Microfiber Turban for Bath Time.

Don't you just hate it when you hop in tub, take a nice refreshing shower, then hop out only to make that horrifying discovery that your hair somehow got wet. Whether or not you are natural, that discovery can end up ruining your hairdo. Just the thought of it brings back unpleasant memories of my wedding day hair tragedy caused by the shower. Anyway...let me leave that memory exactly where it should be.....behind me.

So like I was saying.......the regular plastic shower caps somehow seem to slip or shift during the process of taking a shower causing one or more sections of my hair to get wet or slightly damp. Being natural, unless I'm wearing a wash and go, if water is introduced to my hair it will cause shrinkage and mess up a perfectly dope twist out, at least in the section where the mishap occurred. If your hair is twisted while showering, in anticipation of taking them down after you shower, you dare not get those babies wet because you best believe you will have to spend extra time drying those twists before taking them down. Failure to do so will cause that damp portion of hair to lack definition if you unravel while still damp.

I find that using a microfiber turban is a more secure alternative as it keeps the hair fully covered and the turban pretty much stays in place. Its soft, wool-like feel also helps keep your hair protected while you do your thing. It is easy to put on and has a button towards the back to secure it. They come in a variety of vibrant colors and is pretty inexpensive. I purchased mine at a local Ross store for $2.99, which in my opinion is a steal, considering that it is not disposable. 

As a bonus it can also be use on wash day in lieu of a towel to remove excess water from your hair. Regular towels tend to be rougher on the hair and can result in excess drying or friction. The soft, delicate microfiber is definitely a natural's gem. A must have.  

Hanging Bantu Knots

Hey fam. I am always on the lookout for new techniques that improve my natural hair journey. How can I retain moisture, retain length, or achieve that bomb twist out? Those are just a few questions that I ponder from time to time. Upon discovery of a tip or trick that can up my natural hair game, you already know that I have to share it with my Namix Clan. 
Sooooo...without any unnecessary delay or idle chatter, let me get straight to it. The technique that I recently discovered (and yes, I know I'm late to the party) is commonly referred to as the Hanging Bantu Knots, or as I like to call them, Pendulum Twists.  
The magic about this twist technique is that it not only seals the ends of your twists, protecting it from potential breakage, but it

 also leaves your twist outs with a smooth, spiral like finish at the ends that is just bomb!! For naturals who wear their hair twisted a lot, this technique will be sure to protect those ends that would ordinarily remain exposed and subject to friction.
To achieve the Hanging Bantu Knots, just simply do a regular twist all the way to the ends of your hair. Once that is done, start wrapping the last inch and a half of the hair around itself in an upward motion. This will form what looks like a ball at the end of your twists. Theses will pretty much stay in place for the most part, One or two may come undone but just wrap them back in place and you are good to go. For best results, ensure that you add moisture especially to the ends of your hair before twisting. This technique will forever change your twist life......give it a try.      


Photo Credits: http://blackgirllonghair.com/2015/04/5-ways-to-switch-up-your-natural-hair-style-this-spring/
http://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-do-a-Bantu-Loop-Hanging-Bantu-Knots/

5 Signs you need a Trim

If you are natural, chances are, length retention is an ongoing goal for your hair. It is also one that seem futile and ever fleeting. Why isn't my hair growing you may ask. Truth is, your hair is in fact growing. Except in cases where there are illnesses and treatments that result in hair loss, every living being experiences hair growth on an ongoing basis. Everyone may not enjoy the same rate of growth but in general, hair grows at an average rate of 1/4" per month.
The quest to achieve very long hair often lead naturals to avoid trimming their hair at all cost. This mindset may very well be the reason why your hair doesn't appear to be growing. The beauty about natural hair is that if you listen keenly enough, you will hear it communicate with you, letting you know when its time to trim. Here are five signs that are an indication that your hair needs a trim:


1. Hair feels rough or crunchy on the ends.
Natural hair has a tendency to react to its environment, and it also almost always sends a signal when it is in need of some TLC. Over time, overexposure to heat, excess manipulation or just the harsh elements in your surroundings, can cause hair to become weathered. The portion of hair that is more easily susceptible to such damage, is the ends, since it is the oldest and most exposed part of the hair. One tell tale sign that your hair may be damaged is how the ends feel. If your hair is rough, hard, or overly dry to the touch, then chances are, you need a trim. Repeated use of heat can cause your hair, especially the ends, to get scorched. Protein, although good for the hair if used properly, can in some cases  cause protein damage resulting from protein overdose. The can result in very dry, coarse feeling hair. In most cases there is no hope for reversion, and the only option is to trim or cut off the damaged portion.


