditioner penetrates into each individual hair to provide exactly what's needed, every time. This leave-in treatment uses enriched proteins to repair hair as you go through the day. It also plumps hair so it feels thicker, more bodified. Styled. Weightlessly. By infusing each strand with proteins, hair goes directly to style.
* Contains a blend of organic oils, ripe-harvested from renewable plants at the peak of their freshness, cold pressed and refrigerated immediately to ensure maximum purity. Infuses each individual strand of hair with vitamins, nutrients and protein for strength and vitality.

Ingredients: Aqua (Purified Water) with *Rosemary (Rosmarinus Officinalis) Oil, *Nettle (Urtica Dioica) Oil, *Thyme (Thymus Vulgaris) Oil, Birch Leaf (Betula Alba) Oil, *Chamomile (Anthemis Nobilis Flower) Oil, *Clary (Salvia Sclarea), *Lavender (Lavandula Angustifolia), *Coltsfoot Leaf (Tussilago Farfara), *Yarrow (Achillea Millefolium) Oil, *Mallow (Malva Sylvestris), *Horsetail (Equisetum Arvense) Oil, *Soybean Protein (Glycine Soja), Cetyl Alcohol (plant derived), Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5), Trace Minerals, Citric Acid (corn), Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate, Grapefruit Seed (citrus derived), Fragrance with Essential Oils.
*Certified Organic by Guaranteed Certification Services.

MY REVIEW: Fantabulous! This stuff is so rich, thick, creamy and moisturizing all at the same time. You only need a nickel size amount on your hair and what’s crazy is every time I feel like awww shucks I done put too much on (even with applying such a small amount), it’s like it melts into your hair and like the title states, becomes weightless. Now I know this may scare some of you fine hair ladies b/c I talk about the thickness of my hair, but my mom has super fine hair that gets weighed down VERY easily and I’ve been using it when doing her weekly roller-sets and I’m tryna tell ya’ll, this stuff just vanishes into thin air! The plus is I prefer creamy leave-ins instead of the liquids b/c I air-dry 99% of the time and after I have sopped up most of the water in my t-shirt I hate always having to soak my hair again with liquid. It just makes for a longer air-drying process. Plus creamy works better for me when I’m a certain amount of wks post b/c at that point I find liquid leave-ins tend to cause more tangles and snagging no matter how well they detangle for me prior to 6 wks post. The verdict; do you really have to ask?! It’s magically delicious!!!!!

5. Jane Carter Solution Hair Nourishing Cream ( All Natural/Ultra Light Hairdress):

Product Description: Can be used on hair and skin, leaves everything it touches feeling renewed and moisturized. This product is perfect for adding shine and repairing dry hair. This product can be used on all textures of hair.

Ingredients : Purified Water, Shea Butter, Kokum Butter, Illippe Butter, Mango Butter, Vtamins A, D, & E Orange, Grapefruit, Palmarosa, Cedarwood, Geranium, Ylang Ylang, Geranium, Bergamot, Rosemary Essential Oils, Jojoba, Glycerin, Polysorbate 80, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl acrylate Crosspolymer, Phenoxyethanol, Potassium Sorbate, Sorbic Acid.

MY REVIEW: Okay, so don’t be fooled by the Ultra Light title description on the tube b/c I actually find this stuff to be kinda heavy. Now for me it isn’t a bad thing b/c I just use a pea size amount for each section when moisturizing and sealing and voila, the job is done, so I guess it’s actually a good thing b/c that tube lasts forever. It’s thick, creamy, smells like a grapefruit and to reiterate a little goes a heckuva long way. This stuff has been doing just what it says, nourishing my hair for the past month or so and I haven’t picked up anything else from my hair moisture past. When I want the job done I seek JC Solution which means my other moisturizing products will more than likely get the boot.

Okay so now that I’ve done all my reviews have you noticed a pattern here? Thick, rich, creamy and natural seem to be the name of the game for my latest hair arsenal and regimen. My 4a coarse, kinky hair has changed in look, feel, softness and manageability and when you are striving for hair health before anything else, then you’ve simply had your hair dreams answered. So now that I’ve introduced, informed and reviewed my Hit Squad for you I hope this can help at least one of you reach the health goals you’ve been longing for with your hair. If you’ve already reached them and are looking to incorporate anything new you should definitely give these products a shot. I strongly suggest these for those of you who are suffering from especially dry and brittle strands that are lacking moisture. They all simply worked wonders for me and what's even better is with the exception of the 1st two you can buy these products at Whole Foods and/or the Vitamin Shoppe. Try ‘em out and lemme know how you like ‘em.

HHG

NuGro Leave in Spray w/Moisturizer

Hey Gang, Hope you all had a lovely holiday. I know I did and I'm still pooped but I need to seriously do my hair. So a couple of months ago I ordered a NuGro kit out of desperation in this battle with my alopecia. That spot was the worst I've seen it ever in all my years and this time it seemed like NOTHING helped. I read rave reviews on the forums and then saw they had Ateeyah on their page and checked out some of her videos. I was convinced and if I wasn't, like I said I was desperate to try anything. I ordered the kit with the shampoo, deep condish and leave in spray. What I can tell you is I love, love, love this leave-in. It is truly moisturizing and I don't have to moisturize and seal everyday when using it. Let me tell you something else, I have yet to discover another product that makes my new growth (ng) so soft manageable and able to be tamed. I actually prefer using it from 6 wks post on b/c of this effect. It's like it takes it from a coarse brillo texture to a cottony soft field of fluff. I just got a new bottle in the mail about a week and a half ago and believe you me this is a new staple. Oh and lets not talk about how I can run my finger pads across my alopecia patch with out needing a bandaid. The hair has finally softened up and this product helped loosen up my tight scalp in the area. Now the shampoo and deep condish are good as well but have protein so I stay away from they and use once in a blue. If you have had some serious alopecia issues and are at your wits end, or are simply suffering from dry parched hair or unmanageable new growth, I suggest you check this out. I felt like I was at the point of no return but guess who's back!

Product Description: "Mild Scent" spray helps grow, thicken, heal hair. Can Stop shedding in days. Moisturizes. Normally, see good hair growth results in 2-3 weeks. (For best results, use 1 - 3 months).Adds Body, Bounce and Shine!
Normally, stops shedding in days, see hair growth improvement in 2 - 3 weeks. For those with hair loss, thinning, balding or shedding. Also those who have lost hair due to medical treatment (chemotherapy etc.). And those who s hair has been damaged by chemicals. A very effective spray. MONEY-BACK guarantee!

Ingredients: Water, Glycerin, Parsley, Garlic, Nettle, Burdock, Horsetail Coltsfoot, Rosemary Leaf, Jojoba Oil, Olive Oil, Safflower Oil, Castor Oil, Coconut Oil, Shea Butter, Fragrance, Paba Panthenol (B-5), Vitamin E and D, Aloe Vera.

Happy Thanksgiving

May your holiday be blessed, happy, healthy and filled with lots of luv!

Africa's Best Ultimate Herbal OIl

I purchased this oil about 2 wks ago and automatically fell in love with the scent. I was out of grapeseed oil and had been eyeing it in Walmart and figured hey why not. I don't regret this purchase at all. How can you when it's about 3 bucks? Plus it smells sooo good, like baby oil. I've been using it to seal and will try it as a hot oil treatment soon. I love the natural ingredients so that's a plus, my only complaint is it doesn't penetrate as easily as I thought it would (prob b/c my hair isn't big on olive oil), so I have to be extra light when using it. Anyhow so far so good, it comes 2nd to my love of grapeseed oil. It's for use for bath, body, hair and scalp. If your looking for a cheap but quality fix I def recommend you try it out. Me likey!

