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Hello fabulous fellow naturals!
I find it oh so very important that we contain as much information on healthy hair care as possible. Trimming our hair , in my opinion is just as important as anything else in our hair care regimen. It's also just as important that its done correctly. In my last post I asked what were some of the goals for our hair during this amazing journey. And, some answered length , some answered health , and then some answered both length and health.
Which now brings me to the topic on hand. We must get rid of those dead.. split ends. Especially for the fabulous naturals who are looking to gain length...in fact for all fabulous naturals, looking to gain length or not.
The fact is by holding onto the ends of your hair that are split, its possible the damage will travel up the hair shaft and now more damage is done. Its important to know there is absolutely no magic product that will repair damaged ends of our hair. Yes, there are things we can do to prevent them, but nothing to get rid of them once they are already there. Besides, simply cutting them off.
Remember ladies its only what......hair, and it will grow back. So, don't be afraid to trim those ends when needed. When I worked in hair salons , some of my customers would hate to get their ends trimmed. It was like pulling a tooth (lol) even after explaining that its best for their hair. And, the dangers of holding onto dead ends, They eventually gave in (lol) , not only did they give in they then began to see for themselves the benefit. Lets go further:
A FEW CAUSES OF SPLIT ENDS:
Intense excessive heat like curling irons, blow dryers, etc.
Stress on your hair to much pulling , chemicals such as color, relaxers, over uses of combs and brushes ( I use to see this in the salons often) all of these will and can cause damage to the cuticle and cortex of the hair strands. Which will in turn cause breakage and split ends. And don't forget those Bobby pins they can cause serious damage to our tresses as well. If you must use Bobbie pins please...please...please make sure they have the rubber tips , if the rubber comes off they are evil...stay away from them.
Another item to watch out for is our winter clothing , coats , sweaters, winter scarfs and yes even some of our winter hats. be sure to line your winter items with a lovely silk scarf. To all of my sisters in Islaam who may be reading, please make sure to wear a silk scarf before putting on your khimar/ hijab ( head covering) this will help tremendously in retain moisture and help in preventing split ends, insha Allaah ( god willing). Lets talkTowels...towels will snag your hair strands causing them to snap, break and or even cause yes...split ends. I've witnessed this myself I never use towels on my or my girls hair to dry, we use t-shirts.
WANT TO AVOID SPLIT ENDS...READ ON :
Avoid excessive heat...I said EXCESSIVE, meaning blow drying daily, curling irons, flat irons. I made it a rule the only time I use heat is when I DC ( deep condition), using the thermal heat wrap and or a steamer ( in which I hope to get one soon , :)
Keeping those precious ends moisturized and sealed. Remember dry ends lead to split ends, wear protective styles, twist , braids, etc. Keeping your ends tucked away from time to time will help as well. Remember the ends of our hair is the very oldest, and we must take extreme care of them.
Avoid using rubber bands , another evil...stay away from them. Try using the holders with cloth on them and without the metal part in the middle.
Deep conditioning, do so often this is a very important step in my regimen, I do it more often during the winter months. But, I can not have a successful wash day without a moisturizing deep conditioner. And , once again pay very close attention in adding a good amount of your favorite deep conditioner to your ends.
Be, very gentle with your hair. I am a heavy handed person, I've been told this often especially from my girls when I do their hair ( sorry , babies). I have since gotten a grip on that ( lol) in making sure to be gentle...gentle...gentle with our hair.
And remember to keep those ends trimmed, dusted which ever makes you feel better.
YOU SAY YOUR READY TO TRIM:
There are many ways this can be done
Twist and trim- simply twist your hair and trim. I feel this is best when done on dry stretched hair. This way you can see exactly just how much your taking off. With out any surprises. I have had great results with this method.
Blow drying your hair and trim- This way is not for me, I actually have no desire what so ever to straighten my hair, ever. But for you fabulous naturals who do straighten your hair this may be right down your alley. Its simple, After blow drying your hair you can then flat iron it, take small sections of your hair and trim. I do not recommended this method , because once again I don't like the idea of using this amount of heat on our hair. Adding a Heat protected product or not.
Lastly, go to a professional . This may be the very best option for those fabulous naturals who may not be scissor skilled.
FOR THOSE FABULOUS NATURALS WHO CHOOSE TO TRIM YOUR SELF :
When buying your shears ( scissors) please make sure you are using ONLY hair cutting shears. Not, your sewing shears, not shears used to trim " fluffy" ( your pet) , and not your shears used to trim your garden. They must be hair cutting shears. They are very inexpensive, easy to obtain you can buy them at your local beauty supply store. So , no excuses ladies, using shears that are dull is guaranteed to snag the ends of your hair...its guaranteed. Which will cause damage to your entire hair shaft, especially your ends. Once , you get your self a good pair of shears , put them up and away and DO NOT use them for absolutely anything else other then your hair. Your hair will thank you for this, trust me.
So, just wanted to share a few tips with you Ladies, in hopes that it will help someone seasoned to being natural or just making that first exciting step in their natural hair journey.
Thanks a bunch for reading and stopping by. And, remember ladies to always stay naturally fabulous!
TAKE CARE :)
Hello fabulous naturals !
I hope everyone one had a safe and productive weekend. I was having a talk with my children this weekend on many different topics. After my boys decided they had enough of talking...lol (boys) My girls and I continued into there regular regimen, which was their hair wash day. It was at that moment I asked my oldest daughter, who is natural what were her ultimate hair goals ? She answered her hair goal was medium length hair , bottom of her chin length . That is her hair goal, besides keeping it healthy.
