Embrace your curls

There are all kinds of methods to stretch curly hair. I am sure that on some level we are familiar with braiding, twists, flat twist, cornrows, banding, bantu knots, even threading and then ultimately taking them out. These methods are all good for doing just that. Helping to release the tight coils just enough to form waves and looser curl patterns. Of course this is not a permanent solution. If it were it would be called a relaxer. And really, do we want it to be a permanent solution? For me I would say no. I love my curls. I like the way I have options to be completely coiled or a looser curl pattern.

Curlers such as flexi rods and curl formers are another good way to loosen the curl pattern of the hair. It will however give a different look to the other methods and does take some added influence with the curlers themselves. Curlformers can be expensive especially if your hair happens to need more than one pack. Flexi rods however are cheaper.

The texture of afro textured hair is curly, kinky, wavy, nappy whatever or however you want to describe it. It’s the nature of our hair to do just that. It can be frustrating at times to have such amazing amount of growth and it not being able to be seen fully without the help of heat. Excessive heat can be very damaging to hair. Once hair is damaged it will need to be cut at some point. There is no way to repair damaged hair. Some people may think if they deep condition (DC) hair over night for 8 weeks every night eventually it will repair. I am sorry ladies and gents that won’t work. Let the focus be on taking care of our hair and maintaining health.

Of course there is more damage than just heat. Combs and brushes can also wreak havoc on the hair as well. If you must use a comb please use while hair is moist and use a wide tooth comb when doing so. I find it better when I finger comb my hair. I have more control of the strands as well as I can be as gentle as I need to be with it. So with saying all of that EMBRACE YOUR CURLS! We collectively suffer from shrinkage and its okay!

Some details for the methods listed above:

Braiding/braid outs – Braiding the hair and taking the braids out.

Twist/twist outs – Two strand twisting the hair and taking it out.

Flat twist/cornrows – Braiding and twisting the hair connecting the hair to itself and then taking them out.

Bantu knot out – Bantu knots can be created by twisting or braiding hair in medium sized sections and then twisting them into a knot.

Banding –  Taking hair ties or longer bands and wrapping it around the hair in small to medium sections

Threading – Using thick thread to wrap around the hair

The visual:
     

                                     Banding                                 Threading

                                 Curlformers                           Flexi Rods

                                  Cornrows                         2 Strand Flat Twist

                               2 Strand Twist                   Bantu Knots

For best results use on at least damp hair. This way you know before hand the hair is fully moisturized. It is also more pliable to work with while moist. For other methods like braids and cornrows the hair can be dry. When it comes to my hair its better when its wet right after washing or at least mildly damp. It holds the curl and the wave pattern much better in this state. Allow over night as a minimum to dry. Most of these methods also double as a protective style.  Wear them throughout the week and then take the braids or twist out while of course moisturizing and sealing in between. Click on the Tutorials tab above for inspiration to achieve these styles :)

DMV National Natural Hair Meet-up Day

This past Saturday was the National Natural Hair Meet-up Day hosted by Koils by Nature presented by Hair Rules. Naturals from all over the country had the opportunity to be at a natural event.  I personally love the idea! One day designated all in the name of natural hair! YES! This event was in every sense of the word wonderful. It was well organized (which is important), informative and entertaining.  The added bonus of refreshments, cupcakes and appetizers was a nice touch. After all with an event held from 12pm-5pm people are bound to get hungry.

Throughout the day there were scheduled presentations. This included a wide range of general question and answering on natural hair topics, from transitioning tips, protective styling, do’s and don’ts. Bloggers, vloggers, authors and other natural hair personalities were in attendance. At the same time as the presentations there were on site vendors. Allowing customers to sample products, meet the owners and make purchases. Jewelry, hair/skin care, makeup, product swaps and even make overs were available.

 The price was very reasonable for what was being offered. For advance tickets it was $10 with a swag bag included. For advance general admission tickets it was $15 and $20 at the door. Even if there wasn't an early swag bag purchase there were plenty opportunities to receive free samples of products and win free give aways of the latest natural brands!

Overall I had a great time and it was a wonderful experience. There is nothing like a positive atmosphere to keep the day moving smoothly. I highly recommend that you make it to the next one which is scheduled for May 18^th 2013. Mark your calendars! Something is telling me that it will be even bigger and better the next go around.