Ingredients: Soy Bean Oil , Walnut Seed Oil , Kiwi Fruit Extract , Olive Fruit Oil , Castor Seed Oil , Sesame Seed Oil , Jojoba Seed Oil , Carrot Seed Oil , Sweet Almond Oil , Tocopheryl Acetate , Safflower Oil , Calendula Extract , Yarrow Extract , Cucumber Extract , Carrageenan Extract , Ginseng Extract , Sage Extract , Comfrey Extract , Aloe Extract , Fragrance

Almost Time

I am officially 9 weeks post and patiently (ok impatiently) waiting to relax my hair. Not sure if I'm gonna relax next weekend or the weekend after. The dilemma is my 10th anniversary is next saturday so I wanted a fresh one, but we don't have any big plans so I figured I can get the extra week of stretching in and relax b/4 thanksgiving. Not sure. It'll be bitter sweet however. I have mucho new growth (ng) but my alopecia patch is just not good. It's the biggest its ever been and I'm not happy about it!!! On the plus side it's growing back but it's way behind the length of my hair. It's the lenght of a twa and since my hair is on its way to APL (couple of months, hopefully), I think my only option is to add a track to it after this relaxer. I tried to swear off weaves but what's a girl 2 do. One track won't hurt, and it'll add the length to that spot for special occasions when I want to wear my hair out! I began miconazole nitrate in hopes of getting rapid growth, but I'll post on that later when I have a couple months of usage. I have a couple of products to review in the near future. I'll post more on them after the next relaxer. My hair is in a good state right now (sans alopecia) and I don't wanna throw off the balance b/4 the relaxer. So stay tuned more to come. Have a gr8 weekend!

Ciao

PR - DevaCare One Condition

Okay so I've been on the hunt for a moisturizer that I absolutely L.O.V.E. I have some that I really like, but none of them really rock my hair world. Well after the henna treatment w/no condish, I had to run out and find some good d.c's to really restore the moisture. I racked up my arsenal in order to avoid any breakage or protein overload and I decided to try this new one for me, DevaCare One Condition - No-fade ultra creamy conditioner. Now I tried this as a d.c. and thought it was o.k. When I rinsed out my hair I used it as a leave in and was somewhat impressed. The next time I did my hair w/one of my more "normal routine products", I noticed that my hair still seemed rather dry after it air dried. I was out of my NTM Silk Touch Leave In and opted to try the DevaCare OC since i felt it could use the extra conditioning in the moisturize and seal step. Well, shiver me timbers, my hair felt so soft, moisturized, manageable. I was one happy camper. I haven't even picked up my olive oil cream or repurchased the NTM, I've been using DevaCare since September and it's great. No build up, no greasiness, just good old moisture. Now it's been almost 2 months, as I like to see effects over time in order to give a proper review and ladies and gents I am still in L.O.V.E. This is a new staple that I plan on using for the long haul (for now..lol). Oh yeah and I did try it again as a d.c. and liked it better than the 1st attempt, so I will try again. Who know's maybe the 3rd times the charm and if so I'm def in for doubling my pleasure!!!

Product Desc: All you need is one: Love this super rich, ultra creamy conditioner for moisture deprived, colored and chemically processed hair. Enriched with orange-peel wax, Vitamin-C, olive oil and other essential botanicals, One Condition provides maximum hydration and color retention. Not tested on animals. Made in U.S.A.

Directions: Evenly distribute a palm-full of One Condition between both hands. Work through hair with fingers. Rinse. For an intensive conditioning treatment, leave in for 30 minutes under a shower cap. If hair is dehydrated, apply to ends before using No-Poo Shampoo or Low-Poo Shampoo.

Ingredients: Aqueous Extracts of: Achilea Millefolium, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria), Cymbopogon Schoenanthus, Humulus Lupulus (Hops), Melissa Offcinalis (Balm Mint), Rosmarinus Offcinalis (Rosemary), Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel; Cetearyl Alcohol, Glycerin, Behentrimonium Chloride, Amodimethicone, Cetrimonium Chloride, Cetyl Esters, Orange Peel Wax, Olive Oil, Ethylhexly Methoxycinnamate, Trideceth-12, Diazolidinyl Urea, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Ascorbic Acid, Fragrance, Red 40, Yellow 5.

Before & After -- Mom's Henna

So this Saturday I was able to convince my mom to let me do her very 1st Henna Gloss...Yay!!!! Mommy, who is 5 months post,again 1st

time ever (congrats),is stretching in order to achieve and

maintain thickness for her 4a fine hair. Now keep in mind,she was very very skeptical about me choosing not to relax her hair.She'd just taken her braids out and detangled and washed and called me

the night b4 she came over saying "change of plans I just cant do it

anymore" I asked her to trust me and she was leery but in the end she did just that and boy oh boy both her and I were glad she is a believer.

Check out the b4 and after photos and step by step guide below:

Here are the steps I took to achieve these results:

1. Baking soda rinse to rid goo

2. Applied henna gloss

3. Rinsed thoroughly

4. Co-washed w/Wen

5. dc'd for 30 mins under hair dryer

6. Roller set and dried

7. Flat ironed

Goodies Goodies....

They say diamonds are a girls best friend but I think in these economic times free stuff may have taken their place! Aveeno Nourish+ Hair Care Collection is offering free samples on their site. Just click on the link below, take a short survey and voila, you'll be on your way. This line is made with a wheat complex formula that's supposed to nourish damaged hair back in 3 washes. I've received my samples and will post at a later time so hurry and get yours 2day!

https://secure.startsampling.com/sm/100630/quickQuestion.iphtml?item=100630&source=TAF

Protective Styling 101 - Long Post for the Newbies!

I wanna talk about protective styling b/c I notice that many ladies are unfamiliar with the term. So, in short protective styling means to keep your hair protected from the elements, your clothing, heat styling and all other damaging agents that can dry your hair out and cause damage or breakage. Braids (extensions), buns, braid outs, weaves and wigs are all examples of protective styles. By keeps your hair from being exposed to the damaging agents and preventing the damage, you are able to retain length.

Ladies with hair shorter than collar bone or shoulder length are exempt to protective styling as far as CLOTHING goes. Of course, if you live in a climate with harsh winters and poor weather conditions you don't wanna expose your hair to this so you should still chose protective styling during these periods. Shoulder length ladies and beyond are the most vulnerable and should protect their hair as much as possible. Your strands are constantly rubbing against, the wool, cotton or other fabrics that your clothing is made of and in case you didn't know, many fabrics esp. wool and cotton are EXTREMELY drying. Be especially careful in those winter months when wearing wool scarves and hats. All of these fabrics can suck the moisture out out of our strands, which equals dryness, and once excessive or constant equals damage, which equals breakage, which equals cutting and that all equals not retaining your length. If you are constantly cutting your ends from breakage how do you expect to grow your hair longer (if that's your goal).

