Search Results: Evelyn
Many curlies are concerned about using silicone products for fear of washing their curls out with a harsh sulfate shampoo. Silicones can get a bad rap because they can create buildup on the scalp, weigh it down, or make it become dry and oily. Over the years we’ve seen a reduction in hair care products containing silicones, but some people generally love them.
Many curlies have found that they can reasonably tolerate a couple of cones without buildup: amodimethicone and dimethicone. Silicones can create softness, shine, and help with detangling, which is why some curlies still swear by using products that contain them.
We’ve put together a list of CurlTalkers’ Recommendations for conditioners that contain one or the other of these cones but not others.
1. Garnier Fructis Sleek and Shine Leave-in
2. Mixed Chicks Leave-In
3. Herbal Essences Long-Term Relationship
4. TIGI Bed Head Self Absorbed Conditioner
5. Herbal Essences Totally Twisted Curl Boosting Mousse
6. Ouidad Moisture Lock Curl Butter
7. Miss Jessie’s Creme de la Creme
8. Dove Hair Therapy Conditioner for Dry Scalp
9. Yes to Carrots Scalp Relief Conditioner
10. Beyond the Zone Noodle Head Soften Your Curls Curly Hair Conditioner
If you get to feeling like you’ve got build up, regardless of what products you’re using, try these natural cleansing methods: baking soda or apple cider vinegar rinse — both work to remove dirt and build up.
If silicones aren’t your style, check out 20 Silicone Free Curl Styling Products that you can shop today!
Photo by Brio Photography
Bantu knots and the resulting bantu knot out are my favorite hairstyle! Any hair type or texture can do bantu knots – for some, it’ll create looser waves, and for others it will have a cute “curly q” effect with a head of tight, springy curls. Since it totally changes the look and curl of your hair, it’s perfect to do on day 3 hair to change up your look mid-week. To do this style, follow these step-by-step instructions:
How to Set Bantu Knots
Divide into manageable sections
Those with longer hair need fewer sections. Also, the curlier you want the bantu knot out to be, the more sections you want. It’ll take some trial and error, but to start, use the same number of sections you usually use to apply gels or do twist outs.
Moisturize
Whether it’s a simple spritz of water and yummy oils or a complete co-wash, hydrate your coils! It makes it more pliable and it will hold the shape of the bantu knot better.
This is optional, as some naturally curlies don’t use hair tools, or your hair may simple be very stretched or tangle-free already. This step is just to ensure you get a smooth, shiny curl and that your ends look neat. Hair should just be damp, not sopping wet. Otherwise, it will take forever to dry!
Apply a styler or curl cream
I suggest something with medium hold, because crunchy bantu knots are a pain to fluff out the next day! Smooth the product down from root to tip.
Here are some styler suggestions:
- Soultanicals Can’t Believe It’s Knot Butta
- Camille Rose Naturals Aloe Whipped Butter Gel
- As I Am Curling Jelly Coil & Curl Definer
Roll-twist each section of hair and wind it on top of itself
The goal is to create tiny buns (they’re not really “knots””> on top of your head a la Lauryn Hill or Scary Spice from the Spice Girls. Once you get to the end of the rolled section, you can tuck it under the bantu knot and the pressure should keep it in place. If not, use a bobby pin or hair pin to keep it from unraveling.
How to Style Bantu Knots
Photo by Brio Photography
At this point, you have a choice. You can wear the bantu knots as a style themselves or you can blowdry or sit under a dryer to set the style immediately. I usually do this style at night, and by morning it’s air-dried.
The Take Down
Lightly lubricate your hands with your favorite oil or anti-humidity serum. This will prevent frizz if you’re a bit rough taking down the bantu knots.
Gently unravel each bantu knot.
Separate each section and fluff. Try not to cause frizz by constantly pulling apart each section, but manipulate the hair enough to cover the parts in your hair. Some people use an afro pick to lift the roots and hide the parts. If you have a looser texture, just run your hands through your roots and stop when you get to the curl formation.
You’re done! Enjoy your new ‘do!
Read More:
Our Favorite Bantu Knot OutsThis article was originally published in 2012 and has been updated for grammar and clarity.
Image: @iknowleee
Coloring curly hair is like caring for a baby’s skin.
Type 4 hair is versatile in many ways—certain products and styles, such as twists or braids, can achieve different curl patterns, from tight coils to waves and anywhere in between. Experimenting with these techniques is part of the naturally curly experience, but sometimes what you really crave is a burst of color, right?
Dyeing any type of hair may involve a chemical process that should be taken seriously. Fortunately, there are many ways to ensure that your new color comes out right, and the health of your hair stays intact.
Permanent vs. Temporary Hair Color
There are 3 main types of color—permanent, semi or demi permanent, and temporary.
Permanent color requires the hair cuticle to be lifted and alters the proteins that give us our natural hair color. Temporary color, on the other hand, puts a layer of color on top of the hair strand. These are usually sold as “rinses,” and will fade with several shampoos.
Coloring hair has less to do with texture (coarse, fine, etc.”> and more to do with porosity. Porosity is the hair’s ability to hold and retain moisture. So not only do the layers of your cuticle have to lift to let color/moisture in, they have to close back down to keep it in.
Coloring hair has less to do with texture (coarse, fine, etc.”> and more to do with porosity.
Titi Branch, Co-Founder of Miss Jessie’s, told NaturallyCurly, “A cuticle that is rougher (kinkier textures”> is actually more porous and more likely to take color faster. Wavier textures tend to have a smoother cuticle (and are more likely to be more resistant to color”> unless there has been some chemical processing to cause a looser curl pattern to be more porous.”
“Coloring curly hair is like caring for a baby’s skin. Curly hair is more fragile and requires more moisture than other hair textures. It is healthiest when lifted/lightened no more than 3 levels,” says stylist Nicola Forbes Martin, an educator atDesign Essentials. “Remember, slow and steady wins the race when coloring curly hair.”
While it’s true that coily hair can be more porous, which is good for retaining color, hair can also be overly porous—the cuticle’s layers don’t close back tight enough to hold moisture in. This means extremely dry hair. Remember! Different porosity, texture, curl pattern are something we have naturally. Learn to maintain, not complain.
Which is right for you?
What color do you want? Beach blond? Auburn? Red? If your hair is naturally dark, coloring hair very light is “always a risk,” according to Branch.
Hair must be bleached, meaning a chemical (usually ammonia”> will “decolorize” the hair, then add the lighter color to the “blank slate.” This is pure chemistry. Professional expertise is advised.
“Hair that is dark typically bleaches to an orange or yellow stage, which is usually unflattering. The colorist must have a grasp of color theory to know what colors to deposit on hair to remove the unwanted yellow or orange tone,” Branch says.
But if you want to go with a color that is less drastic, there’s always the do-it-yourself store-bought color. Do-it-yourself jobs should really only be for temporary rinses and semi-permanent color. Regardless, read and follow the instructions to the tee. Just like you wouldn’t disregard instructions for a major reconstructive protein treatment, you shouldn’t ignore box directions.
