Search Results: Nina Sultan

Pictured: @withlove.aayah

If you are impatient like I am, and like your curls to dry quickly, diffusing can be a great tool. When used correctly, diffusing can enhance volume and dry your curls effectively with minimal damage while embracing your curl pattern. While the diffuser is meant to make your life easier, if you are experiencing frizz instead of definition, then you might need to revisit your drying techniques. You could either be using the wrong products, or you are diffusing incorrectly! In case you need a refresher, here are some diffusing techniques for frizz-free curls.

1. The Right Products

Using the correct products for your curl texture is everything. For me, I like to keep my product application simple and hassle-free. I will typically use a leave-in like Curls: Blueberry Bliss Reparative Leave in-Conditioner and a gel like Curls: Blueberry Bliss Curl Control Jelly. I apply about a quarter size amount of each product to prevent weighing down my curls.

2. Waiting Matters

While you can diffuse your hair while it’s sopping wet, to get the best frizz-free results, try applying your products to sopping wet hair as usual and then allow your hair to dry about 75% before using the diffuser. This will allow your products more time to soak into the hair cuticle and work there magic. For me, I find that when I immediately diffuse out of the shower, it always leaves my curls a little frizzy, however, I embrace my frizz so it’s not a problem for me. However, if the frizz bothers you try waiting a bit!

3. Hot and Windy

Make sure that you are diffusing on the correct settings. If you are using the dryer on the highest heat temperature and highest airflow setting, that is just a recipe for frizz disaster. For me, I like to diffuse on the high heat flow and low air flow setting. If you still find that this setting makes your hair frizzy, you can try lowering the heat to medium.

Writer Nina Sultan

4. How’s your head?

When I diffuse, I like to hang my head sideways/upside down and let sections of my curls fall into the bowl. I then simply move the diffuser gently all around my head and pull the diffuser towards my head. This way it heats up my roots and encourages volume.

5. Scrunch, Scrunch, Scrunch!

As your curls get drier and drier, it helps to scrunch your curls up towards your scalp. I find that scrunching encourages my curl pattern and expedites the drying process.

6. Fluff & Go

Once your curls are 80-90% dry, for increased volume, It really helps if you shake your hair from the roots. Don’t touch your hair otherwise and don’t go too crazy with the shaking or fluffing. Just gently give your roots a couple of gentle shakes and then leave it alone!

Which diffusing techniques are your favorite? Let me know in the comment section below.

While I used to always put my hair up in a pineapple before going to sleep at night, over the years, I have gotten a little more relaxed with my routine.  Now, I have actually found it to be more comfortable to wear my hair down and sleep on a satin pillowcase. In the morning, my hair is pretty crazy, but reviving it is easy and barely takes me any time at all. Here is my updated curl refreshing routine.

The first thing I like to do is shake my curls all around to get them out of bed head mode.

As you can see, in the morning I have quite the lion’s mane. A lot of curls have become loose over night and will need a little pick me up. After shaking my curls all over so that they are nice and poofy, I have two methods that I alternate between.

Method 1

If my curls look mostly defined with just a few undefined curls, I will soak my hands with filtered water, add a few drops of essential oil to my hands, rub them together, and will scrunch that into my curls all around by giving myself a quick scalp massage. The last thing I will do is add a drop or two of finishing oil, scrunch it in, and be done.

Method 2

On the other hand, if my curls are all over the place and have really lost their definition as you see pictured above, I will need to give my curls a little more TLC. In situations like this, I will use a spray made up of filtered water infused with an essential oil and sometimes a leave-in if my curls are feeling dry. Method 2: is  what I will be showing you in this article. The three essential oils that I like to use to rejuvenate my hair are lavender, peppermint, or rosemary oil.

I start off by filling up my spray bottle with filtered water. For the purpose of this routine, I chose to add a few drops of lavender essential oil along with a few of drops of Carol’s Daughter: Hair Milk Original Leave-In.

Once my oil and leave in are added, I shake up the bottle for a minute or so to thoroughly mix my spray. Once my spray has been made, I will use it for a couple of weeks.

After my spray is mixed, I spray it all over my curls, giving extra attention to the curls that have become especially loose and undefined.

Once I’ve sprayed, I gently massage my scalp and scrunch my curls all around allowing the mixture to stimulate my roots and soak into the rest of my hair.

After spraying, my curls are wet but since they aren’t soaked, it doesn’t take long at all to let it air dry. I usually let my curls air dry, or if I’m in a rush, will diffuse it dry.

Once my curls are dry, I will gently use my fingers to shake my curls gently all around to enhance the volume. If I feel like I need more volume, I will use my trusty hair pick at the top of my curls by gently raising the roots to fluff it out a bit.

For a finishing touch, I will sometimes add a small dollop of finishing oil for enhanced softness and shine. I like to alternate between using my MoroccanOil or my Ouidad: Mongongo Oil.

As you can see with a little scalp stimulation, spray, and finishing oil, my curls went from looking like an un-kept bird’s nest to looking like brand new freshly washed defined curls. This routine may look like it is time consuming, but I promise that there is hardly any effort that is required and it takes no time at all.

What does your curl reviving routine look like? Which method is more your style?  Do you prefer to use a spray or do you like to use your fingers? Do you use just water or do you like to add anything additional like an essential oil or a leave in? Let me know in the comment section below!

If you suffer from dry hair or an itchy scalp, it might be time to consider trying the LOC method.

photo courtesy of Evan Joseph Curls

You may have heard about the LOC Method before.

It is a styling technique that provides your curls with the maximum amount of moisture it needs. “LOC” stands for leave-in, oil, and cream. When applying products in this order, they work together to deeply hydrate and seal in the moisture.

When practicing the LOC Method, it is important to consider these 3 things:

1. When looking for a leave-in, the ideal product should be water-based.; font-size: 14px; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;”> Water is an obvious ingredient when it comes to hydrating your curls, however, it won’t last, and that’s where an oil comes into play. Here are some leave-in conditioners to consider using when practicing the LOC Method.

Curl Junkie Curl Assurance Smoothing Lotion: This all curl texture friendly leave in is light and works like a charm when layered with other products. This quality makes it a great product for the LOC Method. Not only does this leave-in provide your hair with intense hydration, but it will leave your curls smelling fantastic.

SheaMoisture Curl and Style Milk: This moisturizing leave in is filled with hydrating ingredients such as coconut oil, neem oil, and silk protein. All of which work to leave your curls feeling soft, moisturized, and silky. The lightness of this leave-in conditioner is great for the LOC Method in that it won’t leave your curls feeling weighed down.