2. Hair ends are way thinner than the roots.

The thickness or fullness of your hair can be an indication of how healthy it is. Don't get me wrong, hair can be thick and voluminous and yet be unhealthy, The problem arise when the thickness is not consistent throughout the entire length of hair. If the ends of the hair is visibly thinner than the roots, trimming may be inevitable. Trimming away those thinner, less healthy portion of  hair will allow it to thrive as the stronger, thicker parts of the hair would no longer be compromised and at risk for damage .



3. Ends are splitting.
Split ends can be nuisance regardless of the length or texture of your hair. Sadly, there is really no quick fix for split ends, and left unchecked they will continue to split further and further upwards, potentially damaging the entire hair strand. Once a split end is detected, it is best to start snipping, as failure to do so can be detrimental. Split ends are an obvious indication that your hair needs a trim. Cutting them off will prevent you from dealing with the headache of having to cut more hair off if it is allowed to get out of control.




4. Breakage on the ends.
Have you ever combed your hair and seen those tiny pieces of hairs on your shoulders, the counter or

the floor? It is the undeniable evidence that your hair is breaking. Breakage can be caused by various reasons usually the result is the weakening of the hair. Since the ends are the oldest part of the hair, it will be more susceptible to breakage. Getting rid of those weaker ends should correct the problem and enable the stronger portion of the hair to thrive.







5. Single Strand Knots.
The issue of single strand knots was somewhat of an unexpected, unpleasant surprise to me once I went natural. It was foreign to me because it was never something that I remember experiencing when I had a perm. I soon discovered that these were formed when the hair forms a loop at the ends of the strands and form a knot or a ball. It is usually more prevalent in hair textures that are more coily in nature. The spiral like or zigzag pattern makes it easier for the hair to form loops and make knots called single strand knot, These pesky and plentiful knots seem relentless and all attempts to reverse them will prove futile. The only way to remove them is just that....to remove them. Trimming usually solves the issue but be careful because they can easily return.



Length retention is high on the list of priorities for naturals, but the truth is, if your hair is long and unhealthy then it profits you little. Healthy hair is much more likely to thrive and realize growth. Pay attention to your hair and the signals that it gives, indicating that it is in need of a trim. In the short term it may be that you are losing inches, but in the long term, your hair will look and feel all the better for it,  Just remember, the scissors is not the enemy, it may very well prove to be your best friend.

My Current Product Faves

There are more and more natural hair products flooding the market to meet the mounting demand by the steadily increasing number of naturals. There is a wide cross section of products designed for natural hair and if you are not careful, the selection process can become quite frustrating. "Should I get the butter, smoothie, souffle or creme jelly?"  Are some of the questions that are not easily answered. Knowing what will work on your hair is often determined solely by experimenting. Too often I have heard girls swear by certain brands or particular products, and I gladly go by their testimony only to face much disappointment when I don't experience the same results that they do.
I wouldn't say that I'm by any means a product junkie, but I have tested and tried quite a number of products and have found a few faithful favorites that work like a charm for my 4b/4c hair type. These are my current faves and are likely to change if I discover something else that gives me better results. Each product listed is used for a different purpose in my hair care regimen. So here goes:


Co-Wash - My DNA Hydrating Co-Wash  
The term Co-Wash is short for Conditioner Wash and is used primarily in the natural hair community. It is a less drying alternative to cleansing with shampoo. My DNA is my fave because, of all the Co-Washes that I have tried, this one is the most moisturizing and at the same time it is very cleansing and actually allows me to work up a lather, which in my own weird way I feel is necessary to get squeaky clean hair.

Shampoo - Shea Moisture Raw Shea Butter Moisture Retention Shampoo
I'm not a big fan of shampoos at all and I spent a great deal of effort during the first couple years I was  natural, trying to find one that didn't leave my hair feeling crappy. After much trial and error,  finally I found and fell in love with this shampoo from my beloved Shea Moisture line. It leaves my hair feeling soft and manageable. The hunt was over, I was done. I'm not saying there aren't some better shampoos out there and I'm sure I will try others in the future but for now....I'm quite contented.




Conditioner - Suave Professionals Almond + Shea Butter Conditioner
If you are natural then you already know that conditioners, not diamonds, are a girl's best friend. Regular conditioners are useful for multiple purposes. Pre-Poos, detangling, or just for a good ole wash day conditioning, are just a few of the uses of conditioners. There are many great conditioners on the market, but my measure of greatness is determined by their thickness and creaminess, as well as the amount of slip they provide. The Suave Professionals Almond + Shea Butter conditioner not only meets, but surpasses my expectation of a reasonably priced conditioner. This very affordable conditioner can contend with just about any deep conditioner on the market. It infuses moisture into my hair and leaves it feeling soft and silky. I believe it will always have a place on my product fave list.



