Supportive Hubby.......Smooth Natural Hair Journey.

Many women thrive on having a sense of independence and freedom of expression, that by no means excludes the freedom to express their sense of fashion and personal style. On the other hand, most REAL women will agree with me that having their spouse's approval (for lack of a better word) concerning their physical appearance is of somewhat importance. No woman wants to feel like her man is not too keen on how she looks or how she wears her hair. Many men will totally resent the idea of seeing their woman sporting their "natural roots" and this is sometimes attributed not so much because the man doesn't like the style but many times based on norms and stereotypes that they have been exposed to. For a very long the fashion industry has painted the picture that long, straight hair is the main indications of beauty. Thankfully this notion is becoming eroded more and more as people have started to embrace their sense of individualism and expressiveness by sporting their natural dos. 


I have been blessed to have a husband who is very liberated in his thinking and who always strives to be different from the crowd. From the very onset, when I shared the idea about going natural he was very supportive, excited even. His support made the transition that much easier and it was good to know that he would still find my new look attractive. Still loving and not regretting the conversion.

Avocado and Coconut Milk Deep Conditioner (Homemade)

RECIPE
1 Small Avocado
1/2 Cup Coconut Milk
2 Tablespoons Honey
T Tablespoons ExtraVirgin Olive Oil
5 Drops of essential oil of peppermint
5 Drops of Essential Oil of Rosemary

NATURAL DANDRUFF TREATMENT PT.2

NATURAL DANDRUFF TREATMENTS CONT'D.

APPLE CIDER VINEGAR

Vinegar is a very effective home remedy for dandruff. Vinegar helps blood circulation near the surface of the skin and is good at fighting bacteria, viruses and yeast - all of which are common causes of dandruff. Vinegar helps relieve the symptoms of dandruff such as an itchy scalp and flaky dandruff.

Mix 1/4 cup of Apple Cider Vinegar with 1/2 cup of water. Pour the mixture in a spray bottle and spritz it on to your scalp. Wrap hair with a towel. After 15 minutes remove towel and wash your hair.

BAKING SODA

To get dandruff under control, wet your hair and then rub a handful of baking soda vigorously into your scalp. Rinse thoroughly and dry. Do this every time you wash your hair but only use the baking soda, no shampoo. Your hair may dry out at first but after a few weeks your scalp will start producing natural oils, leaving your hair softer and flake free.

LIME JUICE

Lime Juice is another cure for dandruff. Two tablespoons of fresh Lime Juice should be used for the last rinse while washing the hair, to get rid of dandruff. Its regular use not only removes dandruff but also makes the hair look shiny and non sticky. 

N.B.  One important thing to remember is that dandruff thrives under oily conditions and as such, frequent, thorough hair washing helps rid the scalp of excess oils, which can exacerbate dandruff.

NATURAL DANDRUFF TREATMENT PT.1

Having to contend with dandruff can be a very painful and embarrassing experience. There are several approaches that one can consider for treating dandruff. There are over the counter products that may be helpful, prescriptive treatment that can be used based on recommendation of a medical professional and there are natural remedies. Many store bought remedies contain harsh chemicals that can have negative effects on your hair and scalp. These chemicals can strip your scalp and while this might give immediate relief, the drying effect can lead to further dandruff in the coming days.
Natural treatment sources are always a great option and may totally eradicate your dandruff dilemma. Some tried and proven natural remedies are listed below but results will vary based on the severity of your condition. Whichever method you choose to treat dandruff, it is always advisable to observe an recommendation that you may receive from medical experts.

NATURAL DANDRUFF TREATMENTS

TEA TREE OIL

Tea Tree Oil is extracted from the leaves of the Australian Tea Tree and has anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and antibiotic properties. Using shampoos that contain tea tree oil is a natural way to control dandruff. If you have the actual Tea Tree Oil, you may add a few drops to your regular shampoo.

OLIVE OIL 

One of the symptoms of a severe case of dandruff is very flaky scalp. An occasional hot oil using olive oil is advised. The oil will help to loosen the stubborn flakes and make them easier to get out of your hair. Heat 3 oz of Olive Oil in a saucepan and after it has cooled enough to bear, apply to damp hair . Massage into scalp and cover with a plastic cap for 30 mins. Follow with a shampoo, taking special care to wash out all of the Olive Oil.

