The Real Secret Behind Detangling Curly Hair: The Coily Hair Edition

Hey Beautifuls,

I have a secret to share with you. In a moment, you will say goodbye to frightening wash days with regrettable detangling stories. In previous blog posts, I've outlined our detangling process--which remains the same to this day. Let me quickly bullet point them for you.

DETANGLING WITH EASE:

• Pre-poo (oil/conditioner on dampened hair prior to detangling)
• Goody (or any ball tip paddle brush) tool
• Start detangling at the very extreme tip of the hair ends. 
• Detangle under running water with your favorite conditioner
• Work your way up the hair shaft INCH BY INCH under the running water
• The thicker your hair, the more sections you will want to work in. I like to make approximately 4 sections  

These tips have helped us to detangle without any tears. Knots, tangles, rips and tears are at the top of the list why most people decide to put chemicals in their hair. 

What if I told you that I have a secret to drastically reducing the drama from coily hair tangles? If you have already implemented the above tips into your detangling routine, then you are half-way there.

THE SECRET TO DETANGLING COILY HAIR:

Have you ever heard of the Chinese finger trap? Here's a picture of it just to jog your memory. We've all played with it at one point in our lives. They're mostly given out at birthday parties. I remember my anxiety one time when I couldn't remove my pointer fingers from this coily toy. I was scared, so I started pulling harder. When I pulled harder, it actually tightened the hold on my fingers. It wasn't until I relaxed my fingers and stopped pulling that I could release my fingers from this trap.

The funny thing is that the Chinese finger trap is similar in design to coily hair. It is considered a helically wound braid. Designed with the helix structure, the Chinese finger trap could be likened to coily hair, which is described to "grow in a tiny spring-like, helix shape".

The helix structure (long story short) is made to tighten when pulled. The circumference of the coil will narrow. When speaking about the mysteries of coily hair, when the coil narrows, it will make detangling difficult. Why? Because the coil becomes resistant, and will not "give". When you pull with a detangling tool--using strength and force, the coil narrows and tightens. In effect, causing the need for additional force. 

The Chinese finger trap has been known to break when a user engages too much force. Ideally though, the user will just relax, and the trap will release. The same goes for detangling coily hair. While using the above referenced detangling tips, try doing the following:

• DO NOT engage your arm muscle force
• Simply use your wrist, while patiently and gently moving the brush along the length of the hair (starting at the extreme hair end/tips).

At first, this may seem useless, but in seconds, you will see that the brush will glide through the coils.


---------------------------------------------------------------------Always for you,
---------------------------------------------------------------------------tia

Bad Things Do Happen at The Hair Salon: The Coily Hair Edition

"So here's my dilemma, do I say anything--or do I let her continue to destroy my hair--and all of the progress that I've made so far? What would you do?"

 Photo Credit: darkskinnedblackbeauty.tumblr.com

If you've ever had to ask yourself that question while at the hair dresser, then this post is for you.

So today is a follow up to yesterday's post where I vent about our salon visit. Yes, the plot thickened, and I can honestly say that I was "ready" for the usual crud that goes on in these salons.

You see, unfortunately, learning about techniques and products that address all of the different types of curly/coily hair is NOT required training for a salon to be able to accept naturally coily haired clients. That being said, much goes on that makes absolutely NO SENSE in the curly world.

I have a friend who washes, conditions, and detangles her hair BEFORE she even steps foot into a salon. That way, all that's left to do is use setting lotion and roller set her hair. This master plan helps her to avoid damage to her ends, avoid lots of pain, and avoid regretful tomorrows. She says they always give her the "stink eye", and some stylists are straight up rude to her for doing this. I don't see why anyone should care, she's still paying good money. If there's any problems with the roller set (such as product build-up, hair not cleansed properly)--they can always let her know that was done by her.

I wish I had done this before I went to this salon. In all actuality, I wish I had never went to this salon. Going to a Dominican Salon in a "country" part of town is most definitely risky business. How much practice they've gotten with caring for coily hair may not be suitable for the best experience. I don't want a stylist "practicing" on me--while acting like they are a "pro".

That's exactly what happened in this instance. 

Not only could this stylist not manage my length, thickness, and tightly coiled hair--she could not detangle it, nor could she lay it down on the roller. By the time she wrapped a big mess of hair around the roller, the section was dry and puffy. You WILL NOT get a proper "set" with dry hair--it has to be soaking wet. So by the time I got from under the hair dryer, my hair was still a bit thick, and ashy--not sleek and bouncy as a wet set is supposed to be.

How Disappointing.

In regards to the improper detangling (using a wide tooth comb, starting from the roots, ripping and pulling), what did I do, you ask?

I asked her if she had a paddle brush. When she showed it to me, I asked her if I could show her an easy way to detangle my extremely curly hair. She was not happy, but I did it in a kind way so as not to "embarrass" her. I was the one being embarrassed by the way she was looking like my hair was breaking off her arms.

I showed her how to wet the hair, start from the ends and slowly work the way up the hair shaft. She seemed to have filed away a new tool for detangling coily hair in her mind--but she definitely wouldn't let me know that I knew better than she did. After all...she's the professional.