As mentioned above, the winter can be very harsh on our strands. The cold air can affect our hair as much as our skin making it dry and crackly which of course leads to breakage. You should def take the time to moisturize more often during these months and be sure not to go out with wet hair! It can freeze and snap off. However don't be mislead by the summer! Harsh UV rays can also have damaging effects on the hair just as on the skin. Imagine how your skin would burn and peel if all summer long you endured the scorching heat w/o any protectant on your body? Do you realize the sun hits your head 1st? Your hair is enduring more exposure than any other part of the body. The drying nature of the sun's rays mixed with the heat causing sweat on your scalp (salty toxins and we know how drying salt is for the hair and what drying causes right?!). Not a good combination. You can use natural oils like avocado to run through your hair b/4 stepping into the sun. Avocado oil is a natural sunscreen and will simultaneously nourish your tresses by providing moisture. You can also use cute silk or satin scarves to dress up your outfits while protecting your strands and summer hats are always fashionable to protect us from the sun. Be creative.

Now of course I don't have to get into how blow drying, curling irons and other heat tools are sooo not healthy for the hair. Like the sun, the heat from appliances sucks out the moisture, and can burn and dry out your hair. This is one of the best reasons for protective styling. Of course some of you just can't stay away so try to limit your usage to 1-2x per month and ALWAYS, use a heat protectant spray on your strands b/4 using your appliance. I'm currently using Silk Elements MegaSilk Heat Protector and the bottle lasts me forever since I rarely ever use heat.

Lastly combing and brushing are not good for the hair. Say what?! You heard me and I KNOW how you feel. I used to think these folks are sick in the head. I can NOT be unkept! Well I'm eating crow b/c I am officially one of them, I only comb on wash days under running water and guess what, I don't look like a hot mess. Now my protective styles of choice to help me keep it 2gether thru this are braid outs and bantu knot outs. They keep a "curly" look to the head and I pick the back up and make it look all cutesy. My hair isn't touching my shoulders, I don't need to comb b/c of the curls and waves and I still look groomed if you will. The friction of dry hair and a comb is just scaring me thinking about it. If this isn't your thing use your fingers to pull your hair into a pony and bun. The take a BOAR bristle/soft brush and GENTLY smooth down your edges ONLY, use your scarf to flatten while you get dressed and voila!, you look like 1 sleek and smooth mama! If you are going to comb, I wish you wouldn't but if you do, PLEASE DO SO ON MOISTURIZED HAIR WITH A WIDE TOOTH COMB, NO EXCEPTIONS!!!!.

Apply these principles and you are guaranteed to see healthier hair, retain more length and less breakage. Protective styling doesn't have to be boring, use your imagination, experiment with your looks and make it work for YOU!!! It may all be foreign at 1st but keep at it and it'll become 2nd nature to you like it did for me. Here's to healthy hair...... Happy Hair Growing (HHG!)

Yes to Carrots

So I made a big, big, HUGE mistake about 2wks ago when I did my Henna treatment. I RAN OUT OF MOISTURIZING DEEP CONDISH AND DIDNT KNOW IT!!! Uggghhh...I was not a happy camper esp. since I didn't know it until after I rinsed out the Henna. I whipped up some naturally moisturizing oils and ingredients from the kitchen but my hair was still feeling way to dry. I ended up purchasing C is for Hair Care - Yes to Carrots Hair and Scalp Moisturizing Mud Mask (What a freakin long name!). With its great list of natural ingredients I thought it was right up my alley. My 1st use, I applied w/heat after a cowash and it felt great going on my tresses. It had great slip and I thought "This just might be my new thang". NOPE! My 2nd use I shampoo'd and then applied w/heat again, same results, great slip but no moisture. My hair was still dry and crackly. I really wanted this stuff to work, like I said it had a great ingredient list but I just can't force it. Plus it's pricey and has the nerve to not work. Big NO! From now on I will use it as a prepoo until it's used up but will not repurchase. Bottom Line for me - No to Carrots!

Product Description: Experience gorgeous hair like never before with C is for Hair Care. Moisturizing, softening, detangling, shining, volumizing… need we go on??

C is for Hair Care contains extracts of organic carrot, organic pumpkin & organic orange, rich with Beta-Carotene, Alpha-Carotene, Vitamin E and other enzymes that keep your locks in tip-top condition.

Ingredients List: Water (Aqua), Silt (Maris Limus), Dead Sea Water (Maris Aqua), Olea Europaea (Olive) Oil, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Oil, Macadamia Ternifolia Oil, Glycerin, Lactic Acid, Cetearyl Alcohol, Niacin, Dimethicone, Algae Extracts (Rhodella, Dunaliella, Spirulina), Ipomoera Batatas (Sweet Potato) Extract, Cucurbita Pepo (Pumpkin) Juice, Daucus Carota (Carrot) Organic Extracts, Daucus Carota (Carrot) Juice, Panthenol, Chamomila Recutita (Chamomile) Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Juice, Imidazolidinyl Urea, Fragrance (Parfum), Cinnamomum Zeylanicum Oil, Apple Vinegar (Acetum), Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Extract, Daucus Carota (Carrot) Seed Oil, Cetrimonium Chloride, Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Peel Extract.

Jumping on the Bandwagon

So back in July, I went and picked up Burt Bee's Avocado Butter Pre-Shampoo treatment. It was getting rave reviews from a couple of my favorite ladies so I figured hey why not. The 1st time I used it I wasn't impressed, the gooey viscosity mixed with my dry hands and hair just felt like a sticky mess. Of course, my slowness didnt make me think to add water! I sat with it for a while, kept feeling my hair of course and thought it was just okay, didn't see the big deal. When it was time for me to wash my hair I began to see the excitement over this. As I was rinsing my hair under the water it felt soft and silky, really nice. I decided that I would use up the bottle but I wasn't sure if I would repurchase as the application process was, well, annoying. My next use the same, application...not good but the rinse was great. Here's where things changed. I felt compelled to take it on vacay out of convenience, no mixing of oils, EO's, etc. My common sense kicked in when I applied it on wet hair. Oh okay, I'm really feeling this now. Totally different feel, just glided right on, duh why didn't I think of this before. I then turned the tube around and read the instructions and whaddya kno! Your SUPPOSED to apply it to wet hair. Double duh. I guess this is why instructions were created. Needless to say I HAVE repurchased, I like it alot, although something still stops me from loving it even though I continue to buy it ((on my 3rd tube)). However it's convenient, effective and 99.33% natural and I will say this, I gain more respect for it with each use.

Product Description

Pre-treat before for a high gloss after. Perming, coloring and styling can leave your hair looking dry and damaged. This luscious formula combines Avocado and Olive oils to penetrate and replenish natural moisture to your hair and scalp. Rosemary, almond oil and nettle extract condition your hair leaving it soft, with a glossy shine.

Ingredients: Vegetable glycerin, olive oil, avocado oil, sweet almond oil, oat flour, citrus rind oil (cleanser), lanolin, nettle leaf powder, quillaja extract, oat oil, chlorophyll & vegetable oil, rosemary leaf oil, tocopherol (vitamin E), fragrance

Not Feeling My Hair

I tried the oil and condish in my last relaxer and it worked wonders on my previously relaxed tresses. I mean really just amazingly soft and moisturized but the previously relaxed tresses aren't the problem. My hair is not straight, it's manageable but not straight. Now Hair's tha thing...I've been noticing this problem over the last couple of touch ups and I've concluded it's the relaxer. Affirm Fiberguard is just not doing the job for me! At 1st I thought maybe I was underprocessing, but I've been self-relaxing since my late teen years and NEVER damaged my tresses or ever underprocessed so that's not it. Plus my hair got like this when I was using the ORS olive oil relaxer which is why I don't use it anymore. Also years ago my old stylist used Affirm Fiberguard on my hair and after the 2nd time told me she didn't like it, we switched but she never mentioned why. I wonder if this is what happened? In all fairness the stylist before her used Affirm Lye and that's the silkiest my hair has ever been! However I don't mess around with lye when self relaxing, my hair can hit or miss with it so no way not now, can't afford any damage.

