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Thursday, September 30, 2010

MORE ON HOW TO GET MOISTURE DRENCHED HAIR...





Capping Off Your Wash Routine with a Leave In: MORE on How to Get Moisture Drenched Hair

Another  way to have an opportunity to add moisture to your hair is during your leave-in process.

Ingredients:

1/2 cup aloe vera juice
1-2 tablespoons of oil
1 tablespoon of vegetable glycerin
1-3 drops of rosemary essential oil ( optional)
1-3 drops of sage essential oil (optional)
1-3 drops of basil essential oil ( optional)
Liquid Panthenol ( optional)

1.  Mix all the ingredients together.  You can even place them into a spray bottle.  Spray the mixture onto your freshly rinsed hair. 

2.  Work the leave-in mixture into your hair from root to tip.

3.  Do not rinse out this mixture.

4.  Style your hair as usual.

Many thanks to the lovely Chicoro for sharing this with the natural hair community.

My thoughts...

My hair looooooves Aloe juice, I add Aloe juice in all of my products on wash day.

                                                                      ENJOY!!!

Wednesday, September 29, 2010

NATURAL LIP CARE...



Hello fabulous naturals!

As the cold weather is fastly approaching.  It's always a great idea to protect our hair, and skin alike.  Along with making some of my favorite hair products, I also love to make lots of my own skin products.  And over the summer found out how much I adore making natural lip balm, this is great for the entire family.  Finding that making these things myself is a sure way of knowing exactly what is included in the skin care my children are using.  Especially, since 2 out of the 5 of my children have very sensitive skin.  The lip balms are especially neat because while making them I use lots of natural butters, which is a joy throughout the family. Another great thing about making your own lip balms in particular is that you can control the amount of gloss if any, you use in your product for myself and my children we are not looking for shine or gloss for our lips , just a very simple recipe to protect our lips and skin from the harsh winter weather.   Below, I will post an article I found speaking a bit about natural lip care, followed by a few recipes That I have made ...and are Great! 

Natural Lip Care

Compared to the rest of our bodies, our lips are unique both for their appearance and their make-up. They have no sweat glands, few sebaceous oil glands and their only protection from the outside world is saliva—which really isn’t all that helpful.

Keep your lips looking and feeling their best with these simple tips.

1.  To exfoliate dry lips, apply a layer of light oil, then gently brush your lips with a warm, wet washcloth or soft toothbrush.
2.  Avoid licking your lips. This actually dries them out more, causing them to chap and crack.
3.  Condition your lips as you sleep by coating them with a layer of lip gloss or natural oil, such as coconut oil, before you go to bed.
4.  If you are susceptible to cold sores, look for products and recipes with peppermint or eucalyptus oil. These natural antimicrobial can help fight cold sores. Also add a few drops of these oils to your favorite lip product recipe.
5.  If you spend a lot of time outdoors, use sunscreen on your lips. Lips can develop skin cancer if not protected from the sun’s harmful rays.




Bee Balm for Lips
Makes 1 ½ ounces

Bees provide a valuable lip balm ingredient—beeswax! This rich balm will soften and protect your lips.

2 tablespoons grated beeswax
1 teaspoon sunflower oil
1 teaspoon apricot kernel oil
1/8 teaspoon vitamin E oil





On a stove or in a microwave, gently heat beeswax and oils until melted; be careful to not overheat. Stir well to combine. Pour into a small, clean container, then cool completely.

 
Fresh Spearmint Lip Gloss
Makes 1/2 ounce
 
Spearmint makes this gloss feel refreshing and soothing on your lips. Also try using other mints, such as orange, pineapple, cinnamon or chocolate mint. If you don’t have fresh mint on hand, substitute dried mint until fresh leaves are available.
 
1 teaspoon fresh mint leaves OR 1/2 teaspoon dried leaves
2 teaspoons almond oil
1 teaspoon grated beeswax
 
Place mint in a container; gently bruise leaves to release essential oils. Pour oil over leaves and let sit for a few days. Strain oil, then add it to beeswax. On a stove or in a microwave, gently heat mixture until wax melts. Stir well and pour into a small, clean container.




Red Clover Lip Gel
Makes 1/2 ounce

Here’s an old folk remedy for dry, chapped lips. You can find red clover blossoms at your natural food store, or possibly in your own garden. Its flowers yield a sweet, honey-like substance that has anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing properties.

1/2 tablespoon dried red clover flowers OR 1 tablespoon fresh flowers
1/4 cup water
1/4 teaspoon clover honey
1/8 teaspoon vitamin E oil
1/8 teaspoon cornstarch (arrowroot powder may also be used)

In a small pan, bring clover, water and honey to a boil. Boil for 2 minutes. Remove from heat, then strain liquid. Return liquid to pan and stir in oil and cornstarch, mixing well. Heat mixture until it forms a clear gel (about 1 to 2 minutes). Cool gel completely, stirring occasionally. Spoon into a clean container.




Aloe Vera Lip Gloss
Makes 1/2 ounce

This light lip gloss will protect, shine and moisturize your lips. Aloe Vera gel’s high moisture content is very soothing. If you have an aloe plant, simply split one of the leaves lengthwise and squeeze out some of the clear gel.

1 teaspoon fresh aloe Vera gel
1/2 teaspoon coconut oil
 1/8 teaspoon vitamin E oil

Mix together aloe and oils; stir well. Pour into a small, clean container.

Courtesy of mountain herbs.com

These are super fun to make! I have made them all except the red clover lip gloss. Plan to do so this weekend (god willing).  If you do not have the proper container on hand. I went to my local arts & crafts store and found very small flip top container. Individual Paint holders are perfect!