Would YOU take the brush away from a "professional" and detangle your hair? Or, would you sit quietly and let the stylist finish detangling (no matter the breakage, pain, and destruction to your hair). 

NOT ANYMORE. I sat by quietly for too long, while letting these professionals damage my hair. Most of the time I had to go home and cry (or be very upset). This applies to relaxer applications, hair trims that turn into haircuts, bad color jobs, and much much more. This is not limited to coily hair types...any woman can experience bad service at a hair salon. 

I just know now that I will keep my eyes open, and respectfully relate my wishes. After all, it's my hair.

 

Until Next Post................................................................................................................Tia

How to Avoid STRAIGHT UP FOOLISHNESS in the Salon: Coily Hair Edition

It's been about 2 years since WE last stepped into a hair dressing salon (or whatever they like to call it these days). And I have soon to find out that the story will never change.

So T and I decided to skip on the blow dryer this time around, and go to the Dominican Salon and get our hair roller set. We would enjoy a nice scalp rub (the wash), get a little conditioning treatment, and then have the famous wet set at a local Dominican salon (name to be withheld) LOL!

When I called on the phone to make the appointment, I let the stylist know that I would be getting a wash and roller set. I advised her that my hair is "tightly curled". She acknowledged that she has "done natural hair before", and it's no problem.

When we (T & I) arrived at the salon, it seemed to be a different matter--especially in regards to my hair. She asked me if I was sure that my hair is able to lay down on the rollers. I let her know that I've been to a few Dominican salons, where they've laid down my hair on the big rollers, and my hair ends up sleek and straight after the roller set alone.

She looked dubious, but continued on anyways.

Now here's where the problem always begins: She didn't know how to detangle my hair without breakage. My ends were snapping, popping, flying everywhere. She was detangling my hair with a wide tooth comb--and she thought that would solve my detangling woe's. Truth be told, I don't have detangling woe's. My hair is easily detangled with a paddle brush so long as it has been properly conditioned.

So here's my dilemma, do I say anything--or do I let her continue to destroy my hair--and all of the progress that I've made so far? What would you do?


This story TO BE CONTINUED TOMORROW....

--find out what I DID DO.
--let me know what YOU WOULD DO (Or have done)
--More dramas from the salon. Next post to outline some ways to avoid the drama if you decide to even visit a salon

THE Curly Braidout: How to Get a Different Texture From Your Wash N Go

Hey Babies,

(left) Wash N Go: Less Volume    (right) Wash N Go: VOLUME

Hope your day is going well. Quick post to share what I've been doing with my wash n go's. The Spring/Summer seasons prompt lots of wash and curl definition types of styling.

Both T and I love to maintain moisture levels by cleansing (with a non drying cleanser), moisturizing, and defining coils with products. If you don't know how to ensure a moisturized, and long lasting wash n go, check out this post that has literally guaranteed our wash n go success.

I previously posted how I love to braid my hair when the curls have been defined. That creates volume, adds length, and can change the whole direction of how the hair will frame my face.

T hasn't tried this method as of yet. Notice how her wash-n- go lays flat (which is a wonderful option also LOL), and mine show massive volume. All she'd have to do to add the volume (if she so wanted) is to braid up her wash n go at night, and release in the morning...Voila!

I had some pictures of this cause and effect texture--wanted to show you guys that I get consistent results with this method. If ever you are heading somewhere and you need volume for your curls--this is definitely the ticket.

------------Until Next Post Babiesssssssssssssssssssssssss

----tia

BLOW UP YOUR WASH N GO! CRAZY VOLUME! The Coily Hair Edition

This post is for those of you babies who have ever wondered "how she get her hair so BIG?"
I see the tumbler pictures of the girls with the big, curly, luscious coils. I know that they have a cut (most of the time). I personally refuse to cut my hair right now. Only because I don't have a hair stylist I can trust with a pair of scissors. I don't feel like being on the news right now, okay?

That being said, I will show you how I use texture creation, and (sometimes) a blow dryer to create VOLUME, AND LAYERS:

1. Start with cleansed (not shampooed) hair. Moisture MUST BE intact.
2. On an old (or new) wash n go (or curls defined) MOISTURE MUST BE INTACT, separate hair into sections of anywhere between 4-8.
3. With a spray bottle (of water and oil, or just plain water), lightly mist each section and braid.
4. Leave this overnight, and take down each section.
5. Fluff and go -OR-
6. Take down each section and blow dry lightly (no blow drying the ends).

How do you achieve layers? Through the use of the blow dryer. The sections that you blow dry will stretch and show length. The sections that you do not blow dry will not show as much length.

I like to layer my hair by blow drying the back sections, and barely blow dry (or not) the front sections. This will create a layered look. This is where creativity comes into play. Just decide how much (or how little) you will blow dry based on your personal style preferences.

(left) Curls Defined (No Volume)     (right) Curls Defined (Volume)

With this process, I'm able to keep the coil definition, but stretch it by way of texture creation (the braids). This is not a braidout, but yet a combination of braidout plus coils. You will see the different coil pattern that you can achieve by this process.