CURLS Curls Milkshake: This leave-in is infused with exotic extracts and natural milks to help battle dryness. This product is a great choice for the LOC in not only making sure that your curls get that lasting and deep moisture you need, but also help your curls feel soft, smooth, and bouncy.

2. Choose an oil that’s not only going to be appropriate for your texture or porosity, but also one that will penetrate the hair shaft. Since my hair is fine, my oil of choice would be something lighter like coconut, olive oil, or my favorite, Ouidad Mongongo Oil, an all-texture-friendly oil that is light and focuses on nourishing, fighting dryness, and providing moisture to your curls. Its lightness and vitamin-packed ingredients are great for the LOC Method. A thin layer of either oil will do, however, if you have a thicker curl texture, you might try argan or avocado oil instead.

3. The last step is to use a creamy moisturizer to lock in that hydrating goodness. Remember to use one that is appropriate for your curl pattern. A butter-based cream would be too thick for my 2c/3a wavy hair but could be great for another curly. Camille Rose Naturals Almond Jai Twisting Butter is perfect for thicker curl textures and is specialized in providing moisture, softness, and soothes dryness. It’s the perfect finishing product following the leave-in and oil steps.

While the LOC method is a great way to fight having dry hair especially in the winter, if you, like many others, suffer from a dry itchy scalp, here are some do’s and don’ts for treating a dry itchy scalp.

DO use tea-tree oil.

Tea tree oil is an antioxidant and has antibacterial properties. However, it is recommended that you dilute the tea tree oil with some water or conditioner before applying to your scalp. Otherwise, it could be too harsh on the skin.

DON’T use products with harsh chemicals.

One of the reasons why your scalp may be dry and itchy is that your hair products could contain harsh chemicals and cleansing agents that strip your hair of all of its natural oils. These chemicals can be found in regular store-bought shampoos, conditioners, and stylers. If you’re suspicious, try using products with natural ingredients and that are gentle on the skin.

DO apply hair and scalp masks.

Making homemade hair masks can be a great way to relieve not only your scalp but your hair as well. For example, coconut oil and honey are great ingredients for fighting dryness, bacteria, and fungus. You can find a ton of homemade recipes online and you probably already have most of the ingredients in your refrigerator. Doing one of these masks once a week and be very soothing, so make sure to take some time to treat yourself during these harsh winter months.

DON’T over wash your hair.

Contrary to popular belief, you actually don’t need to wash your hair every day. Every other day or even less is just fine and in fact, is recommended by health professionals. When you use a harsh sulfate cleanser like a shampoo every day, that can strip your hair of all its oil and really dry out your scalp. If you must wash your hair daily, try using a cleansing conditioning wash instead. Co-wash is much more gentle on the scalp and hair and yet still gives you that satisfying feeling of being clean.

Is the LOC Method a part of your routine?

We get that chin-length curls may not seem “short” to you (we’ve rocked everything from pixie cuts to buzzcuts in the NaturallyCurly office”> but this is relatively short for people who use the pineapple method in their routine.  If your hair is too short to pineapple, we recommend sleeping with a satin bonnet or silk scarf instead. If you have tighter curls and coils, check out Amanda’s tutorial for taking down her Type 4a pineapple. Here is our writer Nina’s sleeping and morning routine for her Type 2-3 curls.

Hey, curly friends! Nina Sultan here! Today I’m going to show you how I like to revive and refresh my fine, short curly hair. If you follow these steps for your Type 2 to 3 fine curly hair, you should also have fabulous curls two to four days after you have washed it.

The Pineapple + Satin Pillowcase Method

If you don’t know what the pineapple method is, it is basically a top knot that is a surefire way to make sure your curls are more manageable and easier to style the next morning.

Unlike cotton, satin pillowcases do not encourage frizz and breakage, especially on fragile, fine curly hair. I use both of these for dual protection while I am sleeping. Here is what you will need to follow this method:

• Satin pillowcase
• Hair tie
• A spray bottle with an adjustable nozzle, filled up halfway with water
• Depending on your hair length, bobby pinsto take care of the hairs in the back that don’t reach your pineapple scrunchie

Before Bedtime: The Pineapple

I take my scrunchie hair tie, gather my curls at the top of your head into a loose ponytail (AKA a pineapple”>. I love this hairstyle–it really does make my hair look like a pineapple.

I have a lot of short ‘baby’ hairs that cannot go into the pineapple. I use bobby pins to keep them into place so they are not flopping around everywhere while I sleep. You don’t have to—whatever your preference is.

I get into bed, catch some zzz’s and let my hair do its thing while I sleep.

The Next Morning: Restyling/Refreshing

This routine keeps my curls looking voluminous, fresh, and healthy until the next time I wash it.

I untie my hair and bobby pins, gently pull my hair apart, and let my hair fall down. This is what it looks like when I take my hair out of a pineapple.

I like to give my hair a little scalp massage, shake, separate, and part my hair where I want the curls to sit. This wakes them up.

I don’t want to put too much water in my hair, but I use a little bit to reactivate and wake up my products from the day before. This allows them to work through days 2 and 3. I need to wash my hair more often than others since my hair is finer in texture than some curl types. Spritz, scrunch, and fluff.

Watch my routine

How do you sleep with and refresh your short, curly hair the next day? Share your experiences in the comments section, below.

Why use a hair drying diffuser?

Personally, I usually always choose to use my hair dryer diffuser over letting my curls air drying them; I don’t like the feeling of wet hair clinging to my skin for a long period of time. Therefore, I prefer to have my hair dry faster. Since my hair is shorter, it takes me less time to diffuse compared to if I had longer hair. If you are like me and like to diffuse, there is a proper way to do it. While using a hair dryer diffuser seems straightforward, you can diffuse incorrectly, too. Diffusing incorrectly can cause unwanted frizz, loss of curl shape, and dried out strands. Diffusing correctly, on the other hand, can leave your curls defined, volumized, and looking fabulous. Here are 5 tips for achieving curl diffusing gold.

Tip 1: Prep!

When you are getting ready to diffuse, apply your favorite leave-in and styling product first. The leave in will help to keep your curls moisturized and soft, while the styling gel will help to keep your curl shape intact through the drying process. For styling, I apply my favorite BounceCurl Light Creme Gel and my Ouidad Mongongo Oil as a leave-in.