Henna! by Henna Sooq

Products

 

Questions and Answers

 Product swap and shopping

My makeover by LocXurious (photograph on right Time Traveling Media)

Sponsors and Vendors

  Alikay Naurals ~ http://www.blackonyxworld.com/

  Chi Chi Sophistication ~ http://www.chi-chi-sophistication.com/

  Dr. Pheonyx Austin ~ http://www.drphoenyx.com/

  Donna Marie ~ http://www.shopdonnamarie.com/

*Glow's Beauty ~ http://www.aoearrings.com/

  Hair Rules ~ http://www.hairrules.com/

  Henna Sooq ~ http://www.hennasooq.com/

*Imani Joy Naturals ~ http://www.ijnaturalhair.com/

  Jessi Curl ~ http://www.jessicurl.com/

  Jewel Arika Designs ~ http://www.jewelarikadesigns.com/

  Karen's body beautiful ~ http://www.karensbodybeautiful.com/

  Lamik Beauty ~ http://www.lamik-beauty.com/

  The Damn Salon ~ http://www.thedamnsalon.com/

*Time Traveling Media ~ http://www.timetravelingmedia.com/

*LocXurious ~ http://www.locxurious.com/

  Lustrasilk ~ http://www.inspiredbeauty.com/

  My Black Skin is... ~ http://www.myblackskinis.com/

*Naturally Me ~ http://www.naturallyme.us/ / http://www.naturallymebcs.com/

Summer Jackson *Grown Up* By Teresa E. Harris

My little girl loves to read. She actually reads a book every day. So when Christmas shopping began it was important that I have a book under the tree. Although the old saying is "don't judge a book by its cover" that is exactly what I did in this case. The cover of the book caught my eye immediately. The illustrations were great with bright colors that give the reader a vivid picture of what is to come within the pages of the book. It’s not every day that I see a cute curly haired little girl playing dress up in her mother's accessories. It was a striking resemblance of my own child. I thought it would be wonderful for her to read a book about something and someone she could personally relate to in more ways than one!

The main character is Summer Jackson. She is a 7 year old girl who is going through the daily challenges that most children face. Feeling little and too young to do anything. Eventually trying to figure out what she wants to be and how exactly she can do it. The age range is 4-7 years old. This is a great book for your little one's collection.

I purchased this book at Target. Below are some links where it is sold as well.

Amazon

http://www.amazon.com/Summer-Jackson-Teresa-E-Harris/dp/0061857572

Barnes & Noble

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/summer-jackson-teresa-e-harris/1100151195

Books A Million (BAM)

http://www.booksamillion.com/p/Summer-Jackson/Teresa-E-Harris/9780061857577?id=5372141525988 

To all the moms :)

I just wanted to say I hope that you had a wonderful Mother's Day! Whether it was going out or relaxing at home. Whatever it was you deserve the very best. I really enjoyed mine and it was most memorable and loving time. That is what it's all about right? :)

Mother's Day 2012

EWG's Skin Deep Cosmetics Database

While doing my research I came across the Skin Deep Cosmetics Database. This database brings awareness to the harmful and safe products that have been put out on the market. It scales runs from low hazard (0-2), moderate hazard (3-6) and high hazard (7-10). It is pretty simple to navigate. I am still trying to figure out the legitimacy of the site. I have read some disapproving reviews about the database. Some of which were from cosmetic companies or people that work in the industry (ironic). It can pose as a preliminary guideline to researching the products that you use on a daily basis. When I looked up a few of the products that I use, I emailed the company and asked them straight forward questions. I didn't take what the database gave me as fact or law. After all, we are the consumers that keep these companies in business. I feel that we have the right to ask these questions and concerns. It also lets these businesses know that we care and that we are paying attention.

Labels are used for a reason. The packaging maybe great but what is inside the bottle or jar is just as important if not more. We need to take ownership of our bodies, mind and spirit. Don't put so much trust in the manufacturers. Remember they are the ones that are trying to make money. What maybe appealing to the eye may not be healthy for your skin or hair. In addition you may figure out any allergies you may have by paying attention to what you use. This allows you to avoid those particular ingredients in the future with negative reactions.

Below is the link for the Skin Deep Cosmetics Database. When I used it I put in the name of the product. With the product on hand I compared the ingredients on the bottle to what the site had listed. If I saw some inconsistencies I contacted the manufacturer themselves (especially if a product came up as an old formula). There is also a way to add a product if not located in the database. You can of course use the database how you see fit or not use it at all. I would love to know your opinions. If you do use the database feel free to send me an email :)

http://www.ewg.org/skindeep/

Childs Protective Style

Here is a style that I recently did on my daughter's hair. Its one of her favorites. I love it because its cute, protective, styled without combs/brushes/ponytail holders, and age appropriate.

First wash the hair and separate in sections. The sections depends on the desired amount of hair you want braided. Instead of using a comb try using your fingers to detangle the curls. I use Shea Moisture organic coconut and hibiscus curl and style milk. The parts do not have to be straight for this style. They will not be seen.