PLEASE NOTE: If you choose to blow dry as a final means to the volume process, you will not be able to wear this style for much longer. The blow drying process tends to remove lots of moisture, and in effect will cause a bit of dryness. Dry hair does NOT hold style or definition for long. I only blow dry when I'm planning on a "night out" and want maximum length with my volume. However, I do so love the volume that I get from simply braiding on a moisturized curl-definition.

Hope this post was helpful. This process simply adds more versatility to my hair styling arsenal. It's a guaranteed way to add volume to your coils!

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Sent with Love

--------------------------------------------------Tia (007NewNew)

Recipe for Bright and Shiny SUMMER Curls that POP: The Coily Hair Edition

Hey Babies! 

T and I were getting ready for a day out together, and both decided to "define our curls". I won't say wash n go because it's a little bit more involved that an actual "wash and go", but less work than defining each and every coil (and trust me, I've seen it done).

After our day hanging out together, we pretty much wore our curls for the next 3-4 days. During those days, I was stopped at least 5-6 times (by random ladies) with this question: "excuse me, what do you put on your hair to make it look like that?" Of course I have to ask what it looks like--because this hair texture is second nature to me and T by now, we don't know what anyone is talking about LOL!

Most of the ladies explained that they want to know how to get their hair so "curly" (defined), shiny and stretched out. Okay, so I ended up writing down what I use so that they could go buy these products (either for themselves or for their daughter).

That's when I had to wonder....did I ever write down our "recipe" for the curl definition process that we do here on Angel's Ringlets? You know I am always saying "sharing is caring", and stuff like that. I don't want to fail you now--especially now that we get CONSISTENT results--and this is a hair texture that we can rely on to work out exactly how we expect, and to be LONG LASTING. 

So please find below--our official "RECIPE" and "TECHNIQUE" for curl definition that you can count on time and time again. The only thing we ask is that you don't blame me or T if you keep getting stopped in the streets by folks wanting to know "how did you get your hair to look like that" LOL!

PRODUCTS USED:

THESE STEPS ARE IMPORTANT:

Wash Thoroughly (with a non-drying cleanser). We LOVE Apple Cider Vinegar mixed with water. Condition Properly (try to keep it "clean). Minimize products with silicones that coat the hair. We LOVE Giovanni Smooth as Silk Conditioner. Check out this list of our favorite products (It only took us 4 years to narrow it down)!

• Detangle Properly. At times we finger detangle (the hair will be less pliable). Most times we use a paddle brush.
•  T Likes to leave a little coat of an all natural conditioner on her hair--to start. I find that is okay, as long as it's not too much conditioner. Conditioner WILL start to flake in a day or 2. 
• WE use a thick buttery (Shea, mango, etc) product that is whipped with oils. Sometimes we make our own mixture..or we use a commercial product. For example, I like to use Nourish and Shine (Jane Carter) to thoroughly coat my hair. 
• Next we use a water based product filled with natural moisture. I can't list an actual product name, because right now--we use anything we have in the cabinet. The point is to coat the hair (with natural conditioning leave in moisture).
• Finally, we use Eco Styler Gel (that is the official gel of our house) LOL! We (well T) has tried almost all of the colors. I opt to stick with the clear (no dyes needed). 
• I usually wrap up with the Shea Moisture Flax Seed Curl defining product (I know I said the name wrong--but you know what I mean). It doesn't define my curls--but it's great at minimizing frizz. It's nice and oily--so that is a plus.

I published a video a few months ago showing exactly how I layer these products, and how I decide on the products based on the ingredients.

So, until next post--keep US posted on how you define your curls for the Summer! Let's face it--humidity plus beaches=perfect day for curls, coils, and anything lucky enough to wrap itself around our fingers.

---Love Ya!!

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------Tia (and T, of course)

15 MINUTES OF MOISTURE WILL SAVE YOU...

Color Treated Hair Requires Moisture Daily

Heyyyyyyy!

I know, I know--I've been missing in action. I do apologize and I've truly missed this fun exchange, our Angel's Ringlets.

On to the BUSINESS:

As you can probably see, I've colored my hair (again). This is my attempt at changing my dark brown hair (almost black) to light brown. Unfortunately, I get it to a brassy red color, and then I chicken out. Just so you know, the color boxes (all of them--Dark & Lovely, and whoever else) can prove to be damaging. How's so, you ask? Well, currently I am battling with dry hair. My coils (wherever I applied the bleach) do not curl up as well as they typically do.

On the flip side, I like the color now. It's a nice and different change. I can see another positive--the fact that I am required to deep condition weekly now. I can see the difference in my styling now that I take the time to deep condition.

PEOPLE--DON'T SKIP OUT ON YOUR DEEP CONDITIONING! MAKE SURE IT'S A GOOD, EFFECTIVE DEEP CONDITIONING TOO!

So what's the business?

MOISTURIZING. 