Deep Conditioner - Dark & Lovely Moisture L.O.C. Deep Conditioning Delight
Deep conditioner I would say is the most important product in my wash day regimen. Your deep conditioner can make or break the whole wash process, especially in cases where damage is being experienced. It is prudent to use an effective deep conditioner that will repair and restore your hair. Very few deep conditioners make the cut for me , but then again there are still a whole host of brands, formulated for naturals, that I am yet to try. I can only speak to those that I have personally experienced, and as of right now the Moisture L.O.C. deep conditioner provides the best results for my 4b hair. It has a thick, creamy consistency and provides amazing slip, which allows for easier detangling. As the name suggests, it indeed locks in moisture, and for me it is really a delight to have discovered this product.


Leave-In Conditioner - Kinky Curly Knot Today

This leave in conditioner has been tested and tried and proven to be the real MVP of leave ins. From day one, I have been using this product and no matter how many other products I try, I always end up back with my holy grail. I am not a big fan of the scent of the product but its effectiveness in adding moisture to my hair,  makes it easy to ignore that minor flaw for the sake of a greater good. I especially love the fact that it can double as a styler/moisturizer. Since moisture is very high up on my hierarchy of needs, this leave in will remain one of my favorite hair products of all times,







Styling Product - Shea Moisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil 
Strengthen, Grow & Restore Styling Lotion

This product is fairly new to the market and was an instant winner from the very first time I tried it.  I don't know if it has anything to do with the fact that Jamaican Black Castor Oil is a favorite of mine but I can tell you this much, the product keeps my hair moisturized for days. Jamaican Black Castor Oil is know for its hair growth and hair strengthening properties and as a "Yardie", I am proud that an ingredient originated from my homeland is so highly regarded in the natural hair community.  This styling lotion is indeed one of my favorite daily moisturizers and styling product.




Styling Gel - Wet line Xtreme Professional Styling Gel


I am not very picky when it comes to Styling Gels. As long as it doesn't flake I'm good. For the longest while I was on the Eco Styler band wagon but my quest to find one that is protein and alcohol free led me to this brand. It is light, smells amazing, and provides the perfect hold to preserve my hairstyles. It is very affordable, which for me is the icing on the cake.  





The plethora of hair products at the fingertips of naturals, can be sometimes overwhelming. Most times it is through a process of trial and error that you will determine the products that are a best fit for your hair. I can assure you, as sure as night follows day, that there are people who will try or have tried the products I mentioned and not enjoy the same results that I am raving about. Over time as you learn your hair more, you will begin to understand what works for you and what doesn't. Don't get frustrated, the perfect combination of products is there for you, and you will get that aha moment when you find them. Stay committed to the journey.

Beauty Redefined

Oh how refreshing it is to see a deviation from the traditional definition of beauty, especially beauty of Miss World proportion. The image of a beauty queen with long, flowing, silky hair have somehow become commonplace.  The thought of a beauty contestant with a head of dreadlocks was absurd to say the least. 

If there were any such cases in the past, they must have few very few and far between. Winner of the Miss Jamaica World 2015 competition Sanneta Myrie changed the game and pretty much crushed the notion that the title is only reserved for those who fit a particular image. 

I agree that all locs are not equal. Left unkempt, they can look quite unpleasant to the eyes. In Sanneta's case however, there is no doubt that her hair is well groomed and properly maintained. Her victory is a testament to the fact that the scales are being removed and true beauty is being embraced for what it is.

Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce Representing with Green Braids!!!

I had to stop in, I feel like its my obligation and my civic duty to give a shout out and extend maximum respect to my girl Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce for taking the gold in her women's 100 meter race. She defended and retained her title and proved in no uncertain terms that she is indeed a World Champion.
Y'all know this is a hair blog so it would be remiss of me not to mention how dope her green braids are as a part of the representation of the colors on the national flag of Jamaica, Black, Green and Gold. As an owner of a beauty salon in Kingston, Jamaica,  Shelly could do no less than to make a bold statement about her intentions through the art of hairstyling. One would think that the length of those braids would present a challenge with maintaining her speed. That wasn't the case. She came, she saw, she conquered!!!

Girls Gone Grey!!!