THYME

Thyme is reputed to have antiseptic properties that may reduce dandruff. Using a thyme rinse after you shampoo may prove very effective in reducing dandruff. A thyme rinse is made by bringing to a boil, one cup of water and two heaping tablespoons of dried thyme leaves for about 10 minutes. Pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer to remove the steeped thyme and let it cool. Pour mixture over the hair, making sure it coats the scalp. Do not rinse out.

STAY TUNED FOR PART 2 .......................................................

NATURAL CHAT WITH CANDIE.....Debut guest Gospel Recording Artiste Abi McDonald.

INTERVIEW WITH ABI 

1. How long have you been natural?

I have been all natural for two and a half years (2 1/2)

2. What or who inspired you to go natural?

Two things, I was tired of spending so much time on my perm hair, with the blow drying and the flat iron. And one day my 6 year old daughter came home saying mommy, I hate my hair. I wish I was white so I have their hair, I told her she had beautiful hair, she said "but you don't even have hair like mine, yours look just like there's. I thought how can I teach her to accept who she is, if it seems like I don't accept who i am? Hair and all.

3. Transitioning can be difficult at times. Share your transition experience and the challenges it presented.

My hair was really long, in my back long. I know if I tried to braid it with that length it would be too much. So I got a boy cut. Chopped it all. I loved that stage. Get up and go.

4.  What is your daily regimen?

To be honest, I don't have one. I am not really good with routine. I am good sometimes by making some big twist and covering it before I go to sleep, but most of the times I just go to sleep with it loose.

5 . Have you ever had regrets about going natural?

Absolutely none! I love my natural hair. I can do whatever style I want. 

6. What do you love most about having natural hair?

If I feel like straight hair I can blow it out and flat iron it. If I feel like curly hair I can do that too. I love it!

7. Dyes can be very harsh and can cause hair damage. How you maintain your color treated hair to ensure that if remains healthy?

Make sure you keep it very moist. Olive oils and leave in conditions are your hairs best friend. That works for me.

8. What is your favorite natural hairstyle?

Just letting it go wild and free. 

9. What products are you currently using?

I am so not loyal when it comes to hair products, I use all kinds of brands. I usually go for organics thou.

10. What would you tell women out there who are yet to embrace their natural "roots"?

Love the hair you're in! Try it, you just might like it. Harsh chemicals are never good to use extensively. I believe God made us with unique hair that we can do anything with. If you don't think its for you, its cool too. :)  

Detangle Natural Hair without Drama

Mohawk in Minutes (Quick n Easy Natural Hairstyle)

ACCESSORIZE WITH BOLDNESS

                                          Source:Etsy

The decision to go natural is a BOLD one and there is a certain "edgy-ness" that comes with it (If you are able to step outside the box and get creative). One way to keep dynamics into your Natural Hair Styling is to explore accessorizing options. There are times when you may just want to keep it simple but other times you just want to step out and make a statement. The featured hair accessory adds that pop of color that just sets off the look. Be brave, Be bold, be different.

APPLE CIDER VINEGAR RINSE

Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) is known for cutting belly fat, but it also has dirt and build up cutting benefits for the hair. ACV is a natural way to clarify your hair which has buildup resulting from the use of styling products and inexpensive shampoos. Many of the hair care products we use such as soap-based shampoos and  hair color are strongly alkaline so the acidic properties of the ACV helps to balance the PH of of your hair. It also opens up the hair cuticles which are closed during the washing process. ACV is also a natural exterminator of the bacteria that causes dandruff and itchy scalp.
To make the Rinse mix 1/2 Tablespoon of  ACV and 1 Cup water and pour it in your hair after shampooing, The mix can be lightly rinsed or left on your hair. Be careful to dilute mix properly as it can have very drying effects on your hair if too concentrated.

MY CELEBRITY LOOK ALIKE - KIMBERLY ELISE (Natural Celebrity of the Week)

Kimberley Elise was seen sporting her natural hair on September 3, 2011 at Robi Reed's End of Summer Celebration. She wears it beautifully and it accentuates her already naturally beautiful face. Kimberley is one of my ALL TIME favorite actresses, and this is not because I have been told multiple times that we bear a striking resemblance :-)
She is an actress that represents with such passion that she makes her roles so believable. She exhibits such genuineness and I am sure when I meet her in person she will be just as beautiful inside as she is out. See pic below of both of us in Red Carpet Mode. LOL!!!