A few days ago, I was getting ready for bed, and decided to carve out 15 minutes (of an already duty laden bedtime ritual) in order to moisturize my hair. I sat down at my vanity, and began to apply some water based moisturizer to the ends of my hair. This 1st step allows me to part my hair without causing breakage to the ends. Next, I separate my hair into about 6 sections (randomly), and bantu knot (or mini bun them). Then I pulled down one section at a time and applied a teaspoon of aloe vera gel, followed by a small amount of Nourish & Shine Moisturizer (very rich on it's own accord). Check out our review on this little beauty.  I bantu-knotted each section once it was moisturized (loosely, since I was going to sleep and didn't want to wake up with a concussion).

The next morning, I was greeted by happy looking red/bronze hair that had a some curl. Yes, my hair was still damp (dag blasted bantu knots). BUT--I let my hair air dry once I had pulled down the knots---and voila, that fun little fluff of a style was my HAIR O' THE DAY.

Later that day..................

The WONDER BUN: A Pile of Moisturized Curls

HOW LONG DOES IT ACTUALLY TAKE YOU TO MOISTURIZE YOUR HAIR?

DOES MOISTURIZING AT NIGHT SAVE YOU TIME IN THE MORNING?

FOUR YEAR POST RELAXER (QUESTIONS ANSWERED): TRANSITIONING HAIR

FOUR YEAR POST RELAXER VIDEO (QUESTIONS ANSWERED)

1. Hi, I am coming to you for MAJOR HELP! I am 16 yrs old and a junior in high school, i got my first perm when I was in the 6th grade. Before i started getting perms my hair was literally 18 inches down my back, When perming came into the picture i was left to take care of my hair on my own.(BAD IDEA) now from all the perming and heat applied to my hair i have dramatically split ends, and my hair is like 3'' in the middle of my head and 8'' to 10'' around, my mom suggested cutting it off! WHAT DO I DO?

ANSWER: You're mom may be right (especially since she can see what's going on LOL). I believe split ends need to go. I think they make the hair shaft weak, and prone to breakage. Your measurements sound like a bob styling of sorts (3'' in the middle, and 8'' on the sides). Maybe it can be trimmed to a bob? Are you planning to relax your hair or grow out your unprocessed hair? No matter what's going on, try to get those ends taken care of and have someone help you with your protein/moisture. Here's a great post on transitioning hair care (moisture tips and avoiding breakage)!

2. What kind of products did you use on your hair during the transition? 
ANSWER: Every head of transitioning hair is different. There will be different needs due to porosity, hair health, and more. The products we used while transitioning can be considered moisture based. From our shampoos used to our stylers, we focused on continuously putting moisture back into our hair. Here's a link to the page where each product that we used (with success) are detailed.

3. What are some good tips to retain length while long term transitioning?

ANSWER: Here's a post that I wrote some months back, but it took me over a year to formulate this healthy hair care for length retention. The post shares "step by step" on how to retain length on fine/thin, delicate hair--but after a close look this hair regimen will work well for long term transitioning hair!

4. Question: how did she prevent breakage? How did she make it curly with the ends still relaxed? I'm also attempting to transition this way. I just don't know what to do besides gelling my hair into a ponytail.

ANSWER: T's natural texture is somewhat wavy (as opposed to my tightly coiled hair), so it wasn't too difficult to match up the relaxed texture with the curly texture once it grew out long. But in the beginning of her transition (around 3-6 months), it was difficult to manage the 2 textures. Here's a link to a comprehensive transitioning guide that may help avoid breakage, tangles,  ensure length retention, and give some direction for creating a texture that can be styled on.

5.  I think it's beautiful, but do you think her curls are looser due to heat styling? I want to know the effect heat will have on my hair..

Yes, she flat ironed (probably too much) during her transition. You can do it, but be safe. I wouldn't recommend the flat iron so much (maybe some roller sets). The thing is, you don't want to alter your curls even before you get to see them in the healthy, plush state. You may end up with limp, dry non-relaxed hair due to heat damage. Here's some info that we received from the National Center for Biotechnology Information in regards to the effects that heat can have on hair.

Whatever you decide, be sure to keep up with weekly deep conditions, trim ends as needed, lay down hairline with satin scarf if you're trying to get that "sleek look" without heat.

6. "Are there any tips to reduce shrinkage my hair shrinks horribly and i just wanna keep my hair looking the actual length then it looking really short" 
Braids and twists are well known to  stretch out coily hair. Bantu Knots (or little buns) also serve as a great stretching tool. Some people use the banding technique, where the hair is stretched into a ponytail (or a few), and scrunchies or hair bands are tied all the way down the length of the hair. These techniques work perfect on both transitioning and all natural hair. The basic idea of stretching is to elongate the coil--so this means that you can get creative with it, and use rollers, satin strips, and many other tools in order to stretch it out. 


 

Hair Length Boosting Kale Stir Fry Recipe: The Coily Hair Edition

Food For Healthy Hair Growth

We all know that products and hair care habits promote length. However, the absolute truth is that hair health is mostly from WITHIN. I can't get away with failing to mention this from time to time on a blog dedicated to healthy hair growth. I have a previous post on a combination of ingredients that are easily consumed on a daily basis--surefire hair growth assistance.

Within the 4 years that I've been natural (and keeping weekly logs of progress), I've had a chance to notice a few things. During the times that I've been active (cardio workouts especially), and my intake of water was increased, I've noticed nice spurts of hair growth. I also notice that during the times I've been consistent with consumption of daily greens such as spinach, kale, and others--my hair has a luster that needs no products. Now, I know that there are products that I use that ensure luster and shine, but hair health from within has a different "glow" to it.