I would imagine that everyone who is one the journey to natural, their basic goal is healthy hair. As for me my ultimate hair goal is not exactly to retain length , its to keep what I have in a happy healthy state. I have never been a women who was really into long hair, for myself. I like short to medium length edgy styles So, ladies what about you...is your healthy hair goal , length or not ?. Do share.
Thanks a bunch for reading and stopping by. And remember ladies to always...stay naturally fabulous !
TAKE CARE:)
Hello fabulous fellow naturals!
I come to you today to share something I received in my email box. A company called Ma'athematics natural body care. After taking a look for myself at what they carry. I knew I had to share , Knowing its the Holiday season for some of you ladies. These items may very well make a few of your family members quite happy. This company sells the most amazing soaps and body care, their soaps are beautiful. I mean they look so much like food , good enough to eat. ( but of course you can not eat them, their soaps..lol) They not only carry soaps, they carry body butters, lip care, hair care, etc. Take a look for yourself http://www.maathematics.com/Maathematics_Natural_Body_Care.html
If you don't find anything for someone else. Treat yourself ! :)
Thanks for reading and remember ladies to always stay naturally fabulous !
TAKE CARE :)
Hello ladies!
Question.... what would you say are the very best things you've done for your tresses, besides embracing natural hair. You can name everything from a great product, great hair equipment, new hair style , any and everything. I was going to ask that you ladies only name one thing but, after asking myself the very same question I found that there were many more than one :) And they are :
1. Co-washing
2. Olive you conditioner , from my honeychild-http://www.myhoneychild.com/home
3. Hair therapy wrap-http://www.hairtherapywrap.com/index.php ( in which I won from another fellow fabulous natural, and am truly grateful for....its amazing !)
4. Creative 661 seamless comb-http://www.tenderheaded.com/index.html
5. Amla & olive heavy cream- http://www.qhemetbiologics.com/
6. Satin bonnet- you can find them online or at your local beauty supply store.
7. I hope to be adding a hair steamer to my list soon :))
Now...your turn, What are the very best things you've done for your hair , thus far ?
Thanks for reading, and remember ladies stay naturally fabulous!
TAKE CARE :)
Hello there fabulous fellow naturals!
I know this may be a unfair question to some. And then there may be a few who may feel uncomfortable sharing there feelings on this topic, and that's fine. But, the very truth of the matter is that they do exist. You have good and bad in everything, but then there is horrible..or I will never, ever....ever, ever, EVER buy from that company again. I have brought from natural hair companies and have had exceptional results , customer service was great, shipping price was great and reasonable, and shipment arrival was great. But, then I've had experiences with natural hair companies where their product was horrible, there customer service was horrible. You send them email after email after email about a product you've received or haven't received and it takes for ever to get a response, if any at all. The shipping price is ridiculous, and the arrival time has a lot to be desired.
Personally, I have had these types experiences one would be Afroveda , this was before her price change. So my problem with her is not that she changed her prices. My problem with her was that she lied and told me different about a product I purchased after I emailed her the information I needed to know, for me to finally receive it and find the total opposite of what she told me. I have even kept the responding email from her as a reminder to myself as to why I will never give her my business again. Then , I was told my shipment had in fact shipped..... to email them once again, and be told it had in fact NOT shipped. Worst experience ever #1
I feel that its important in some cases to let these things be known. It hopes of helping other fellow naturals. Its great and all to let the greatness of a product be known, as we often share our favorite products, our favorite site or sites to order from . But its equally important to let it be known which companies are not as professional, with horrible customer service as well. Although, I do know.... understand.... and fully realize that my experience will and have not been everyone else's.
So ladies, share with us here at AuNaturale which natural hair company you may have had a horrible experience with and will never purchase from them again.
Thanks for reading and remember ladies stay naturally fabulous!
TAKE CARE :)
Heeeey fabulous naturals!
Since my decision on embracing my natural hair I have done many protein treatments from time to time on my hair. From everything to a diy avocado hair treatment , mixing egg with a conditioner, and using a deep conditioners with soy protein. I have also read lots of books, and articles promoting protein treatments for our natural tresses. And from doing the above I now know and understand the differences in some of the different protein treatments I mentioned above.
Some are stronger than others and then there are some that are quite mild, like soy protein for instance. If and when I use protein soy protein is the way I would go, because my hair is on the finer side. I found the other proteins were way to strong for my hair. And during the winter I try to stay away from proteins of any kind, completely But, I'm not quite sure if I brought on the whole protein for our hair is a must theory. From time to time, yes maybe...but believing its a must.... I don't know. I know it all depends on your hair and its condition. But there are tons of effective alternatives on the market. So, fabulous naturals share your thoughts, what do you ladies think. Is protein a definite must in your hair care regimen?
Thanks for reading, and remember stay naturally fabulous !
TAKE CARE :)
Hello ladies!
Hope every one is ready Freddy to purchase their favorite hair care products come Friday. There are loads of fellow fabulous naturals doing their part in spreading the news about probably the best deals on natural hair care products of the year. And there are lots of our favorite natural hair care lines having great sales, let me tell ya.
I came across this interesting post the other day which is actually a dyi ( do it yourself) kind of conditioner. But, as with everything dyi you can substitute the ingredients as you please. And, with that being said let me speak about the main ingredient and this ingredient is what actually caught my eye "PARSLEY".