BRUSHING BASICS

Choosing a hairbrush carefully is very crucial to maintaining a healthy head of hair. Hair growth can be stimulated if you use the right brush, and likewise using the wrong brush can lead to excess hair shedding and possibly breakage. Understanding your hair type and what it is able to withstand can spare you a lot of painful hair woes. There are a wide variety of brushes out there on the market but I especially love the BOAR collection as the quality is very good and they offer a very wide cross section of brushes of varied textures, styles and uses. Regardless of your hair texture, there is a brush out there that will work for you. Below is a description of the brushes that may be suited for each hair texture:
FINE HAIR - Softer brushes work better for your hair type. Pure Bristle brushes are better in your case. Use a natural Boar Bristle Brush as Natural bristles are gentler on both hair and scalp and least likely to cause breakage. Try one with a cushion base for an extra gentle touch.
NORMAL HAIR - You are able to use brushes made from a mixture of bristle and nylon. The two different materials create a good balance that is not too rough or soft on the hair but provides the perfect intensity to effectively brush your normal hair.  
THICK HAIR - All Nylon Brushes may be used to brush thick hair. These brushes are stronger and better able to manage coarse, thick tresses.


Brushing is a vital process that helps to redistribute oils throughout the hair, thus boosting sheen.

SATIN VS. COTTON

                                                                                             Source:PrettyWrap

What you cover your hair with could be affecting it's health and appearance. I cannot stress enough the importance of wrapping or tying your hair at nights with a satin wrap or scarf to maintain soft, shiny healthy hair. When your hair comes in contact with your pillowcase or sheet, it causes friction between the two that can have damaging effects on your strands. You may want to sleep on silk or satin pillowcases and sheets but if you are like me, would not find it to be a comfortable experience as I tend to be sliding all over the bed. Many people assume that once you cover your head, regardless of what you use, it is ok. That is so far from the truth. Never use cotton scarves as they will draw moisture from your hair. Silk or Satin wraps on the contrary will help to preserve the moisture and sheen of your hair. My preference is to tie my hair down firmly as opposed to using a satin bonnet. This is not gospel but I just believe that it secures my tresses better and that less movement or friction against my hair will mean less possibility of frizzing when I get up in the morning. Do your hair a favor and get it under that satin before you jump into bed.                                                                                

My Husband finds some of my protective hairstyles unattractive....Does your mate express similar concerns?????

                             THE CALAMITY
I had to share this bit of information with you, my peeps. So my husband has been complaining that he is not very fond of some of the protective styles I do in my hair, mainly the flat twists and cornrows. He cracks me up when he tells me in these exact words "trust me my girl, that hairstyle makes you look "butch", no lie". He claims it makes me look a bit on the masculine side. I think it is because my hair has not really gained much length as yet so the end of each cornrow is but a little stub, which if I may be honest does look a bit unattractive. I don't know if I am alone here but I am not concerned about neatness when doing my protective styles as most times I only wear them to bed. If however I am home all day or for a few days without leaving home you had better be sure that this girl is not going to loose them out everyday and redo them at nights, I try to keep the protective styles in until I need to hit the road. This is oh so beneficial for my hair but sadly to my husband's detriment. Do you guys have similar experiences? Share your comments.


                             THE COMPROMISE  
I had to find a solution to the dilemma quick, fast and in a hurry, and one that would cause both of us to be happy. I had the grand idea to just go out and get me come nice trendy scarves and sport them on my head while in the house. He actually thinks they look nice and fashionable and tying my hair down actually helps to keep it protected so yayyyyy!!!!!!! we both win. See pic below in one of my scarves....the zebra print.

                                     
                 THE CORNROW OUT HAIRDO
This is how my hair came out after loosing the cornrows. I think it was worth the temporary "unattractiveness".

TRANSFORMING MY NATURAL HAIR FROM WILD TO STYLED IN LESS THAN 5 MINUTES.

THE BIG CHOP

A few of my followers on Twitter have been asking about how I eventually did the big chop and they have expressed some amount of fear regarding the uncertainty surrounding such a drastic move. My encouragement was that excitement is only added to our lives when we do something different. Most people share the concern that the low cut may not suit their face but the truth is "nothing tried, nothing done". I must confess that I had the same fear and based on the roundish/ovalish (LOL) shape of my face I was very doubtful that I would be able to pull it off. I consoled myself with the availability of the option of wearing various braided styles if I wasn't pleased with the look. I ended up really loving the low cut and had no shame in my game sporting it. As promised, please see pics included of how my hair looked after the BIG CHOP.

PROTEIN TREATMENT - HOMEMADE WITH FOODS FROM MY KITCHEN

When my hair gets dry and thirsty, nothing rejuvenates and refreshes it like a protein treatment does. Watch as I demonstrate how to do an homemade protein treatment.