Here's an easy recipe that allows for a quick add of green to the day:

2 handfuls of kale and or spinach
2 tablespoons of garlic
Chopped Onions to your liking
4 Cups of Cooked Brown Rice
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder

*Pretty much any veggies will go well chopped up in this stir fry.

Spinach, Kale, Brown Rice, Onions & Turmeric Stir Fry

I like to steam the kale/spinach for about 3 minutes after properly rinsing and chopping them up. I steam them in organic vegetable broth. Heat a wok with approximately 1 tablespoon of olive oil, add the garlic and onions, then the spinach/kale. Stir fry for about 1 minute, then add the brown rice while mixing in. Add Turmeric Powder. I love the color and taste that the turmeric gives. Season to taste (salt, pepper, paprika, etc). YUMMY!

DID YOU KNOW:

Both Kale and Spinach are high in vitamin C, and iron. Excellent anti-inflammatory food sources. Support collagen production (yeah skin), which is the foundation on which hair follicles rely. What I love most about kale and spinach is that they taste GREAT!

Garlic is often used topically (on the skin) to promote hair growth and minimize hair loss. Garlic has a high sulfur content, which is beneficial to hair.

Turmeric has so many benefits, I say do the research on this wonder plant. I buy it in powder form (organic of course), and sprinkle it on almost everything. It's an extreme anti inflammatory. It can be used as a natural hair dye. Some of the active components found in turmeric is said to aid in hair growth.

As with any changes in diet, it's always best to consult with your physician ahead of time. For anyone looking for that "quick fix", it's important to note that dietary changes (good or bad) are typically noticeable after a span of time. I love that when I am consistent with healthy eating habits, I see true, permanent results--as opposed to superficial (beauty industry) type results.

Do you have any hair healthy (which always benefits the body) recipes to share? Remember, SHARING IS CARING!

and as always,

---------------------------------------------------------------------------stay beautiful!

--tia

10 Minute Deep Moisture Infusion: NO Time to Deep Condition

10 MINUTE QUICK FIX FOR DRY, THIRSTY HAIR

There's really nothing good to be said about dry hair of any texture--but dry coily hair is almost impossible to style. Trying to style coily hair in it's dry state is basically asking for breakage, damage, tangles and knots. Worse yet, the end result is almost certain to be dull in color, and non-compliant in style.

There's many things that cause dry hair (sun, wind, temperature, products, hair-care, hats/scarves and many more). How many things can you think of that infuse a deep moisture?

The first thing on my mind is a good, effective deep conditioning treatment. But who has time for all of that? I don't often have 3 hours to carve out of my day for my hair. Even though, we are talking about a once a week or once every 10 days occurrence--I still can't guarantee to do a proper deep conditioning treatment. I might even just decide to be lazy and skip it all together, which has been the case on many instances.

I'm sure lots of people can relate, and thus the reason for this post.

During these times of skipping deep conditioning treatments, I refuse to rip out my hair. There are a few quick but deep moisture infusion treats that I have for my hair:

1. The oil rinse: Many curlies know about this wonderful hair treat! If you're not playing around with oil rinses, then you are definitely missing out. I've read lots of different ways that curly ladies do their oil rinse, and came up with my own quick version for an effective moisture locking treat. We know that oils do not provide moisture, but they work side by side with water in order to lock in moisture. I find that oils give my hair ends a great "slip" once it is properly saturated. HOW I DO MY OIL RINSE: After washing my hair with conditioner, I use warm water (not hot) to keep my hair cuticles raised. I squeeze out most of the water, and apply approximately 4 tablespoons of (olive oil) to 1/2 of my hair. I work that through from roots to ends, and then bun that side. Next, I do the same to the other half of my hair. While I am taking a shower, I let the steam from the shower do a quick steam treatment of this oil rinse. When I'm done showering, I release 1/2, and finger detangle, while I rinse with warm water. I find that this allows the oil to further spread and penetrate. Next, release the other bun and rinse with warm water. Lastly, I do a quick cold rinse of my whole head in order to close those cuticles and seal in this moisture infusion. This oil rinse, managed by the proper opening and closing of hair cuticles, is the perfect follow up to a conditioner wash. This treat has given me moisture for days--and takes me only about 15 minutes in the shower!
2. The Steam Treat: If I have an old braidout that I don't plan to wash and start from scratch, I will put on a shower cap, and catch some of the steam from my shower. The shower cap is almost certain to let in steam. If you want more moisture, just forget about the shower cap, jump in the shower and let the steam do it's work. I love to add oils after a good steam. From there, I will style. Styling usually lasts me about 2-3 days after a nice steam and oil treat.

For now, these are the 2 moisture treats that I turn to for a "quick fix" that's under 10 minutes! We're all super busy, but we don't have to walk around with frazzled looking hair. I don't believe that coily hair has to be dry. For every drying situation that your coils must endure, be sure to add back some deep infused moisture that will enable styling with ease, lustrous coils that will avoid breakage.