Before You Color
- Test a strand!
- Dyeing to a very light color? Go to a professional.
- If you don’t know how a color will look, set up a color consultation. Take a picture with you.
- Be sure to have a deep conditioner on hand for after-color care
Deep condition after any permanent chemical dye. Coloring means opening up those hair cuticles—make sure they close back down! Bear in mind permanent color is not for everyone, Branch says. Chemicals will only further damage dry, over-porous hair.
Image: istock
Natural alternatives to hair color
Dyes with harsh chemicals are not the only option if you want colorful tresses. Buy box (or ask your stylist if he/she uses”> dyes without ammonia or PPD. Not only can they damage your hair over time, but some are allergic to PPD.
There are also natural alternatives, such as henna.
You may have seen henna used as body art on the hands, but it can also be used as a hair color. Henna is a plant native to subtropical regions of Africa, Southeast Asia, and Australia. It’s already been used for centuries as a way to add color to skin and hair.
Henna should be available at any African or Asian ethnic market, but you can order it online as well. Just like ordering anything organic or natural, be cautious of what you’re purchasing. “Body Art Quality Henna” is what you’re looking for. Otherwise, there could be other chemicals/pigments added that will alter your henna experience. The amount of henna to use depends on the thickness and length of your hair. Start with 100 g to be safe, or ask a natural stylist what she would recommend.
It will come as a powder, and must be made into a paste for hair application. Henna gives a red tint to hair. But for dark hair, it will simply give a delicate red highlight you can see in the sunlight. Though it adds reddish tint, the paste itself is not red at all! This is normal! If the package claims to color hair blonde or black, it is not natural henna.
Hair Henna Recipe
Henna is also said to provide a deep conditioning treatment. Some say it “loosens up the curl.” Everyone’s experience will be different.
You will need:
- mixing bowl
- plastic wrap
- spoon/spatula
- water
- lemon or lime juice
- package of henna
- a shower cap
Directions
- Mix henna, 1 cup water and lemon/lime juice into a thick paste, like toothpaste or cake frosting. The citrus activates the natural dye.
- Cover mixture with plastic wrap and let sit until you see a physical difference in the color (overnight, to be safe — maybe 24 hours”>. It may change from a greenish to a browner color.
- Next day, on damp, freshly washed/detangled hair, apply henna to hair. It helps if you section off the hair. Smooth it, don’t comb it, through the hair. Like, dare I say, applying a relaxer…
- Put a shower cap tightly around your hair (if your ‘fro is larger, plastic wrap may be necessary as well”>. Leave on for 4 hours.
- Rinse out. This may take a while, since henna is thick and weighs the hair down. There’s potential for a mess! Take your time—maybe just let the water run over your hair first, then methodically rinse it out.
Coloring hair definitely has an effect on the moisture protein balance because with permanent color a chemical reaction is taking place inside the strand weakening the cuticle layer causing the hair to be more porous. The more porous the quicker your hair absorbs moisture. If it’s too porous the hair doesn’t retain any moisture and remains dry to the touch. This is always a risk with coloring hair.
Extend your color
Since we love it when our hair grows and prospers, what about touch-ups?
“As far as color maintenance, luckily for us curlies we don’t feel the pressure to retouch a root as quickly as our straighter haired counterparts,” Branch says. As our natural color grows in—because the strand is growing from the root in a curly formation—it takes a longer time for that natural root color to be exposed, thereby extending the time that we need a root touch-up, she adds.
To extend the life of your color, don’t use sulfate shampoos—it will strip the hair more easily. Try any moisture-rich, sulfate-free shampoo.
“When curly or kinky hair is colored properly nothing could be more beautiful,” Titi said. “The way a curl is accented with the addition of color is simply stunning. Is coloring good for your hair? No. But does it make it look good? Absolutely.”
The possibilities are endless with hair color. Just prioritize healthy hair over “hip” hair. And ask a professional!
Wanna take your ‘fro to new heights? Try a natural hair blow out! Using a blow dryer with a comb attachment will stretch out your coils and show off more of your length. You can rock it as is, or style it for a larger, longer version of your staple styles.
Everyone’s technique for blowouts is different — it depends on the how long your hair is, how textured it is, and how much shrinkage you’d be trying to stretch out. My hair shrinks to about one-third of its real length, so my blowout process requires a bit of hard work
I recommended oils that have a very high smoke point, and can withstand high temperatures without frying your hair!
Read more: Why Oil Doesn’t Work As a Good Heat Protectant
Essential Blowout Tools
- Blow dryer with comb attachment
- Butterfly or duck bill clips
- Heat protectant
Watch my “creative solutions” for making my blowout work and hear my thoughts on what life as a natural is really like.
Blowout Tips
Before
Ideally, a blowout is done on freshly washed, conditioned, and detangled hair. That will cut down the time needed to comb it dry. The less time exposed to heat, the better, because while this style can be pretty fabulous (you’ll definitely get compliments…or at least comments”>, heat can really damage fragile hair.
Heat protect
Excessive heat on the hair can (1″> weaken and destroy the hair proteins (2″> change the natural oils in hair that help hold it together (3″> dry up internal moisture of the strand. To prevent heat damage, you’ll need a heat protectant. While some products are labeled ‘heat protectant,’ any product that coats the hair before you apply heat is essentially protecting the strands from damage. You can start by giving your washed and detangled hair a deep conditioning treatment.
Related: Top 10 Products for Your Best Blowout
After that, divide your hair into manageable sections. Personally, I detangle, shampoo, and deep condition my hair in two-strand twists, so my hair is never really loose anyway during the process. I grab a twist to start and clip the rest back.
Undo the twist and run a bit of your heat protectant from root to tip, focusing on the ends, which are the oldest and weakest part of your hair. If using a spray, don’t saturate the hair—it’ll leave a sticky feeling and will make the hair too wet to blow dry quickly and efficiently. Using medium heat (because using cool would take forever on my length and curl pattern”>, run the comb attachment through your hair just like you would a wide-toothed comb — gently and from root to tip, working your way up. Continue with the other twists/sections.
For blowouts, you’re looking to stretch the hair, like a huge undefined twist out. Blow it out too much, and it may look more like you’ve passed a flat iron over it. Many people actually blow out their hair before flat ironing it. So just stop when you’ve reach your desired fro!
The result should be fluffy, soft, huge hair! Questions? Comments? Talk to me below!
This article was originally published in December 2010 and has been updated for grammar and clarity.
Perusing the thousands of YouTube videos about natural hair, I’ve stumbled upon many mixtures and concoctions, all using ingredients found in the fridge or pantry. “Great,” I thought, “No more trips to the store — no more product junkie!”
I was so eager to try the first thing that promoted soft hair or springy coils. But what I failed to do was research exactly what I was putting into my hair, and how my hair would react. We have to dive a little into chemistry and biology to truly understand why our hair reacts the way it does, no matter if the ingredient is “natural” or good enough to eat.