Tip 2: Air dry for a bit first!

For the best results, it’s best to let your curls be about 70% dry before diffusing. This minimizes your drying time and allows your products to soak in as well as encourages them to have more volume when you do diffuse. When diffusing your hair when it’s wet — while that works — you do have to use the diffuser on your hair for a longer period of time. I find that you also don’t get nearly as great volume as you do when you let your curls slightly air dry.

Tip 3: Set your temperature and air flow!

When you are getting ready to diffuse, setting your dryer to the right temperature and air flow, is crucial. When I set my diffuser, I set it to a high heat temperature — for a faster drying process — but on the low air flow setting (to control frizz”>. Setting my dryer this way, allows me to have more control over frizz while allowing my curls to dry in a timely fashion. If frizz is something that really bothers you, you can always set it to a cool temperature. I like to embrace and love my frizz, so I find that high heat works better for my curl pattern.

Tip 4: Change your hair position!

This ensures for an even drying process. Take the diffuser and gently raise it up so your curls collect in the bowl. Continue raising it up until you are touching your scalp, leave it there for about 10 seconds, and repeat all over your head. Flip your hair in different directions throughout as well for a balanced drying process (Ex. upside down, sideways”>.

Tip 5: Fluff, fluff, fluff!

After diffusing, if you are still wanting your curls to be even more volumized, gently take your hands and shake your curls at the roots for enhanced life. You can also use a hair pick to achieve the same effect.

How do you prefer to dry your curls?

Let me know in the comment section below!

Want more tutorials?

Check out Curly Penny or Ilona Maria’s video tutorials!

Hey everyone! It’s Nina Sultan here. As you all know, I love experimenting with and trying new products. I have been really into trying products from the DevaCurl line lately and wanted to test out their Light Defining Gel. Here is what I found.

After getting out of the shower and scrunching my hair with a t-shirt, I applied a little more than a quarter-size amount of the product by gently finger combing it through my curls. Overall, the application process was easy. I tend to like gels for that reason.

Once the product was applied, I scrunched my curls all around and let the product set in for a few minutes. I then waited until my curls were 70% dry, diffused my hair, and waited.

My Results

The first time I used the product, I found that while my curls were nicely defined, what I was surprised about was that my curls felt pretty dry and kind of crunchy. The gel is supposed to be a crunch-free styler, but somehow they ended up feeling crunchy anyway. I then realized that I cannot use this product by itself to style. The next time I used this product, I applied a cream (DevaCurl’s Coconut Supercream“> before the gel and a finishing oil (Ouidad: Mongongo finishing oil“> afterwards. I was MUCH happier with results the second time around.

With the help of some additional moisture products, this gel provided nice definition and I liked that the gel is so light. I wasn’t too into the scent of the product. It was light and had that artificial berry smell to it. I tend to like products that smell natural, so this was not my favorite. I was a bit disappointed that I couldn’t use this gel by itself, however, with the leave-in and oil, this product works great for my curl pattern! I pleasantly discovered that I don’t always need to use the finishing oil either. The curl curl cream in combination with this gel did the trick just as well.

Concluding thoughts

This gel overall is a decent product. I appreciate that while it is $17 dollars, you get twelve ounces of product, and it lasts a long time since you only need to use a little bit. I probably would buy this gel again, but I have to say that my BounceCurl Light Crème Gel is still my favorite styling product to use.

The Pros

-Lasts a long time

-Lightly scented

-Easy to distribute

-Doesn’t leave your curls feeling heavy

-Provides definition

The Cons

-Pricey (17$”>

-Smells artificial

-Need to use an additional product that gives moisture such as a leave-in or oil

-Not moisturizing

What products are you into right now? Have you tried this gel? Did you get the same results? Let me know in the comment section below.

When it comes to perfecting one’s curls, the Curly Girl Method (CGM”> is one of the most well-known curl techniques for helping one’s curls look their best. To briefly recap, the CGM involves avoiding brushes, heat-styling tools, shampoos, and any products that contain waxes, alcohol, sulfates, or silicones. This means avoiding pretty much anything that will dry out, cause build-up, or risk damaging your hair in any way. For many curlies, this method can be a life-changer.

However, there are those of us who have found that this method hasn’t really gotten our curls to be their very best. If there’s anything to take away from this article, it’s this: Your curls are one-of-a-kind, and therefore, when using this method, it is important to understand those qualities that are unique to YOUR hair. There are always ways to tweak and experiment with whatever method you use, outside of the Curly Girl Method, to make it work best for your curl texture! All you need is a little patience, and an open mind!

1. Do the method in parts

Just because the method as a whole isn’t giving you the results you want doesn’t mean you can’t still use the parts of the method that DO work for you! For example, if cutting out shampoo all together is making your curls fall flat, try a shampoo that is sulfate-free instead, and continue following through with the rest of the CGM, such as avoiding the heat tools, damaging products, and brushes. This could work the same for the reverse as well. For example, you could use a cleansing conditioner to cleanse instead of a shampoo, but keep a brush or heat-styling tool incorporated in your routine, as long as they are altered to be curl friendly! As an example of making a heat-styling tool curl-friendly, you could try to only use a hair dryer with a diffuser attached, and wait for your curls to be 70% percent dry; then, use your heat-styling tool. For brushes, always use a wide-tooth comb on your hair while it is conditioned and soaking wet, and always brush from the ends and work your way up.

2. You are not, by any means, locked into this method

If all else fails and the CGM just isn’t working for you, DON’T USE IT! Life is too short, and hair to be frank, should not be added to your list of stressors. In fact, there are some curlies like curl YouTuber Hair Romance who pride themselves on breaking the “curl code”. There is nothing wrong with using a shampoo, sulfates or not. If that’s what gets your curls looking your best, then do you! Personally, I do not use the CGM because, like Hair Romance, I find the method limiting, and I don’t get nearly the same volume that I desire in comparison with the times when I use a diffuser and wide tooth comb. I also use a sulfate-free shampoo like Carol’s Daughter, but I often like to switch between using a shampoo and a co-wash. I usually co-wash more in the summer, as that’s when I need to cleanse my curls more often.

In the end, I do think that whatever product or tool you use (a shampoo, blow dryer, brush, etc.”> should be curl-friendly. Using products that are sulfate and silicone free will help your curls feel soft, moisturized, and defined. However, if you don’t mind your hair potentially feeling brittle and dry, and you find that your non-curl-friendly product or tool works for your hair, use it! There is nothing wrong with that!