Parsley is one of my all time favorite herbs to use, I no longer use the herb infused tea rinses, or the herb infused spritz I was so in love with,...... yup that's right. After doing my standard pH testing that I do on each and every product that I use ( as long as its not a solid) . The pH on the items mentioned above sadly came back with a high pH pass the safe range of 7, which means that they were to alkaline. In which I have said before and will say it again since making the decision to try in doing my best in keeping most if not all of the products I use in the pH closer to the hairs actual pH which is 4-5.5. I have seen a tremendous difference..a tremendous difference. My hair stays a lot more moisturized , with lots of sheen and the feel is one of smoothness, not rough feeling at all. However when adding Aloe Vera juice it lowered the pH in the herbal spritz I was using, but I've just decided to do away with it for now. And have since replaced the herbal infused spritz or simply Aloe Vera juice and water and that is working out , just great.
But, I do however continue to infuse my oils, and parsley is one I keep in stock. Parsley aids in growth, helps if you have dry hair, damaged hair, dull hair, or dandruff. When I found this article I liked the idea and thought to myself I could do this in my own way, But what I really liked was the idea of what was done with the parsley and then you can add it to your own conditioner of choice.
Take a look http://www.chicandkinky.com/blog/2010/11/01/mom-said-to-use-parsly-on-her-hair/
Thanks for reading and remember, to stay naturally fabulous!
TAKE CARE :)
Hello...Hello fabulous fellow naturals!
I 've recently received my new seamless comb in the mail. In which I am love with, the new edition to the family is the creative 661 seamless comb. I ordered from Tender headed Accessories, and I must say the shipping was pretty darn quick, I love that!
Upon visiting the site I couldn't figure out exactly which comb I wanted to purchase. But, after giving it much thought I finally came to decision. And I am super pleased with my choice. So, here is a bit about my new edition to the family:
The creative 661 seamless comb
This elegantly shaped seamless comb is a staff favorite. The finer teeth are great for smoothing your hair and the wider teeth are great for detangling. This seamless comb has nice rounded tips, which delicately glide along your scalp. This particular comb is flexible and bends along with your hair as you comb it. This adds to its gentleness. Length: 7 1/2". Width (at the widest part of teeth): 2".
I say:
This comb is on point. As soon as I used it I could tell a huuuuge difference in the way my hair reacted to this comb. This little number glides on your hair strands while combing. One thing that really sealed the deal was the wider teeth on one end and the closer teeth on the other, which the end with the closer teeth is really great for smoothing the ends and the wider end is great for detangling. Its like getting two combs in one. Now, for those fabulous naturals who may not know exactly why its a no...no for us naturals to use combs with seams. Well....its because the seams in which you will notice if you look closely in the very middle of each of the teeth in your non seamless comb tends to snap, break, pull at our tresses. Which can and will cause major damage to our hair over time. It is best to only...only use combs that state when buying them seamless combs. These combs DO NOT have that horrible seam in between each tooth that our hair doesn't like. Trust me ladies, if you do not own a seamless comb , it is something in my opinion worth getting. You wont be sorry, your hair will love you for it. Now lets hear from the actual company that makes the seamless 661:
WHY USE HANDMADE COMBS:
Each of our handmade combs is saw cut from a single sheet of quality Italian produced cellulose (cotton) acetate and its teeth gently rounded. There are no burns to catch and break hair and cause split ends.
Ordinary combs are molded from inferior plastic and have burns and jagged seams between the teeth that breaks and damages hair, making it dull and lifeless.
Cellulose acetate is non-petroleum based plastic, primarily used for eyeglass frames. It does not irritate the skin and resists the build up of static charges.
To order this lovely little number , visit tenderheaded Accessories http://www.tenderheaded.com/index.html
Thanks for reading, and remember to stay naturally fabulous!
TAKE CARE :)
P.S. Is her Afro ( the picture above) on point or what ! ...FIERCE!!!!
Good morning fabulous fellow naturals!
Hope everyone had an enjoyable yet productive weekend :). As for me I really didn't plan on doing a post today. I'm a little under the weather, but we must continue to persevere , right ?. As I was checking my emails this morning as I do daily, I received this:
Good Morning ZainaB1,
As the PR manager for P&G's My Black is Beautiful initiative, I wanted to let you know that I read your blog entry this Saturday and I greatly appreciate you taking the time to discuss the show and give your opinion regarding our television content.
I hope you will continue to do so. Thanks so much!
From Tiffany Hawkins, PR manager / http://www.footstepsgroup.com/archive/
This came in response to my previous post on the show on BET "My Black is Beautiful".....How cool is that!
Well, ladies I must tell you I did in fact watch this Sundays episode , and I reeeeeally enjoyed it! Its a very , empowering , and positive show. I plan to be in the same place, at the same time next Sunday to sit back and enjoy another great episode of my black is beautiful !
Well, until next time ladies, remember to stay naturally fabulous !
TAKE CARE :)
Hello...Hello...fabulous naturals,
There has been lots of great talk about the new show on BET , My black is beautiful which airs on Sundays @ 1pm. I have yet to watch a full show, in which I intend to do so this Sunday. While sipping on a cup of hot cocoa wrapped up in my favorite blanket having a little me time :)
From the little I've seen thus far it seems to be a good show. I love all of the topics they cover. But, what I really enjoyed seeing from the little I saw was....all of the fabulous naturals in the audience ! I mean there were many and plenty (lol). And another thing that I was thrilled to see was....one of the lovely host on the show the beautiful Ms Vanessa Williams is rocking a fierce natural fro ! It is sharp !!!!!! and looks so fly on her. I love it !
