A Great Alternative

by Sunshyne of Hairliciousinc.com Have you tried Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) in your hair regimen? If not, wait no longer! When used on the hair, extra virgin olive oil can nourish, condition and improve the strength and elasticity. Due to it's ability to penetrate the hair shaft, this rich moisturizing oil can reach the cortex of the hair, allowing the hair to feel conditioned, nourished, and healthy with each use. Extra virgin olive oil contains antioxidant vitamin E, vitamin A and helps heal dry flaky scalp, also known as dandruff. Ways to add this oil into your hair regimen for maximum benefits: Preshampoo treatment - Add 2-4 tbsps of EVOO to your dry unwashed hair. Apply to the ends first. Use the rest in your scalp. Cover your hair with a plastic cap for 15-20mins (with or without heat). Wash and condition as usual. Scalp oil - Add 2 tbsps of EVOO to a applicator bottle. Place bottle in warm water to heat up. Test on wrist until desired temp is reached. Apply to the scalp and massage for 10-15 mins. The oil will help dandruff and dryness and the massage will promote growth. Leave-in - You can use a dab of EVOO over your leave-in conditioner to lock in moisture thus helping to retain a proper moisture balance. Mixed into your deep conditioner - Add 1-2 tbsps of EVOO to your desired deep conditioner for soft, conditioned, smooth hair. This is my favorite method!! **LADIES: Please make sure you check the label on your Olive Oil. My roommate told me that she checked the label: 50% Olive Oil - 50% Sunflower Oil. Damn. Damn. Damn. Sunflower Oil is not bad for your hair however comma you didn't pay for damn Sunflower juice. You paid for Olive Oil! N!

Lengthy check

Check the grooves.

My hair has clearly grown....in the back! Smh! My hair length goal is for my bangs to be at my boobs. I have a long wayyyyy to go. But I'm committed, dedicated, and down for the challenge.

**Please hold as I wear turbans and scarves for the rest of my existence. **

Disclaimer: I have on my swimsuit top and I'm checking my length outside on the back porch. Problem?

Nia*

Rosemary Water Hair Rinse

So I started doing this rosemary rinse 3 weeks ago and my hair is loving it! Nia asked me to share it so here it is, I know you ladies will love it too!

For this rinse I use freshly cut rosemary from my Rosemary plant, if you don't have a plant you can use dried rosemary instead.

Step 1: In a small pot boil about 3 cups of water, once water reaches a medium boil add your rosemary branches to the water and let simmer for 20 mins. Add or take away as much water as you desire. I make a larger amount to have some left over to put in my water bottle for the week.

Step 2: Turn heat off, remove rosemary from water and discard it. Allow the rosemary water to cool before use.

Step 3: Do this over your kitchen sink or tub. Place a large bowl in sink to catch the water as it runs off of your hair. hold you head over the bowl and pour the rosemary water all over your hair, repeat this as many times as you like ( I tend to get pretty carried away because it feels O-So-Good on my scalp).

 

Benefits of Rosemary:
Rosemary controls oil production in the scalp, thereby controlling dandruff. It is also claimed to reverse the effects of graying in hair and repress excessive hair loss. Another benefit of rosemary for hair is it prevents pre-mature balding by stimulating the hair roots and bulbs and increasing blood flow to the head. This promotes hair growth and strengthens your hair, preventing breakage. To give your hair a shiny luster, apply 1 part rosemary oil to 3 parts coconut oil and massage deeply into your scalp for a soothing effect.

I love this rinse, and so does my hair! It really something that I will be making apart of my weekly regi! Try it and let me know what you think.



My hair after doing the rinse...sorry no before pics!

Challenge Me!!

I am starting a Coconut Oil Challenge!!! Yay!!!!!

I've been reading a lot about Coconut Oil and I used to use it all the time when I lived in Alabama. I feel like my hair grew like weeds. Soooo...... Let me get back on the Coconut train and start implementing it back into my routine.

I will especially be Pre-pooing and Deep Conditioning with Coconut Oil.

My challenge will last for four (4) months. I started on August 1st, so I will give final results in December. So far I like using Coconut Oil. My hair definitely doesn't feel weighed down or greasy when I'm using the Coconut Oil to seal my mini twists.