3. Embrace your texture

As stated at the beginning, I think the biggest thing to understand about the CGM method is that it does not work for everyone, and that is absolutely okay. Your curl texture is unique to you, and I think it is important that you not compare your hair with others for that reason. It may just be that your hair does not respond well to that kind of technique, and therefore more experimentation on your end may be needed. Be curious and experiment! There is no wrong method, as long as it works, right?

Is there a product or technique that works often for others, but not for your hair? If so, share it in the comments, along with what you’ve found that does work for your curls!

No matter what length your hair is, curl maintenance is always important.

While you may think one length may be more manageable than another, curl maintenance never has to be a hassle.

However, I will say that if you do have shorter curly hair, maintenance is lighter simply because you have less hair to work with. Speaking from personal experience, I have had short hair for years and I really do enjoy the simplicity of my curl routine. Over many years of trial and error, I feel that I have mastered what works for my curls. Below, I offer you my ultimate guide to taking care of shorter curly hair.

Do: Trim your curls regularly

Trimming your curls regularly not only preserves your curls’ shape, but it also gets rid of all of those dead ends and unruly edges. Personally, I trim my own curls every 6 weeks or whenever I feel my curls need a little cleaning up. If you aren’t comfortable with trimming your curls yourself, you can always see a professional stylist, preferably one who specializes in cutting curly hair.

Don’t: Use or apply too many products

You don’t want to apply too many products to your hair regardless of its length. For short hair, I typically stick to two products which usually consists of a leave in and styling gel. On rare occasion, I’ll also apply an oil. Applying product after product will just make your hair feel greasy and heavy. Stick to products that are on the lighter side such as

• Bounce Curl Light Creme Gel
• Jane Carter Solution Curls to Go Coiling All Curls Elongating Gel

No matter what styling product you use, you only need a small amount to achieve lasting definition. For those with short hair especially, this means no more than a dime to quarter size amount of product for styling. If you use more than that, you may find your curls feeling crunchy and oily.

Do: Deep condition

Even short curls need a little TLC. Deep conditioning is an essential part of maintaining your curl’s health. Deep conditioning not only deeply provides your curls with the moisture it needs but it also gives your curls the ultimate rejuvenation. This applies to those who especially have dry and brittle hair like myself. I deep condition my curls once a week or whenever they are feeling extra dry. Some good deep conditioners to try are

• Alikay Naturals Honey and Sage Deep Conditioner

• Design Essentials Coconut & Monoi Deep Moisture Masque

Don’t: Use a lot of heat

While using heat styling tools, such as straighteners and curling wands, may make your short hair look rad temporarily, they can also do a really good job of destroying your hair health as well! If you must use them use them, use them sparingly and always with a heat protectant such as:

• Curl Girl Moisture Fix Daily Shine Oil
• SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Grow Thermal Protectant

Having short hair is something to embrace. Short hair is something that often gets overlooked by the media when it is in fact, quite a unique contribution to the naturally curly world.

How do you maintain your short curly hair?

Let us know in the comment section below.

For more information on how to maintain short curly hair, check out these articles:

3 Editors Share What It REALLY Feels Like to Big Chop to Short Hair

How I’m Growing Out My Natural Hair After My Big Chop

Being a curly girl, I have routinely used hair styling products on my curls for years. However, throughout that time, I have definitely had moments where I have gone a couple days without applying anything to my hair — whether that was due to traveling, being in a rush or laziness. Whenever I would do this, I never really noticed that big of a difference in my curls regardless of whether or not they had product in them or not. They still looked soft, were defined, and felt light.

Because of this result, I couldn’t help but wonder what it would be like to not use any hair styling products in my curls for an entire week.

Did I really need to be buying all these products? Were my curls actually benefitting from them? Eager to find out, I did the experiment for 7 days! Here’s what I learned.

• Day 1: The first day of my experiment, I cleansed my curls with Jane Carter Solution Moisture Nourishing Shampoo and deep conditioned with their Nutrient Replenishing Conditioner;”>. At first, it was quite strange to not apply any hair styling products — in fact, I found it pleasantly easy to just scrunch with my t-shirt and then diffuse them dry. Overall, I was actually quite pleased overall with how they looked: they felt soft, were defined, and smelled great.

• Day 2: The second day I could immediately see that my curls were losing their shape. I actually was not bothered by this because I was able to achieve a wavy lazy hairstyle. For me, I don’t feel like I have to have my curls always defined to perfection. While it’s nice. I also enjoy just letting them naturally kind of fall apart. My hair definitely looked like a style from the 80’s and I was all about it.

• Day 3: I felt like wearing my short curly hair up; as a result, my curls completely fell apart and lost all definition and shape. However, I simply wore my hair up for the rest of the day and planned to revive it the following morning.

• Day 4: After my bun day, I rinsed my hair completely through using just water and my curls sprung back to life. I was actually surprised by how great they looked and felt despite not having added any product to them. However, by the evening my curls felt pretty dry and had begun to lose their shape again.

• Day 5: Since it had been a few days, I felt that my curls needed to be cleansed. I co-washed them with my OGX Detoxifying + Pomegranate & Ginger Conditioner. Once again, my curls felt very soft, looked defined, and smelled great.

• Day 6: By the time day 6 had rolled around, my curls had lost their shape from the previous day’s wash. While I still had some of my curls, I noticed that I had a lot more waves as well. I tried to use a little water to give them a pick me up but found that the hold did not last long. Therefore, I just kind of let them be as they were.
• Day 7: The last day, I decided to give my curls a little water and once again while it helped. The hold and moisture did not last, though. I once again let my curls be loose, dry, and wavy.

The takeaway?

I found this experiment to be eye-opening for many reasons.

I realized how unbelievably liberating it is to not applying anything after cleansing.

It made my routine so much easier and I felt that my hair actually, for the most part, looked acceptable. The only real issue was that my curls would often be quite dry and therefore I wish that I had had some lasting moisture since using just water to revive my hair wasn’t enough.

I would definitely do this challenge again, but for a much shorter period of time.

Furthermore, I think giving our hair a break from products is a great idea. It gives your curls a chance to breathe and just be themselves to their truest degree. (Hair Styling Product “>

I found that through this experiment, I certainly do not “need” to use styling products at all.

While it takes a bit more work to achieve defined curls, it is possible! However, I will admit how nice it was to go back to using styling products my curls again. My curls had much longer lasting definition and moisture compared to without them. In conclusion, while you don’t “need” to use products, it ultimately all comes down to deciding what is best for you and your curls!