Oh well, you live you learn, but it's official...bye bye Affirm Fiberguard...I'm thinking of going back to Fabulaxer, used to love it. Anyone have any suggestions!

Being “Squeaky Clean” The Truth About Shampoo.....

So in the past week I’ve had 2 convo’s in which I’ve explained to folks some of the issues with using shampoo.

Many traditional shampoos contain Sodium Laurel Sulfate (SLS) and/or Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate (ALS) which are cleansing agents a.k.a surfactants, found not only in shampoo but in detergent, household cleaners, body wash, you get the idea. The purpose of surfactants is remove dirt and oil build up. Some are mild and some are harsh. The problem with SLS & ALS as surfactants is that they end up stripping your hair of your natural oils and can leave your hair a dry and parched mess.

I remember being a teen and my mom telling me to wash my hair until it was “squeaky clean”. I would lather sometimes 2 and 3 x’s searching for that “squeak”, shoot sometimes I would hear the “squeak” only in certain parts and do it again until the whole head was “squeaking”. Needless to say I also remembered how tangled my hair would be afterwards. Of course I didn’t know anything about SLS or ALS back then and the effects also of over-shampooing your hair, but now that I do allow me to share some alternatives with you!

1st – Pre-Shampoo Treatment b.k.a Prepoo. This is where you apply conditioner and/or oil(s) to your hair prior to shampooing. This helps to saturate the hair shaft and protect it from harsh cleansers and stripping during the washing process. Prepooing also helps add moisture and can be done as little as 30 mins or done overnight, again prior to washing.

2nd - Consider using a sulfate free shampoo to wash your tresses. Sulfate free poos are way more readily available today than years ago. You should be able to find them at most beauty supply retailers. There are countless brands out there but here are a few:

Abba Pure Moisture/Pure Color Protect/True Shine, Brocato, Deva Curl No-Poo, Giovanni Direct, Kenra Platinum Color Care, Pureology, Treasured Locks HumiNature/Nothing but Nature

3rd – Only wash your hair 1x, that’s right I said 1x. A healthy head of hair begins with a healthy scalp. You are just trying to keep your scalp clean and your pores unclogged, there's no need to overdo it! Rinse your hair for a minute or 2 to help rid some of the oil or buildup off of the surface. Apply your SLS/ALS free poo to your scalp and begin scrubbing (do not use your fingernails please!! think of it as more of a massaging action, use your fingertips). You will notice the poo will trinkle down the strands on its own therefore you don’t need to manipulate the hair shaft itself with vigorous rubbing as this is also damaging. As you rinse, the poo will rinse away remaining dirt, oil etc from the hair as it glides down.

4th – Try Conditioner Washing b.k.a. co-washing. Co-washing is where you wash the hair with conditioner, usually a cheapie condish, and you get the benefit of cleaning your scalp while adding moisture. Conditioners typically have many of the same ingredients of shampoos minus the sulfates. Think of it as a moisturizing shampoo free of harsh detergents. There are cleansing conditioners also sold on the market for this purpose. Here are a few:

Wen Cleansing Conditioner, Hair One Cleansing Conditioner. Cheapies such as Suave Naturals Vo5 Moisture Milks and Herbal Essence are very popular for cowashing as well, of course you can use the condish of your liking!

Remember the lathering action or “bubbles” are all in the sulfates so don’t judge the effectiveness of the product based on the lack of that action. You won’t get it! You’ll get a mild sudsing at best, very mild. Don’t be alarmed, your hair is getting clean. Again you only need 1 wash to get your hair clean.

Oil In Your Relaxer

So I relaxed this past weekend...Okay, I know what I talked about stretching to 16 wks and blah blah blah but I didn't so hey, don't shoot me! Yes I relaxed 1 wk earlier than I normally do at 8 wks instead of 9, but I had a couple of things going on and I took the plunge. Glad I did. I am happy with my results and my growth I will maintain my current regimen since it seems to be working great.

More importantly I wanted to talk to you all about adding oil and conditioners to your relaxer. As a "self-relaxer" I feel like time is always against me...I am always trying to move at top speed in order to avoid over-processing. I've been self-relaxing for years and I feel like each time I get amped up and nervous about moving faster enough to get the job done safely AND get my hair str8. Sometime last year I'd began reading about ladies adding oil and/or condish to their relaxer to slow down the processing of the relaxer. For some it is to intentionally underprocess what they refer to as "texlax" and for others to add a little extra application time w/o risking any damage. I was interested in the latter but very hesitant to try for fear of underprocessing. I'm not sure y this time around I finally decided to give it a try but boy oh boy am I glad I did. I can actually kick myself for not trying it sooner!!! This method is just what I needed and what was so great about it is how extremely moisturized my hair was after the process and my rollerset. I mean I couldn't believe it. I was able to really smooth my newgrowth to my liking and I just have to say again, my hair has NEVER been this moisturized after a relaxer....just so soft....wow. This is now a staple in my relaxer process and to think I was starting to consider going to the salon again for my touch ups b/c my newgrowth was becoming overwhelming during relaxing now that I'm a stretcher. AIN'T GONNA HAPPEN!!! If you haven't tried it or have been fearful, do not delay...rest assured oil and condish in your relaxer is your FRIEND!

Here's what I did: 1 tablespoon of Moisture Maniac Condish and 1 teaspoon of Grapeseed oil to my Affirm Fiberguard Relaxer. Da Bizzomb.....lmbo!

To Relax or Not To Relax.....

Okay, so I'm glad I said I was "attempting" a 16 wk stretch and that I didn't commit to it b/c I'm having second thoughts and if I commited I would have to stick to it so whew! I am seven wks post and my oh my I am a fiend for the creamy crack! I am pleased that I was able to really tame my ng after yesterdays wash. I am working out 6 days a week, so this week dealing with workout hair and ng will really let me know if I am up to the challenge for another 2 months.

Yesterday's routine included:

Clarifying - Nexus Aloe Rid

CoWashing - Wen

Deep Condish - Matrix Biolage and NTM Deep Recovery Mask, Sweet Almond Oil

Rinse Condish - Moisture Maniac & Roux Porosity Control

Leave In - Silken Child Detangle, Mane & Tail, Moisture Maniac

I rollerset, sat under the hooded dryer and then flat ironed the ng and length of my hair. It came out great, roots were layed down and both hair and roots were really smooth. IDK ya'll right now it's lookin like I can do it but let's see what happens after 2nites workout!

My Henna Gloss

So I decided to revisit the whole henna experience since I am "attempting" a 16 week stretch. I began experimenting with henna earlier this year and I liked (strength) but not loved (dryness) the experience. However I did see some benefits that kept me coming back, (my hair responded better to henna than to regular protein treatments). The issue was I didn't balance my moisture and protein levels and ended up with a protein overload so I had to cut back for a while. Obviously the benefits were good enough to peak my interest enough to revisit it and I did so on Sunday. The results were great. My ng is very soft and ever so manageable. I get this hard "crunchiness" as I like to call after so many weeks post that makes it very difficult dealing with my 4a/b hair. Dont get me wrong my ng is still bushy as idk what but there is no more crunch, the curl pattern is so much looser and the added softness is incredible. I have really perfected my mix and found what works for me. I feel so much more educated and confident in my hair care abilities lately and this henna gloss really proved it. My ng is tamed like never before. This mix really has me optimistic that I can reach the full length of my stretch if I keep getting results like this. My mix wasn't too drying, it kept my hair way more moisturized than my other experiences. I am finally in love.