We seem to be living in a era where its all about flipping the script and  stepping away from the norm. This new hair color trend is no different as the once dreaded grey hair that is typically an indication of age, and is usually limited to those considered to be old, is now a hot and popular trend in the beauty industry. Who would have thought??? Prior to this new trend, the norm was that grey hairs couldn't pop up fast enough for ladies to slather that hair dye all over it to erase any possible trace that it naturally exists. For the younger crowd who are not necessarily at the age where greys would be expected, if God forbid one strand should rear its ugly head, it would send the unfortunate victim in an immediate state of panic and disarray....lol.

Far be it from us to comprehend the new craze that has surfaced,where young girls are now altering their natural hair color to achieve  grey, silver-like, whitish hair. As with most trends, the grey hair trend originated with top fashion designers and it soon became noticeable among celebrities such as Lady Gaga, Pink and Rheanna.

Weaves, braids or just some hair color spray, many women are opting in where this hair trend is concerned. I am a bit surprised at this trend as it goes against the ever present quest for women to take whatever steps are necessary to remain looking youthful, but I am always respectful of people who are willing the step out of the box as it relates to their appearance and especially since wearing grey hair makes a bold statement that they are not willing to be defined by the normal standards of beauty. What are your thoughts about this trend, would you be caught wearing it or nah?

Photo Credits:
http://trend-kid.com/grey-hair-black-women.htm
http://stylecaster.com/beauty-high/grey-hair-dye
http://elitedaily.com/envision/going-grey-for-fashion-photos/979772/
http://www.christianwileshairdressing.co.uk/news/salon-news/the-granny-grey-hair-trend/
http://www.instyle.co.uk/celebrity/news/met-ball-2013-10-things-everyones-talking-about
http://www.intokazy.com/postview.php?id=102
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/07/08/cheeno-grey-gray-hair_n_5563526.html

Daddy Styles Daughter's Hair

This week on The Real, I saw this father and daughter team displaying their unique hair styling technique. It really warmed my heart to see a dad functioning in that capacity in the life of his child. The circumstance surrounding him doing her hair is unclear and frankly irrelevant. Whether he is doing it by choice, or because he is a single father who has to do what he has to do, he still deserves his props for stepping up to the challenge. 

For little girls, when hair styling can be this quick and so much fun, its truly a pleasure. Thanks for letting other dads and moms in on this secret. I need to have my hubby hold my ponytail so I can spin into my bun too....shoooooooottttt!!! Hair styling has never been this speedy. 

Keep it going daddy, and kudos to all the other dads out there who are representing.

Zendaya Sports Faux Locs at The 2015 Oscars

Disney Star Zendaya turned heads, dropped jaws and popped eyeballs at the 2015 Oscars with her beautifully installed Faux Locs. The flawless locs cascading over one shoulder framed her face beautifully. I don;t know who or what is to be credited for the inspiration but I absolutely LOVE it.

Zendaya's hair perfectly complemented her off-the-shoulder Vivenne Westwood gown.

Zendaya could have rocked a 20" weave, a bob cut, a elegant bun, a messy updo or a tonne of other options, she chose however to step outside of the box and express her individuality, taking the risk of not getting the approval of the traditional, stereotypical fashion critics.

Zendaya's look symbolizes self-expression, self-confidence, individualism and BOLDNESS.  I have a new found respect for this girl. Did I mention that brows are on fleek?!!!

Natural Stars Ripped the Red Carpet at the 2015 Oscars

Two of my very favorite stars Ripped the Red carpet at this year's Oscars. I am super duper stoked and beaming with pride that my fellow naturals chose to rock their hair in its authentic, all natural state. They are truly an example that beauty is not defined by the length or texture of your hair. I TOTALLY loved both their looks, from their hair, to their make-up and not to mention their drop dead gorgeous gowns. Kudos ladies....you Rock!!!


Lupita Nyong'o wore her hair in a very low cut. She did another recent big chop and as usual is never afraid to experiment with or make drastic changes to her hair. She is indeed a Natural Beauty.

Viola Davis, one of my most highly respected actors, is a true representation of a strong black woman who knows her worth. Her hair appears to have been styled in a Wash n Go. The tapered Do is very attractive and she wears it very well.

Healthy Lifestyle....Healthy Hair.