BTW, STAY TUNED FOR THE FOLLOWING REVIEWS IN A FEW WEEKS ON:

* Jessicurl- weekly deep conditioning treatment
 * Jessicurl too Shea extra moisturizing conditioner
* Hairveda- Almond glaze
* Hairveda- Whipped cream 3 and 1 Ends hydration, leave-in and moisturizer

                                                                       ENJOY!!!

                                                                      










































Tuesday, September 28, 2010

TOP 12 SNACKS FOR SUPER HAIR...



Hungry? Why not improve the health of your hair in the process? Below are some quick and healthy munchies that will give you great hair also!

Almonds

Walnuts

Sunflower seed

Figs

Apricots

Bananas

Raspberries or strawberries

Oranges

Raisins

Prunes

Skim milk, soy latte decaf, or frozen or regular lowfat milk

Small box whole grain ceral or whole grain snack barhttp://www.naturallycurly.com/curlreading/wavy/top-12-snacks-for-super-hair?utm_source=nc_newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=20100928




Sounds good to me :)

                                                                                       ENJOY!!!





 



Sunday, September 26, 2010

SHEDDING AND HAIR LOSS...



Hey Fabulous naturals!

Doing some research about shedding and how its said that hair shed's more during different times of the year.  I found it to be quite interesting, I came across an article, that in all honesty was really helpful to me and cleared up a lot about shedding.  Below I will post the article in hopes that you ladies find it as helpful as I have :)

SHEDDING AND HAIR LOSS

With its cycle of repetitive planned obsolescence and rebirth, hair is a unique organ system. It’s of little wonder that with its complex and continuous recycling, there can be multiple clinical disorders based on cycling abnormalities. Although much is known about the organization and composition of the hairs themselves and of the follicles, we still have an incomplete and rudimentary understanding of relevant pathways and mechanisms that regulate follicular function. In this article, we are addressing only entities that cause hair loss or shedding, rather than problems of hypertrichosis or overgrowth of hair.


The first hair follicles on the scalp form at approximately the 9th week of gestation. On the average, the human scalp will have 100,000 follicles and no further follicular neogenesis occurs after birth. You are born with as many hair follicles as you are ever going to have. The same follicles that produced lunago (unpigmented ultra-fine) hair in the fetus and immediate postnatal life, eventually produce terminal hair. It is important to note that during one’s lifetime, the same follicles can intermittently produce vellus or terminal hair

A knowledge of the hair cycle is essential to understanding hair problems. Hair growth on the human scalp is an asynchronous regeneration of the hair follicle in repeated cycles, referred to as a mosaic pattern of follicular growth. The growth stage is the anagen phase. The duration and rate of growth of the anagen phase normally varies at different body sites, in different individuals, and at various ages. Scalp hairs have a relatively long anagen phase typically ranging from 2 to 5 years, but has been documented to be as long as 10 years. The short-lived catagen period, usually 2 to 4 weeks in duration, is the transitional portion of the cycle. At this time, each terminal hair bulb moves from its location in the dermis to a more superficial location by means of shrinkage and remolding of that portion below the bulge region where the arrector pili muscle inserts. This muscle is not present on true vellus hair and allows terminal hairs to ‘stand on end’. Once a hair has made the transition to the telogen phase, its existing hair shaft will not grow any longer. The hair shaft during the telogen phase is no longer anchored securely in the dermis as it was in the anagen phase and can be easily dislodged with the gentle traction of brushing or shampooing or combing. Usually the shedding is unnoticed. Since the hair can accumulate in the shower drain or on soapy hands, patients can erroneously associate washing the hair with causing hair loss. The telogen hair has a club shaped proximal end within the hair follicle and retains the club shape when it is shed. The new hair produced from the subsequent anagen phase does not "push out" the hair from the previous cycle and may on occasion be found adjacent to the temporarily retained club hair within the follicular canal.

NORMAL SCALP GROWTH OF TERMINAL HAIRS

Average number of brown/black scalp hairs: 100,000
10% more on blonde's
10% less on redheads
Fastest Growth: between 15 and 30 years of age
Slow growth in infants and elderly
Average scalp hair growth: 0.35 mm/day or ~1 cm/month
Hair grows faster in summer than in winter
Month of greatest shed in the Northern Temperate zone: November
Anagen growth phase: 2 to 5 years
Percentage of hair in anagen phase: 85%-90%
Average daily numbers of hair shed: 50 to 100
Female hair grows faster than male hair

http://www.minoxidil.com/subpages/journal_articles/shedding.html


                                                                                                        ENJOY!!!

Friday, September 24, 2010

CAST YOUR VOTE....



Hey there fabulous naturals !

Many of you may not know , but I am from NJ and have been a resident of NJ all of my life (Atlantic county).  The Atlantic county women's center for Domestic Violence in Atlantic county is in desperate need of our help the center is in need of lots of repairs and renovation.  The best part is all you have to do is vote...vote, vote , vote....if the ACWC gets enough vote they will then have a chance at receiving 250 thousand dollars that can be used in helping to renovate the ACWC.  Below I will post the article along with the link....

ACWC NEEDS YOUR VOTE TO WIN $250,000 FOR SHELTER RENOVATIONS

Over the last 35 years, the Atlantic County Women's Center has been a beacon of light for thousands who have needed to find solace in the midst of despair after being involved in a domestic violence situation.



For many whose circumstances were so extreme, staying at the center's private shelter has meant the difference between life and death, but three and a half decades have their toll on the shelter itself and now the center is asking for your help in hopes that Pepsi will help pay the way for them to continue to offer a place that displaced families can be proud to call their temporary home.