First up is the baking soda shampoo and conditioner mix. Is it actually good for our hair? Why or not? After receiving lackluster results, I decided to find out.
Many naturals have promoted baking soda because it cleanses the hair as a shampoo and softens the hair as a conditioner. Some have even promoted it as something to loosen the curl pattern.
It’s all about the pH
Many naturals have promoted baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, as an ingredient that cleanses the hair as a shampoo and softens the hair as a conditioner. Some have even promoted it as something to loosen the curl pattern.
Baking soda is in fact, a chemical, so to understand its effects on our hair, we need to understand its pH. If you think back to good ol’ high school chemistry, pH ranges from 0–14, acid to base (alkaline”>. If something is an acid, it has more hydrogen ions. If something is alkaline, it has more hydroxide ions. A neutral pH is 7.0—the pH of distilled water.
A common example of an acid is lemon juice, with a pH of 2 or 3. Sodium hydroxide, the chemical used in lye relaxers for hair, is extremely alkaline with a pH of 14 (yikes!”>.
Our hair, when wet, has a pH of about 4.5-5.5. As you can see, human hair is slightly acidic when in its natural state. When applying products to our hair, the key is BALANCE. For our hair to stay natural and healthy, the pH must remain the same. Even the water we use in the shower will raise the pH of our hair! This is why hair products are usually pH balanced. The company takes pH into consideration when creating the product.
What baking soda actually does to your hair
With this newfound respect for balance, here is the most important piece of information. Baking soda, the product I was putting in my hair, has a whopping pH of 9.0! It was raising the pH of my hair! The fact that something is acidic or alkaline is more than just a label. It actually affects our strands in a certain way.
Picture each strand of hair as a tube of layers. The outermost layer is called the cuticle. An acid will close the cuticle layers, while a base will open them. Neither action is bad on its own. But once again, balance is key.
When the cuticle is raised, moisture is allowed into the hair, but it is also let out. If something isn’t done to close the cuticle back up, any moisture that was applied is lost. Things like temperature even affect the hair cuticle. For example, hot water opens the cuticle, while cold water shocks it shut. That is why most naturals shampoo their hair with warm water, but rinse the conditioner out with cold.
So, alkalines open the cuticle, while acids close it. Baking soda mixtures like the rinse and conditioner will cause our hair to absorb too much water (yes there is such a thing as too much moisture!”>. Without anything to lower the pH of our hair back to normal 4.5- 5.5 and close those layers, the moisture will not be retained. As a result, those layers will stay raised and jagged, making the hair feel rough and unmanageable.
How to find the balance
If you have tried the baking soda mixtures, you probably noticed the grittiness of the concoction. On the molecular level, baking soda is actual quite abrasive. After all, we use it to scrub the grime off our pots and pans, right?
When we use it for heavy cleaning, we are also taking advantage of its absorbency. In fact, our straight-haired friends can use it as a dry shampoo. Applied to the roots, it soaks up the oil that visibly travels down the strands of a straight hair.
This led me to question: if it is used to soak up oily hair, how is it possible that it would benefit my coily, dry 4b hair? I admit, this would be a good strong cleanser after a protective style like kinky-twist extensions. But that’s when I haven’t been able to wash my hair for 2 months!
I thought back to my experience with the baking soda conditioner. It is important to note that the mixture did consist of my favorite store-bought conditioner, so the pH was probably not as alkaline as pure baking soda. Nonetheless, the goal of our hair products should be to leave the pH of our hair balanced, or at least move it in the acidic direction where it belongs, so the cuticle will lie flat, locking precious moisture in.
According to my research and experience, the curlier/kinkier the hair, the more beneficial it would be to just leave this product in your pantry.
Do It Yourself
If you’re looking to see how baking soda affects your hair, try one of these DIY recipes and tell us how it goes!
Baking Soda Rinse
- ½ cup baking soda
- 1 cup warm water
Allow to dissolve, and apply to scalp and hair. Massage. Can be used after regular shampooing or in place of it.
Baking Soda Conditioner
- ½ cup baking soda
- 1 cup of your favorite conditioner
Mix thoroughly and smooth onto hair. let sit with shower cap for 15-20 minutes. Rinse.
Looking for a product that will define your natural curl pattern?
There are so many gels, custards and curl creams, that it can be confusing and frustrating to find the right one, so we’ve put together a list of our favorite top curl definers. If you test any of these products out please remember: no two heads of hair are the same, even if they fall in the same curl category. What works for thin 4b hair may not work for thick 4b hair, and what you thought wouldn’t work on your hair texture may turn out to be a Holy Grail!
And keep reading for more information about each product.
1. Tigi Catwalk Curlesque Curls Rock Amplifier
Tigi’s Curls Rock Amplifier has the texture of a creamy hair lotion. Curlies with different curl patterns love it and agree on one thing: you only need about a pea-sized amount to get defined hair. If you apply too much to each section, expect crunchy curls! Make sure to use your favorite leave-in conditioner underneath so the styler doesn’t dry out your hair.
2. Kinky-Curly Curling Custard
Most naturals tell us that Kinky-Curly Curling Custard is a tough product to master. It’s full of nourishing botanicals like agave nectar extract, aloe vera juice and marshmallow, and has a very slippery and goopy texture. A little goes a long way, as it instantly clumps and smoothes your coils. Expect extremely shiny and springy coils. Although it works best on very tight, coarse coils in the “4” category, it might pack too much of a punch for loose curls. Be sure to pair it with a leave in conditioner like Kinky-Curly Knot Today.
3. Ouidad Curl Quencher Moisturizing Gel
The Ouidad brand is on many a holy grail list and it’s because their products don’t make you choose between defined and moisturized hair – you can have both! Meadowfoam seed oil helps hydrate and clump, leaving you with juicy curls. Ouidad Curl Quencher Moisturizing Gel is great for thick Type 3 curls.
4. Shea Moisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie
It’s dense, rich, and packed with nourishing ingredients like aloe, vitamin E, and coconut oil. If you don’t like the crunch of gels, Shea Moisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie provides a more natural, touchable look. Since it’s not a gel, it might be difficult to define tighter coils and springs. Those with looser curls can expect soft, shiny, and light curls instead of the wet, heavy look that gels might give.
5. AG Re:coil
Re:coil is a creamy, lightweight frizz fighter. Those who’ve had great results gush about bouncy, shiny, carefree curls. Those who had to pass said it wasn’t heavy enough for coarser hair textures. In humid months, use it under your favorite gel to keep the frizzies at bay. As it gets colder, it’s great as a standalone product.
6. Curly Hair Solutions Curl Keeper
Curly Hair Solutions Curl Keeper is a water-based styler fights frizz and gently clumps curls, so those with thick, 3b and up hair may want to pair it with a gel for more definition and hold. It’s smooth like a serum, but creates definition like a gel. If you don’t like layering products or it doesn’t take much to define your waves or curls, give Curl Keeper a try. You can reactivate it with water as the week progresses!