Do you believe that there is a co-relation between your health habits and your hair? Believe it or not, there is. Having a healthy lifestyle will have an impact from the inside, out. Not only will you enjoy the perks of having a fit and healthy body, but your skin, nails and hair should show signs of marked improvement over time. A diet high in fruits, vegetables and lots of water, coupled with regular exercise is vital to your overall health, including the health of your hair. Vitamin E for example improves circulation to the scalp. When your scalp does not have enough blood circulation, the roots of your hair don't receive enough nutrients to support the strength and life of your hair follicle. Vitamin deficiencies resulting from an unhealthy diet can cause dry brittle hair, which makes your hair more likely to break and as a result not retain length. We have heard it said over and over again that water is life and is beneficial to the whole body. A generous intake of water on a daily basis will in fact result in healthier hair.
 Water is vital for every cell in the body, including the hair follicles. Keeping the body hydrated results in improved circulation of nutrients in the blood making it better able to reach the scalp and ultimately strengthen your hair. Drinking water increases the amount of moisture not only in your skin but over time you will be sure to notice the difference in the appearance of your hair overall lifestyle habits will definitely play a role in your ability to achieve more noticeable hair growth.
Exercise cannot be over emphasized. Exercise stimulates the blood to flow. The nutrient rich blood nourishes each hair follicle, promoting healthy hair growth. Lack of sufficient blood flow would yield the growth of duller, more brittle hair. Apart from supplying the follicle with nutrient-rich blood, exercise also helps to alleviate stress, which is a known cause of hair loss.

Getting enough sleep (8 hrs. recommended) and staying stress free can cause your hair to grow faster and longer. Sleep is also a very important factor that can determine one's overall health. As it relates to the health of your hair, getting the required amount of sleep can aid in hair growth as growth hormones are secreted during sleep.s

It has been observed that factors like stress, depression and sleep deprivation actually contribute to hair loss. Stress can cause hair loss in different ways. In the case where there is severe stress, it can result in a condition called Alopecia Areata where the white blood cells attack the hair follicles, stopping hair growth and causing the hair to fall out. There is also a condition called Telogen Effluvium in which emotional or physical stress prematurely pushes large numbers of growing hairs into a resting phase, forcing the affected hairs to fall out easily. There are also the cases in which individuals undergoing stress literally gets the irresistible urge to literally pull out hair from their scalp. This condition is called Trichotillomania. In light of these facts, it is extremely important to lead a stress free life as it will improve your overall health. 

Making minor adjustments to your daily routine can reap significant benefits as far as hair growth is concerned. Set your hair goals, and with much commitment and dedication, you will be able to achieve if not surpass them.

Photo Credits:
http://www.pinterest.com/pin/277252920785676155/
http://www.essence.com/2012/01/10/ask-the-experts-maintain-healthy-hair-while-breaking-a-sweat/
http://www.hercampus.com/school/valdosta/natural-hair-girls-ways-keep-your-hair-healthy
http://hellobeautiful.com/2012/07/21/3-easy-ways-to-improve-your-sleep-habits/

Hot Oil Treatments for the Cold Weather

Winter days can be a nightmare for women in general regardless of how their hair is worn. The trauma is however more evident for naturals because natural hair is already by nature very dry and this particular season brings additional crisp, dry air that attacks and often conquers the moisture in their tresses.
 

Naturals are forced to bring their A game in an attempt to combat the effects of this crucial weather on the hair. Routine remix is a must once this season emerges. No longer can they remain on the path once trod during the summer, spring and even fall months but major adjustments are necessary in order to entertain a pleasant natural hair experience during this potentially horrid season.

Not everyone is as blessed enough to be geographically located in regions that enjoy fairly warm weather year round and so for a large number of naturals the only option is to take the necessary precautionary and preventative methods to preserve the health of their hair. The best way to maintain the health of natural hair, as we may know is to keep it well conditioned and moisturized. There are various ways to introduce and maintain moisture in natural hair and while they can all be explored at various times, one very effective way is a Hot Oil Treatment.

What is a Hot Oil Treatment?

A Hot Oil Treatment is a process to help condition and treat dry, damaged or lifeless hair. This is done by heating and applying oils directly to the hair. Hot Oil Treatment is a temporary but effective solution to dry, brittle or damaged

hair. It is a form of deep conditioning as it introduces moisture to and improves the strength of the hair shaft.

What tools are needed for a Hot Oil Treatment?

Natural Oils

Bottle

Finger Tips

Plastic Cap

Towel Cap/Towel

How is a Hot Oil Treatment done?

Step 1:

The treatment is done by placing 2-3 Tbsp. of natural oil in a bottle. A half a cup of water should then be heated and the bottle with the oil placed inside the cup in order to warm it. Heating the oil increases the moisturizing and emollient properties and it gently repairs the hair and soothes the scalp. There is also the option of warming the oil on a stove top or in the microwave but that is not my personal preference as in some weird kind of way I think the direct heat zaps some of the nutrients. The oil heats up pretty quickly so after a minute you can check to see if it is warm enough to be applied to your hair. Be sure to test the oil on your arm first and not just proceed to place it on the scalp before testing.