MY SHEA BUTTER MELTING TOOL.....HOOORAYYYYY!!!!!!!

The secret to melting Shea Butter has been finally found. Many Shea Butter users will agree that it can be a pain staking process to convert it from its packaged texture to one that is user friendly. It has a very hard consistency and usually requires some amount of melting to make it readily usable.
I have read many blogs discussing various methods used to melt or soften this well loved product. My initial method of getting it softer was to just scrape out the desired amount, place it in an empty container and  vigorously whip it until it gets soft enough and all the lumps are removed. This was before the blessed day that  I was in my bathroom using my Blow Dryer ( a very rare occurrence)  and had a "Light Bulb" moment. I was lightly blowing out my hair and applying Shea Butter when it hit me that, hey I can just hold the hair dryer over the container for a few seconds to soften it. I tried it and friends, it was instant celebration. It started to melt immediately. I didn't allow it to totally melt but just melted the top portion to allow me to used the small amount that I needed. You have to try it. It is an easy way to do your hair care routine without having to go to the kitchen to use the microwave or the stove top to melt it.    

MY SHEA BUTTER CONCOCTION

Shea Butter is another staple that is used in my hair on a regular basis. It provides moisture to dry, damaged hair from the roots to the tips, leaving it healthy and shiny. Rich in Vitamins A & E, it soothes dryness, repairs breakage and mends split ends. I use it especially to do my twist outs as it acts as a perfect sealant for particularly my ends. It also is great for smoothing frizzes. I love the fact that it absorbs quickly into the scalp without clogging the pores. 
It is important to use 100% Natural Shea Butter. I buy the African Shea Butter. I make my special Shea Butter Concoction by adding a few of my favorite oils. See details below:  
                                      
                                  YOU WILL NEED
1 Empty product jar
4 oz 100% Shea Butter
1/2 Tbsp Extra-Virgin Coconut Oil
1/2 Tbsp Extra-Virgin Olive Oil
5 Drops Rosemary oil


Place all the items into the empty jar and use a spoon or other suitable object (I use my comb) to vigorously incorporate the mixture until it is soft and smooth. The mixing process significantly softens the the mixture and I find that it retains and can be easily smoothed into the palms of the hand. Try it for your next twist out guys. You will love it.
N.B. Rosemary is excellent for hair growth.   

SECRETS TO HEALTHY HAIR FOUND IN YOUR KITCHEN (PART 1)

The secret to healthy hair is only a few steps away. Much of the foods that we eat are in fact excellent food for our hair too. The natural properties provided by many of these hair care remedies far supersedes those provided by their processed, beauty supply store bought, counterparts. Below are some of the many foods that your hair would just love to eat up:




HONEY - Honey is a natural humectant, which means it attracts and holds on to water molecules, thus making it a great moisturizing agent and an effective food to combat hair dryness. Add a teaspoon of honey and a teaspoon of your favorite oil to your conditioner and allow it to penetrate your hair for 30 minutes. Rinse thoroughly and experience softness and sheen that that is well needed. You will bee happy. :)   


EGG - Eggs are known to be rich in protein and are very effective for hydrating and repairing damaged hair. The protein provided by the egg helps to make your hair stronger, thicker and healthier.  Eggs can be used to strengthen the hair follicles because of its high protein content.  If you are experiencing breakage then a protein treatment is a sure remedy. Combine two eggs with two tablespoons of  extra-virgin olive oil and work the mixture through the strands. Leave for 30 minutes and rinse with cold water. This will give your hair a boost of strength and will prevent your hair from giving you a raw deal. 


APPLE CIDER VINEGAR - Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) is known for its reputation of being an excellent cleansing agent. It is very useful  for removing excessive build up and residue. If your hair tends to be packed with layers of oils, moisturizers, gels etc. this is a sure ingredient to help to remove them. Mix one Tbsp of ACV with two cups of water and shake well in a spray bottle. After your regular shampoo has been rinsed out, spray the ACV mixture into the hair.Many people leave the mixture in the hair but I prefer to lightly rinse it out before applying my conditioner. The ACV helps to close up the cuticles that are opened up during the shampoo process.It is also known to help with dandruff and itchy scalp. Dont worry about the slight vinegar smell that lingers after rinsing, it will totally disappear when your hair totally dries.


STAY TUNED FOR MORE HAIR NOURISHING FOODS YOUR HAIR WILL LOVE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!