7. Miss Jessie’s Quick Curls
Give Quick Curls a try if you have waves and loose curls or fine, thin curlier hair. It’s a light cream, so it won’t weigh down your hair. If your hair regimen has more scrunching than meticulous raking and finger styling, your hair might love this product.
8. Curl Junkie Coffee-Coco Curl Creme
Curl Junkie Coffee-Coco Curl Creme combines the moisturizing benefits of a leave-in conditioner with the smoothing and holding properties of a gel. It’s lighter than dense creams or stiff gels, and can act as your leave-in and styler in one! Those with 3c-4a hair seem to love this product. Give it a try if you want a light, bouncy wash and go.
9. Miss Jessie’s Curly Meringue
A lot thicker than Quick Curls, Miss Jessie’s Curly Meringue is meant for dense, thick heads of highly textured hair! The Miss Jessie’s website says this medium hold styling cream is perfect for “pogo stick oingy boingy curls”. Rake and smooth it onto your hair section by section and watch the curls bounce back!
10. Curls Curl Gel-les’C
Curls Curl Gel-les’C is a very lightweight, serum-like gel, perfect for preventing frizz on looser curls and defining fine (as opposed to coarse”>, tight coils. If you need high hold and staying power, this might be better to use on top of a conventional gel.
What’s your favorite curl defining product?
[prodmod]This article was originally published in August 2010 and has been updated for grammar and clarity.
The more we embrace our natural texture, the more we learn that organic and natural hair products work best. There are hundreds of ingredients found in nature that can be used in hair products. Healthy ingredients aren’t for textured hair alone! These ingredients work to make everybody’s hair healthier. Below is a list of ten popular ingredients in natural hair products and what they provide for our hair.
Natural Hair Product Ingredients
1. Shea Butter:
High in fatty acids, shea butter is an emollient — meaning it provides a layer of oil on top of the surface of a hair strand, significantly reducing the amount of moisture (water”> lost. This is what Naturally Curly girls mean when using products like this to “seal” their hair.
2. Coconut Oil:
Many natural hair products contain coconut oil, another emollient perfect for sealing moisture into the hair. Coconut oil provides both shine and strength to locks, making it a popular ingredient for naturals.
Coconut oil can also be used as a leave-in conditioner for for thicker textured hair. Because the natural hair oils have difficulty sliding down the curls, you’ll need to use an abundant amount of coconut oil.
3. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera can be used to promote hair growth, stop hair loss and treat scalp problems. The easiest way to use aloe vera is to mix some aloe vera gel into your shampoo or conditioner.
You can also apply aloe vera gel into your scalp and gently massage it in before rinsing it off. You should notice an improvement in the condition of your scalp and hair in about two to three months. Make sure to leave the aloe gel or juice on for at least two hours before rinsing or washing your hair. This treatment also works to promote hair growth, since aloe vera contains an enzyme that stimulates hair follicles.
MORE: Relax With Aloe Vera
4. Vegetable Glycerin
Natural Hair products containing vegetable glycerine act as strong humectants—meaning, they attract and bind water to themselves. Vegetable glycerine also creates a layer of oil over the hair strand, thus aiding in the retention of moisture. Try combining it with aloe vera juice to create an even better moisture spritz!
5. Jojoba Extract
Jojoba is another humectant perfect for adding to damaged ends. Because it is very similar to your natural hair oils, jojoba oil can be used to balance oil production at the scalp, aiding overproducing glands that cause oily hair. Jojoba is also non-greasy and will give your hair a healthy, natural shine.
MORE: The Beauty of Jojoba
6. Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO”> is an emollient that seals and softens the hair. The “extra virgin” on a label means it was produced using only physical means (no machines involved”> and has no chemical treatment to alter it. Use it as a quick pre-shampoo or a deep conditioner.
MORE: Using Olive Oil for Hair
7. Castor Seed Oil
Not only is this vegetable oil a humectant, castor oil also has anti-fungal properties. This will ensure a clean scalp, with the hair follicles clear and prepared for better hair growth. Some apply it to the temples to increase the thickness of thinning edges.
8. Honey
Honey is a light humectant that also has antibacterial properties. Check out Oyin Handmade products! They use tons of oyin (the Yoruba word for “honey””> in their sweet hair treats.
9. Avocado/Avocado Oil
Many natural hair products use avocado since it’s packed with vitamins A, D, E, and contains more potassium than bananas. Easily absorbed into the skin, avocado oil is a quick way to get multiple nutrients onto your scalp for improved hair growth.
10. Tea Tree Oil
With potent antiseptic, antibacterial and anti-fungal properties, tea tree oil is a soothing remedy to a dry scalp. It is an essential (concentrated”> oil, so a little goes a VERY long way. Over-application of a potent essential oil may actually cause irritation.
As many of these ingredients are indigenous to other countries, we strongly suggests buying these products “fair trade,” where the people who make the product from harvest to packaging are paid fair wages!
Organic and unrefined versions of these ingredients work best and ensure the retention of nutrients.
What are some of YOUR favorite ingredients in natural hair products?
Image: istockphoto
Want to go natural without doing the Big Chop? Transitioning to natural hair is a simple process of growing out your natural texture before cutting off the processed or damaged ends.
1. Don’t set a time just yet
You don’t have to know when you’ll rock your 100% natural hair right away! Give yourself about 4 months — by then, you should have enough growth to get excited!
More: Curly Hair Growth Chart
2. Find your go-to transitioning style
The goal is to blend two VERY different textures of hair into one. Try a bantu knot out or a natural girl’s favorite: the twist out. These stretched styles will help make your two different textures have a unified curl pattern.
3. Detangle when hair is wet
Always detangle when your hair is wet and slippery with conditioner using a wide-toothed comb or your fingers. Start at the ends and work your way up. This process takes patience, so only attempt this when you have the time to be gentle with your hair – rushing can lead to frustration and breakage.
More: How to Detangle Coily Hair
4. Keep your scalp clean
You’ll have to do some experimenting, but cleanse your scalp anywhere from every two days to every two weeks.
5. Keep your hair moisturized
Dry hair breaks. Nothing beats water when it comes to moisturizing hair, but you can also add your favorite moisturizing natural hair products on top to seal it in.
More: 9 of the Best Moisturizers for Transitioning Hair
6. Get used to deep conditioning
Hair masks are no longer a special treat! Naturally curly hair usually doesn’t lack protein, so stick with deep moisturizing treatments.
More: Top 10 Deep Conditioners for Transitioning Hair
7. Wind down your heat usage
No need for a blow dryer or flat iron any more. Try air drying all of your styles instead.
More: How to Dry Curly Hair
8. Protect your edges
Avoid transitioning styles that put too much tension on your temples and the nape of your neck. The hair there is usually finer, thinner and more delicate!
9. Be gentle
The point where your natural texture meets your straight hair (it’s called the line of demarcation”> is THE weakest part of you hair. Take your time when you detangle and style your hair so as to avoid breakage here.
10. Gradually cut damaged ends
Depending on the length you had to start with, get a good trim each month. Remember to use hair shears and not regular scissors!