Step  2:

Once the temperature has been checked and determined to be safe, the oil can then be applied to the entire length of hair and also massaged into the scalp. It is best to use a bottle with an applicator cap in order to safely and effectively apply the oil to your hair. For one thing, pouring it into your palms can be extremely messy and can be rather awkward to maneuver onto the hair. The applicator tip also helps to gain easy access to the hair roots and aids in the even distribution of the oil. Once the oil has been applied the hands can then be used to smooth it into the strands and the finger tips to massage the scalp to stimulate the follicles and promote circulation.

The Hot Oil Treatment can be done on dry hair or damp hair and the question of which yields better results is still being debated by the experts. I have tried both and cant say that I really notice a difference but would lean more towards doing it on dry hair as water temporarily alters the structure of hair and as such I would think it interferes with the absorption of the oils.

Step 3:

After the oil is generously applied, a plastic cap should be used to cover the hair and a towel cap or towel placed over the plastic cap. The oil is allowed to remain in the hair for about 15-30 minutes before it is thoroughly washed out and your regular was day regimen applied. The result will be very soft silky hair which will be able to better able to stand up to the winter weather woes.

How often should a Hot Oil Treatment be done?

The frequency of a Hot Oil Treatment will vary from one person to another. When your hair is severely damaged or during the winter weather where hair tends to dry out a lot, weekly or bi-weekly treatments are suggested. Under regular circumstances one per month is perfectly okay.

What are the benefits of a Hot Oil Treatment?

A Hot Oil Treatment gives the hair moisture and it conditions and softens natural hair very effectively. It helps to restore life to hair that has been damaged by, heat, color, excess manipulation and adverse weather. The oils penetrate the hair shaft and moisturize it from the inside out. It also helps to tame those unwanted frizz and make for more polished looking hair.

The Hot Oil Treatment also helps with dry scalp and dandruff by conditioning the scalp and eradicating dryness. Including oils with anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties such as Tea Tree or Peppermint Oil will help in this regard.

What kinds of Oils are used in a Hot Oil Treatment?

The decision as to what oils are used for a Hot Oil Treatment is strictly left up to the individual. There are pre made over the counter oil blends made for this purpose but the fact is that most persons just pull out their "mixtress” hat and put together their own homemade treatment by mixing together their favorite oils. It is perfectly okay to use only one type of oil and still get great results but the popular thing to do is to combine 2-3 different carrier oils and maybe a couple drops of essential oil. The most frequently used carrier oils are Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Extra Virgin Coconut Oil, Castor Oil, Jojoba Oil etc. Essential Oils commonly used are Peppermint Oil, Rosemary Oil, and Tea Tree Oil to name a few.

The Winter may be one of the most dreaded seasons of the year not only because of the discomfort of contending with the frigid weather, but also because it makes the life of a natural more difficult as they prepare for combat on the "Battlefield of Dryness”. The Hot Oil Treatment is a reliable ally, offering the necessary weaponry to fight this not easily beaten giant of dryness. Be sure to embrace and include this process in your hair care regimen as it will result in softer, shinier, more manageable hair.

(The original article was written by me for Newd Magazine)

How I refresh my Afro Kinky Braids

Afro Kinky Braids are very convenient as a protective style. The style has longevity and requires very little maintenance. The most that may be required to keep this style looking fresh, is an occasional application of a moisturizing spritz. This will soften and refresh your braids and leave it looking shiny. In under 5 minutes your braids will come to life and give the illusion that it is freshly done. See how I made my DIY spritz and refresh the braids in a jiffy. These braids were installed using the Crochet Braiding Technique by the way.
 

Christmas is a very special holiday and for the vast majority it is the favorite time of the year. Celebrating the Savior, spreading good cheer, spending quality time fellowshipping with friends and family, enjoying the mouth watering spread of food, and gift giving are just a few of the events that sets this holiday apart.

Everyone loves the idea of receiving gifts, I believe it is something natural and there is a certain excitement that comes with unwrapping a gift of any sort. Even though there is much truth to that, there is no denying that after the big reveal, there may be a little hint of disappointment if the gift received is not useful or if it doesn’t at all identify with who you are. Somewhat like giving a treatment for bleached hair someone who doesn’t have color in their hair or giving a pair of earrings for pierced ears to someone who doesn’t have their ears pierced. Yes that may be a little extreme but you get the picture. Giving Gifts that are relevant and appropriate is always the best option. I strongly believe in gifting things not just because they look pretty but based on need and usefulness. That is my personal preference but I can almost safely say that most people will be more receptive to something that they really can use as opposed to just another random gift that no thought may have been put into.