Would you ever try going styling product free?

Let us know in the comment section below!

Read this next: ;”>Should You Go Product Free?

As most of us curlies know, our curls need extra moisture in the winter time. When it comes to curlies with low porosity hair like myself, thick styling products and heavy oils would be ;”>way too much. As a result, I have to be mindful when it comes to the products I choose to moisturize my hair with.

The LOC Method

During the winter, I like to follow the LCO Method, an alternate method to the traditional LOC method which stands for:

• Liquid/Leave-in
• Oil
• Cream

This is one of the most well-known methods in the naturally curly world that is known to lock in the moisture our texture craves. What’s fun about the LCO Method is that there a couple of ways to switch it up.

For example, there is the LCO and then the LOCO version — Liquid, Oil, Cream, Oil. Any of these methods can work — it just depends on using the correct products for your texture. One may work better for you than another so it is important to experiment.

It is difficult to find a product that doesn’t leave my low porosity curls feeling greasy and weighed down. However, with the right order and the right products, I have found that the LCO Method works the best for my curls in providing them with the moisture they need.

My Cleansing & Conditioning Routine

I typically like to co-wash my hair more than using my other gentle cleansers. Currently, I have been using OGX Detoxifying + Pomegranate & Ginger Conditioner as a co-wash and find that it works great! For my wash and go routine, I like to switch back and forth between Carol’s Daughter Sacred Tiare Shampoo and Conditioner;”> and my new favorites, Jane Carter Solution Moisture Nourishing Shampoo and Nutrient Conditioner. Both products are gentle, smell great, and I feel satisfyingly clean after I use either of these lines.

My Styling Routine

After showering, I like to style my curls with my Jane Carter Solution Revitalizing Leave-in Conditioner, BounceCurl Light Creme Gel, and Ouidad Mongongo Oil, in that LCO order.

How I Apply Product

I apply these products to sopping wet hair, scrunch in between applying each product, and gently finger comb the products through evenly.

Once my products are in, I use a t-shirt and plop my curls for about 10 minutes.

Depending on the kind of time I have, I typically diffuse my curls on the high heat setting and the low airflow level. When I have more time, however, I like to let my curls air dry.

Depending on how dry my curls are feeling, every 1 to 2 weeks I deep condition with my SheaMoisture Tahitian Noni & Monoi Hair & Scalp Weekly Therapy, a product that I have found to be a godsend for fine, curly hair. It never fails to define and hydrate my curls. This product always leaves my curls smelling like a tropical paradise.

How I Deal with Buildup

Since I typically use more products in the winter than I do in the warmer months, my curls do experience build-up.

Therefore, I like to use either water diluted apple cider vinegar or my Moptop: Clarifying rescue treatment to revive and cleanse my curls 2 times a month.

That’s all there is to it! This routine is my absolute favorite because it never fails to leave my curls moisturized, smelling great, defined, and soft.

What does your winter curl regimen look like?

Let me know in the comment section below.

Follow me on Instagram for more @ninaandthecurls

Next: Read 10 Winter Tips for Your Curls

One of the wonderful things about living in New York City is being constantly introduced to new experimental fashion, hair, and beauty trends.

I have found that New Yorkers love to change things up, be bold, and go for new looks and styles. There are so many trends to experiment with and it’s fun to test drive them to see whether or not they are overrated. While some trends don’t work for everyone, some of them are really quite stunning. Here are my top 5 favorites.

The Wavy Lob

This cut is very popular amongst New Yorkers — it’s a look that never goes out of style and can be worn in many different ways. The lob and bob are both worn on straight or curly hair, with or without bangs, long or short, and the part can be on the side, in the middle, or swept back. As someone with a wavy lob myself, I love the length and am pleased with how often I can change it up. If I want, I can make the style look elegant or sexy and sometimes, a little bit of both. You cannot go wrong with this length or style.

The Low Pony

This style has become more and more popular especially for those with longer hair. Some women have been wearing the pony slicked back at the top and then the bottom being teased out or textured. This is a look that has especially been popular amongst curly New Yorkers. Another trend is wearing the ponytail messy both at the top and bottom. For those with straight hair, some have been wearing the ponytail with the part straight down the middle. Contrary to popular belief, the low ponytail isn’t just for casual occasions — it can actually look quite elegant. In NYC, this look is fabulous for a night out on the town.

Velvet

This is one of the trends that I am completely obsessed with. Velvet is one of the hottest fashion trends that can be seen on the streets of busy New York City. Velvet dresses, pants, shirts, hats, and even bras are becoming more popular. Velvet is comfortable on the skin, is light, and can look stunning in any color. I have a velvet dress in maroon that is stunning and I try to wear it every chance I get.

Oversized everything

Big sweaters, pants, jackets, and baggy clothing in general is a trend that I have definitely incorporated into my own style. I have been wearing baggy clothing even before I moved to New York. While you might think of baggy clothing as being sloppy, it actually looks quite fashionable. I love throwing on a big comfy sweater, wearing baggy socks, and a big scarf. It’s warm, easy, and you feel like you’re being hugged all day long. Who could say no to that?

Bold eyeshadow and liner

Wearing graphic eyeliner in striking colors such as red, white, orange, yellow, or pink under the eyes or in the crevices of the eyes have been a stunning city evening look. Sometimes that look is paired with a bold sparkling eyeshadow as well. While I personally haven’t tried all of the colorful eyeliner trends yet, I love using red eyeliner and have indulged in the glamour of the sparkly eyeshadow and plan to experiment more with the colorful liner soon.

While sometimes it can be hard to keep up with all of the latest trends going on, it’s nice to know that in New York, you really are encouraged to embrace your own style. Trends, or no trends. Which one would you try? Let me know in the comment section below.

Want more from a New York City curly girl?

Dealing with dry hair during the winter season can be a nuisance. Even trickier is trying to find the right products and masks to try and prevent your curls from being dry.

This is especially true if you color, use heat tools, or chemically alter your hair’s natural state.

This is the time of year where you can really give your curls some TLC by using extra-moisturizing products and ramping up the deep conditioning treatments. Finding ingredients to keep your curls soft might not be as tricky as you think! You might even have some ingredients you could use for your curls in your kitchen right now. Here are the 5 ingredients that can help keep your curls moisturized, soft, and refreshed.