My henna gloss was comprised of the following *Everything is approximate, I didnt measure, sorry :-(

1/2 box of Hesh Mehandi and Reshma Henna mixed

1/4 box Amla powder

1 can Coconut Milk (warmed on the stovetop)

2 tbsp Sesame Oil

2 tbsp Olive Oil

Honey

1.5 cup Suave Naturals Wild Cherry Blossom Condish

Remeber - Henna binds with keratin and mimicks protein in strengthening your strands. It is known to be very drying for some so be sure to deep condition your hair after a henna treatment. Also when rinsing out be sure to cowash , shampoo or whatever you choose your hair a million times to make sure it's all out, okay not literally a million but yeah a million.

Are You Serious?!

So, I am writing this post as an extension to my return from vacay post. While in North Myrtle Beach on vacay I decided to take my fam on a hair shopping trip to Sally's (they were seriously devouring my products...lol). As everyone was turning to me for haircare advice with the chlorine and beach water etc., I thought it was the perfect time to give them some hair knowledge and help them buy products. Okay, so we walk in the store and I ask for Hair One for my cousin. An older caucasian rep says they don't sell it....I say are you sure I believe it's manufactured by Sally's and explain what it is and its purpose...blah blah blah...After all my explaining (which kinda pissed me off b/c she shuld've known this as the sales rep..anyway) this LADY (I'm being nice) had the nerve to say to me, "You should try one of the stores in YOUR neighborhood b/c we really don't sell that many ETHNIC products at this location" OH NO SHE DIDN'T (I am cracking up right now b/c it's over but I was HEATED to say the least). I remained calm b/c to go off at this point would've been the "typical" response her stereotypical behind would've expected and well I couldn't give her that?! (My how hitting 30 matures you). I said what I needed to, again educating her on the product and informing her that it wasn't an ethnic specific product and again this LADY (being nice again) had the nerve to look at me crossed eye and say "Oh it's not an ETHNIC" product?! As if my black behind can't use anything else?! Are you serious?! And she was looking at my hair while she said it!!!! At this point there a couple of names I wanted to call her and even still as I type I am taking a deep breath cause I am still adding some names to that list as I type, but long story short another sales rep comes out, also caucasian...helps me and the fam look for the product, politely says she's unfamiliar herself and can't find it and leads me to the Mane N Tail detangler in which I am also searching for. Well what do you know as we look up at another product a whole mess of Hair One in every variety sitting right above our heads. Since she heard the original convo I suggested that she might want to advise her colleague of where the product is and have her research it to become "better informed". She yelled to the front and said hey we have it here, look it's the one in the pump the display we got a while ago to which that HEIFER (sorry I couldn't help myself and it's the nicest one that come's out..lol) replied, "Well she shoulda said olive oil, that's been here since the beginning of the month, Idk it by that name! (And why did she have the nerve to be using the matter of fact tone..AGAIN...OH NO SHE DIDN'T!!!) Needles to say I had to go give her a piece of my mind and inform her of the four diff varieties it comes in so WHY do I need to say Olive Oil when that's not what it's called nor the only type it comes in?Amongst some other things I let loose.... don't worry I represented and told her off Maya Angelou style, my mom was with me and I made her proud ;-). Needless to say Sally's Corporate Headquarters has a detailed complaint headed to them in the mail as we speak. It's a crying shame that in 2009 we are still judged by our skin and our HAIR!

Guess Who's Back......

End of Summer Greeting to All,

I just got back on Saturday from a great family vacay in Myrtle Beach. It was much needed and to tell the truth I wasnt ready to come home but hey, back to life as usual. So while away I realized I how impressed I was with myself and my hair care regimen. I was really on the move. I remember when I 1st began my journey it would take forever, which condish to use, EO's to mix in, oils etc. Now it's simply second nature. I assess and feel my hair during the process and immediately know what product to grab. For all you newbies out there please dont' get disouraged!! I know it's a lot of information to soak up at once, and you're very eager to see your hair reach optimal health and its longest length's but know it doesn't happen overnight so TAKE YOUR TIME!!! It will come to you and before you know it you'll be advising others on the state of their tresses.

On another note: I was browsing over at LHDC a couple of weeks ago and she was having a contest giving away her moisturizer of choice. Bed Head by Tigi Moisture Maniac. Needless to say I won (yay me) but the story doesn't stop there. My pkg came approx 2 days b4 I left for vacay and I figured what a perfect time to try it out! Ladies lemme tell you something....I am in love. All hail Moisture Maniac and a huge shout out to Long Hair Don't Care for having this contest! This product is now one of my staples, the moisture and slip are absolutely RIDICULOUS. I won the large bottle which would've typically lasted a long time however my family bum rushed me during the whole 7 days of vacay and now I am down to a mere half a bottle. Yes that's how good this stuff is! I use it as my rinse condish to detangle in the shower after my deep condish and then I apply it along with my leave ins while still wet. The comb just runs right through and I'm almost 6 weeks post. Woohooo...This will replace NTM Deep Recovery Mask as my rinse condish and since I am considering a 16 week stretch for the 1st time ever, it's really swaying me to push forward and do it! Run out and get you some....It was heaven sent, at the right time and just what the doctor ordered!

Alter Ego Impac Ego with Garlic

Product Description: Impac Ego with Garlic still the best Hot oil treatment with (Garlic). This special cream, rich of peptydes, vitamins and mineral salts which derivate from wheat and garlic represents an excellent substitute for hair treatment with animal extract. It leaves the hair soft and strong and it is ideal to use on treated hair, such as bleached, dyed and permed.

So I am in love with the Alter Ego line, at least the products that I have used thus far. I've been swearing by thier drops for years (will do a post soon) and also their moisturizing masque although I've stopped using the masque over this past year. Anyhoo I've revisited the Impac Ego w/Garlic hot oil treatment. I've never purchased for home use but during my days when I would frequrent the salon my stylist used this product. I never paid it much attention but let me tell you, doing things for myself has helped me show a great appreciation for the products that truly work. This product leaves my hair so so soooo soft and manageable. Just like the claim it feels soft but yet strong following use. I LOVE this stuff. Now it is a light protein condish and because the protein is way down some consider is just a moisturizing condish. However, for those of you who are protein sensitive, like me, you may want to follow up with a light moisturizing treatment afterwards ( I usually put a moisturizing condish on for 5 mins or so with a plastic cap while I shower and then rinse). Run out and get this today, it's definitely one for the record books!

INGREDIENTS: Aqua (Water), Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetrimonium Chloride, Dipalmytoylethyl Hydroxyethylmonium Methosulfate, Parfum (Fragrance), Cyclomethicone (Cyclopentasiloxane), Limonene, Dimethicone, Phenoxyethanol, Propylene Glycol, Linalool, Hexyl Cinnamal, Methyldibromo Glutaronitrile, Benzyl Salicylate, Citric Acid, C.I. 11680 (Pigment Yellow), C.I. 74160 (Pigment Blue 15:1), Triticum Vulgare (Wheat Extract), C.I. 12085 (Pigment Red 4), Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Allium Sativum (Garlic Extract), Cochlearia Armoracia (Horse-radish Extract), Ferula Assa Foetida (Asafoetida Extract), Methylisothiazolinone.