Remember: these tips are designed to nurture your naturally curly hair, because in the end, THAT is what you’ll be keeping. Good luck and congrats on going natural! We’re here to help!
This article was originally published in August 2010 and has been updated for grammar and clarity.
When it comes to being natural, there are a few concerns most of us share. We need tips for detangling, moisturizing, and styling our hair. But there’s one thing some of us (me included”> have just not gotten the hang of: Thinning edges.
I’m sure we all saw Naomi Campbell’s picture floating around the Internet, on some natural hair thread or at the bottom of a very long forwarding list.
When we talk about thinning hair, we mean that the number of hairs on our head is decreasing. We are losing (or failing to grow”> whole strands of hair. Hair loss is mostly a result of a damaged hair follicle. The follicle is a part of the skin/scalp that packs old cells together to form a strand of hair. It starts below the visible surface of the skin but sticks up a tiny bit (that’s why we get goosebumps”>.
And while hair loss can be a sign of a more serious problem or a result of medications (think: chemotherapy”>, the average person can work to correct thinning hair.
The follicle can be damaged by a number of things: chemicals from hair color, relaxers, and vitamin deficiencies. Constant tension on the hair can stress the follicle as well.
Learn what caused your thinning edges.
If it is in your control, STOP doing whatever it was that caused it altogether. Again, if it is a result of a more serious condition, consult your physician.
No matter the texture, everybody has some “baby hair”—the shorter, finer, wispier hair that frames our face…and sticks out of ponytails. But I think those of us with coily or kinky hair experience thinning edges because of the wider variety of styling options we use. I really wanted kinky twists this summer, but I knew my edges couldn’t take it. The twists may have been cute … but a bald spot in the corner wouldn’t be. The type of thinning edges caused by hair styling is called mechanical or traction alopecia.
Healthy hair will flourish. So we must create and preserve healthy conditions.
The first thing to understand is that there is NO set “regimen” for growing your hair in general or edges in particular. No product, whether natural or man-made will cause the hair to safely grow faster. It is true, however, that certain ingredients allow the hair to grow better. All they do is create the best possible conditions for your hair to grow to it’s fullest potential.
Apply growth aids & DHT blockers directly to the hair or scalp!
Growth aids can include oils that you may already be familiar with: grape seed, castor, vatika, avocado, and henna amla oil. Natural growth aids like cinnamon and peppermint extract must be mixed with a carrier oil. They are so potent they may cause irritation, even after dilution so perform a patch test to avoid allergic reactions.
For hair thinning prevention and to reduce hair loss, you will need a DHT blocker. DHT, or Dihydrotestosterone, is a hormone produced by all human beings. When DHT binds to the hair follicle, hair thins and falls out. Since your goal is to reduce the likelihood of thinning edges and hair, you absolutely need DHT blocking treatments like Groganics Hair Growth Treatment to help to increase blood flow to your scalp, prevent breakage, and maintain follicle health.
As nourishing your body indirectly nourishes your hair, you can also apply certain ingredients directly to the scalp and hair. Products that promote a healthy hair and hair follicle either:
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Keep the follicle clean, prevent clogged follicles
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Stimulate the scalp
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Seal in moisture, prevent breakage
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Provide protein, fill gaps in the hair cuticle, give it strength
Try one or two of these oils and/or treatments in moderation. Start off slowly, changing maybe one or two things in your regimen, whether more exercise or doing monthly egg deep conditioning treatments.
NOTE: Too much protein can actually give the hair too much structure, and not enough moisture and flexibility. We’re looking for long-term results, not a quick fix.
It’s not uncommon to start looking for natural and/or organic products for your hair. After all, your natural curls are relatively new (especially if you Big Chopped”>. You haven’t developed any habits for your new hair, so it’s easier to begin forming healthier ones. And as the above tips show, trying to thicken your hair will most certainly cause a healthier body in the process.
Happy growing!
Working at NaturallyCurly, you can’t help but have somewhat expensive taste. These products are my fave the past couple of months.
Alikay Naturals Moisturizing Black Soap Shampoo
It has a super helpful twist-nozzle that you can apply directly to your scalp. My hair is so soft afterwards.
Elucence Moisture Balancing Conditioner
I’m not picky about conditioners, but I had to revisit this one. It’s like, the Times New Roman of conditioners. Lots of slip, not too much fragrance. It works on dry hair before shampoo and wet hair after I shampoo!
Camille Rose Naturals Coconut Water Leave-in Detangling Hair Treatment
I use leave-ins two ways. Sometimes I use a spray leave-in, sometimes I’ll use a cream one. If I’ve just shampooed, conditioned, detangled and ready for styling, I’ll go for a creamy one. I believe it’s thick enough to use by itself. It’s not too heavy, absorbs into my hair and refines my coils.
G-Natural Caribbean Coconut Milk Black Honey Leave In Conditioner Spray
If my hair is super dry during the middle of the week, I gravitate toward a leave-in conditioner spray. I don’t want to just use water to refresh. I work hard, so I want to use this. It’s bomb, and not so runny that I might as well have used water.
Bumble & bumble Anti-Humidity Gel Oil
I know what you’re thinking. But I was pleasantly surprised that it was the consistency of some of my favorite stylers. For 7 ounces, it’s $34. I know, but I think it’s important to show yourself some ‘self-care’. My coils and kinks are always super defined and juicy.
[prodmod]What are your favorites right now?
Watch more videos on our channel, The Twist by NaturallyCurly | Follow me on Instagram @EvelynFromTheInternets
One of the reasons I’m glad I went natural is the versatility and experimentation that my coily hair offers. I don’t have to worry about washing my flat iron job out or ruining my perm. I can try different products and techniques, secure in the fact that I can just wash it out if I don’t like it. So cruising through the aisles of my local organic food store, I stumbled upon some apple cider vinegar and remembered a YouTube video from one of my favorite naturals, naptural85.
In her quest to use more natural ingredients in her hair, naptural85 used apple cider vinegar as a shampoo or hair cleanser. It is a great way for naturals to naturally remove product buildup and dirt that accumulates on our hair and scalp over time. She said it added the bounce and shine back to her coils. I bought a bottle (a little over 3 bucks”> and decided to find out if it was just as good as she said.
My afro-textured, Type 4 hair is thiner and fineer than it is thick and coarse, but one thing naptural85 and I share is the coiliness of our hair, which tends to get fuzzy if neglected.
My ACV rinse
I followed naptural85’s recipe of 3 parts water to 1 part apple cider vinegar. She recommends that you pour the mixture generously onto your scalp and massaging the roots to cleanse.
I followed naptural85’s recipe of 3 parts water to 1 part apple cider vinegar.
I did an ACV rinse in place of my weekly shampoo, and I have to admit, my hair was not that dirty, which affected my results. I was distracted by the smell of the ACV, which can be quite strong. I think the ACV rinse would be better after a long stint with braids or kinky twists, or after a rough summer day outside. I am definitely going to try this rinse again, but as for this trial – I didn’t experience any noticeable results. Sometimes (or a lot of the time”> this is just the way natural hair trial and error goes!