Olive oil

Not only is olive oil great to cook with, but because it is so rich in antioxidants and vitamins E and A, this oil can be a perfect aid to helping your curls regain their moisturize and shine. There are plenty of natural DIY deep conditioning mask recipes online that use olive oil. Treating yourself to a homemade mask is a great way to perk up dry and brittle hair. You can also buy tgin Honey Miracle Hair Mask, which contains other moisturizing ingredients like honey.

Yogurt

I know what you’re thinking — yogurt? While it may sound gross, the fat in yogurt is a wonderful natural conditioner, providing your curls with moisture. Yogurt also contains a lot of great vitamins like vitamin D and B5 which work to strengthen and provide your curls with essential nutrients to maintain hair health. These vitamins also help fight against hair loss, plus the anti-fungal properties in yogurt help to treat itchy scalps and dandruff. Don’t want to DIY? Try LaCoupe orgnx Honey & Yogurt Cleansing Conditioner.

Eggs

The vitamins A, D, and E and fatty acids in eggs not only strengthen and prevent damage but also are a great source of protein. Protein is a great way to repair your hair from any breakage or damage it might have endured and truly gives your curls a full reset. Additionally, the yolks and raw egg whites are a great source of moisture, helping to soothe the scalp from dryness and dandruff.

Water

This may be the most basic ingredient listed in this article, however, water might be one of the most important ingredients on the list. It is essential that we keep ourselves hydrated because our bodies are mostly made of water. When we are dehydrated all that does is dry out our bodies, skin, and also our hair. If you aren’t the best at drinking water, you might want to start! It also should be one of the first ingredients you should see on your styling product’s label because that usually means that the product is aimed at providing your hair with the moisture it needs. So drink up!

Shea Butter

Shea butter is one of the best ingredients you can put in your hair. Not only does it provide your hair with incredible non-greasy moisture, it is also packed with nutritious vitamins like vitamins A, E, and F. All of these vitamins work to promote healthier and softer hair. Shea butter also works to repair and protect your curls against damage whether that’s from chemical treatments, heat styling tools, dyeing, or from harmful environmental factors such as pollution and ultraviolet sun rays. Try Difeel Premium Shea Butter Hair Oil as a pre-poo to your wash day.

Need another dry hair remedy? Watch How to Deep Condition Your Dry Hair With Olive Oil

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Dry shampoo can be a godsend when it comes to finishing up a heated workout at the gym or having a gruesome day of traveling.

It gives our hair that little pick me up when a shower is nowhere in sight. If used correctly, dry shampoo can be a handy tool but is something that must be used tenderly and only when you feel it is necessary. Here are 6 easy steps to applying this product correctly.

The Dos

Step 1: Prep your hair

This product should be applied to dry hair only.

Step 2: Shake the can

This helps to activate the product before you apply it

Step 3: Hold spray can 5-10 inches away from your head

This way the product is evenly distributed.

Step 4: Apply product

Apply the dry shampoo sparingly on your roots while focusing the product on the top half of your head only.

Step 5: Let it sit!

Before you do ANYTHING to your hair, let the product soak in for 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial in allowing the product to do what it was made for.

Step 6: Massage it in

Once the product has thoroughly soaked in, gently blend the product in with your fingers by gently massaging your scalp.

Enjoy!

Now that you know how to apply dry shampoo, here is a quick list of what NOT to do when using dry shampoo.

The Don’ts…

Use it without a good cause.

Dry shampoos are best after travel or working out. Or something handy to have if you want to put off showering for one more day. It by any means should NOT be used as a permanent substitute for your regular wash days. Dry shampoo cannot cleanse your scalp of impurities like your regular shampoo can. Therefore, it should be used with this in mind.

Spray it all over your head.

Dry shampoo works the best when applied to the top half of your head. Otherwise, your hair will feel chalky, sticky, and dry.

Spray it too close to your head.

If you apply the dry shampoo too close to your roots, you could end up with it hair that looks extremely chalky and gross.

Rub it in right after application.

Doing this prevents the product from working effectively. Make sure you’re allowing the product to soak in thoroughly first.

There are many dry shampoos out there that all aim at refreshing your curls. While some are more simple, there are some that contain nourishing ingredients. Below, I list off some of my favorites.

• ;”>Cantu Refresh Apply Cider Vinegar Dry-Cowash: This nourishing product contains a formula of apple cider vinegar, tea tree oil, and shea butter. A perfect blend to making your hair is feeling oil-free and refreshed. The best part of this spray is that it is affordable ($7″> and you don’t have to worry about any pesky white chalky build-up.
• ;”>Hask Monoi Coconut Dry Shampoo: I recently tried this spray for the first time and loved it. This product is lightweight and left my curls smelling like coconuts. Most importantly, my hair felt incredibly refreshed afterward. This product quickly soaks up excess sweat and oil thanks to the ultra-fine rice starch that’s in the spray. I would definitely recommend trying this product.
• ;”>Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Biotin Dry Shampoo: This was another product I recently tried for the first time. While I loved the product, for the size, this product is expensive ($24″>. However, this product will last you awhile since you only need to use a little of it at a time. It comes in a powder rather than a spray. I love the way this product smells and how easy it is to apply. My curls felt refreshed and oil free. Not only does this refresh your hair but the nourishing combo of witch-hazel, biotin, and bamboo help to stimulate the scalp and encourage healthy hair growth. I would recommend trying this product if you have extra cash to spare.
• ;”>Batiste Original Dry Shampoo: If you are looking for a classic and effective dry shampoo, this is the product for you. No bells or whistles, just strictly refreshes your curls quickly and easily.
• ;”>Macadamia Professional Style Extend Dry Shampoo: This all texture friendly product, while pricey ($20″>, does a lot more than just refreshes your hair. While many dry shampoos can leave your curls feeling dry, not this one! The passion flower and aloe vera leaf extracts work towards providing your curls with moisture, balance, and nourishment.

Want to know more about curly hair and dry shampoo?

Visit SHOPNaturallyCurly for more product suggestions from the community.

Moving to New York City was something that I had romanticized about doing for years.

I had always dreamt about what it would be like pursue my dream career of becoming an art therapist and “making it” in the big city. As a young woman coming from the cornfields and soybeans to the concrete jungle, I have a lot to adjust to. The city of New York is fast paced, full of anxiety, and a place where there are so many people who are in need. I have found the noise, dirt, and pace of the city to be at times overwhelming, a complete change from my midwest town of 132,600. However, I have also discovered how much I love New York. Moving here has brought about exciting changes, especially as a curly girl.