Ladies, I am beyond excited about the direction embracing natural hair is taking. And you see it more....and more.......and more everywhere. From television shows to TV commercials, magazines, your family, friends and neighbors. It is such a powerful thing to see allllllllllllll of the women , from teens, to young, to older women saying my hair is beautiful just as the creator has given it to me ....JUST AS IT IS !!!!!!!!!
For those of you who has yet to tune into my black is beautiful again it airs on Sundays @ 1 pm on BET. And for the ladies who do or have watched it let us know what you think of my black is beautiful, share your thoughts with us here @ AuNaturale. We would love to hear from you.
Have a productive, safe and enjoyable weekend. And remember to stay naturally fabulous !
TAKE CARE :)
Hello there fellow fabulous naturals!
I hope your day is going well thus far. I just wanted to stop in a share a little something..something I received in the mail today. A few days ago the owner of pura body naturals contacted me after seeing my post on the great murumuru butter asking me if I would be interested in giving her product a try. First, let me simply say I was honored, and secondly the PJ in me was doing a happy dance (lol).
I then researched her site and found that there were some reeeeally great products there. And instantly became interested. She uses loads of exotic oils and butters in her products. Many with great benefits for our hair and skin needs . Not only will you ladies find Divine hair products you will also find makeup, as well as body butters and even candles. You may not have heard about lots of these oils and butters used they come from the amazon rain forest in most of south America.
I looove how she takes the time from her site to educate her consumers about what exactly is in her products, where there from and how to use them. Ladies, I plan to try the other hair products there. If there anything like her MuruMuru Moisture milk. I'm in.....below I will gladly post a bit about this product from my experience thus far. This is not a full review, but What I've noticed so far...ladies its great. Again, It really doesn't take a whole heck of time for me to tell if my hair loves, likes or hates a product. I've explained before my hair is very temperamental and not shy ..my hair is quick to say to me ...girl, you must be trippin take this mess out of me (lol)...... like how I talk about my hair in third person (lol). So here it goes:
MURUMURU MOISTURE MILK:
Pura body naturals says:
Murumuru Moisture Milk is a lightweight water based moisturizer which can be used as a daily moisturizer for those in need of moisture and sheen. It can also be used a leave-in conditioner to moisture and help maintain soft healthy hair.
Murumuru Butter is grown in the depths of the Amazon and has been known its anti-inflammatory and bactericide properties. It's rich oleic acid content promotes nutrition and moisture to skin and hair. Murumuru acts as an excellent emollient properties along with its natural gloss brings a desirable shine to dry, damaged hair. It's specifically useful for people of all ethnicities with kinky, curly, or wavy hair because of it's emollient abilities to increase manageability. This product can be applied to chemically processed hair as well to increase moisture content and sheen.
Ingredients:
water, murumuru butter, BTMS (behentrimonium sulfate and cetearyl alcohol), Castor bean oil, palm oil, avocado oil, chamomile extract, vitamin E, phenoxyethanol and capryl glycol (paraben and formaldehyde free preservative)
I say:
This little number is super thick ...I love that ! thumbs up for that , for my hair that means a little goes a long way, which means it will last longer and it coats my hair strands better. The smell is light and pleasant they offer 3 scents and 1 unscented, if I had to guess I believe the one I received is the lemongrass blend . And has a very silk like feeling to the touch. The slip is amazing, It left my hair really soft, with a great shine. My hair fells really moisturized. It tests at a lovely pH of 5 , you guys know I love that.... 5 stars for that alone. I knew as soon as I was applying it was moisturizing, based off of how it felt going on to my hair strands. Remember this is a not the full review. I say that because the truth comes on days to follow based off of how well my hair is still moisturized from a product as day # 1 the very first day it was applied.
I do however have my fingers crossed, because I believe this maybe a winner for me and my hair. I am also going to try it in my 13 year olds TWA. This weekend, and see how her hair likes it. Because to find a product that will suit myself and all three of my girls is a keeper in my household.with ingredients, pH , price involved.
So stay tuned ladies , for the very final review...but so far I am reeeeally liking this product. Gone on over ladies...gone on over...... and check out the rest of what pura body naturals has to offer , they have a great hair line ! Check them out :
http://www.purabodynaturals.com/
Until next time have a wonderful weekend, and stay naturally fabulous!
ENJOY!!!
Heeeey there fabulous naturals!
Just wanted to do a quick update on some of our favorite hair product lines who plan to have black Friday sales. I did a post a few days ago asking if any fellow fabulous natural knew of any sales from a few of our favorite product lines. And, a few of you were so gracious as to provide us with a few. Here is what I have thus far :
OYIN HANDMADE- http://oyinhandmade.com/
BEEMINE- http://www.beemineproducts.com/
HAIRVEDA-http://hairveda.com/default.aspx ( 50 % off all hair products. Sale on November 29,2010 starting @ 12 a.m )
QHEMET BIOLOGICS- http://www.qhemetbiologics.com/ ( Sale Friday, November 26, 2010)
DARCY'S BOTANICALS-http://www.darcysbotanicals.com/ ( Sale Friday, November 26, 2010)
KOMAZA- http://www.komazahaircare.com/ ( Pre black Friday sale , 15% off entire order TODAY,
NOVEMBER 19, 2010. Enter coupon "save" during check out.