What does an ACV rinse actually do?
In my last Pantry Products article, I talked about the importance of pH in restoring health to your hair. In that article, I talked about baking soda and how it is alkaline, or a base. Apple cider vinegar on the other hand, is quite acidic. It has a pH of about 3. Wet hair has a pH of 4.5-5.5. If you add an acidic rinse like apple cider vinegar to the hair, it will further reduce the pH of your hair strands. Making your hair slightly more acidic will close the cuticles of the hair, making the layers lay down flat.
The importance of a flat cuticle
A smooth, flat cuticle will do four things:
- Lock in protein and moisture. Flat cuticles will not let out moisture and protein through evaporation.
- Add shine to your hair. Light reflects off of smooth surfaces. While you may not have as much shine as a person with bone straight hair, shine is an indicator that your cuticles are smooth and closed.
- Flatten the hair for detangling. Raised cuticles give the hair that jagged, rough feeling we often talk about with shampoos that “strip.” These raised cuticles are more likely to grab and snag on each other.
- Add elasticity. Remember that low pH substances have more hydrogen ions (as opposed to hydroxide ions”>. The more hydrogen bonds, the more manageable and elastic your hair will be over time.
If your hair tends to get fuzzy and tangled, or loses its luster over time, test out an apple cider vinegar rinse, followed by a thorough conditioning and detangling session. After you’ve perfected your ACV rinse recipe, and used in moderation, apple cider vinegar can be a very beneficial pantry product for our wavy, curly, coily, and kinky hair.
Thanks to Design Essentials, I had the opportunity to visit New Orleans, Louisiana for the 20th annual Essence Music Festival! I knew #teamnatural would be in attendance in a diverse and beautiful way, but I wanted to see how the festival’s activities would incorporate natural hair into its programming. Essence magazine is a staple in many Black American homes for all things lifestyle and beauty, so here are 10 times #teamnatural was represented at Essence Fest.
-350×420″ src=”https://diana-cdn.naturallycurly.com/Articles/qP_10-Walmart-via-NC-Instagram-350×420.jpg”>Wal-Mart’s Natural Hair Offerings
As one of Essence Fest’s partners, Walmart had a huge presence during the festival. Besides their own stage for performances, they also had a display of of many of your favorite brands like U R Curly, Cantu, Giovanni, SheaMoisture, and Dark & Lovely. “We want to build awareness that natural and curl-friendly products are available in Walmart and get feedback from festival goers,” said Associate Marketing Manager Dawn Norvell.
-350×420″ src=”https://diana-cdn.naturallycurly.com/Articles/k4_9-MBIB-via-@MBIB-on-IG-350×420.jpg”>My Black Is Beautiful’s Makeovers
Another major partner of Essence Fest, MBIB hosted a makeover station, and it was always packed! From hair to makeup, they pampered attendees. The saying may say beauty is only skin deep, but when you know you look good, you definitely feel good! A little confidence never hurt, right?
–350×420″ src=”https://diana-cdn.naturallycurly.com/Articles/Yx_8-Bald-Head-via-@justdanablair-IG-350×420.jpg”>Dana Blair’s Bald Head
Never have I ever considered shaving my head clean until I saw Essence Fest correspondent Dana Blair walking around the convention center. She killed it. Every day, every evening, every outfit.
-350×420″ src=”https://diana-cdn.naturallycurly.com/Articles/Wt_7-Lianne-La-Havas-via-NC-Instagram-350×420.jpg”>Lianne La Havas’ Holy Grail Product
Fan girl moment! If you don’t listen to British singer-songwriter Lianne La Havas’ soulful tunes, correct that immediately! She hung out in the press room after her Essence Fest performance and I asked her about maintaining her curly hair on tour. One word — Skimdo. Her friend formulated a curl defining cream named Skimdo, and Lianne revealed that it gives her shiny, 7-day hair every time.
Ledisi’s Locs
Another fan girl moment! NOLA born and bred, Grammy nominated singer Ledisi was the special guest at Design Essential’s Big Easy VIP Style Lounge. I’ve seen her waist-length locs whip back and forth during previous performances, but for this event, she opted for chunky bantu knots and a vintage scarf for a simple yet retro look. I asked her what she’d tell her younger self: “It’s okay. Just like that — don’t worry about all the other stuff. Just have fun!”
-350×420″ src=”https://diana-cdn.naturallycurly.com/Articles/Fz_5-Essence.com-via-Essence.com-350×420.jpg”>Essence.com’s New Hair Section
It’s great to see mainstream publications welcome online communities and contribute to the wealth of info for natural hair care. NaturallyCurly.com is almost 16 years old, during a time when you’d be hard pressed to get a steady stream of information and inspiration for curls, coils, and waves. Essence.com boasts a new hair section, complete with natural hair tips from Cipriana Quann and MahoganyCurls. Disappointed that I missed the panels, but I loved seeing bloggers & vloggers take center stage.
-350×420″ src=”https://diana-cdn.naturallycurly.com/Articles/9C_4-SheaMoisture-via-MahoganyCurls-IG-350×420.jpg”>Shea Moisture’s Everything
Pop-up shops, new product launches, BOGO sales — I’m convinced SheaMoisture can do no wrong. I stocked up on the Superfruit Complex products and stalked Instagram for pictures of the new Jamaican Black Castor Oil line.
-350×420″ src=”https://diana-cdn.naturallycurly.com/Articles/hD_3-Eden-BodyWorks-via-NC-IG-350×420.jpg”>Eden BodyWorks’ #CelebrateMyBeauty Tour
Eden BodyWorks is 10 years old! To celebrate, they want to pamper US! NaturallyCurly.com is the official media sponsor of their #CelebrateMyBeauty tour, and the kick-off event was in New Orleans. Jasmine Lawrence was 13 when she started the company, and now the brand is bigger and better than ever. She unveiled four new products in the Coconut Shea line, and we’re excited to try them all!
-350×420″ src=”https://diana-cdn.naturallycurly.com/Articles/nP_2-Design-Essentials-via-NC-IG-350×420.jpg”>Design Essentials’ Big Easy Festivities
I spent the weekend with the folks at Design Essentials and enjoyed their gifting stations and day parties. Any place where you can get your sip on and get a custom gift bag of products tailored to your specific hair concerns is alright with me. Bonus: their Naturals Honey Curlforming Custard was the only product in my stash that didn’t have glycerin so high up in the ingredients. My hair lasted through 4 days of NOLA humidity with no problems.
-350×420″ src=”https://diana-cdn.naturallycurly.com/Articles/OZ_1-Prince-via-Essence-Festival-350×420.jpg”>Prince’s Fro
I felt the power of The Purple One from all the way in the Superdome press room. His afro, it glistened in the spotlight and beckoned every man, woman, and child to sing along to his extensive discography. Who can make a Superdome feel like an intimate gathering and a party at the same time?! He can.