One of the things I love about New York is that everything is happening here.

Whether it’s the culture, fashion, food, art, or music, there is always something new to see or a new place to go. Being a curly girl in New York has been especially exciting for a number of reasons. First, all of my favorite brands such as Devacurl, Sheamoisture, Carol’s Daughter, and Ouidad are all based here! Secondly, there are so many people here who have naturally curly hair and fully embrace it. It’s so refreshing to go out and always see someone with curly hair. I feel that there is much more of a curly community here than my town back home.

Another thing that has been fun is that many of the curly women who I follow on social media live here as well.

There are events they host like curl brunches and other opportunities to get together and celebrate having unique hair textures. Another event I am excited about is CurlFest. Now that I live here, I can actually attend that festival. It has been so much fun to now have opportunities to go to these events and meet some really lovely people. That has probably been one of the most freeing and exciting things about moving here so far.

In regard to products, finding them has been about the same.

Since I do most of my product shopping online, finding products hasn’t been that difficult for me. When I’m not online, finding them at the grocery store or pharmacy has not been an issue.

Another exciting feature of living in the big apple is that I now have access to professional hair salons who specialize in cutting curly hair, like the Devacurl Devachan salon. Unfortunately, most places who are professional curly stylists are a little out of my price range, but I would love to get a cut by a professional curly stylist someday. That is the one thing I do not like about living in New York. Everything is very expensive. I know those cuts would be worth every penny though. I am excited to see what all New York has to show me within the next few years!

What’s it like being curly where you live?

Let us know what the curly community is like where you live.

When caring for your skin, watermelon is usually not the first thing that comes to mind.

However, watermelon actually has surprising benefits for helping to keep your skin healthy. The fruit is full of important vitamins which can be used to treat multiple skin conditions and is incredibly hydrating. If you are looking for something new to incorporate into your routine to maintain healthier skin, here are the top 5 reasons why watermelon could be your answer.

1. Rich in vitamins

Think of watermelon as a giant cocktail pill of vitamins. Watermelon contains vitamins of A,C, and B6, all of which are great for helping you to maintain firm, soft, healthy and fresh skin. The vitamin C not only helps to protect from sun or air pollution exposure, but can even help to balance out your skin complexion, too. The vitamin B6 that this fruit contains can even help clear up your skin if you suffer from acne. Vitamin A and C are other important nutrients that help protect your skin from infection and sun exposure. Additionally, these vitamins can even help us to age gracefully — after all, getting saggy and wrinkly skin is not something the majority of us are looking forward to. Surprisingly, the vitamins A and C in watermelon are great for helping to fight against the woes of aging like sagging and wrinkly skin. watermelon may be the secret to having lasting youthful looking skin.

2. Naturally tones

Another fun fact about watermelon is that the fruit itself can be used as a toner. You can literally take a slice and rub it all over your skin. The cool feeling of the melon’s juices easily soak into your skin and can feel incredibly refreshing.

3. Hydrates skin

One of the simplest ways to take good care of your skin is to stay hydrated. As we know, being dehydrated is not fun, you feel like crap, your skin gets flaky, dry and itchy. Watermelon is a great pick-me-up as it contains so much water. In addition, consuming water in general is a great way to help the body rid itself of toxins. Remember, a healthy body means healthy skin!

4. Balances oil production

If you have very oily skin, watermelon might especially be helpful to try. The vitamin A works to shrink your pores to help fight against the excess secretion of oil that your body produces.

5. Naturally moisturizes

Not only will watermelon hydrate you, but it can also be an incredible moisturizer for your skin in keeping it soft, firm, and glowing.

As you can see, watermelon can give you so much more than just a tasty summer snack. This magical fruit is full of benefits that we wouldn’t even think of. Everything from fighting excess oil, protecting, hydrating, and moisturizing.

Do you try to use natural ingredients for maintaining healthier skin? Let me know in the comment section below.

Products with watermelon seed oil you may like:

• Carol’s Daughter Sacred Tiare Smoothing Serum
• Skin Food Freshmade Mask #01 Watermelon
• Sweet Essentials 100% Watermelon Seed Oil

Read 4 Essential Vitamins for Healthy Hair

I love when the seasons change because it’s the perfect excuse to change up personal style as well as try out new hair products — out with the old and in with the new.

Now that the weather is getting cooler and dryer, it’s time to switch to the products that provide our hair with the moisture they so desperately need. In addition to switching up the product arsenal, it may also be the perfect time to try a new hairstyle, whether it’s bangs, a pixie, or dyeing it a fun new color. While I usually like to keep my winter hairstyle relatively the same, I have been enjoying experimenting with some of the current trending hairstyles and products. Here are my top favorites.

Lengthy bob

While the classic bob is always a nice winter cut to have, experimenting with different lengths with this style can be a lot of fun, too. A longer bob — also called a “lob” — can be very elegant, sexy, and look great with bangs. While you may want to keep your hair long and pulled up away from your face and neck in the summer, this style is a great choice for the cooler seasons.

“Curtain” bangs

Bangs are something that never go out of style; I tried them out for the first time this summer and I am still in love. If you don’t like too much change, trying out curtain bangs could just be the new twist you need in your everyday look.

The low bun

Another simple style that is underrated: the low bun. It’s a great way to get the curls out of my face and yet still look effortlessly good. Plus, there is so much I can do with a low bun like add a cute headband, accessory, or jewelry. You can do either a single or a double low bun, depending on your mood.

The side-sweep

Doing something as simple as changing up how I part my hair can make a difference, especially if you are looking for a subtle change in your style. Simply sweeping hair up over the top is a super cute way of switching up your look with almost no commitment. Bonus: it looks fantastic with a headband!

Going natural

For those who don’t typically wear their hair curly, giving your curls a chance to do their thing could be just what your hair needs this winter. As simple as that sounds, taking the time now to catch up on deep conditioning treatments, laying off of the heat styling tools, and giving your curls a little extra TLC is a great way to let them recover from the summer. Plus, it could be nice to sport your natural look for a while.

If you’re new to this, you may want to switch up your cleanser to keep from drying out your natural curls or waves. The new DevaCurl Delight line, while pricy, is definitely worth every cent! This is a great gentle cleanser to try for winter. The chuga milk, quinoa protein, and grape seed oil give your curls a bundle of vitamins, strength, and moisturize to prepare them for the cool and dryer days. As always, it is free of silicones, sulfates and parabens.