It helps to know a little bit about the person who you are getting a gift for or at least make subtle observations to determine the things that they may like or have need of. Don’t get me wrong, I am from the islands and I strongly believe that it is the thought that counts, but at the same time there has to be some thought to count if you get my drift. I also know that the task of Christmas shopping is not an easy one and it can become very physically and mentally draining. It is with that in mind that I thought I would share some suitable gift ideas for naturals.

Naturals are usually very passionate about their journey and generally spend a pretty penny to maintain their tresses. They are always in pursuit of ways to improve the health and appearance of their hair. With that in mind, it shouldn’t be very difficult to come up with suitable gift ideas for someone who sports their hair natural. Below is a list of ideas or suggestions for appropriate and useful holiday gifts that will be appreciate by most ladies who wear their hair this way:

1.     Natural Hair Products Subscription Services – Subscription based purchases are on the rise and these are loved because they present an element of surprise and who doesn’t like surprises?? The idea behind subscription based companies is that for a flat rate, you are able to get a package of items which usually vary from month to month. The beauty about this is that the items are typically valued higher than the cost for the subscription and it offers a great way to be able to try various products offered by different vendors relevant to subscription of choice. CurlKit is one of those subscription services created with naturals in mind, providing between 6-9 product samples in a surprise box each month. These often include full sized products which are from some of the most popular natural hair product lines. The subscriptions are fairly inexpensive, reasonably priced at $20 per month.  This would be an amazing gift idea and you can opt to pay for a couple months subscription leaving the option open for the recipient of the gift to take over future payments or cancel the subscription if they so choose. This gift idea will leave your special naturalista grinning from ear to ear as they enjoy this special treat.

2.     Natural Hair Books – The pursuit of knowledge concerning the many facets of natural hair and the quest to seek a greater understanding of how natural hair acts and reacts keep us constantly researching. A very reliable source of information is books and over time the natural hair book collection has been growing steadily in numbers. A gift of a Natural Hair book is a sure win in the challenge of gift giving. Natural hair books such as “Better Than Good Hair” written by the well known natural hair guru Nikki Walton, more popularly known as Curly Nikki in the natural hair community, is a very interesting and informative read. Her book is  titled as being “The Curly Girl Guide to Healthy, Gorgeous Natural Hair”. Other natural hair books on the market include The Secrets of Going Natural: The Ultimate Guide to Loving your Natural Hair written by Zenobia and Anthony Jackson, The Science of Black Hair written by Audrey Davis-Sivasothy and Grow It by Chicoro to name a few.   These books offer a wealth of information about natural hair and afford details as to how to understand, care for and style your natural hair. They are great reads for any natural, despite the stage that you are at in your hair journey. The perfect gift idea that will definitely not be set aside to collect dust and would be appreciated by anyone who is serious about the health and appearance of their natural hair.

3.     Natural Hair Event Tickets – Different cities around the country host natural hair events periodically. There is usually a cover charge to enter these events. Such events offer the platform for naturals to meet together in one place to socialize, learn and be entertained. These shows are usually well planned and employ professional educators who impart a great deal of information to naturals that will help them to better deal with their hair. There are also live demonstrations by experienced stylists showcasing their talents by creating a wide array of hairstyles on models ranging from very easy to the more intricate. Vendors of some of the most popular natural hair products usually have booths where their products can be sampled and bought at a reduced rate. The shows can be very interesting and sometimes offer bonus surprises such as fashion shows, spot prizes and giveaways. Now that is nothing short of being in “natural hair heaven”, and it would be any natural’s dream to be able to enjoy such an experience. Gifting two tickets to an upcoming natural hair show in their area should be sure to score you cool points in the eyes of any natural.

4.     Natural Hair Apparel – Natural Hair inspired clothing lines have capitalized on the new craze and enthusiasm about natural hair. Naturals today are proud of their hair and are usually all too happy to let the world know how they feel about it. One of the more popular ways of displaying this pride is by wearing apparel that are specially designed with images related to natural hair and catch phrases boasting their confidence with being natural. The most popular garments are T-Shirts. This would make a great gift item for naturals and is a great addition to the collection of both the fashion forward and the conservative alike. I believe that all naturals would proudly wear a statement about their natural hair. A quick surf of the World Wide Web will present a wealth of options and a variety of designs from which to choose. This holiday gift will leave the natural in your life all dolled up.