Come on...come on..... ladies I know there's more out there. If , you ladies know of any more sites having hair product sales or if your are a store owner and would like to advertise here @AuNaturale about your sale , please feel free to comment and I will be glad to add you to the list . Do share, as we know some of our products can be a bit pricey especially if you have more than one natural in your household. So, now is the best time to stack up.
SHOP TELL YOU DROP LADIES !
ENJOY!!! :)
Hello ladies!
I came across a great article over at naturally curly.com. From a fellow fabulous natural by the name of Evelyn. There she shared some really great tips from every thing to heat damage , to dry hair. Here is just a bit of what she says:
The Flat Iron Fiasco
You decided to try something new—a straight style! But come wash day, you noticed your hair hasn’t rebounded back to its tight, springy coils. You shake your head in disbelief, fighting back some of the most painful words in your natural hair journey: heat damage. Put the hair shears away! It might not be permanent.
Solution:
Deep condition! Heat clamps down the cuticle of the hair, not allowing any moisture in. It may take a while for the moisture to reach your hair and revert. Use a moisturizing deep conditioner and let your hair sit under a steamer or shower cap for 30 minutes. You may even have to do this over several days to train it back into its natural curl pattern. To prevent this in the future, make sure you do protein treatments to strengthen your hair.
To read more check the article out here http://www.naturallycurly.com/curlreading/co-washing/help-10-curly-hair-disasters-and-how-to-fix-them
Until next time , stay naturally fabulous !
TAKE CARE :)
Heeey fabulous naturals!
We all are familiar that shedding is a natural part healthy hair. Its quite normal to have shed hairs , the amount however can be a bit of a controversy. Then you have some who may shed just a bit more than normal. With out apparent health issues. There are a few health reasons that could be a factor behind excessive hair shedding. So, if by chance your in that category its probably best to seek a physician.
For ladies who may be having a minor shedding problem. who may be in need of a little something to help them in this area. It could be a ready made product or a homemade product.
So ladies what are your shedding secrets ? ....do share.
Thanks for reading and remember to stay naturally fabulous !
TAKE CARE :)
Hey there fabulous fellow naturals!
It's always great to have the love and support of family and friends no matter what it may be. As we know every ones experience is and will be one of there very own. Right along with the fact that every one is and will not be receptive of your natural hair journey. There are loads of individuals who just can not for the life of them figure out why in the world, you may want to rock a Cesar or rock that fabulous big fro. When in there eyes they feel its just way to many other alternatives , hair weaves, relaxers, etc.
What I would say to those people who feel this way would be "to each its own". Been there done that and that's simply a place I choose not to revisit. Life, is solely based on the choices we make as individuals and I choose to rock with the fro, I choose to rock it naturally.
So, ladies how does your loved ones , family, bestie, husband, children, co-workers, neighbors whomever how do they show their support to you while on the journey to naturally healthy hair ?
Until next time, remember to stay naturally fabulous!
TAKE CARE :)
Hello fabulous naturals!
As we all know black Friday sales are quickly approaching. And I must admit its the best time to catch great sales. Perhaps for an item that you've been wanting but just couldn't afford other wise. For me that item would be my favorite hair products.
Especially, since I now have an added natural on board. I need twice as many of my favorite products. Do you ladies know of any natural hair sites that are having sale on their products for black Friday. If so feel free to share them here so we can all benefit :)
Here are the few I know of :
Qhemet Biologics - http://www.qhemetbiologics.com/
Darcy's botanicals -http://www.darcysbotanicals.com/
Your turn, Do you ladies know of any ?
Until next time, stay naturally fabulous!
TAKE CARE :)
Hello there fabulous fellow naturals!
There has been many times I've read post's from fellow fabulous naturals who speak on wanting to visit natural hair salons. Now, I know there are plenty in the Atlanta area, Washington andVirginia areas, etc. But, I a natural from New Jersey and to be quite honest If ...if I or one of my daughters had to visit a salon now that I'm natural it would have to be a hair salon that caters to naturals only ( this is my preference). Because I am a licensed hairstylist, and I feel what I've learned thus far in my 1 year and 6 month journey. I care, cut and style my hair as well as my daughters myself.
With that being said, it's still a pleasure to have someone else care for your hair every now and then. Plus, there's nothing wrong with pampering yourself from time to time , right ?
As I was checking in on one of my favorite natural hair blogs I found this http://charcoal-ink.com/2010/11/15/natural-hair-salons-in-philly/ How cool is that and not far from me at all. Especially since there aren't any natural salons in my area.
So, all of you fabulous naturals in Philly or surrounding areas. We now have place's to go and treat ourselves and our hair to a day of pampering :)
Until next time , remember to stay naturally fabulous!
TAKE CARE:)
Heeey ladies!
Hope everyone had a great and productive weekend. I've recently realized I am currently in need of a new seamless comb. I have one but feel It's time to get another. However, can not find one like what I have, and I am also having a hard time finding one without seam's So, if any of you ladies know of a place I can get a great seamless comb do share. For those of you ladies who may not be familiar with what a seamless comb is. It's a wide tooth comb in which us naturals need for detangling, etc. But, these combs do not included the seams in the middle of each tooth. The combs with the seams in middle of the teeth are a big no no for our natural coily, kinky tresses. They tend to snag, snap and pull our very fragile hair strands. While researching seamless combs on yahoo I can across a great article about handmade combs. Take a look http://www.suite101.com/content/handmade-combs-for-hair-a132041
Don't forget ladies, do share where you purchase your seamless combs. Thanks! and remember to stay naturally fabulous.