Since 1975 the center has worked to empower women physically, emotionally, socially and financially...four factors that are severely compromised for those victimized by domestic violence, but for many, hope has been found in the center's shelter, which is in dire need of repair according to the center's Coordinator of Community Initiatives, Erin O'Hanlon.

35 years of families coming through there we've supported...35 years of children and we've really just outgrown it. We really need to renovate it."

From limited storage to cramped bedrooms and kitchen counters that are not wheelchair accessible, O'Hanlon says it's unable to provide the level of care that these families deserve.

There's nothing worse than coming to a residential area and you're coming from a domestic violence situation and now you can't care for your children."

Which is why the center is turning to the Pepsi refresh project, a national campaign to help promote America's ideas to better the community. If enough people vote for this video, the center stands to make 250 thousand dollars to help renovate the shelter, but they need your help to do it.

"People can vote everyday," O'Hanlon says. "They can vote online with any email they have. They can text it in and we're looking for people to be able to put the Facebook application in as well and download that and get as many friends and supportive people involved as possible."

Organizers say it's not just a win for them, with each vote you have the chance to help victimized families find solace in the center's safe haven.

We want to make this as much of a home as we possibly can."

To cast your vote go to www.refresheverything.com. Voting ends on September 30th.

http://www.nbc40.net/news/14735/video


LADIES, PLEASE, PLEASE PASS THE WORD.....ALSO YOU CAN VOTE EVERY DAY.  THANKS :)

Thursday, September 23, 2010

4 PRINCIPLES FOR GETTING THE HAIR YOU WANT...



Relationship - You must develop a plan for your hair! Knowing how your hair will react to different environments, products and styles is important to the overall health of your hair. You will have the ability to make increasingly better choices about your hair as you become more familiar with it.

Appreciation - We learn to give up wanting "her" hair and appreciate our own hair and its beauty.  The sooner we stop trying to make our hair fit a certain mold, the sooner we discover the inherent beauty of the hair that we have currently been blessed with. 

Knowledge - Do you know how to read ingredient labels?  How about what combination of products to use when you have color-treated natural hair versus locs?  Knowledge empowers you to make the choices that will be the best for your desired result.

Confidence - Now that you've got it - flaunt it!  Be proud of your hair, regardless of what stage it's in.  Gone are the days when someone else could make you feel negatively about your hair.  You are confident and fabulous!


Many thanks to Erinshell Anthony for sharing these simple and great principles with the natural hair community.

P.S.  I am lovin this naturals style in the picture above, I have used photos of her  previously and each and everytime I see a photo of her she is FLY, FIERCE, AND FABULOUS...I don't know who this natural is but she knows how to throw it on.

Thanks for stopping by!

                                                                                   ENJOY!!!

Monday, September 20, 2010

SHARE YOUR HAIR RECIPE...


Hello fabulous naturals!

As most of you know I love my hair recipes.  In, fact I have quite a few. Made for different hair needs,  everything from oils , to hair rinses and all in between :)

My question to you ladies is ..do you have a favorite hair recipe ? .  If so share it with us here at AuNaturale
We would love to hear from you !


                                                                                       ENJOY!!!

Sunday, September 19, 2010

SILK...SATIN...POLYESTER...





Hello fellow fabulous naturals!


For those of you who may be a bit confused on this subject.  Satin, silk, polyester pillow cases and or scarfs for our hair at night.  I personally have been using satin since my BC and it works great for me.  I came across a great article that helps in clearing up the difference between the different materials.  I hope this helps someone, if you are a seasoned natural, a newly natural,  or even a transitioner.

  1. Satin is a weave, not a fabric. A satin weave has no visible interlacing pattern. That is what makes satin smooth and shiny.
  2. Silk is the natural and most expensive fabric used in a satin weave. Silk thread is very smooth and produced by the silk worm.
  3. Polyester is a synthetic fabric that is used in a satin weave that is more affordable. This fabric does not breathe as well as silk.
  4. Acetate is another synthetic fabric that is used, but the quality might be compromised.
    The next issue is a charmeuse satin weave. This type of satin weave is softer and lighter in weight
  5. The front side of the fabric has a satin finish whereas the back has a dull finish. It can be made of silk or a synthetic polyester.
  6. Silk charmeuse is more expensive. It is softer and more delicate.
  7. .Polyester charmeuse is cheaper and can often withstand machine washing, but it doesn’t breathe as well as silk.
                                                                        ENJOY!!!  

Saturday, September 18, 2010

LETS TALK ABOUT A VERY SERIOUS ISSUE, DOMESTIC VIOLENCE...



Domestic violence and emotional abuse are behaviors used by one person in a relationship to control the other. Partners may be married or not married;  living together, separated or dating.

Examples of abuse include:

name-calling or put downs
keeping a partner from contacting their family or friends
withholding money
stopping a partner from getting or keeping a job
actual or threatened physical harm
sexual assault
stalking
intimidation

Violence can be criminal and includes physical assault (hitting, pushing, shoving, etc.), sexual abuse (unwanted or forced sexual activity), and stalking. Although emotional, psychological and financial abuse are not criminal behaviors, they are forms of abuse and can lead to criminal violence.







The violence takes many forms and can happen all the time or once in a while. An important step to help yourself or someone you know in preventing or stopping violence is recognizing the warning signs.

ANYONE CAN BE A VICTIM! Victims can be of any age, sex, race, culture, religion, education, employment or marital status. Although both men and women can be abused, most victims are women. Children in homes where there is domestic violence are more likely to be abused and/or neglected. Most children in these homes know about the violence. Even if a child is not physically harmed, they may have emotional and behavior problems.