     

Accessorizing Options

(Source: Etsy)


Getting bored with your natural hair is NEVER an option, as there is soooo much that you can do to change up your look and add a little flare and excitement to your do. Adding very unique accessorizing pieces can take your hair to the next level and just totally set off your look. 
It is especially great now that hair flowers are a fashion trend. The key is to not just stick with the plain old boring flowers but step out of the box a little and explore other ideas such as feathers (Pictured Above). I love how the feather is paired with the rhinestones to give it that edgy vibe. 
Start your hair accessory collection today and send me a pic sporting your favorite accessory.  

The Power of Pre-Poo

One very simple way of adding moisture and strength to your hair is by way of pre-pooing. Pre-pooing is nothing more than a pre-shampoo treatment applied to your hair and/or scalp. It is usually done with conditioner or oils or both. I usually use any cheapie conditioner (Herbal Essence Totally Twisted being my favorite) and some of my favorite carrier oils like extra virgin coconut oil, extra virgin olive oil, jojoba oil or sweet almond oil. You can use whichever oils you prefer.

The Pre-pooing process is simple. It can be done on the day before you wash or on the day you actually wash your hair, depending on which method you choose. It involves applying the conditioner or oils to your hair in its dry state as the products are harder to absorb when the hair is wet.  If you are pre-pooing with oils only then it is safe to leave it in your hair overnight. In this case, you apply the oils and place a silk scarf or cap over your hair.  I would not recommend that conditioner be left in your hair overnight because extended exposure can cause its moisturising properties to make your hair too soft, light and limp. If you use protein conditioners, your hair may become too dry, which makes it susceptible to breakage. 


After applying your Pre-pooing treatment always cover the hair with a plastic cap or a warm towel for about 20-30 minutes. You may sit under a hooded dryer for added penetration. I make good use of the heat provided by nature this time of year so I go outdoors after applying my treatment and soak up that good sun (not recommended for everyone…remember your sunscreen if you intend to attempt this).  I am positive that, like me, you will achieve healthier looking and feeling hair after applying this step to your regular shampoo regimen.

Celebrity Braids - Simple but Classy

                                                                   CIARA
Sometimes the simplest things in life are the nicest. When considering styling options for our natural hair we tend to overlook the basic braided/cornrowed hairdo. This is such an awesome styling option that can be explored. It can be worn not only casually but can also be pulled off for a dressy occasion.
One suggestion that I would give is that you make either your makeup or accessories pop to enhance the look. If the length of your hair is not suitable for the style, you can add a little weave to achieve the desired length. I incidentally rocked a similar look last year for my birthday girls night out. See pic below. I actually wore this as one of my transitioning styles but would definitely do it again as I love the convenience of not having to style or maintain my hair for two weeks.Why not try your very own Ciara or Candie inspired braids.

OIL LA LA!!!!!!!! (Oils That Your Hair Love)

Oils are the lifeblood of natural hair and without their use the hair would be deprived of much needed nutrients. The use of oils has formed a part of my daily hair routine and in fact most of the oils that I use in my hair are also used on my skin. Below are a list of oils that I use which have been proven to be valuable to natural hair, and a brief description of their benefits.

Jojoba Oil - Jojoba Oil is good for all types of hair, especially hair that is dry or damaged, has split ends or is prone to breakage or tangling. It is known to provide the hair with much needed moisture. Jojoba Oil also works well on the scalp and keeps it from being dry, thus aiding with the prevention of dandruff. Adding a small amount of Jojoba Oil to your shampoo will generate amazing improvements to the look and feel of your hair and the pore cleansing effects help to promote growth and regeneration.

Sweet Almond Oil - Sweet Almond Oil is extracted from pressed Almonds, and is rich in vitamins A, B1, B6 and E. Vitamin B Complex, including vitamin B6 has been shown to improve hair growth. Vitamin E contains antioxidants that promote the circulation in the scalp. Vitamin A contains antioxidants necessary to maintain healthy cell and membrane growth. Sweet Almond Oil is a moisture rich oil that penetrates well into the hair shaft and follicles. The hair helps to relieve dryness and itching promoting a healthy scalp. It can be added to your conditioner, homemade spritz or directly to the scalp.

 Extra-Virgin Olive Oil - Extra-Virgin Olive Oil, or as some would say "EVOO", is excellent for natural hair. EVOO can be added to other hair products to provide extra "slip", which makes the product go through the strands easier, this makes manipulating the hair easier. I add it to my Shea Butter along with one or two other ingredients to do my twist out. EVOO may also be used as a detangling agent. The oil may be applied to the hair, and be worked through your coils in order to make your hair more manageable. It is a great way to add sheen to your hair.