TAKE CARE :)
Hello fabulous naturals!
This question in my opinion can be a loaded question. There can be a whooole list of a naturals, natural hair inspiration. And for so many different reasons. To inspire and to be inspired in an awesome experience. I have been inspired by many different women in my life on many different levels and for tons of different reasons. So, in short I ask you ...who are your natural hair inspirations.
I will start, My beautiful daughters are my natural hair inspiration's. OK, now your turn !
Until next time remember to stay naturally fabulous.
TAKE CARE :)
Hey there fabulous naturals!
I think that a women who is comfortable enough to rock a bald head, is fierce!.... hands down. Theses are women who march to the beat of their very own drum. Not worried at all about what mainstream thinks or says is acceptable. These ladies are confident, bold and beautiful. I must say I think women who wear their hair bald is a work of art. They hide behind nothing, and put all out there to be seen. You can notice all (outwardly facial flaws) if any to me.... that is beyond awesome.
I don't know if you ladies had the honor of viewing a video I posted here which included the beautiful floacist from the former duo floetry. If not you can check it out here http://aunaturale007.blogspot.com/2010/10/radiant-and-stunning.html She is rocking a fierce baldie, you can see and spot every part of her beauty from her gap in her teeth., to the structure of her face. This is why I feel seeing women who dare to rock a baldie is a form of art. I realize there will my some women who do not agree and that's fine. This is solely my opinion. This is why we are such powerful women who rock on a daily bases.
I found an exceptional article on this subject the beauty and fierceness of a women who dares to rock a baldie. Take a look http://cocoandcreme.com/2010/07/ode-to-the-fly-bald-chick/
Thanks a bunch for reading and remember to stay naturally fabulous!
TAKE CARE :)
Hello fabulous fellow naturals!
Shortly after doing my big chop I began to about MSM and Sulfur used in hair products. Even today I still hear lots about these ingredients being used in many natural hair products. So, I decided to some research of my very own. And here is a little of what I've found from a site called Dherbs.com :
There's a serious misunderstanding amongst people pertaining to sulfur and Methyl-Sulfonyl-Methane sulfur, also known as MSM sulfur. We receive a lot of inquiries here at Dherbs.com on the concerns of MSM sulfur due to people confusing MSM sulfur with so-called regular sulfur and the two are not remotely the same substance. Not at all! There's a very big difference between MSM sulfur and sulfur.
While they are both sulfur, their forms are different. MSM sulfur can be regarded as organic sulfur and thus 100% safe. This kind of sulfur can be safely and efficiently digested, absorbed, and assimilated by the human body.
Regular sulfur, also known as sulfur oxide and processed into sulfuric acid, is inorganic sulfur and is toxic and poisonous to the human body. This kind of sulfur cannot be digested, absorbed, and assimilated by the human body.
This is the kind of sulfur (as sulfuric acid) doctors used to prescribe to people back in the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s that caused many adverse reactions, especially to people's skin. This kind of sulfur caused severe adverse skin reactions when applied to the external skin because the skin, as the body's largest organ of elimination, attempted to excrete the poisonous sulfur from the blood and since the skin is closest to the blood, the Body Intelligence usually chose the skin to eliminate the toxic substance. The skin was chosen over the other eliminative channels because sulfuric acid is actually dangerous inside the body, actually being fatal.
Take a look here http://www.dherbs.com/articles/msm-sulfur-vs-sulfur-393.html to read more. It's very interesting.
Until next time, remember to stay naturally fabulous!
TAKE CARE :)
Hello ladies!
If by chance you are running out of your favorite products and need a place to purchase. Try naturally curly .com. And use coupon code CURLY to receive 10% off plus free shipping on all orders over $50 http://www.naturallycurly.com/
Just thought I'd share. Thanks for reading!
And as always remember to stay naturally fabulous!
ENJOY & TAKE CARE :)
Hey there fabulous fellow naturals!
There has been all the rave about hair steamers amongst the natural hair community. I am a true believer and can totally see how steaming your hair with your all time favorite conditioner can be very hydrating and beneficial for our kinky, coily hair. The steam from the steamer its self works like sponge. Drawing the conditioner and all its nutrients penetrating into your hair shaft. Which is great!
I would love to have a hair steamer of my very own , they are quite pricey anywhere from $100- $200. The ones that are most popular are more in the price range of $130 give or take.
Although I would like to have one I simply can't afford it right now, its just not in my budget. So, I thought heck why not do more of a homemade (if you will) type version of a hair steamer. I'm sure it will work wonderfully, with great benefits to our hair, and lets not forget much , much less expensive. So, here is what I've found take a look. http://www.ehow.com/how_5651620_give-hair-homemade-steam-treatment.html
TIP: I would think that a microfiber towel would be best. But, if your like me and don't own a microfiber towel. Try this , wet a satin bonnet first with hot water place that on your head, second wet your towel with hot water then place that on top of the satin bonnet. Lastly, place your plastic cap on top of your towel. And, remember to be extra careful handling the hot water. I know this may seem like a lot of work. But as we know regular towels are not a friend to our natural hair. So, the one added precaution is worth it.
I plan to try this week on my next wash day. Give it a go and feel free to lets us know here at AuNaturale your thoughts.
Thanks for reading. And remember to stay naturally fabulous!
TAKE CARE :)
Hey there fabulous fellow naturals!