If you are being abused, REMEMBER

You are not alone
It is not your fault
Help is available

What is Abuse? - A Warning List

Many people who are being abused do not see themselves as victims. Also, abusers do not see themselves as being abusive. People often think of domestic violence as physical violence, such as hitting. However, domestic violence takes other forms, such as psychological, emotional, or sexual abuse.

Domestic violence is about one person in a relationship using a pattern of behaviors to control the other person. It can happen to people who are married or not married;  living together, separated, or dating.

If your partner repeatedly uses one or more of the following to control you;

pushing, hitting, slapping, choking, kicking, or biting
threatening you, your children, other family members or pets
threatening suicide to get you to do something
using or threatening to use a weapon against you
keeping or taking your paycheck
puts you down or makes you feel bad
forcing you to have sex or to do sexual acts you do not want or like
keeping you from seeing your friends, family or from going to work

YOU HAVE BEEN ABUSED!!

Remember threatened or actual physical violence may be illegal. Consider calling the police for help

This is a very important subject in my life.  One that is sadly quite popular amongst both men and women.  I found this article and found that I must share it.There are many , many women's issues in need of tons of awareness. Domestic violence and abuse happens to be one of a few I am very passionate about, and decided I help by using my blog, my time and my voice to help in bringing awareness to such a very important cause.  If you know of any one who may be in a domestic violence relationship, I ask please, please do not shut them out of your lives.  You, may figure there isn't much you feel you can do...but, there is... help in showing them a way out....lend them a few words of encouragement, not once, not twice, but as long as it takes.  Give, them a safe haven.  Go, with them to a place for abused women... love them!

Take care....


















Friday, September 17, 2010

THANK YOU...THANK YOU...THANK YOU...

Hello fabulous fellow naturals!

Just wanted to take a minute and thank you all new and old followers and those who stop by quietly.  You guys are truly appreciated.  I've said it before and I gladly say it again, you ladies are like an extended family, almost like a movement. One, I am thrilled to be a part of !

Its funny sometimes when I mention to friends or family that I've gone all natural, no more relaxers their eyes light up ...and they say really...And I say... yeap really, and it is really a joy, such freedom and quite exciting.
So, I say to all of you fabulous ladies out there who are rocking that fly natural be it locs or free hair...believe that you have made a clear statement ...that you will not be defined buy the norm , by what is said to be professional or by what is said to be unaccepted...you will be shocked as to who you have inspired. Who you may have secretly brought along this wonderful journey. 

I love hearing from all of you ladies and feeling the love, the bond we all have. Reading all of your beautiful comments, is really great.    I have meant some really wonderful women here at AuNaturale  some who has inspired me in ways you can never imagine...Some who has inspired me to eat healthier ...some who has inspired me to commit to working out...some who has inspired me to do volunteer work and become a voice for the many important woman causes, breast cancer research , ovarian cancer research, domestic violence, etc...some who has inspired me to go back to school...some who has inspired me to get back into the art of natural hair services...what ever the inspiration , many of you ladies have been so inspiring....so I just had to take a minute and say...

THANK YOU...THANK YOU...THANK YOU....

Thursday, September 16, 2010

UNDERSTANDING ALCOHOLS...



There are some alcohols that can be used in our hair.  Then there are some that are harmful for our hair.  Here is a short list of good and bad alcohols... And remember , to always check your ingredients in your hair products before making a purchase.

Cetyl Alcohol:

 This is a fatty alcohol that is derived from coconut and palm oils. This alcohol is an emollient. It makes hair and skin softer.

Stearyl Alcohol:

Another fatty alcohol. Stearyl alcohol is often used in conditioners and shampoos and acts as an emollient (softener).

GOOD (fatty) alcohols

Cetyl Alcohol*
Acetyl Alcohol
Sterol Alcohol
Stearyl Alcohol
Lauryl Alcohol
Lanolin Alcohol
Stearic Acid*

BAD alcohols

Menthanol
Ethanol
Propanol
SDA40
Alcohol Denat
Specially Denaturated Alcohol
Isopropyl Alcohol
 

                                                                                                  ENJOY!!!

Wednesday, September 15, 2010

5 FALL FAVORITES FOR YOUR CURLS...



Curl Junkie Hibiscus & Banana Deep Fix Moisturizing Conditioner Silicone-free , Paraben-free

The moisturizing properties of Hibiscus help to revitalize the hair. Its petals also have excellent anti-oxidant properties. Banana extract helps to soften the hair while rich, luxurious oils help to smooth and protect the hair shaft. This thick conditioner also has a yummy banana scent that makes it a pleasure to use!

Ingredients: Distilled Water (infused with Hibiscus Rosa Sinensis Linn (Hibiscus) Petals), Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice, Cetyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Honey, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter) Fruit, Panthenol, Musa Sapientum (Banana) Fruit Extract, Hydrolyzed Oat Flour, Plantago Species (Plantain) Leaf Extract, Olea Europaea (Olive) Oil, Astrocaryum Murumuru Butter, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Macadamia Ternifolia (Macadamia Nut) Seed Oil, Theobroma Grandiflorum (Cupuaçu) Seed Butter, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Wax, PEG -7 Olivate, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, (Vegetable) Glycerin, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Propylene Glycol, Diazolindyl Urea, Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate, Tetrasodium EDTA, Fragrance.

Mop Top Deep Conditioner

This product is great for the occasional deep conditioning, or for the most extremely dry, frizzy or unruly hair it is great for daily use. It restores moisture and manageability. Made with natural humectants and rich conditioning botanicals. Protects and tames hair with sea botanicals and honey. Hydrates efficiently by increasing the absorption rate through hair layers. Penetrates the hair, which builds up the moisture content and helps prevent split ends. The result is soft, silky hair.