Also about to post a length check. It's been forever. I feel like my hair and I aren't friends right now. The struggles!!!!

Nia.

Well, here it is ladies, my big chop numero 3!!!!!!! I feel so liberated!!

Well...Well....Well.....

So it seriously feels like I am a trifling mother who has abandoned her baby in hopes that Jesus will her pick up and raise her right.

Please forgive my absence.

But I'm back!!!

I'm going to post like crazy today. Take some pictures this weekend of this wild hair. It's currently in mini-twists (thank the Lawwwdddd) and I will be taking them out to wash, deep condition, and refresh. These mini-twists have literally saved my life. I have been soooo close to cutting my hair OFF soooo many days.

After your hair gets to a certain length (which I am mentally at....physically almost there!), it gets so much more tangled and becomes more of a hassle to deal with. My single strand knots have increased (probably because I was lacking on the protective styling) and the length difference between the front of my hair and the back is becoming more apparent. I would love to wear low buns but they just don't work because my bangs/front of my hair/the part I HAD to chop because of heat damage still have some catching up to do.

For the remainder of the summer, I will put myself on a set regimen to really get the most moisture and protection for my hair. The MOST important thing that I have decided to do this summer is continue to wear scarves and turbans. Natural women have the urge to wear their hair out and free during the summer however, this is when your hair is most susceptible to dryness and damage. Even if you moisturize your hair regularly, exposing your hair to the sun allows the sun to evaporate all the moisture you just put in. Usually I moisturize and seal then put of my headwrap of choice. Also, the direct sunlight to my hair makes my scalp really hot....it literally feels like my head is on fire. NEGATIVE!!! I'll continue to wear my headwraps ALL year around. Woot!

If you do wear your hair out & about...PLEASE remember to seal your hair with some type of oil. This will give you an extra layer of protection against 'moisture evaporation'.

I'm about to run out to grab lunch with my mommy. Be back soon!!!!

*Awww.....it feels great to post again*

Love, Peace, and Soul Glo

Nia*

Hello ladies!!!

Just dropping by very quickly to let ou know that i will be doing a big chop once I get back from Sweden. I really feel like i need a fresh start on EVERYTHING after these 6 months. I plan on doing the Master cleanse for 30 days(I am going to try) only eat seafood, veggies and fruits. I also want to use all natural products as much as possible. I am not my hair and I don't believe long hair is for everyone. I will experiment with regimen and see how my hair improves and progresses but I have realized that my hair is just to fine and curly to maintain any length passed my shoulder. I lose tons of hair everyday in the shower, detangling or even running my fingers over my hair. It hasn't begun to look thin but I think starting over fresh will be the best thing for me. Besides, I want to start working out ALOT and who wants to deal with sweaty long hair everyday. Not I.

Hope you guys are enjoying your summer!!


Cecile

Wild Thang.....

My hair does whatever it wants!

Nia*

My Version Of.....

This Curly Girl Method has been ALL over Youtube and hair blogs lately. So naturally I decided to give it a try.

But of course I'm doing my own version. I won't be doing any type of Wash-N-Go's. Those are just not my style. I will doing a rotation of mini/2-strand twists and twist out styles. I am still actually trying to get used to wearing my hair out and about. Protective styles are what I live for!

I love the finger detangling aspect of the method. I was losing so much hair when I was combming/brushing my hair. Like clumps seriously. Now....I'm really taking time with my hair and since I keep my hair stretched like 99% of the time....it's becoming easier to do and manage.

I'm going to have to find a good, organic conditioner and stock UP!

Happy hair journeys!!!

N*

SUMMA SUMMA SUMMMMAAAA TIME!!!

I have to strategically devise a plan for my hair this summer. Plan made. Mini twists the entire summer. Whew!! That was easy. What are YOUR plans? :-) Nia*

2 Things....

1. Congrats to Felicia and Thomas on their engagement!!!

2. Because we have a wedding to attend within the next year....we really need to get on our hair regimen/challenge. Felicia and I shared a vision (literally) about our hair on her wedding day. We have a lot of work to do!!!!