As winter is quickly approaching, we all know the importance of retaining moisture for our tresses. The winter can be the most drying time of the year for us naturals. I have always been a fan of pre pooing And have seen great results, doing so. However there are soooo many fabulous recipes that naturals use to make there very own pre poo. So my question to you ladies is as follows , If you pre poo, share your formula. Share with us here at AuNaturale what you use on your hair during your pre poo. Also do you pre poo on dry dirty hair , or do you pre poo on damp/ wet hair and why ?
Here I will start ;
I pre poo on dry hair ( however, I have done so on damp hair , but like the results much better on dry hair) using one of my herb infused oils usually Olive oil. I have used coconut oil in the past, but have recently realized coconut oil makes my hair frizzy. Applying the oil first and then on top of that I simply use a my co-wash conditioner which is vo5 moisture milks strawberries & cream conditioner mixed with Aloe Vera juice. I then place a plastic cap on my head and allow the mixture to remain on my hair for at least an hour , if not more. Rinsing and moving onto the next part of my regimen. Doing this leaves my hair very moisturized and extremely soft. I normally only pre poo when I'm going to shampoo or clarify my hair. This little number has yet to let me down .
Remember, ladies there are tons of new naturals on the horizon and this tad bit of information may be just what they need to get them on their way. :)
Until next time , remember to stay naturally fabulous !
TAKE CARE :)
Hello there fabulous naturals!
I just wanted to share with you ladies a great and very helpful post. Over at Curly Nikki's she did a fabulous post on sharing her winter regimen and also offered some tips. Now, as I stated previously there are a few humectants I will be staying away from especially those that are to remain in my hair like stylers. The Castor oils its self I have experienced a week or two ago, the negative effects it was having on my hair. Do the the time of the year, so that will be shelved until next year. No time , no where ever does my hair like glycerin so I never have to worry about that one.. But, honey however ...ladies honey is my long lost friend After using olive you conditioner, my hair is still very moisturized. This does included honey , but remember this product is a DCT( deep conditioning treatment) and gets rinsed out, so my hair doesn't have any problems or negative reactions to this particularly due to it being colder now. So, this conditioner hands down is a keeper and a re-order in a larger size, this week (god willing). I will also continue to use my Qhemet Biologics Amla& olive heavy cream, it provides great moisture for my hair all year long, which is especially important during the winter.
So go on over and check out Curly Nikki's post and guys even her comments from her followers are helpful! Take a look:
http://www.curlynikki.com/2010/11/winterizing-your-natural-hair.html#comments
Until next time, remember to stay naturally fabulous!
ENJOY!!!
Hey fabulous naturals!
If you're anything like me , then you love a great deep conditioning treatment. There were times when I deep conditioned without using some type of mild heat. There are some naturals who do not apply heat what so ever to their tresses. I do however like my deep conditioning treatments done with heat ( nothing hot of course). My hair likes them as well much more than oppose to no heat at all during a DCT. Because of this I make sure not to use heat any other time during my hair regimen.
As some of you may know from reading previous post. I won a thermal heat wrap in which I looove ! There is also another type of heating system on the market , in more of the form of a cap. They come in many different cute designs, and are gel less. Its said that they don't stay quite as warm as long the thermal heat wrap, and its not to be believed to be washable. But, They are super cute ! I am very satisfied however with my thermal wrap, but its nice to know there are other's out as well. Check out the review here from another fabulous natural her reviews are great:
http://www.youtube.com/user/mzmillion#p/a/u/1/Zllp5n22juo
and you can check here for the product its self :
http://www.thermalhaircare.com/
Until next time, remember stay naturally fabulous!
TAKE CARE & ENJOY :)
Hey ladies!
One of my favorite places to buy my herbs is mountain rose herbs. Not only do they have great quality, and a large and great selection of herbs, etc. They also have great tips, recipes and ideas. These particular recipes are a great edition to your personal wintertime treats. Lots of these little numbers are often provided due to the upcoming holidays for those who celebrate them. But, I simply love them because they can be used simply because its the winter season. And sometimes due to the colder weather our skin can become dry and or sensitive so why not pamper ourselves. Take a look:
http://www.mountainroseherbs.com/newsletter/10/november/spicyrecipes.php
These happen to be my favorite and ones I can not wait to put to the test. :)
Winter spice aroma
Clove and sweet orange winter balm
Oatmeal & spice baths
Until next time, remember to stay naturally fabulous !
ENJOY & TAKE CARE :)
Hey ladies!
Just wanted to do a quick post to give an update on my 3rd day hair using my two new BFF's from day 1. That I spoke so highly of in my last post. I am super Happy to report that my hair is still looking fabulous, my hair is still very moisturized, my curls are still popping and clumped and super soft and shiny !. The only place I had to touch up was my sides which are cut shorter than my top and front, not to mention I sleep on my sides. All, I had to do was spray the sides of my hair with my Aloe Vera spritz and a little of my Qhemet Biologics Amla & Olive cream just a bit all over. And, my hair was as happy as I am :) I did not have to reapply any kiss my face upper management gel at all. Once I spritzed my sides it simply reactivated the gel That was already there from day 1.
I have to tell you ladies, I am really , really feeling the honey child :olive you deep conditioner" and the kiss my face gel" great stuff ! :)
Until next time, stay naturally fabulous !
TAKE CARE :)
Hey there fabulous naturals!
I had such a great wash day yesterday ! I am super excited, so excited I just had to share now. Here is what made my wash day fabulous. Honeychilds "Olive you deep conditioner" ,The thermal turban heat wrap, and the kiss my face upper management gel. This may be a pretty long review so bare with me :) so lets begin...