Bye Bye Wen

Okay,

So you all know I prefer Wen over Hair One, but it looks like Hair One will get my money from here on. If there is one thing I hate it's poor customer service. Since I own a small business, I cant, in anyway form or fashion get away with this b/c people remember and at anytime can choose to go to a much larger agency for services identical to what I'm offering, so I pride myself on making clients happy. Why the hell then can larger companies feel they are so big that they can just handle your account so poorly and get away with it?!

From day 1 Wen has not been on point. I didn't receive an april order until June, then they supposedly were sending me out a new kit to replace the one I didn't receive. Then I notice they've charged me for the 90 day supply for the past 3 months but where the hell is it? Maybe you have it but I sure don't. On top of that, add insult to injury, and I know when Im being insulted the heifer on customer service line had the audacity to ask me "why did I wait till now to call or cancel if I've been charged for 3 months" with an attitude!!! I replied "since we are asking WHY, WHY am I not receiving my orders when you are clearly taking my money". Now of course she has nothing to say but come on this is unacceptable and the attitude. Oh no! I could go on and on about the call but I'm finished ranting right now so all I've got to say is Hair One - your easily accessible, better affordable and now a cleanser of mine!

My Regimen

So I was out today running around and stuff and I realized I had to wash today b/c I missed my Wed cowash. Then I realized that I had to pick up certain items that I had to have to do my hair which then made me realized how solid my regimen was b/c I just couldn't do anything w/o these particular items. And of course I realized it was time to post my regimen..lol:

Prepoo (One of the following):
1. Herbal Essence Hello Hydration mixed w/Essential Oils & Oil of Choice (EVCO, EVOO, Jojoba, Olive or Grapeseed)
2. Hot oil Mix - Blend of all the oils listed above mixed w/Essential Oils & Honey

3. Cayenne Pepper & Olive Oil Mix

Wash 1x per week
Wen cleansing conditioner

CoWash 1-2x's per week
Suave Naturals Ocean Breeze or Wild Cherry Blossom Condish

Condition:
LIGHT protein condtitioners 1x per week or biweekly (followed by a moisturizing conditioner):

Aphogee Keratin 2 min Reconstructor

Alter Ego Impac Ego w/Garlic (Absolutely LOVE this stuff)

deep/moisturizing conditioners 1-2x's per week:

Aubrey Organics Honey Suckle Rose mixed w/KeraCare Humecto (Original Formula)

Pantene R&N Breakage Defense Deep Conditioning Mask

*Either combo mixed w/Essential Oils and oil of choice as listed in prepoo above

NTM Deep Recovery Hair Mask - Used to detangle in shower after I rinse condish from hair

Leave Ins (used together):

Silken Child Leave In Detangler

NTM Silk Touch Leave In Cream

IC Fantasia Hair Polisher for Color Treated & Chemically damaged hair

*Alter Ego Herb Ego -Works Wonders- (1x per wk/on scalp/only when experiencing hairloss)

**Mane & Tail Detangler (only added into the bunch at approx 5-6 wks post)

Moisturizers:

Organics by Africa's Best Olive Oil

Elasta QP Mango Butter Moisturizer

Jamaican Black Castor Oil (Scalp Only)

Relaxer:

Affirm FiberGuard every 9-10 weeks

Porosity Control

Roux Porosity Control - As needed

ACV Rinse - At the tail end of EVERY relaxer process

Air Dry & Protective Styling (Buns) 99% of the time

Relaxer Results/Progress

Okay so I havent posted pics since I began this blog. You know either I couldn't find the camera, the wire to connect to the comp, 4got to take photos etc etc. I decided to just use my phone so sorry if things aren't clear. Anyhoo as you all know I relaxed on Sunday July 12. I am very happy with the results. In March I was chin length and now in July I am shoulder length. I think I'm growing at a good rate and since I can see significant progress I have no complaints, well maybe one. As you can see on the left side in the back there are see through spots. Well that's b/c that's the infamous alopecia patch underneath the hair. Thank God my hair has thickened up a lot or it would be completely see through. I am working on this spot diligently but Idk ya'll sometimes I feel like my efforts are in vain. Of course I will never give up hope, I am sooooo NOT a quitter but I have to be completely honest, I get truly discouraged at times. Oh well que sera sera!

Moving on, here are my steps in preparing for and conducting the relaxer process:

1.Night before use detangler and GENTLY detangle.
2.Lightly oil hair and scalp with coconut oil.
3.Morning of LIGHTLY coat hair with Affirm Fiberguard Preservo Strenghtening Serum
4.Apply Affirm Fiberguard Relaxer
5.After rinsing out apply Aphogee 2 min
6.Rinse and neutralize with Affirm Fiberguard Neutralizing Shampoo
7.Cowash 1x w/Vo5 Moisture Milks Passion Fruit Smoothie (love the smell oh so much!)
8.Deep condition w/Aubrey Organics HSR & KeraCare Humecto Mix, then rinse
9.Apply Silken Child Detangler, NTM Silk Touch Leave-In and Fantasia IC Hair Polisher for color treated/damaged hair.
10.Let air dry 95% then blow dry (hence the "frizness")

The End is Near

Hey All,

So I've officially decided to end my stretch this coming Sunday after 9 weeks. I just can't take it anymore. My hair is like whoa and I know it's just 1 more week to get to 10 as before but I am just aggravated. It was one thing when the weather was rainy almost every day but the sun is shining, my hair requires what seems like a half a jar of product to lay down and I just cant have this. It's just a week right (this is what I'm telling myself for approval so just agree...lol). On top of that I went and tried the L'oreal Hair Fixer and let me just say never again, no way, no how. My hair was left a dry, thirsty, parched, hard, brittle, stiff mess. Just when I had restored the perfect moisture/protein balance, here I go with my fast self trying something new. (something i said a wasn't doing over and over again....hard headed me). The good thing is I wasn't left with breakage especially since my hair was so rough to the touch. I was kinda scared but thank God that part was okay b/c I can NOT afford any set backs. I've been moisturizing like crazy and I'm just about where I need to be. I am sooo glad I've learned to listen to my hair. Folks the best advise I can give is to pay attention to how products leave the state of your hair. Not knowing is a recipe for pure disaster!

Bangs Save the Day

So last year I went with the grain and joined the bang movement. Now I've always had a love hate relationship with bangs. I yearn for them when I don't have them and after about a month or so despise them when I get them. I've had them for quite a while now and I'm beginning to endure the same never ending battle yet again, should I or shouldn't I? I decided I should...the reason why is I realized how much an integral part of stretching my bangs have truly been. That's right my bangs have been the MAIN reason I've been able to push my stretches to the limit. Although I mainly wear my hair back in a bun or phony curly phony, when it's time to go out I pull down my bangs, apply some heat protectant spray, bump the ends with my curling iron on low heat, slick the back in a pony, add some hair to make a sleek chignon and voila! Whether its date night with the hubby, hanging with the girls, rushing to a business meeting or some type of special occasion or event, I end up with a nice quick and classy style that suits all occasions.

R.I.P Michael Jackson

So I just walked in and I know by now you all have heard Michael Jackson has died. I am awestruck and deeply saddened by the news. I know there have been not so nice reports etc about him the past few years but seriously folks this man has done so much over the years for music: breaking down barriers, crossing color lines, setting records that STILL are not broken from decades ago. MJ proved that "black music" wasn't just R&B or Blues, that we can do Pop and be successful. He's opened the doors for sooooo many artist that its unbelievable. For those people who have nothing good to say and cant show the respect (and there have been a few throughout the day) understand this....if you like, Ne-yo or Usher or Chris Brown, or Beyonce, you like Mike because EVERY last one of them, and countless others, have sampled, his style, his dance or his music. I am proud to have been brought up in a generation where Mike was THE MAN and if you come from that era I know you feel the pain. He will truly be missed!