5.     Satin Pillow Cases – This is a necessity for all naturals to have in their collection as it will provide that soft, silky, smooth surface for them to lay their head. Using a satin pillowcase will prevent hair from drying out and also allow for the prevention of friction that can cause breakage. Regular cotton pillowcases can have drying effects on natural hair and tends to rob it of its much needed moisture. Many naturals, although aware of this fact, do not own satin pillowcases, maybe because of the price point as they are pricier than their rougher counterpart. This is another excellent gift for just about any one and would be greatly appreciated especially by a natural.

Gift giving should not be a stressful activity. The process of acquiring gifts can be a pleasant one if the above recommendations are considered. If there is still uncertainty about whether or not the suggested items will be to the liking of that special natural in your life, there is always the safe option of getting a gift card that can be used to complete any purchase. In all your giving, give love this Christmas, at the end of the day that is really what matters most and no amount of gifts can ever replace that. Best wishes for the Holidays… from my family to yours!!!  

Tamera Mowry-Housley Unleashes her Curls on The Real

Just when I was about ready to rant about the fact that TV show producers tend to be more inclined to have their hosts sport long, flowing straightened wigs as opposed to their natural hair, there comes Tamera showcasing her natural curls on yesterday's episode of The Real. I always wondered if it was her personal choice not to rock her beautiful curls on the show or the preference of the production powers that be. It was so refreshing to see her luscious curls that were showcased during the show's "Don't Touch My Hair" segment.

Tamera touched a bit on the fact that her hair had been through stage where it suffered much damage due to overexposure to heat. She decided to do the Big Chop in order to get rid of the damaged hair and start a fresh journey to enjoying healthy hair. She admitted that she was a bit nervous about wearing her own hair out on the show and that is understandable since everyone is used to seeing her wearing weaves. She shared that her hubby loves her natural hair and would much rather see her rock it all day, everyday. I am so glad that she made the bold statement that women can totally embrace their kinks and curls and that TV is no longer reserved for those fitting a certain image. Kudos to you Tamera, naturals everywhere are proud that you represented, and did so confidently.

Don't Live on the Edge.......Get Hicks Edges

Hey Lovelies, I had to stop in to share this Fabulous Find with you all. Yeah yeah, I know I'm late but as they always say, "better late than never". I have been hearing about this Hicks Edges since forever but I have no clue why I didn't, prior to now make the effort to try it out. Well recently I had the opportunity upon the request of a friend, to apply her Hicks Edges to her hair and my, my, my, the instant transformation to her hairline was real, too real for that matter. I was so impressed with how well the product worked on her hair that I immediately went and got me one.

Let me tell you guys, edge control has never been this effective. The product is worth every penny of the $13.99 that it cost and more. At first when I heard the price I was like, wait.....whattt???? But it really isn't much more expensive than a typical edge controller considering that it is almost twice as big as most others on the market. It is 4 fl. oz in size while most of the others are a little over 2 fl. oz. The great news is that there is no need to search high and low to find the product as it is available at most local Beauty Supply Stores.

So let me let you in on the secret about this edge controller,  It holds your hair and edges firmly in place, with super holding power without flakiness. Considering that flakiness is a feature or a side effect rather, of some edge controllers on the market, the Hicks Edges gets a thumbs up on that. It also claims to promote growth which I'm not able to substantiate since I
literally just started using it a day or two ago. The lack of flakes however, I can attest to as my edges have been indeed flake-free. It does also leave your edges looking healthier and shinier than before and trust me when I say that a little goes a long way. Unless you decide to use it like a gel of some sort, it will surely last a long, long time. I'm sure if ever I decide to do a ponytail I will dig in and use it to make sure it is layed.

Don't live on the edge, apply the Hicks Edges and enjoy flawless hair all day.



Photo Credit: http://www.beautyblvd.net/2014/09/slick-edges/

Wash Day Detangling Trick

Wash Day can be a bittersweet experience for naturals. Washing restores the much needed moisture, refreshes the scalp, and revitalizes those curls. The process can however be a very trying and tiring one. Personally, my least favorite wash day task is detangling. It seem to take the most time and effort. Isn't it just annoying when you labor to remove each and every knot and tangle before rinsing the conditioner from your hair, only for it to get tangled again before you have finished setting it in the style of choice.

The simple trick that I discovered was a game changer for me. Twisting my hair before rinsing the conditioner has made a world of difference. Having the hair twisted in sections keeps the hair locked in place and prevents the hairs from becoming tangled on each other. As a bonus, and as if solving the detangling dilemma wasn't enough, it also makes the styling process easier.

  Styling products can be added to the hair while it is still twisted or you may take down sections individually ansd add styling product as you go. This one alteration to your wash day routine will be sure to relieve you of the stress and it will save you some time in the process. If you havent already done so, you should try it some time. You will be glad you did!!!