My favorite oils that I keep on stash are avocado oil, sweet almond oil, and for some reason I keep ordering hemp seed oil. Can't yet decide what the hemp seed oil will do for me, but I love to add it to my braidouts. Goes without mentioning....extra virgin olive oil!!!!





Until Next Time,
            ....................................................................................Stay Beautiful


tia.

The Permanent Fix to Dry Dull Falling Out Hair: Another Coily Hair Edition

When we first adopted this big baby, we were told to feed him only pebbles (dry dog food). I forget the name brand, but whatever it was--he wasn't having it. He refused to eat, and his bowl stayed untouched for days. Once in a while, he would eat 3 pebbles (just to stay alive). This went on for about 3 days, and we couldn't bear to see him walk around hungry. His veterinarian insisted that we "hold firm" until he realizes that he has to eat it--but we gave in. We started mixing some dry white rice in with his pebbles, and then he began to eat. During the time that he didn't eat, his beautiful fur that we love to run our hands through, became dry and brittle. It lost it's luster and was actually falling out! The picture shown above (in the grass) is the after-effects of him deciding not to eat his dry food. Dry, dull, falling out fur.

The picture to the right (on the carpet) is when he decides to be nice and eat. We are still mixing in rice and chicken with his dry food, but it's a good compromise. His hair is notably more shiny, lustrous, and is not falling out (besides the normal shedding).  Look at how quickly his malnourishment effected his hair health! We may not see our effects as quickly, but it definitely shows itself eventually. Reaching for that magic cure bottle in the beauty aisle is not going to be a permanent fix.

Jamba Juice vs Homemade Organic Ingredients

I'm told that the hair is one of the last to receive nourishment when the body is starving. Hair and nails are reportedly not as high in rank of importance as compared to the other major organs within the body. The body extremely complex, and knows very well how to take care of itself. However, it needs nourishment that we will get from our food. Eating foods that provide little to no nourishment are well known to deliver the same effect as not eating at all. The main difference is that eating vs not eating at all will definitely be the key to staying alive. But staying alive in WHAT condition?

This post serves to share my simple thought of the day. Diet and Hair are closely related. Diet effects the hair--good diet, bad diet, or no diet. When I use the term diet, I am referring to "what is consumed".  If your struggle is dry, damaged, breaking, falling hair, it would be wise to review what is being consumed, and you may find that adjustments are needed. Just Remember: it will not be a "quick fix", but it is typically a fix with substance. This means that it will serve the body well in addition to the hair, and the correction will not rinse out at your next wash day--because the repair is from within.

Although Jamba Juice is Quick, I Prefer My Blends (less sugar)

 A great place to start the search would be within the grocer's produce department. Are you getting enough leafy greens and colorful fruits? They provide most of the necessary vitamins and nutrients that the body requires to function at it's maximum capability. I love to blend fruits and veggies together to make a sweet and healthy shake for breakfast. That may not provide enough calories (which equals energy), so I may have that in addition to something a bit heavier.

Either way, take a lesson from Zodi the Big Baby, and don't starve your body of it's required nourishment. If that was the outcome for his hair, I can only imagine the strain that his organs were enduring! Don't forget to check with your doctor before starting any major changes to your food consumption. Everyone's needs are different, but one thing remains the same--nourishment is a must.
I may have decided to make changes to my eating habits mainly for my skin and hair....but one thing I notice is that my body has said "thanks".

For those of you that blend...........WHAT DO YOU THROW IN YOUR BLENDER???

SHARING IS CARING...................................................stay beautiful.     --tia

Curly Hair and Hops and Beer: The Coily Hair Edition

Styling After a Beer Rinse

Always ready to try something natural and new to put on my hair. Most of the time, I see the results right away! Check it, I LOVE putting liquefied avocado (blended with mayo and olive oil) on my hair. The immediate results are shine, define, condition, and long lasting moisture infusion.

Here, I played with beer. Yes, I said Beer! What's so natural about beer, you ask? Aside from any synthetic additions to this beverage, the basic ingredients of an average beer is water, malted barley, Brewers Yeast, and Hops (different regions will vary the sources of these basic beer ingredients--hence, the different beers such as Guinness, Pilsner, Heineken, etc).

What I hope to get from my beer (rinse):

I used a basic beer --one with less ingredients did me just fine. I also used a non-alcoholic beer (to eliminate alcohol's suspiciously drying nature). I used my beer as a rinse. What's the purpose of a rinse? Well, I consider a rinse to provide an immediate physical change. There's rinses that effect color (immediately), so this one I expect to provide quick coil definition, and luster.

I want to use the protein found in beer (about 1.7g in a regular can of beer). I want to use the Hops as an antibacterial/cleanser for my coils. Some say that the alcohol provides shine, works as a cleanser, and leaves hair soft--I say it may be drying, so my beer of choice was most def NON ALCOHOLIC.

 I want to use the brewers yeast as a cleanser. I remember when I was still 'trying' to breastfeed Dimples, my body wasn't producing enough milk. Despite me eating well, drinking lots of water, I wasn't proving to be a plentiful source of milk for the little one. Her doctor encouraged me to use brewers yeast (it comes in pill form) to encourage milk production. He even said that one beer a day would provide the necessary source of brewers yeast, and it wouldn't hurt the little one. That was just a side note on brewers yeast and it's natural presence in beer.