Listening to YOUR hair

So I will be 7 weeks post this Sunday and I am seriously woofing. Since stretching is so new for me I'll be the 1st to say it ain't easy!!! Learning to be creative with your styles, laying your hair down and keeping it that way. Not to mention fixing your hair for special events and occasions...My week is full with evening events and sad to say I'm thinking more about my hairstyles than what to wear. Not to mention the mission of battling new growth, being more gentle than usual to avoid breakage etc. Whew...so now that that's out I will tell you this, you can make things a whole lot easier on yourself if you pay attention to what your hair is telling you. That's right, listen to your hair. Keep using what works! If you want to try new products try incorporating them one at a time and try each one for a couple of weeks or tries (at the very least) b/4 you introduce a new product. If one is hurting your hair and one is helping how will you know which one to terminate from your regimen? I've learned a lot about what my hair likes over the past couple of months and stretches. Hair are some things that work for me at the end of my stretch aka the breaking point-lol:

1 - Decreasing my washes to a maximum of 2x/wk and only cowashing
2 - Moisturizing my "alopecia patch" 2x/day (for some reason at about 5 wks the hair in that spot gets extremely dry and brittle and requires extra moisture)
3 - At around the 6th week - upping my protein (light) treatments to 1x/wk at (prior I do them 1-2x/mo)
4 - Prepooing w/heat (I always prepoo but the heat really softens up that new growth)
5 - Using my hair steamer (let me tell you this is a real life saver - can you say softness?!)
6 - Decreasing the number of x's I oil my scalp w/castor oil (the less digging the less breakage).
7 - "laying down" my edges etc at night b/4 bed so when I repeat the process in the morn I get a much neater/sleeker look.
8 - Detangling b/4 my wash (I dont need to this step before 5-6 wks but it helps tremendously when you get to that point - oh and I let the detangler sit on for about 2 minutes, while I massage it in before I start the detangling process. It really loosens up the hairs this way)

That's all I can think of right now but I'm sure I'll start noticing even more things that work as I continue on my journey. Hope some of this helps at least 1 of you but also remember everything that works for me may not work for you. So again. Listen to YOUR hair because it's definitely talking to you!

Wen vs. Hair One

Okay so I finally got my Wen, which I ordered back in April but let's not even talk about that. Once I saw that my order was gonna take a "couple" of wks to get here I went out and purchased Hair One (yes I'm impatient but I wanted to do a fair comparison and not rule something out b/c of price). Now I know some of you may wanna curse me for saying this but I wasn't impressed w/Hair One. I purchased the Olive Oil cleanser and it just doesn't float my boat. Just not a fan. It was okay but that's it. Great tingle however!

So finally my Wen comes in the mail the other day and I used it yesterday on my wash day. Now I wasn't excited b/c of the mediocrity of the Hair One so I waited to use it but I must say Wen is all the rave! Immediately when I applied it to the scalp I felt a huge difference in the two products. Wen automatically felt smooth and thick on my scalp. It felt very soft and moisturizing. It felt more like a conditioner. The only thing that was better about Hair One is that it tingled more but I may have had some build up, idk. To be fair, I will give it another shot and use Hair One with the exact same pre-poo that I did for Wen to see if I feel the same but so far Wen has my vote hands down!

Hair Tip

Hair's tha thing....When purchasing products for chemical and coloring services most companies advise you to base your hairline, nape ears etc with petroleum in order to prevent staining. Some companies even provide you with small packets. One concern I see many bloggers and followers in the hair community discussing is the use of petroleum. It "suffocates the scalp", "it's too greasy", "hard to wash out".

If you didn't already know, here's a great tip. Instead of using petroleum, you can use your favorite condish or a cheapie to base those areas. (I use either or,they both work great). It's easy to rinse out and not only does it prevent staining just as effectively but your strands are getting added conditioning while you perform your chemical services!

Try it and let me know how you like it - Happy Hair Growing!

PR - Hobé Naturals

(pronounced ho-bay)I came across this product line while shopping in Vitamin Shoppe replenishing my Jojoba oil. Each bottle read 100% pure with vitamin E and I thought hey why not. I am very particular about my oils b/c I've tried so many and I've content with my faves thus far but the pj in me couldn't resist. Plus the jojoba was 10 bucks and each bottle of Hobé was 4.59...2 for the price of 1 is better for me anytime! I purchased the Apricot Kernel Oil (AK)- Nourishing Humectant for Sensitive Skin and the Sweet Almond Oil (SA)- Soothes and Softens for Beautiful Skin and let me tell you I'm in love. These oils are definitely going into my regimen (posting soon).

My pre-poo contained the AK Oil and immediately when I rinsed all the dryness I'd been feeling disappeared, my strands felt moisturized. I knew it was the oil b/c that was the only thing I'd changed in my prepoo mixture. Likewise with my deep condish I added the SA oil and immediately when I rinsed, my strands felt silky, smooth and soft to the touch. With this product you get the benefit of your favorite oil plus the added softness of vitamin e w/o the oily buildup that comes along with it. I love this stuff!!

AK Directions: Lightly massage AK oil into skin areas requiring deep moisturization. Can also be used in a base for premium massage oils or aromatherapy products.
AK Ingredients: 100% pure Apricot Kernel Oil, Natural Vitamin E

SA Directions: Lightly massage SA oil into skin after cleansing. Can also be used in a base for premium massage oils or aromatherapy products.
SA Ingredients: 100% pure Sweet Almond Oil, Natural Vitamin E

Cosmetic grade quality. Contains no synthetics, oil fillers, fragrance or coloring agents. Cruelty free.

Introducing Syntonics Edge Define Hairline Smoother - My 1st Product Review (PR)

Hey All,

So I had the greatest and busiest week last week and had little time to blog. My bday was on the 27th and so the hubby threw me a huge bday bbq on the 24th during the holiday weekend. Food, fun, friends, family and drinks, what more can a girl ask for??? I'll tell you - Syntonics Edge Define Hairline Smoother. This new product from Syntonics is awesome. I almost missed out on receiving it see I was on Dr. Ali Syed's sight and apparently there was a contest that I completely overlooked. My cousin caught it and entered me just as I was complaining about my peach fuzz patch in the back from alopecia. I received it, have been using it and I absolutely am in love.

With its pomade consistency, not only did it slick down the nape section in a way like no other, at the end of the day my hair was soft, non greasy, non flaky as if I had used a regular old moisturizer. It slicks down my kitchen with the rest of my hair w/o that hard "gel" feeling. Just to show the effects - yesterday I had to run out at the last minute, the humidity was ridiculous and I absentmindedly didn't use it and ended up with an embarrassing bush in the back of my head. So yes it makes a huge difference. Ladies if you need to slick edges, napes hairlines etc, run not walk and get this product. Nape control and slickness like no other. I am soooooo addicted!!!

Ingredients: Aqueous (Water, Aqua Purificata, Purified) Extracts: Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf and Calendula Officinalis Flower, Ceteareth-25, Glycerin (Natural), PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Propylene Glycol, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil, Menthol, Diazolidinyl Urea (and) Iodopropynl Butylcarbamate.