Grape Seed Oil - Grape Seed Oil is light and is easily absorbed into the hair. It helps coat the hair to add moisture and reduce breakage.  Grape Seed Oil is rich in antioxidants and has many beneficial properties for your hair and scalp. It can be used daily because it is not greasy and as such will not weigh down your hair. I mostly apply it directly to my scalp as opposed to adding it to other products. My skin loves it too.

Extra-Virgin Coconut Oil - Coconut Oil is one of the best natural nutrition for the hair. It promotes healthy hair growth and provides it a shiny complexion. Regular massaging of your head with coconut oil ensures that your scalp is free from dandruff. I add EVCO to everything. Its a must have.

As in all other aspects of life, everything should be done in moderation. Oil application is no different. Use a little at a time as you don't want your hair to be overly greasy. Experiment and see which ones work best for you. You will be sure to say Oil La La!!!!!!!!!!    

Back To School Time Saving Hairdos

It is back to school time again and that usually means rushy mornings and struggles to make it out of the house in good time to avoid tardiness. I have a 8 year old son and personally it is always a challenge to accomplish everything in the daily morning routine in time.  

I can well imagine how much more difficult it must be for you who have to factor in combing your little girl's hair, which in many cases can be a grueling task for both parties involved. Life can be way easier if you consider some time saving hairdos for your little girls which will not only allow you to be able to avoid excess rushing but it also greatly reduces hair shedding caused by frequent combing.

Consider getting your child's hair braided, twisted, cornrowed etc. Its is not only very attractive but also very convenient and a prudent means of achieving a stress free daily school preparation routine.

Wash n Go

I was in short cut mode full force on Friday. Usually after I do my wash I two strand twist my hair as the twist out is one of my favorite hairdos. In instances when I am strapped for time I am forced to just wash n go. After washing I would just apply some leave in conditioner to my hair, spritz it with some of my homemade spritz(See previous blog titled My Homemade Spritz for ingredients) and a dime sized portion of Vatika oil. My hair is then slicked back in a head band, shaken a couple of times and I am ready to go. Very importantly though, it is imperative to take a small spritz bottle along with you in your purse to refresh and replace moisture in the event that you experience dryness while out and about.

The Convenience of Co-Washing

On Friday I was faced with a dilemma. My hair was semi-dirty and I was experiencing a little itching. I knew I was overdue for a protein treatment and had plans to do one next week when I did my wash routine.  I definitely didn't want to go through a regular shampoo and conditioner process, neither did I have the time to spare to go through with all of that based on the tight schedule I had. At the same time I wanted to address the itching and dryness that I was experiencing. 
I decided to do the the emergency version of my wash routine. I did what is called a co-wash. This is a quick, easy, and very effective wash method. Co-Washing is the process by which you wash the hair with conditioner only, or in my case conditioner and oils. Co-washing avoids harsh results from frequent washing with shampoos and helps to keep natural black hair soft and manageable. I use any cheapie conditioner along with black Jamaican Castor oil, Extra-Virgin Olive oil and Essential oil of peppermint to do my co-wash. After applying the mixture, I use the finger tips to massage it into my scalp and gently rub it into my hair, ensuring that the entire length of my strands are saturated. I cover with a plastic cap for 30 minutes and then rinse. The end result is clean, soft and shiny hair.Try it and style and desired.  

Natural Bride

It would appear to many, that a bride with natural hair could never pull off that elegant and classy look that brides usually pride themselves in having. The truth is that there is no need to get tempted to aspire to achieve the traditional bridal look. Your hair is your beauty and so it stands to reason that your natural hair is your natural beauty. I am sooooo loving this bridal do and would have rocked it for my wedding had I been natural 13 years ago when I tied the knot.
An elegant hair accessory as the one pictured, adds a nice pop to her already beautiful natural afro hairdo.











Images Courtesy of Etsy

Bedtime Protective Styles

The natural hair journey is one that requires much discipline and dedication. As such, it is very important for you to be very diligent about your hair care regimen. One very important daily routine that is of bedtime protective styling. This will vary based on your preference. Protective styling options that I consider very useful include two-strand twists, flat twists, plaits, cornrows or bantu or nubian knots (commonly known in my culture as chiney bumps). Each will give a different look when loosened. Bedtime protective styles keep your hair healthy and moisturised. These styles protect your hair ends from exposure to the air which can cause excessive dryness, which ultimately leads to breakage. The advantage of protective styling is that it keeps moisture in your hair… where it belongs.