Honey child's Olive you conditioner- Here is what she Say's:
The Olive You Deep Conditioner is a triple strength conditioner to rebuild damaged, weak hair. OLIVE YOU! DEEP CONDITIONER has soya milk with minerals and amino acids to help rebuild your hair, seaweed to soften and oils to increase strength. Scoop out a handful and plaster it over badly ruined hair. Leave on for 45 minutes and rinse with cool water. Your hair will OLIVE YOU!
Ingredients:
Distilled Water, Olive Butter ,Olive Fruit Oil, Honey, Olive Leaf Extract, Soya Milk, Natural Yogurt Powder, Olive Oil , Avocado Oil , Seaweed, Jojoba Oil , Violet Leaf Absolute, Orange Blossom Absolute , Neroli Oil .
My thoughts:
OMGGGGG :)))))))))) I Loooooove this conditioner !!!!! . Ladies, I have been natural for 1 yr and 6 months and have used many deep conditioners to name a few Aubrey's organics, curls coconut sublime, curls curl Ecstasy ( in which I still love and use and plan on continuing to use for protein, etc), Jessi curl weekly deep conditioner. And in my sheer opinion the olive you conditioner is the very best by far...by far excellent !!!!. I have 3b hair which is very temperamental and particular. Which is why it often doesn't take me long to use a product many times to know whether my hair likes it or hates it. This stuff is on point I washed , oil rinsed, and then it was time for this fabulous deep conditioner. It is pH balanced at a pH of 4 ( love that !) It has a light pleasant smell, but the texture is not thick like the other conditioners mentioned above , which I thought was going to be a problem. Because I like my conditioners thick, But I said oh zainab don't throw in the towel yet. Its almost like a lotion type It goes on super smooth , with great, great slip. I used my thermal wrap (review on that at the bottom) left the conditioner on for about 45 minutes. Rinsed... my hair felt great! it had a ton , a ton of curl definition, now this was only after I rinsed no product at all. Super, super moisturized and shine out of this world. And , guess what ? It still has the very same today , soft as I don't know what, the shine is incredible, the curls are popping and it has even made my hair look a lot fuller . My hair is looking great! and moisturized ...did I say moisturized, sorry guys I just had to sat that again (lol.)
I ordered the 4oz size, just in case I didn't like it. And I plan to order the larger size ASAP. Now only one problem , honey is the 4th ingredient on the list :( My hair hates glycerin, but looooves honey. My concern is the colder months using honey because as we know its a humectant. So, I am going to make note as to how my hair reacts to this product for the next few weeks in relation to the honey being in the product. If I find that it is in fact having a negative affect on my hair. I will surely , be using it in the warmer months. Hands down best darn conditioner I've used thus far.
Hair Therapy Wrap
They say:
ReVitalize dry and damaged hair, recapturing your hair & scalps natural balance. The way nature intended it to be! The hair therapy wrap applies gentle heat for up to 30 minutes encouraging the conditioner to penetrate hair follicles.
My thoughts:
I love this ! It is super convenient , provides just the right amount of heat to your liking. But, you must make sure not to over heat and follow the suggested instructions as to the amount of time to heat. Simply put the entire heat cap with the gel packs already installed into your microwave. for maybe 60 seconds or so. Take note of how long it takes for you to reach the amount of heat to your liking, so that you know exactly how long to set the micro for next time. place your plastic cap on your head and on top of that place your heat wrap! a great, great edition to my collection of my hair care items. And, ever so grateful to have it.
Kiss my face upper management gel:
They say :
Obsessively Organic
Medium Hold
Aromatherapeutic
NO SLS or Parabens
Certified Organic Botanicals
pH Balanced
100 % Biodegradable
Ingredients:
Certified Organic Aqua of Urtica dioica, Calendula officinalis & Anathemas nobilis, Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate (Amino Acid derived) , Faex, Panthenol, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Citrus grandis.
This product contains no animal ingredients, no artificial colors and was not tested on animals.
My thoughts:
Another great one ! I love, love, love this product also. It pH tested at a pH of 5 which is great. This gel does have panthenol in it which is humectant for those of you concerned with the colder weather and using humectants like I am. But, it is pretty far down on the ingredients list, so for my hair I don't think it will be a problem. But, I will be watching. My hair is soft and not crunshy at all . My curls are well defined and not extra frizzy. It is a softer holding gel . In which I really like and don't mind because I like for my hair to be touchable, not hard feeling. And, thus far it gives me second day hair and I hoping for 3rd and maybe even 4 we will see. It is in the running with my curly magic I must admit. Its a whole lot cheaper than curly magic. And, the ingredients in my opinion are just as good. And, my hair likes it...it likes it a lot. Would I by this again...Most definitely, yes. I plan to do so once this bottle is gone. :)
Olive you conditioner- http://www.myhoneychild.com/home
http://www.curlmart.com/
Heat Therapy Wrap- http://www.hairtherapywrap.com/index.php
http://www.curlmart.com/Hair-Therapy-Wrap-p-1-c-190.html
Kiss my Face Upper management gel- http://www.iherb.com/Kiss-My-Face-OHC-Upper-Management-Styling-Gel-Grapefruit-8-fl-oz-236-ml/8272?at=0
There you have it ! my new found BFF's and I am super , super happy with every last one of them :)
Thanks for reading. And remember, stay naturally fabulous! . Until next time...
TAKE CARE :)