For this style all you will need:
Bobby pins

Optional Headband

1.

Finger comb the hair and then braid 

2.

Continue to braid the sections

3. 

Take each braid and create a rosette or a loose knot. Secure with bobby pins.

4. 

Two strand twist the front

5.

At this point you can leave the twist down if you like.

*Add a cute headband. This one in particular I made.

(I will be posting a tutorial very soon :)

6.

 Pin the twists to the side. 

*Add a cute headband.

*At night protect the hair with a scarf. Moisturize and Oil scalp and hair as needed.*

I hope that you enjoy this style as much as we do!



Protective Styles

Protective styling is good for so many reasons. For one it protects the hair from the elements. This includes weather, heat, dust, dirt, bugs (yuck!) and just keeping our own hands (and others) out of it. There are plenty of different ways to protect the hair. Styles such as twists (two strand, mini twists and flat), braids (corn rolls, extensions and box braids), buns, French rolls, wigs and even weaves. There comes a time when of course we all want to wear out hair out showing the beauty of the curl and in some cases the massiveness in size. There is also a time when we need to let our hair rest and let it be.

The key to protective styles is making sure our hair is still healthy. Some are under the assumption that because it is twisted and off the shoulders that is all that needs to happen. WRONG moisturizing, sealing and cleanliness are still a big part of maintaining the health of the hair. I personally don't wear a lot of two strand twists or braids. I simply find it more convenient to wear it in various rolls and large twist. It lasts a couple days and I am still able to re-moisturize oil and wash when needed, while maintaining very little manipulation to the hair. I normally only wear my hair out on the weekends. As stated previously this suits me and my lifestyle.

There are some protective style do's and cautions. Here is a list of them:

The Do's

Moisturize

Oil hair and scalp

Cleanse by shampoo or co-wash

Experiment with styles that best suit you and the look you are going for.

The Cautions

*Tiny braids and twist when left for extended periods of time can loc. Try medium size twist and braids it will be easier to take out.

*Excessive pulling at the root can lead to traction alopecia around the crown of head. This includes tight headbands, braiding and other styles that are tight.

*Failure to wash the hair can lead to product build up. This can cause blocking essential nutrients from the hair as well as the scalp.

*When wearing weaves/wigs make sure that you are maintaining the health of your natural hair. You still have to follow The Do's. Also, make sure that the style your natural hair is in isn't too tight. Again over time that can cause alopecia. There have been cases of death from weave glue. Always make sure you are not allergic to whatever you are using. That goes for the hair itself.

Kinks, Locs and Love





Over the weekend I had the pleasure of attending the Emerging Aritist showcase featuring fine and talented artists throughout the Washington DC area. Among the artist featured was Mr. Lawrence Green of Time Traveling Media. Lawrence is the filmmaker of the documentary Kinks, Locs and Love. Kinks, Locs and Love focuses on African American women sharing stories of personal natural hair journies. It takes and in depth look of the realities of making the decision to go from relaxed to natural. The film captures how we feel about our hair, social standards of beauty, life style changes and conciousness.

 

Lawrence first had the idea to document the "natural hair movement" from observing his wife and the different situations she goes through on a daily basis. Over time the idea blossomed into Kinks, Locs, and Love. Capturing footage of an actual Big Chop (BC), fashion shows, hair shows and interviews of natural women. A short viewing was shown at the Emerging Artist showcase and it was wonderful. I cannot wait for the completion of the documentary. I will assure you that once it is complete I will let you know where to see it and if purchasing will be available. This will be a wonderful film for anyone's collection.

Look for Time Traveling Media on Facebook and Twitter @timetravelingmedia. Also visit for more information  http://www.timetravelingmedia.com/ 

View the Kinks, Locs and Love Trailer! 

 



N NATURAL HAIR STUDIO Big Chop Event!

I received an email from Angela owner of the N Natural Hair Studio about an amazing event! They are hosting a free I repeat FREE Big Chop event. Spread the word! Help make this event successful ;)

Details:
The event will be on Wednesday, May 16th from noon - 6pm. N Natural is offering a free big chop service to every attendant of the event. The service includes a consultation, big chop, shampoo, conditioner and leave in conditioner. Also, cupcakes, champagne and sparkling apple cider will be served.


Bonus:
In addition to the hair services, Dr. Phoenyx will be in attendance, author of "If you love it, It will grow".  There will be books for purchase and book signings. Please take a minute read my personal review of this book in a previous posting! Also, Alex from the Good Hair Blog will be selling custom made earrings.

Location and contact information:
N Natural Hair Studio 11207 Lockwood Dr Silver Spring, MD 20901
 301.910. HAIR (4247)
http://nnaturalhairstudio.com/