High Fashioned Natural Hair

If you ever doubted that natural hair could take on that edgy and high fashioned character, here is proof that it can. "Big Hair" is often required on the set of a photo shoot or on the runway. Natural hair is usually naturally voluminous and can therefore provide that coveted look.

Straightened hair in most cases require large volumes of hairspray and aggressive teasing to achieve the pouffy look.
Don't be afraid to rock your edgy hairdos as they reflect nicely on camera. I had tonnes of fun styling Trishauna's hair on the set of the CY Fashion Photo Shoot.

My BIG Heat Horror

My Heat Damaged patch. Straight when wet. 

I remember when I was growing up my mother would often tell me that she made many mistakes and that I should learn from them and not try to experience them for myself. Those words would save me a lot of failures, stresses and disappointments.
Likewise, I have made one crucial hair mistake during my natural hair journey that I would love to share with you with the hope that you won't ever make the same mistake. Like I mentioned in my Conversion Story, it initially was not my intention to remain natural but I was using it as a means of growing out my hair so that it would be nice and healthy with the view of perming it afresh. When I did the big chop I realized that I loved the Afro and decided to abandon all perming plans. Even thought I had already done the BC, at that stage I was not a natural hair convert at heart and I guess I still hadn't embraced wearing natural hair. As such I wore styles that disguised the fact that I was natural. The bottom line is that I wanted the best of both worlds.
My HEAT HORROR all began when I started wearing sew in weaves. I wore many sew in weaves but the straight weave was responsible for my hair woe. I did my weave with a side part and as such I had to leave out a small portion of my beautiful natural hair to cover the weave tracts. Anyone who is a professional weave wearer knows that the portion of hair designated with the task of making the weave look authentic has to be nice and bone straight. The only way for me to achieve that without Chemical exposures was to daily straighten it with my flat iron. I was most pleased with the outcome of my hairdo but little did I know that I was in for a rude awakening.
When I removed my weave and washed my hair I was most devastated to see my roots in the area that covered the tracts still bone straight. Can you imagine how ridiculous I looked with this one patch of perm looking hair in the front of my head
and everything else natural? I was so mad at myself for being ignorant of the permanently damaging effect that continuous heat would have on my hair.
Like a desperate lady looking for a cure to a terminal illness, I immediately went to my best friend GOOGLE for advice. This I have to admit was one of the few times that she has let me down. I tried many of her prescribed remedies to no avail. One that I can remember is that of immersing the section in vinegar before washing, among many others. Nothing worked. I was stuck with it and had to wait for it to grow out and gradually trim off the straight ends. Moral of the story.........try to stay as far away from heat as you can as it may cause permanent changes to your curl pattern or in my case remove it altogether. Like mymother would say, I have made the mistake before, learn from it and save yourself the disaster.
I'm out...........

Horrors of Heat



In almost every aspect of our lives we fear heat. This is due to the fact that in many instances heat can have very damaging effects. This is no different when it comes to our hair. Hair when exposed to heat may lead to damage of the hair follicles, breakage and shedding.
Try to avoid having to use heated tools too often. An occasional blow out or flat iron may not be noticeably harmful but the truth is...abstinence is key. Repeated use of flat iron on natural hair can have devastating results. In my next blog I will share my personal experience with repeated flat ironing and how it messed my hair up big time. Stay tuned......

Natural Celebrity Of The Week

Lauryn's Fro

Lauryn Hill has been one of my favorite artistes of all times. Her natural image has always earned my respect and admiration. I love how her hair is beautifully coiled voluminous. She rocks many varieties of natural looks but the big afro is one of my favorites.

She recently appeared for a performance with her hair straightened, causing many loyal naturalistas to express concern that she may have reverted. I personally think it’s just a blow out to change up her look. I would be very disappointed if she did otherwise. Her hair has become an instrumental part of her image and it tells the story about her appreciation for natural beauty. She is a True Realist!!!!     

Lauryn's Straight Look. She looks very fabulous and this just shows the versatility that exists with natural hair. 

My Homemade Moisturizing Spritz

My Homemade Moisturizing Spritz

                                                            

Keeping natural hair moisturized is always a challenge. The hair tends to get very dry and brittle and many times require a little mist of moisture to get it feeling soft and manageable again. Finding an over the counter product that does just that without exposing your hair to harmful ingredients such as alcohol is difficult. I have been making my own moisturizing spritz ever since I went natural. I use it daily in my hair to revive my twists, refresh my curls or simply to detangle my hair. It has been my savior the few times that I dared to go to bed without doing a protective style as my hair would be very dry, hard and knotty. Just a few pumps from my spritz bottle and comb through is a walk in the park.