Well, well, well, isn't that everything that this coily haired Vixen (LOL) is always looking to achieve (each and every wash day).

Background History:
I've done a beer wash in the past. I remember getting nice coil definition. The beer rinse refreshed my coils. I think I used it after other products, though, so I can't really say what caused the coils to spring into action. This time around, I will use ONLY the beer (and my oils to seal). I currently have NO OTHER PRODUCTS on my hair but a mix of OILS. Sweet Almond Oil, Olive Oil, and Hemp Seed Oil. That's fine, because I will never go without oils on my hair if I have anything to do with the matter.


RESULTS:
 Long Story Short. Love it. Immediate coil springage. Great foundation for most styling options (braidouts, twists outs, wash n go's). 
Not so sure about using the beer rinse before a flat iron or blow dry session. I will only do the beer rinse with oil (when did I put oils? Before the rinse and after the rinse). I am an oil fanatic. There's never a bad time for oils.

Hmm, I wonder what my next post will be about.........



t.i.a.

Accessories For Textured Hair: The Coily Hair Edition

  Hair accessories really do add a "spin" on the typical day to day styling options. In my accessory drawer, I have lots of broken banana clips, 2 flexi 8 barrettes (LOVE THEM), and some hair combs (those little ones that pull back thick hair nicely). I also have lots of bobby pins, a few interesting headbands, lots of scunci's to put my hair in ponytails. These are all great, but they scream "regular hair day".

Nothing says "celeb" hair day like hair jewelry. I love these chain/comb hair jewelry pieces because you can do so much with them. I'm still experimenting, but so far so good. They are really just adornments and for eye candy only because they definitely don't hold back thick, coily hair well. They simply just stick in and stay.
Here, I played with it on Dimples--she loved it. I haven't had the chance to wear it yet, but I plan to--and will post. When I put this up on Our Facebook Page,  we got lots of questions about the item. I didn't recall where (specifically) I had gotten this, but I recently found another source to purchase it (will link it below).

The USUAL HEADBAND LOL!

Imagine Placing this atop a Twistout!

 I love the flexi 8 because it holds lots of hair--exactly where you want it to stay. Friday I just let my hair do whatever it planned to do, so here I used the flexi 8 to put it off to the side some. Just a very whimsical, carefree look.

I'm always on Amazon looking for an eye-catching piece of hair jewelry that I won't normally find at the mall. The prices are right, and there are a few pieces that are great quality and hand made craftmanship. Some of the pieces that I love are linked in this post!

Which hair jewelry pieces do you use? Remember, sharing is caring LOL!

------------------------------as usual, stay beautiful! --------tia

What to Expect From Cassia Obovata: The Coily Hair Edition

One thing that I used to LOVE to do with my weekend was to spend time pampering my hair. If I wasn't doing a deep conditioning treatment, I was doing small sized two strand twists or steam treatments. These days, I'm extra lazy to do my hair. Today (Sunday), I decided to break open a 200g  bag of Cassia Obovata (colorless Henna), and deep condition treat my hair and both of the girls (T and Dimples). They're always ready for a spa day. We took time out to do clay mask (bentonite) face treatments, and honey masks as well.

We're looking forward to a week of soft, tangle free, well moisturized hair. We will probably do styles like twist-outs, braid outs, and or wash n go's (between the three of us).

CASSIA PREPARATION:
I mixed our Cassia Treatment with about 1/2 cup of Tresemme Naturals conditioner, 3 tablespoons of Hemp Seed Oil, 1/3 cup of Extra Virgin Olive Oil, and 1/4 cup of Aloe Vera Gel. It made enough to finish up all three of our hair (I had to skimp on T's treatment a bit).

Before I applied the Cassia Treatments, I spritzed a mixture of apple cider Vinegar and water (2 tablespoons ACV, and 1 ounce water). We let that spray mixture sit on our hair for about 10 minutes before rinsing. That step was to clarify our hair strands. I wanted to make sure that any and all product build-up was removed, without causing dryness.

I expect that this level of deep conditioning could last all week (if drying products are not put on the hair...mineral oil, blow drying or flat iron, etc). I hope to only have to add water from time to time in order to re-activate the deep conditioner effects. 

3 HOURS LATER....
We took off the cotton t shirts that we used to secure some body heat with. Underneath that we had plastic shower caps. We used those 2 together in order to trap the heat from our body and help the conditioner work it's magic. I had placed our hair into sections and had mini buns throughout during the conditioning process. The ends were tucked under each mini bun. We began by pulling down each section and working with the hair 1/2 of the head at a time. Rinsing with warm/hot water, while using fingers to massage the scalp and work the Cassia through, we began the long journey to removing the "debris".  