Moisture, Moisture, Moisture

Okay so I may not have mentioned before that I was heading for a protein overload.  Being that I was stretching so long this time I was trying to keep my hair strength up.  I may have overdone it.  The good thing is it's not by much....but it is at the "I better fix it now before there's damage" point and we can't have that.  Soooooooo the next couple of weeks I am focusing on Moisture, Moisture and more Moisture.  I will alternate my deep conditions between Pantene Relaxed & Natural Condish, Keracare Humecto Condish and Aubrey Organics Honey Suckle Rose.  I've been using Hair One to wash and not doing as many co-washes but needless to say I purchased a whole mess of Vo5 moisture milk condish to get my co-washes going again.  I've added Amla oil and honey back into my pre-poo regimen as well.   Tea Tree and Peppermint oil are my staple EO's for both pre-poos and deep condish treatments but again, since I've gotta step my game up so I began adding Bergamot, Grapefruit, Rosemary and Eucalyptus oils back into the mix.  I will be experimenting with a couple of other oils to see what else works.  I will start my light protein back in a couple weeks around mid June, depending on the state of my tresses.  
We'll see how it goes...wish me luck!

Hey All,

Hooray for me!  I got great results with relaxing this weekend and I can't say I was disappointed.  I actually hit right on target of where I thought I would be although I was secretly hoping, wishing and crossing my fingers for more growth.  My hair has def made a come back since Dec (my official I'm not playing anymore lol) start date.  It's thick again, strong and healthy with a great shine of its own and I'm sooo happy.  I am currently shoulder length and just have to work on getting my length back and my alopecia patch eradicated once and for all so it's back to my no messin round regimen.  I will be going extra hard for the next couple of month's and as such I've decided I won't be adding anything new to my regimen.  Just can't risk any setbacks from here on in.  I'm sticking to what works!!!  Unfortunately i don't have my plug for camera so I cant post photos now but will as soon as I can.  I didn't trim just snipped a lil off of one side, a small patch, that was significantly longer than the other.  That's it. I'm all tied up in my scarf and bonnett and ready for bed.  I've been sick in bed for the past 2 days so I'm going to catch up on some much needed sleep hopefully w/o the every 30 min wake ups to coughing attacks.  

Ciao Bellas

Alopecia Areata & Anemia--Very Important

Hello All,

Today's post is quite long but well worth.  I am relaxing 2morro and very excited with all the growth I've gained however the ordeal is going to be bittersweet.  I suffered from alopecia areata for many yrs and  up until recently had no clue what I was suffering from.  It always reared its ugly head on the left side of the nape heading up to the ear.  I chalked it up to 1)Wools fabrics 2)stress 3)products.  Over the yrs my stylists couldnt figure it out as I was a wkly patron and my routine hadn't changed.  "Why is your hair breaking, are you on new medication?" I alo saw a well accredited African-American dermatologist who said it was "damaged" and gave me some injections which landed me a visit w/an ENT specialist b/c I ended up with a backup of fluid in my earl canal as a "side-effect" from the injections.    When I really began to pay attn was in cosmetology school.  If I was experiencing damage/overprocessing etc why was the damage localized to one area?!  Everytime?!  It just didn't make sense.  I still didn't know what direction to turn.  

Fast forward a couple of yrs and I went for a colonic.  Well after analyzing the feces (ik it sounds gross but it's what they do....lol) she told me I had low iron and needed and supplement (your guess is as good as mine as to how they know from looking at poop).  She referred a liquid herbal supplement and I immediately began taking daily.  I noticed so many improvements in things that I didn't know were related to low iron counts and I was feeling great but after I would run out I would become very laxed about replenishing my supply.  So right b/4 I was about to hit APL the thinning and falling began again.  One day I looked up and I was damn near bald and while in tears the hubby says "let's back track, what've you done differently, what foods are you eating or have you stopped eating, it has to be something!"  I thought long and hard b/c as above 1)It was summer no wool 2)I wasn't stressed at all 3)Hadn't switched products in forever and again was almost APL.  We looked at my diet, exercise habits and then came the supplements.  Whaddya know, I hadn't taken my iron supps in a couple of months.  And guess what when I went for the colonic I was wearing a weave b/c of the same issue, it was after the supplement that my nape was growing to its longest lengths.  When I would stop for months at a time it would start again.  I never made the connection.  I never even knew I was actually anemic!!!  I called my mom right away b/c I know she's anemic and asked her was it hereditary and could I possibly have it.  Her response "Chile you've been anemic since you were about 12 or 13 yrs old, where the heck you been".  Well that's when it all began!!!  Again bittersweet, the sweet? - I felt I finally could conquer this issue once and for all and retain length w/o any pitfalls - the bitter - Why the hell am I just finding this out about 18 years later.  Why didnt' the stylist and the dermatologist hell even my physician do testing of hormonal imbalances etc related to alopecia areata or at least suggest one of these things as a possible cause.  My allergist tested me for thyroid last yr b/c she thought that was the culprit and thank God it wasn't (and didn't even know it could've also been a factor) but she took more steps than anyone ever did leading me to step my game up!!  

Long story short, or not so short lol but I am officially on the road to recovery.  I cut my hair in an EL bob in Dec 08 and so my hair journey began.  Ladies, I hope this helps somebody out here.  I am writing about this b/c it has affected me for so long and during that time I felt like nobody understood what I was going through.  It's been very hard and sometimes emotional, don't get me wrong I'm not one to trip over lenght, I've had Halle Berry, T-Boz cuts and longer hair as well.  But the point is I want it cut when I chose to cut it, not when I'm forced because of problematic areas and point blank I don't like unhealthy hair anyway you slice it.  If you find that you have similar issues, esp if they are localized to one area, please listen to that gut feeling and push your doctor!  If they say it's nothing, see a specialist and another and antoher until you find out what's wrong. Do your own research if you have to but it's not normal by any means! Again how can hair have localized damaged when it's structured the same?  You would see various breakage in different spots all over your head.  But the same spot all the time!  It's a sign of something deeper but it's up to you.  I've atttached some links for you to check out but don't stop here.  Hair's to knowledge and healthy hair growing!  I hope this helped.

http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=2207

http://www.hairlosstalk.com/alopecia/alopecia-areata.php

http://health.abqjournal.com/ConditionFactsheet.aspx?id=3&topicid=0&pg=1#S2 (check out the causes.

The Countdown Begins!!!

Ladies I am so very excited.  I am eagerly yet patiently waiting for Sunday to come so that I can relax the heck outta this new growth.  I am eager to see how much its grown and that's the main reason I am so impatient.  I have about a 1.25 inches of new growth and its soooo thick although I have been taming it really well..... Especially for my 1st 10 week stretch!!  

I've been on point with my supplements and I've done the 1st castor oil challenge with Hairlista and am now on the 2nd.  Both have really helped in the growth of my hair.  I've been using Jamaican Black Castor Oil since Feb 09.  It will always be a part of my regimen from here on in (although I may have to exclude summer mo's b/c of it's thicknessm to hot for all that...lol).  I am trying to hit APL by December 09 the latest so I've got to get on it.  I am actually adding Biotin back into the mix but at a slow pace b/c I don't do to well with it i.e. sore breasts (if only  it made them bigger ha!!) and breaking out (I'm not an acne sufferer at all).  Anywho, am about to walk my pups and get a lil exercise in while doing it.  I'll keep you all posted as I go along.

P.S. My supplements incl - Herbally Pure Liquid Multi-Vitamins

  MSM

B Complex 100 (Vitamin Shoppe)

Biotin 5 mg (1-2x/wk for now)

      Floradix Iron+Herbs Liquid Herbal Extract Formula(anemia)