My current spritz concoction includes the following:

4 oz Distilled Water

2 oz Vegetable Glycerin

2 oz Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO)

5 Drops of Essential oil of Lavender

5 Drops of Essential Oil of Rosemary

Pour all ingredients in a spray bottle and shake well.

Ingredients may be substituted based on preference. I choose to use Vegetable Glycerin because it is a very good source of moisture and it leaves my hair feeling soft and silky. The EVOO gives my hair a nice sheen. The essential oil of Rosemary has a reputation for stimulating hair growth (which is one of my main goals) and the essential oil of Lavender I use to give the mixture a nice smell. Hope this works for you the way it works for me. Much love.

Health Before Beauty Series......

                                               


While being beautiful is very important, it is equally if not more important to consider our health. As with our bodies, looking nice and attractive sometimes takes precedence over being fit and healthy. This should never be the case as the longevity of the body is dependent on the state of it's health and not the appearance of its beauty. The same principle applies where our hair is concerned. Having healthy hair is very important and equal effort should be placed on caring for the hair as styling the hair. The truth is, the healthier the hair, the more beautiful it will look. With this in mind, I will be dedicating the first couple of blogs to sharing tips as to how to achieve healthier and more manageable natural hair. Stay tuned..............

Product Pick of the Day - Aubrey Organics Honeysuckle Rose Moisturizing Conditioner

I have a couple conditioners that I am comfortable using, but the Aubrey Organics Honeysuckle Rose Moisturizing Conditioner is by faaaaarrrrr my ultimate favorite and it is among the top 5  products that I dare not run out of. It truly stands up to its name as being a Conditioner that moisturizes, detangles and smoothes for ultra-soft, shiny and touchable hair. Not very many conditioning products can provide me with these results. I have very thick hair that tends to get very dry and brittle if it lacks moisture so my level of appreciation for this product is through the roof.  I get mine online at www.vitacost.com. It is a must have. Love it!!!! Love it!!!! Love it!!!!

My Conversion Story

Thought I would use my first blog to kinda share a little bit about my natural hair conversion story. I have been natural for approximately 14 months. I am totally a convert of the little adage that says: “knowledge is power and ignorance is a vice”. I never knew that going natural would ever be possible for me. I have always been encouraged by my bestie to consider going natural as she had embarked on the said journey some three years prior. I had always flatly refused only because I never in my wildest imagination thought that my hair texture would be conducive to going natural. (I think my hair type is a 4B). I am yet to master the art of determining hair types. My decision to eventually embrace going natural was not deliberate but by default. The thing is that I had been experiencing severe breakage during my chemical days and all efforts to treat and trim were proving futile. My only option was to allow my hair to grow out natural then cut all the processed ends off with the intention to perm it after it had grown to a decent length. That way, I would be able to start fresh with a healthy head of perm. As it turns out, after the big chop I pretty much had a two inch Afro that I instantly fell in love with. I thought it looked so cute and I realized that natural hair was far more manageable than I ever dreamt. I have since then been sold out to my natural hair regimen and I have resolved to totally "Emancipate myself from chemical slavery".

This was a Curl-Hawk hairdo that I achieved by loosening my twist out, spritzing the hair then pinning it with Bobby Pins. I was able to rock the look for a couple days. That was supposed to be my fierce look but it looks more pensive. I promise you will see my fierce look before long.  

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Meet & Greet

Hi everyone, welcome to my Blog Spot. My name is Candie and I am super excited to use this forum to share my hair evolution with all you Natural Divas. NaturalHairnamix.com is designed to provide a medium by which I can communicate with individuals who have embraced the wonderful world of natural hair, to share practical, up to the minute updates about natural hair care, products, styling options, daily motivation and much more. I believe that the decision to go back to ones "natural roots"  is one that exhibits a very high level of confidence and a willingness to step away from the status quo that has been set which has caused many of us to believe that straighter is better. The stigma once associated with wearing natural hair is becoming fast eroded and many are embracing their natural beauty. The natural hair journey is not one to be taken alone as it can become a very lonely road with potential stop signs. Candie's Natural Hairvolution  provides valuable and priceless tips that will cause us to maintain that diva status naturally.