INGREDIENTS: ALOE BARBADENSIS LEAF EXTRACT, CETYL ALCOHOL, BEHENTRIMONIUM METOSULPHATE, STEARYL ALCOHOL, CETRIMONIUM CHLORIDE, HYPNEA MUSCIFORMIS EXTRACT, GLYCERIN, STEARAMIDOPROPYL DIMETHYLAMINE, OLEA EUROPAEA (OLIVE) OIL, HYDROXYPROPYLTRIMONIUM HONEY, SARGASSUM FILIPENDULA EXTRACT, GELIDIELA ACEROSA EXTRACT, SORBITOL, SILK AMINO ACIDS, HAIR KERATIN AMINO ACIDS, HYDROLYZED SOY PROTEIN, HYDROLIZED WHEAT PROTEIN, ROSMARINUS OFFICINALIS (ROSEMARY) LEAF EXTRACT, ANTHEMIS NOBILIS (CHAMOMILE) FLOWER EXTRACT, URTICA DIOICA (NETTLE) EXTRACT, BUTYROSPERMUM PARKII (SHEA BUTTER) FRUIT, SIMMONDSIA CHINENSIS (JOJOBA) SEED OIL, TRITICUM VULGARE (WHEAT) GERM OIL, TOCOPHERYL ACETATE (VITAMIN E), PANTHENOL, HYDROXYETHYLCELLULOSE, POLYQUATERNIUM-10, BUTYLENE GLYCOL, DICETYLDIMONIUM CHLORIDE, CETEARYL ALCOHOL, CETEARETH 20, METHYLPARABEN, PROPYLPARABEN, DIAZOLIDINYL UREA, TETRASODIUM EDTA, CITRIC ACID, FRAGRANCE.

Miss Jessie's Super Sweetback Treatment ,Paraben-free,

Glycerin-free 


Whoever said sweets weren’t good for you was sadly mistaken. If beautiful curls are what you covet, then indulge your kinks with just the right treat! Miss Jessie’s Super Sweetback Treatment™, an ultra-rich emulsion, will satisfy your hair while softening and elongating every strand. Thanks to growth stimulants like shea butter and centella extract, among a number of other deliciously sweet ingredients, Super Sweetback Treatment™ leaves you with the charming, lengthened curls you desire. Want long curly hair? Miss Jessie's Super Sweetback Treatment is the essential treatment for growing out naturally curly, kinky and wavy hair. Healthy growth and length is what most curlies covet. Miss Jessie's can assist you in this process. An elongated curl has more bounce, is more manageable, and is less prone to frizz. Be Super Sweet to your curls.

Ingredients:water, behentrimonium methosulfate and cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, behentrimonium chloride, cyclomethicone and dimethiconol, lauryl alcohol, cetyl alcohol, cyclopentasiloxane, butyrospermum parkii (shea butter), fragrance, dimethicone, DMDM hydantoin and iodopropynyl butylcarbamate, ceteareth-20, hydroxethylcellulose, hydrolyzed soy protein, liposome (centella asiatica), aloe barbadensis leaf juice, EDTA disodium, tocopheryl acetate, mangifera indica (mango) seeed butter, D&C red #33, citric acid

Curlisto Deep Therapy Masque
Glycerin-free  


Deep-conditions dry, damaged and chemically-treated hair. Three types of structurizing proteins condition the inner and outer layers of the hair shaft:

Rice protein helps rebuild and strengthen damaged hair. Corn protein helps add body and manageability. Wheat protein helps add luster and shine.

Enriched with amino acids and vitamins, essential to hair nutrition. Botanical extracts energize and revitalize depleted, stressed hair and controls frizzies. Produces exceptional manageability and a healthy luster.

Ingredients: water, cetearyl alcohol, dicetyldimonium chloride, panthenol, tocopheryl acetate, retinyl palmitate, phytantriol, aloe barbadensis leaf juice, panaz ginseng root extract, centella asiatica extract, rosa canina fruit extract, spirulina maxima extract, hydrolyzed wheat protein, hydrolyzed wheat starch, hydrolyzed corn protein, hydrolyzed rice protein, propylene glycol, cyclomethicone, steapyrium chloride, methyl gluceth-10, lactamide MEA, PEG-45M, hydroxyethylcellulose, disodium EDTA, benzophenone-4, citric acid, methylparaben, propylparaben, diazolidinyl urea, fragrance.


 Hair Therapy Wrap

Hair Therapy Wrap is a reusable, heated hair wrap. Remember when deep conditioning meant soaking a scalding hot towel, wringing it out, and it still went cold in 5 minutes? The heated Hair Therapy Wrap does away with that and will stay hot up to 30 minutes, cordless, reusable and NO MORE sitting under electrical hairdryers!

http://iem.naturallycurly.com/display.php?M=122513&C=fd10a40c2f99b86a4fdb7a7c81f8b125&S=510&L=7&N=186

All of the items above you can find at naturally curly.com


                                                                                                       ENJOY!!!








Silicone-free  

Monday, September 13, 2010

AU NATURALE HAS BEEN FEATURED...



Hello fabulous naturals!

AuNaturale has been featured by the lovely L @ natural reviewbyl.  There you can find great natural hair topics , great tips and ideas.  Updates on lots of natural hair events...The Natural review is a great place to visit. In which I visit often.   I encourage you all to pay this site a visit you wont be disappointed...below I will gladly post the link:

http://naturalreviewbyl.com/

Again, a very special thanks to natural review for taking the time to reach out to AuNaturale :)

                                                                             ENJOY!!!