Holiday Beauty Bazaar
When
12-4pm Saturday, Dec. 7
Where
Kroc Community Center
1250 W. 119th St Chicago, IL
Going natural is a journey, especially if you’re the first of your friends or family to do it. Our curly community online has made the journey easier (and way more fun”> for thousands of women, so we love seeing it manifest itself in the real world in the form of meetups and events!
The Chicago Natural Beauty Meetup is Chicago’s largest natural hair community with over 2,000 members, and this December they will be hosting their third annual Holiday Beauty Bazaar. Not only is this event a fantastic way to gain knowledge and inspiration for yourself, but this year you also have the opportunity to give back to the children in the Chicago community as well.
Beauty vlogger and entrepreneur Rachel Odem, who founded the community, sat down to talk with us about what both new and seasoned naturalistas can expect from this year’s Holiday Beauty Bazaar.
What can new naturals expect to get out of going to the event?
We always try to provide a lot of inspiration and education. I often hear that people come to our events and see different ways that they can wear their hair, they also get a chance to talk to other women who have been natural for a while.
Obviously since we partner with professional hairstylists and other professionals in the industry they can get great education there. And also we have our gift bags which we’re really well known for, because sometimes you go to an event and they’re just sample sizes. We’ll have products from CURLS, Cream of Nature, As I Am, as well as samples from NaturallyCurly.
What about women who’ve been natural for years, what does your meet up offer for seasoned naturals?
The number one thing women get is examples of different ways that you can style your hair. But it’s also very encouraging to be in an environment where everyone is embracing their naturally curly hair. It’s basically like a celebration of being natural and being proud of that, and celebrating the uniqueness of multicultural women in natural hair.
Tell me about the donations you’re doing for the children this Christmas!
We partner with a daycare center located in Chicago and the children that attend the daycare are primarily coming from single parent homes and parents living in poverty. So we’re doing a toy drive to help give back to families around the holiday season since unfortunately, most of them don’t have a lot of disposable income to purchase gifts for the kids. We’ll be making a financial donation as well as giving the toys that people bring to the event. So don’t forget to bring toys with you to the event!
This event is an extension of Rachel’s meet up organization, ChicagoNaturals.net and it’s the largest natural hair meet up in Chicago. They host four events a year and it’s a great wider community for people to get connected if you would like to attend natural hair events on a regular basis.
You can purchase your tickets to the Holiday Beauty Bazaar for a special online price of $15, or for $20 at the door.
21st Century Style
Nebula Wade
Let me show my age (or lack thereof”> with this piece about a Disney channel TV movie! I was an impressionable 10-year-old when this movie came out in 1999, and although Kirsten Storms was the lead role, I loved her adorable friend Nebula Wade, played by Raven-Symoné.
Raven practically grew up on camera – she was Olivia in the later seasons of “The Cosby Show,” Nicole on “Hangin’ With Mr. Cooper” and Charisse in “Dr. Dolittle.” Before we knew it, she was a young teenager on “Zenon: Girl of the 21st Century.”
Quick recap: the movie is about Zenon, a girl who lives in an orbiting space station community in the year 2049. She’s a rambunctious kid, and is sent to live with her aunt on Earth as a punishment. Culture shock and teen angst ensue; all while she has to stop an evil plot to crash the computers on her space station. Totally believable, right? But note: in the movie, they had iPad-like gadgets. Explain yourself, Apple!
Back to Raven
Raven was Zenon’s best friend. Fun-loving yet more cautious than Zenon, she often worried about the shenanigans Zenon got into. She helped sneak Zenon back into the space station to prevent the computer hacking plot and did it all without a curl falling out of place.
Her springy coils were always in two high pigtails held up by fashionably futuristic coils or Slinkys. I don’t know if I’d want metal coils holding up my curly hair, but it is the year 2049, so they probably figured out how to prevent tangles through technology!
Want to recreate the look? It’s perfect for young girls or even young adults like me who want to be a throwback Disney channel movie for Halloween (don’t forget your blonde bff to make this costume work!”>.
Get the Look
If your natural hair length and curl pattern already resembles Nebula Wade’s, then all you have to do is create a center part from the front of your head to the nape of your neck, pull up into two pigtails and secure with a hair tie. To simulate the futuristic coils Nebula rocked, you can band the base of the pigtail with several silver or grey hair ties. When you loop the hair tie back around, don’t lay it on top of the first band, secure it half an inch up. Repeat until you have several bands at the base of the pigtail to simulate a coil.
You can also do a twist out on blow-dried hair to stretch your curls to the length of Nebula’s. Use light gels and twisting products to ensure your curls will be just as bouncy as hers. Throw on some neon spandex and silver boots, and you’re well on your way to being a Supernova Girl!
There are plenty of ways to treat your coils with tender loving care during all steps of your hair care routine. All the little improvements we make at each step contribute to the overall health of our hair and to maintaining and growing that big afro. Healthy hair will grow sky high! Here are three ways to gently dry your coils after you’ve cleansed, conditioned and detangled.
1. Shake or squeeze
Think of your hair like a sponge. There’s more water hiding in there than it seems, so a quick shake or gentle squeeze along the length of your hair can remove the excess moisture from your coils. Since your hair won’t be sopping wet, you’ll spend less time with a blowdryer in hand (if that’s your lifestyle”> or less time walking around with wet hair.
2. Swap that towel for a T-shirt
The cotton/polyester towels we use to dry our bodies aren’t the best way to gently dry our coils. First, they’re so fluffy and absorbent that they quickly suck much-needed moisture from our hair. Second, the fiber is rough and can snag on our coils, especially if you rub the towel back and forth over your head. Trade in the towel for an old t-shirt or a microfiber towel and squeeze firmly and gently, but don’t rub, to remove excess moisture from your hair. A t-shirt is absorbent enough to dry your hair, but thin and gentle enough to avoid snags. Microfiber towels are absorbent, but their surface is not abrasive to hair.
3. Need heat? Use a diffuser
If airdrying your hair isn’t an option and you have to use heat, try attaching a diffuser head to your blow dryer. Instead of harsh, direct heat, the diffuser will spread the hot air to a bigger surface area. The force of a normal blowdryer also moves your coils around and can disturb the curl pattern if you’re going for a defined wash and go look. You should also use medium or low heat setting to avoid heat damage.
Anything you’d like to add? How do you gently dry your coils?
Sunday night, BET aired the first annual awards show celebrating and commemorating black women and girls around the world, reminding us that Black Girls Rock!
Black Girls Rock is first and foremost a non-profit organization, started in 2006 by Beverly Bond. It started off as an idea for a line of T-shirts, but Bond said it was a concept that needed to be expanded into something greater. The organization works to increase self-esteem and self-worth among African American girls ages 12-17 through volunteering, creative arts, and mentorship.
Nia Long
The broadcast used celebrities as examples of how Black girls can rock, but also celebrated M.A.D girls: girls who Made A Difference in their communities, like Amiya Alexander who owns her own traveling dance studio at age 11.