The Cassia takes lots of time to remove from the roots and hair shaft. It's best to use warm water to start the rinse. Next, we put some conditioner (preferably all natural) on each section of the hair and continued to rinse. The conditioner (and oils) helps to make it easier to remove the Cassia. "T" finds that it's also easy to remove the Cassia by brushing it out while under running water with conditioner on the hair. We love to use paddle brushes with soft rubber tips (the Goody Finisher brush Listed in our Favorites to the right of this post). It took about 20 minutes (each person) to remove all of the Cassia from our hair.

Put on your sunglasses before checking out these pictures.

Lots of shine and define from the Cassia Conditioning Treatment.

THREE DAYS LATER....
For about days 1, 2 and 3 we had great shine, define, softness and pliability. By day four, though, we each found that the wonderful effects of the Cassia Deep Treatment wore off. I was surprised. I expected it to last well into 1 week. T tried a braid-out, but didn't braid up her roots--so her hair didn't "lay down" the way she likes. That's why she did her trust ponytail. But you can see that her hair is very shiny and full of lush curls. Dimple and I did our trusty braid-out. The definition and shine was pretty extreme.

One thing that seems to be long lasting with this treatment is the strengthening. It seems to have provided a bit of strength to the strands, which is great for anyone who is experiencing breakage, lots of shedding, or unusually fine hair.

All in all, it was a relaxing day with the girls, a few great mornings with lustrous, shiny hair that responded to our styling choices. It put our hair in the right direction for future coily styling options, thus minimizing frizzy days. Isn't that a major goal for every coily girl? Minimal frizz, lots of shine!

We want to hear from you if you've tried any wonderful and natural hair conditioning treatments. Sharing is Caring!  ---------------------------As Always, Stay Beautiful   .tia

Pros & Cons of The Blow Out/Braidout: Coily Hair Edition

Last week, I had this great revelation about how to get maximum stretch from my braidout, without sacrificing definition. I mapped out everything from technique to product. The picture on the right is what the outcome was, but this story has just begun. Those of you interested in achieving maximum length, high definition, with a long lasting braidout, then this post may be just for you.

WHAT I DID:

1. Cleansed hair and scalp with Amla Paste Wash.
2. Conditioned with Tresemme Naturals Conditioner.
3. Did an oil rinse, with a mix of Olive Oil & Sweet almond Oil (extremely beneficial).
4. Get rid of excess water with micro-fiber towel, and air drying.
5. Brush through heat protectant (Shea Moisture Brand)
6. Blow Dried (to about 90% dry, in sections), then braided up the dry sections (had about 6-8 braids when done). You don't want to get rid of ALL of the hair's texture. You will need some texture.

So now there I was with about 8 blow dried braids that had maximum length. Next, I would release a braid, and braid that into 2 separate braids. That means 8 braids turned into 16 braids (which laid even longer). The products that I placed on each section prior to braiding were strategically planned to provide strong hold, and high moisture (all without reverting the hair). That proved to be a tough task.

PRODUCTS USED

1. Loreal Eversleek smoothing system (boasts "humidity defying")
2. Giovanni Wicked Pomade (for hold)
3. Sweet Almond Oil (for shine and to lock in moisture)

THE OUTCOME:

Well, for about 1 hour, I had maximum length, really soft, great definition, nice shine, and great moisture. Then I went out to dinner with a bunch of friends to the Melting Pot. For those of you that don't know, the Melting Pot is the absolute test for true endurance of this technique and these products.

  It's a fondue restaurant, where you skewer your own food and place into a heated pot of steaming oil right in front of you. Needless to say, the steam was blowing right in my direction, while 3 of my friends watched it rise to a huge Afro. Side Note: My fellow sisters with naturally curly hair were sitting next to me, and they watched my hair rise with amused looks. Meanwhile, across the table from me, 3 blond haired women commented on how much bigger my hair had gotten, and how they loved it. Typically, I only concern myself with my opinion, but since I didn't have a mirror, I put my Dr Jekyll/Mr Hyde hair into a side braid (bad idea). 

Lesson Learned: Don't go trying a new technique and a bunch of new products out when you have somewhere to go.

WHAT I DID LEARN ABOUT A BLOW DRY/BRAIDOUT:

You will be shocked to find this out (if you didn't already know). Don't be afraid to spritz water on blow dried hair when looking to do a defined texture! It's not easily reverted once it has been blow dried straight. The water is needed in order to "set" the texture (braidout/twistout).

So after that night's hair episode, the days following that, I decided to spritz my hair with water, and re-braid. The outcome was soft, well defined, moisturized braidout with lots of definition, shine, and length. Due to the stronger definition, a little bit of length was lost, but my hair still hung down the upper part of my back. I wish that I had taken pictures, but I was so busy that I forgot. I recall getting a lot of questions like "is that your hair?", and "I love your hair"...definitely wish that I had captured that on camera!

WOULD I CHOOSE TO BLOW DRY MY HAIR FOR A BRAIDOUT AGAIN?

Not really. The end result can be achieved without heat. Each day, a braidout can be lengthened by braiding on top of the previous textured hair (in smaller sections). This would provide a longer, high textured braidout. Usually, by day 4, the hair is stretched to the maximum.

Manually Stretched/Braidout

Blown Out/Braid Out

What's your favorite braidout style? Fluffy and Big, or Laid Down flat, and Long? I truly love the versatility of coily hair.