NATURAL HAIR & BEAUTY EXPO...



Hey fabulous fellow naturals!

I received an email from the beautiful Natashia Ford.....Sharing that there will be a natural hair & Beauty expo in the fabulous Orlando, FL.  So, for all of you naturals who live in that area or would like to attend , no matter which state you live below I will post the link so you can receive further info:

http://www.naturalhairandbeautyexpo.com/index.php

                                                                                     ENJOY!!!

CELEBRATING THE POWER OF POSITIVE THINKING...



Positive thinking and hard work are THE critical links to self improvement. Growth, happiness, and joy is the direct result of working hard and viewing life 'positively'.

Positive thinking can transform your life and allow you to do great things. Everyone and everything benefits from this change in you - your step lightens, your smile brightens, and your spirit generous. You find the joy in your life and share it with those around you.

How? Incorporate the following positive affirmations into your daily routine:

I deserve all the good things that come to me

I deserve to be happy

I deserve abundance

I deserve love

I deserve prosperity

I deserve good health

I deserve to enjoy life at its fullest

I deserve a peaceful space to live

I deserve to be in contact with Nature

I deserve to be compensated for my skills and my knowledge

I deserve to be successful

I deserve to be surrounded by people who love me

I deserve to experience beauty

I deserve to enjoy my time doing something that I like

I deserve to be appreciated

I deserve to be respected

I deserve to achieve my goals

Happy Positive Thinking Day

Courtesy of Jane carter of Jane carter solution http://www.janecartersolution.com/index.html

                                                               

My thoughts:

I could hug Ms Jane Carter for posting and sharing this right on time reminder.  It's as if it was written for me and speaking directly to me :).   Most of us know these are things  we deserve, but often our judgement can get a bit cloudy due to many different things that may be present or going on in our lives. Some times we simply need a little reminder and this is exactly what this is for me, while speaking volumes!!! I really, really needed this ...thank you Ms Carter! :-) 

                                                                                     ENJOY!!!

                                                                                              

Sunday, September 12, 2010

MY THOUGHTS ON HAIRVEDA'S MOIST CONDITION 24.7....


Hello fabulous fellow naturals !

After using the hairveda moist condition 24.7 a few times for my co-washing I am finally ready to share my thoughts...and, ladies let me tell you my thoughts on this little number is  the conditioner is really, really great! and a sure keeper in my regimen. I had to get this review out now...before their fall sale,  don't forget ladies it is September 14-21!

They say :

Moist Condition 24/7 is the perfect staple for your daily moisturizing conditioner washes. Our signature conditioner is rich with oils but not so heavy as to weigh your hair down. Customers LOVE this conditioner!

Key Ingredients:

Vegetable Humectant-keeps hair hydrated
Vegetable Oils-helps hair retain moisture

MC24/7 restores dry hair and meets your daily needs. It also helps in the detangling process and can also be used as a light moisturizer. Safe for the kiddies too!
Ingredients: Water Coconut oil, Hydronated Vegetable oil, Glycerin, Cetyl Alcohol, Stearalkonium Chloride, Dimethyl Stearamine, Lactic Acid, Germall Plus, Fragrance. 16oz. bottle.

Shelf Life: 6-9 months
Applications: 10 uses

I say: 

Yes indeed! moisture, moisture , moisture.  V05 , has never made my hair feel this great, seriously.  After, using the moist condition my hair felt like cotton :). I wouldn't say that it did a whole, whole lot in the detangling area. but, boy did my hair love its moisture. This is surely my new co-wash conditioner, and love the ingredients. Don't get me wrong I will always have vo5 on hand as a stand by. But, the moist condition is now my # 1 conditioner for my co washing. 

It tested at pH of 6.  Which is not bad , it's still in the safe pH range for our hair.  However, I rather use products close to the hairs pH of 4.0-5.5 or so.  I then added 1 Tablespoon of olive oil and 1/4 cup of aloe juice , which then brought the pH down to pH OF 4....which for me is even better.  The smell is very soft and pleasant, not to strong. And the price in my opinion isn't bad either. 

 I am patently waiting for the 14th to make a purchase of a few more bottles...Because I love, Love, love this conditioner!!!!



http://hairveda.com/default.aspx

BTW, this sister in the photo above is fly!!!!, I love her style:)

                                                                          ENJOY!!!

Saturday, September 11, 2010

MURUMURU...



Of the approximately 2,650 species of palm, only a few are widely used by humans. The most popular is the edible coconut, and not far behind it is the African palm. Far out of the realm of highly touted palms, there is a prickly fellow gaining the attention of curly tops — it is called murumuru.

Astrocaryum murumuru

Astrocaryum murumuru



You may have seen this name on some of your favorite hair or skin care products, yet may feel in the dark about what it is and where it comes from. Murumuru and murui are the Portuguese names for Astrocaryum murumuru. In Spanish this tree is called chonta, chuchana and huicongo. Murumuru is in the family arecaceae; the genus Astrocaryum and the species Murumuru. The plant has spines or sharp edges that require proper precaution during harvest. Murumuru is prickled everywhere, even the seeds and flowers.

Murumuru grows in the Amazon Basins, enjoying a distinctive place in the local ecosystems as one of the dominant trees. It grows particularly well in Northern Brazil, especially Maranhao. Finding the tree on your own could prove tricky, however, because the species varies radically. It can be short and without stems or tall with more than one robust trunk. Murumuru has a shuttlecock-like crown at the top, with large, flat leaves that have very closely spaced leaflets and silvery undersides.