Brushed out hair

Now I know when you read this, you’re thinking, wait! Isn’t brushing your hair out while it’s dry horrible for your hair? It can be IF done incorrectly. Brushing your hair out is actually a great way to achieve more volume. Simply take a wide tooth comb and gently brush out any tangles starting from the ends, working your way up to your roots. This is one of those trends to definitely embrace the frizz.

Caramel color

Having a subtle warm blonde color is a great way to rock a lighter color in the winter. It is a beautiful natural looking color that can be very flattering for some eye colors. If you’re going to be lightening your hair to achieve this color, make sure you keep it moisturized with a good moisturizer. Cantu Leave-in Conditioning Cream is affordable leave-in works great for fine curly hair textures. This product is especially great for those who dye their hair or use heat styling tools. This leave-in provides your hair with incredible moisture and shine while protecting your curls against damage. The Shea butter and naturally infused ingredients help to keep your curls healthy, strong, silky, and looking at their best.

No matter what cut or color you’re rocking this season, make sure you incorporate a deep conditioner into your routine. I like the Long Aid Naturals Manuka Honey & Bergamot Double-Cream Moisture Masque because it’s a texture-friendly masque that’s the perfect product if you are trying to achieve extra hair growth, moisture, shine, and care. The natural ingredients of the manuka honey and bergamot leaf exact, deeply moisturize your curls, help to fight frizz, and encourage them to grow.

Read: Instagram’s Most Popular Fall Beauty Trends

What are your favorite curly trends this winter?

Let me know in the comment section below!

I am always looking for ways to update my wardrobe and explore different styles.

Some of my biggest sources of fashion inspiration are the fashionistas and models I follow on Instagram.

They all have their own unique sense of style, which I try to emulate parts of in my own fashion sense. This month, model Chrissy Teigen caught my eye with the recent launch of her new clothing line with Revolve. Chrissy’s collection consists of fun fluffy jackets, gorgeous black floral poly slacks with matching crop tops to match, delicate dresses, and fierce tall heeled boots. While there are a couple items that are a little far out for my style, I am in love and completely obsessed with most of her collection! These are my top three faves.

Matcha pants and crop tops

These are perhaps my favorite items in the whole collection. They have a beautiful floral design with a silky, velvety, and comfortable looking aesthetic. I love how she incorporated clasps on the sides of the pants. I wonder if traditional Chinese clothing was the inspiration behind them. I also love that these pants have two different tops. One is a more off the shoulders crop top compared to the bralette style top. This would be a perfect outfit to wear on a night out on the town! Now that it is getting colder, I think having the right blazer jacket or cardigan could really rock this outfit no matter what season!

Thai Tea Top & Pants

Similar to her Matcha items, I am absolutely obsessed with her Thai Tea Pants. I love the shimmery fabric and color. These would be pants that I would wear to completely lounge around in and yet something I would also wear for a nice evening out. If worn with the right shoes and accessories, I would even go as far as saying wearing them to a fancier event!

By Raye Como Boot

At first, I wasn’t quite sure what to make of these boots. Pink is usually my least favorite color, however, I find that these boots are fierce and sexy in an unexpected way. I think it’s neat when designers mix up our idea of what we traditionally think of as ‘fierce.’ When I think of the word, traditional colors of black or red come to mind. However, I think Chrissy was able to pull off fierce successfully with the pink color! Also, I think it definitely wouldn’t have the same effect if the boots were shorter. The length is definitely what makes them work; wearing these boots with a cute denim dress or the white sweater dress that she features them in looks amazing.

I find Chrissy’s style to be really out there.

She is confident, sexy, and the collection truly reflects who she is as a person — fun, fierce, and not afraid to be herself!

What do you think of Chrissy’s collection?

Do you find it sexy, empowering, fierce, or something else completely? What is your favorite article of clothing in the collection? Let me know in the comment section below!

Photos courtesy of Revolve.

Deciding on a Halloween costume can be tricky.

Even more tricky? Finding one that will help maintain your curls. One of the easiest ways to maintain your curls is dressing like a character with curly hair! There are so many fun ideas and inspirational people — whether fictional or not — that have beautiful curly hair. Examples include Baby from Dirty Dancing, Napolean Dynamite, Eleven from the latest season of Stranger Things, Slash from the band Guns and Roses, Willy Wonka from Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, Claire from The Breakfast Club, Andie from Pretty in Pink, Buddy from The Elf, and many more.

Last year, I dressed up as Bob Ross on Halloween and had an absolute blast.

The costume was super low maintenance and let me embrace my shorter natural hair. Here, I provide a simple and fun Bob Ross Halloween tutorial.

What you’ll need

• Eyeliner or a fake goatee
• High waisted blue jeans
• button-up shirt or denim jacket
• belt (preferably thin and black”>
• large paintbrush
• painting palette
• paint
• hair pick (optional”>
• TWA to shoulder-length curly hair
• combat boots or loafers (optional”>

The outfit

Bob Ross always wears high waisted blue jeans and a nicely tucked in button-up shirt. He switches it up between pink, white, blue, striped, and sometimes, even denim. Really any nice button-up shirt will work if you stay within those colors. Once your shirt is on, make sure you have a few buttons undone. Once you have your pants and shirt, you will need a belt — ideally, one that is thin and black. Lastly, if you have loafers or combat boots, break out those bad boys! Otherwise, any shoe similar to that will do. And that is all you need for the outfit!

The hair

This costume works especially well if you have shorter curly hair. Take your hair pick or wide-tooth comb, and pick your hair out as much as you can. If you need to, you can also fluff it out to get the most volume. I would even go as far as brushing your hair out carefully with a wide-tooth comb to really achieve that Bob Ross ‘fro effect. If you have longer hair, you can always pin it up with some bobby pins.

For the beard, you can always take some liquid liner that matches your hair color and draw on your bread with short quick strokes! If you don’t want to bother, you can always buy a fake beard to stick on your face. Just make sure it’s short like Bob’s! Lastly, Don’t forget the chest hair! That’s super important.

The palette

For the palette, you can buy a cheap plastic or wooden one at any craft store. Otherwise, you can make your own out of duck tape and cardboard! Simply take the cardboard, cut out a palette shape, then wrap it up in any kind of duck tape. The last thing you’ll need is some cheap acrylic paint. Acrylic is ideal since it dries quickly. Grab your large paintbrush, and you’re ready to go paint some happy trees!

Who are you dressing up as this Halloween?

Here’s some inspiration for your next look.