Nia Long was the elegant host, and the band playing for acts like Jill Scott, Ledisi, Monica, Keisha Cole, Marsha Ambrosius, was ALL female: the horn section, the drums, the base – EVERYTHING! Those black girls truly rocked!
Take a look at the fabulous ladies honored:
Shot Caller: Teresa Clarke
Chairman and CEO of Africa.com, changing the way the world see the continent of Africa.
Living Legend: Ruby Dee
Civil Rights activist, actress, writer, producer, and Emmy Award winner during a time when African Americans were rare in Hollywood.
Motivator: Rev. Dr. Iyanla Vanzant
reverend and motivational speaker.
Young, Gifted, and Black: Raven-Symoné
entrepreneur, TV producer, singer, and actor all before age 25.
Visionary: Missy Elliot
rapper & music producer topping charts in a male-dominated industry.
Trailblazer: Major General Marcelite J. Harris
highest ranking female in the U.S. Air Force of any ethnicity.
Who’s Got Next: Keke Palmer
actress & singer taking the world by storm at age 17.
Black girls also rock because of their hair! Check out the different hairstyles present at the show. We have special love for the girls rocking their own texture!
Award winner Raven Symoné with loose pin curls.
Award winner Iyanla Vanzant, sporting a TWA, looks like she loves her big chop!
We’re loving British songstress Marsha Ambrosius rocking her natural texture!
Ledisi sporting an updo made with her beautiful red locs!
Keri Hilson and her new do’. Do you like the blonde?
Keisha Cole and wearing fiery red loose curls in an up do!
Jill Scott ROCKED her hair out in a funky faux-hawk spiked do’!
Former 106 and Park host Free fierce as always with her natural afro!
To get involved or donate to the non-profit organization, visit the website.
What was your favorite part of the show?
Tips for Growing Out
We all remember when musician Solange Knowles big chopped, right? She even wore a textured wig to get a taste of big afro life! And now, It looks like she’s decided to grow one out for herself!
Some ladies decide to rock the big chop look as a style and continue to cut it to achieve a short, cropped look, but if you decide to see how far your fro can go, here are some tips to help you reach your goals.
Cut down on washing
Our scalps make a natural oil called sebum, but the bigger your fro, the harder it is for sebum to travel around and around your tight coils to naturally moisturize the hair. That’s why highly textured hair always feels dry.
Overwashing your hair can actually dry it out. Play around with washing schedules and see how long you feel comfortable without washing. Focus on your scalp when you wash since the oil and dirt is rarely able to travel to your actual strands.
You can also experiment with conditioner or co-washing. Conditioners have slight cleansing properties, but won’t strip your hair of the little oil it does get, unlike most shampoos.
Pump up the moisture
More hair means more potential for dryness. Make your own spritz by mixing water, aloe vera gel/juice, and jojoba oil. The water and aloe vera add moisture, and the jojoba oil seals it into your hair!
Experiment with styles
Now you can play with twist, braid and knot styles. When you grow out your hair, you will also start to notice your natural texture and curl pattern. Embrace it!
It’s dark. I’m snuggled safely in a bed that looks like mine but there’s no other furniture in the room. “Hmmm, that’s strange,” I think as I drift off to sleep. My eyes flutter and I fight the urge to sleep—something is wrong, but I just can’t figure out what.
Why is my door cracked open? Did I leave it like that? I never usually leave my door open…
Something is oddly wrong with this picture, but I fall into a deep slumber anyway. I wake up what seems days later. I’m stumbling out of bed and lift my arm to scratch my head and stretch. Wait. Something’s wrong. My hair. It’s flat. And I don’t mean bed head. It’s . . . straight. SOMEONE PUT A RELAXER IN MY HAIR WHILE I WAS ASLEEP!
My mind races. Tears blur my vision. This is too horrifying to be true. Two years happily nappy and it’s all down the drain, right along with that relaxer concoction. “My life is over,” I yell to the sky. I can’t go on anymore. What’s the point? Sure, I complained about how long it takes to detangle and how expensive natural ingredients are, but that didn’t mean I didn’t love my natural coils! Now I have to start all over. WHY HAVE THE GODS DONE THIS TO ME! I catch a glimpse of bone-straight, deep-brown hair brushing my shoulders. This is what I look like now.
My straight hair circa 2008. It went through cycles of growth and breakage, hence the “bangs”. I had to rock them somehow
In slow motion, I see myself collapse.
Before I hit the floor, I sit straight up in my bed, sweating. I look around to make sure I’m not still dreaming. Wait. I was dreaming? There’s only one way to be sure . . . I race to the bathroom, flick on the lights and see it in all its coily tangled glory: my afro smooshed perfectly on the side I sleep on. I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Yes, the straight hair nightmare exists.
Happy to be nappy!
Finally embracing your hair may have been a long time coming, and face it—you’ve fallen in LOVE with whatever your hair decides to do naturally. So when you get a whiff of a burning flat iron, the odor of a relaxer (no-lye or lye—does it really matter?”> you stop dead in your tracks. Something bad’s a-brewing.
Please don’t get me wrong—straight hair isn’t ugly. Rock what you got! It’s just not what MY hair does. And if I want to wear straight styles for special occasions, I will. After all, what do we all do with straight hair for weddings and events—curl it! There’s just something about striving for permanently straight hair that gives me the willies…
In the spirit of Halloween, let’s take a moment to talk about our straight hair nightmares! We asked our NaturallyCurly.com Facebook friends to tell us about their straight hair nightmares. Here’s what they had to say:
- Olivia Robles OMG. I thought I was the only one. I dreamt that my sister relaxed my hair while I was asleep. Oh the horror.
- Tina Michelle Yes! With a clothes iron too & it was permanent! Then I woke up.
- Nia Jones At least once a year….
The last one was even worse. i dreamt that I went to a stylist to have my hair pressed and ended up with a Jerri curl somehow and I was so distraught I had to cut all my hair off.
- Lonette Robertson When I first BC’d five years ago, I had a nightmare that I relaxed my hair. I was enjoying throwing my hair behind my shoulders in my dream, but I woke up horrified. This Saturday I just cut my hair again. No bad dreams!
- Taneisha Ingram I had nightmares every Palm Sunday as a little girl because that met my mother would straighten my hair w/ a hot comb and burn my ear the following Saturday for Easter Sunday.
- Hakim Nuraldin I dreamt last week that I was back in the salon I went to as a kid. This time before the hairdresser could touch me, I was up, out of the chair and down the street….lol With that little plastic cape on too! Lmao!
- Laura Paige Scott I had a dream I relaxed my hair and the scary part about it wasn’t my straight hair but the feeling I stepped out of line with mother nature and that I was cursed. Even now sometimes I flat iron my hair and each time I do it I wind up hating it. Like I can feel my hair screaming for me to wet it. Lol
- Edna Ramos Yes! I dreamt that this young actress (can’t think of her name”> was putting a chemical relaxer in my hair. Next thing I knew, most of my hair had fallen out! It was such a relief waking up and feeling my big, frizzy poof on my head!
Have you had relaxer nightmares? Tell us about them in the comments area below!
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