Useful Parts of Murumuru

Oil is a common constituent of most types of seeds, and palms have large, abundant seeds. The palm nut is wildcrafted (meaning it is not cultivated). Many people prefer wildcrafted botanicals because they have not been treated with pesticides or fertilizers and are a very integrated part of their environment. Local people cherish Murumuru nuts for their numerous contributions to health and wellness. They also hold a special place in the folklore and mythology of several areas.

The oil derived from murumuru nut is used for many purposes. The large fruits are edible, and the seed kernel is a significant source of edible oil. The kernel also produces a rich extract used by the beauty industry for shampoos, conditioners and skin care products. A rich lather is derived from its kernels is useful in soaps and shampoos.

Integrating Murumuru into Your Beauty Regimen

Still, with so many types of oils available internationally you might wonder why folks go through all the stinging prickles to get to the fruit and seed of murumuru in particular. For one, the lipids present in the plant material hydrate and moisturize the skin and hair in a very intense way. The emolliency supports the integrity of the skin and your hair’s cutaneous barrier. Moreover, murumuru is chock full of nurturing vitamins and minerals. The nutty aroma of organic murumuru puts us in touch with Mother Earth — and is a tangible part of the great Amazon rainforest.

Pertinent specifically to visitors to NaturallyCurly.com, murumuru is especially useful to people of all ethnicities with kinky, curly or wavy hair because of its softening ability. Often, kinky, and some types of curly, hair feels coarse. Murumuru coats coarse curls, making them more supple and manageable. Products containing an appreciative amount of murumuru oil or extract are well suited to textured curls. Murumuru products moisturize the hair with lasting hydration, controlling frizz and defining curls.

The rich butter made from murumuru is a light amber color, with an earthen aroma. It is rich in oleic acid, which promotes health. Oleic acid-rich botanicals aid with moisture retention, benefiting the skin and hair. The emollient constituents in murumuru enhance the natural gloss of hair and provide sheen to naturally dull, kinky or highly textured hair. Murumuru ingredients also provide a healthy shine to chemically treated, over-processed or otherwise damaged hair.

You can this butter here http://www.gardenstatenaturals.com/store/naturalbutters-c-1.html



                                                                                         ENJOY!!!

Thursday, September 9, 2010

PRE-POO..HOW TO GET MOISTURE DRENCHED HAIR...



Ingredients you will need:

In a bowl mix

½ cup of aloe vera juice or whole leaf aloe vera
1-2 tablespoons of your favorite oil (wheat germ, olive, safflower, walnut etc)

In a separate Bowl melt

Food grade coconut oil (1/4 cup)
Sit the bottle or jar in hot water- do not put in microwave or on the stove!

Remember, everyone's hair has different needs. You may need more or less of this mixture. Or, your hair may not like this at all. None of these will irrevocably change your hair. Thus, you just need to wash out the mixture if your hair doesn't like it.

1. Using your fingers, separate your hair into 4- 8 sections. If your hair is caked with hard product, rinse your hair first. Gently handle the first section. First, smooth the hair in a downward direction. You are just trying to make sure that all the hair is going in one direction. You don't need to completely detangle the hair at this point.

2. Dip your hair in the bowl of aloe vera and oil or cup your hands in the mixture and transfer it to the section onto your hair. Work it through. Get the aloe vera/oil mix into your hair from root to tip. Make sure it is moist throughout the sectioned hair. If your hair is long enough, twist it and wrap it around like a bantu knot. If it is not, try to twist it and move it out the way. Repeat until you have done this to each section.

3. You should have a head full of aloe vera mixed with oil twisted sections. Go back to the first twist you did. Undo it, pour the liquid coconut oil in your hand and work through the section. Re-twist it and repeat on whole head. Place a plastic shower cap on your head for 15-60 minutes. Your moisturizing pre-poo is complete!

 
Many thanks to the lovely Chicoro for sharing this with the natural hair community

                                                                                               ENJOY!!!


Wednesday, September 8, 2010

NATURAL PERSERVATIVES...



Hello fabulous naturals!

As some of us may know Essential oils can be used for many, many different reasons, the pleasant smell, nourishing qualities and the preservative qualities  Below is a small list of a few ,(but not limited to) the  Essential oils that can be used as natural preservatives...this can be great for those of us who love to make lots of our hair products ourselves...naturally.

Thyme
Origanum
Sweet Orange
Lemongrass
Rose
Clove
Eucalyptus
Peppermint
Rose geranium
Meadow sweet
Chinese anise
Orris
Cinnamon
Wild Thyme
Anise
Mustard
Chinese Cinnamon
Rosemary
Cumin
Neroli
Birch
Lavender
Melissa Balm
Ylang Ylang
Juniper
Sweet Fennel
Garlic
Lemon
Cajeput
Sassafras
Heliotrope
Parsley
Violet

                                                                                ENJOY!!!

Tuesday, September 7, 2010

DEEP TREATS FOR EVERY HAIR TYPE...



Hello fabulous fellow naturals!

Although I don't get much into the whole hair typing thing...to some degree but not soley centered around the typing system.  I came across this article that I found helpful, and thought some of you ladies may benifit from it as well:

DEEP TREATMENTS FOR EVERY HAIR TYPE...

A blustery winter can take an especially tough toll on textured tresses. Now, as spring helps you thaw out from the big chill, you’ll want to return to the healthy habit of deep conditioning to protect and prepare your curls for the warmer months to come.

Deep conditioners fill in the cracks in the surface of the hair, so there’s no friction between the strands, and the hair is smooth,” says Titi Branch, owner of Miss Jessie’s Salon & Products in Brooklyn, N.Y. “A deep treatment can make all the difference in how your hair handles.”

It’s a moisture issue,” adds Brent Hardgrave, a curly stylist at Salon 124 in Roswell, Ga. “As soon as you step into the humidity, whatever moisture is not in your hair, your hair is going to find it. If you practice preventive medicine on your hair, you have more opportunity to battle the humidity.”

Curl-centric stylists say the key is knowing how to apply the treatment — and making sure it includes the right ingredients for your curl type. Here, expert advice and a deep-treatment guide for every curl type.

Wavy (Curl Type: 2)

Ingredients: Wavies want to look for amino acids for curl repair — since this curl type is most likely to go back and forth between curly and straight — as well as a lightweight, conditioning ingredient like coconut oil, according to Hardgrave, also a Redken artist.

Coconut oil is extremely moisture-rich, but it won’t weigh your hair down,” Hardgrave says. “Oleo-amido, an amino acid, will also repair the hair from stretching and give it moisture. Every time you pull curly hair you’re breaking down the bonds in the hair, so you need to replenish where the bonds have been broken.

How often: Once a week for dry climates, and up to three times a week in humid environments, according to Hardgrave. “A daily curl refiner or leave-in, anti-frizz detangler, also with coconut oil in it, will really help,” he says.

Timing: Five minutes is usually long enough. If you’re multitasking, you can apply the treatment in the shower and just leave it in while shaving your legs. Or, you can spritz your waves with water, apply the treatment and leave it in while working out or cleaning the house. “The heat from your body that comes from being active will help,” Hardgrave says

Amount: Less is more, especially for wavies with fine hair. Focus on the ends, not the scalp.

Application: For wavies, start at the mid-shaft of the hair and work your way down. Always use a wide-toothed comb in the shower or dampen the hair and then apply, to avoid breakage. “Don’t just glop it on the top of the head and comb it through,” says Hardgrave, noting that’s a common mistake.

Curly (Curl Type: 3s)

Ingredients: Curl experts agree that shea butter is your best bet, with just enough weight and slip to it so the detangling process works so much easier. Finding a treatment that includes natural oils will also help, according to Anna-Lee, a stylist with Chaz Dean Studio in Los Angeles, Calif. “Your ends are the most porous and need the most hydration,” Anna-Lee says.

How often: For shoulder-length curlies, twice a month; once a week for longer locks. Of course, every curly is unique, so apply the treatment more often if your curls are especially dry or brittle. “Longer hair requires a lot of care with deep treatments because it’s older, so you want to protect the hair and apply as much deep treatment as you possibly can,” Branch says

Timing: At least 10 minutes.

Amount: Again, it depends on the length and density of your textured tress

You want to have enough coverage,” Branch says. For shoulder-length curlies, a golf-ball size amount of treatment should be enough, and simply add more for longer lengths.

Application: Start a quarter-inch from the scalp and work your way down. Always use wide-toothed comb only on wet hair or your fingers.

you can sleep with the treatment, and rinse it out in the morning, even better,” Anna-Lee says.

Tight Coils and Kinks (Curl Type: 4s)

Ingredients: “This curl type is very kinky so you definitely want shea butter, which is a very rich emollient,” Branch says. “It allows the hair to be slippery, easily detangled and helps the strands align with one another, so there’s an elimination of frizz.”

Cetyl alcohol, which is a natural fatty alcohol (not the drying kind that often comes to mind), is also recommended as an emollient and lubricant to the hair shaft. “Cetyl alcohol gives the hair a lot of slippage, which is going to create smoothness on the surface of the hair,” Branch adds.

How often: At least once or twice a week. “No deep conditioning is too much for Type 4,” Branch explains.

Timing: 20 minutes. For an even deeper treatment, use a heating cap or apply the product while in the shower; the steam will make it more effective.

Amount: For every four inches, add at least a quarter-size amount of treatment. “Type 4 tends to be the most dense curl type and you want to use enough product to get good coverage,” Branch says. “There’s more strands per square inch on a tighter, kinkier coil then there is on a Botticelli type of curl.”

Application: Again, avoid the scalp and start a quarter-inch from the roots, working your way down. Make sure the treatment is applied evenly throughout and remember to concentrate your effort on the ends — especially important for Type 4 curls, which are the kinkiest and driest of textures.

With kinkier hair, don’t rinse the treatment completely out, either,” Branch adds. “Leave in about one-tenth of the treatment to protect and coat the hair.”

Finally, always finish with a cool rinse to seal the hair shaft, lock the moisture in and show off a smooth, shinier — and healthier — curl.

                                                                                                                        ENJOY!!!

Monday, September 6, 2010

WATER WASHING...



Hey there fellow fabulous naturals!

Well I tried this new technique that I absolutely loooove.  Thanks to a fellow fabulous blogger "Paige the blogger" she has introduced me to "water washing".  It's quite simple in fact it's basically a hair rinse.  Here is what you do:

In a jar/container , add your favorite herb or herbs.  Boil, some water pour  the hot water over your herbs...allow this to steep for a few hours to overnight ( I like my herbs to steep overnight)....strain with a cheese cloth , strainer or both....pour your herbal infusion into your container....pour over your hair and scalp , scrub, scrub scrub with the cushions of your fingers ...and allow your hair to air dry * do not rinse out*...that's it !

I co wash 1x weekly ,   in between my co-washes I've been water washing with an herbal infusion.  This little number is my new BFF....I love it!!!!!

Many thanks to "Paige the blogger" for sharing this technique :)
You can check her out here  http://paigetheblogger.com/


                                                                                   ENJOY!!!