I had cornrows for 17 days....the longest time I've ever kept cornrows in. I was soooo ready to take them out but I wasn't ready to tackle my hair again so I put in mini-twists again. I took down one braid and twisted the section. I made everything much easier to control.

Hope all is well.

Love, Peace, and Shea Butter!

Nia*

Updated Regimen

March 1st-July 1st

•Protective styles throughout the week
•Only wear hair OUT 1 day of the week
•Implement some type of purifying clay (if you can)
•Deep condition once a week
•Protein treatments every 6 weeks
•Continue to take vitamins/Biotin
•Reintroduction glycerin into the regimen starting May once it gets warmer
•NO heat!!!!!! (Felicia....this means you! Lol)
•Cleanse hair every other week (I figure that since deep conditioning will happen once a week, it will rid the hair and scalp of loose debris as well as introducing moisture so shampooing every week won't really be necessary)
•Continue to massage scalp daily
Once the challenge is over, to reward ourselves, we should be a celebration style for the 4th of July. This can be ANY style we want. Flat iron that shit out of your hair if you want to!!!!! You deserve it.

Once again:

1. Detangle
2. Wash
3. Condition
4. Moisturize
5. Protect & Seal
6. GROW!!!!!!

Detangle- After taking down twist (protective style), section hair into 4 sections. Clip each section. Continue to finger comb through hair. Take each section and smooth down hair strand. Helps cuticle to be stimulated and helps get hair in one direction.

Wash- Rinse one section of the hair (usually start from the back right). Use conditioner or Olive Oil to saturate hair. Will aid in removing shed hair and detangling. Smooth hands down hair to remove shed hair. DON’T THROW THE HAIR AWAY! Remember: Need to track shedding and broken hairs. After shed hairs are removed, begin to detangle from the ends to the roots. Should be easy if Moist/Seal happened throughout the week. Wring out hair to remove excess conditioner. Add shampoo/cleansing cream to the scalp. Spray water (water/Glycerin mixture also works) if scalp/hair needs to be dampened. Concentrate your shampoo on your scalp. Scalp health is VERY important to healthy hair growth. Massage scalp. Once your massage your entire scalp, run the shampoo/cleansing cream down the hair shaft. Remember: Do not scratch scalp. Slightly rinse section with warm water. Twist section and replace clip. Continue with the other 3 sections.

Condition- Start with back right section again and add conditioner. Spray water/glycerin mixture if hair needs to be dampened. Rub conditioner through hair section. Finger combing throughout section. Twist section. Repeat on remaining sections. Put shower cap over head and wait 10-15 minutes. Rinse each section individually, re-twist section, and replace clip.

YAY……..CLEAN HAIR!!!!!!

Leave-in conditioner:

1 oz. of Leave-In conditioner
2 teaspoons of Castor Oil
2 teaspoons of Jojoba Oil
2 tablespoons of Aloe Vera Juice

Distribute through each section and re-twist.

Deep Conditioner:

Any type of conditioner can be used
Add any oil you would like (I prefer Olive Oil because it’s cheaper and adds shine)
Distribute throughout hair
Cover hair with shower cap or plastic bag

1 Avocado
½ to 1 can of Coconut Milk
Olive Oil
Mix until creamy. Adjust amount of coconut milk until creamy consistency is achieved.
The remainder can be stored in the fridge.

1 Avocado
1/4 cup Shea Butter (or more)
Olive Oil
1-2 tablespoon of Apple Cider Vinegar

1 Avocado
3 tablespoons of Mayo
Olive Oil
Honey

*ALL of these mixtures need to be mixed well. If not, there is a chance you will be picking ingredients, especially the Avocado) out of your hair. Deep conditioners work the best with heat. Covering hair with shower cap or plastic bag and sitting under the dryer for 30 minutes (covering hair for an hour with a towel is just as good). I like using Olive Oil in my mixtures. It’s the cheapest and easiest to find. I don’t really measure how much I put into the mixture. It’s good for my hair so ‘too much’ is impossible.

If you would prefer something store bought, please check this link. http://www.afrobella.com/2010/11/02/autumn-5-deep-conditioners-for-natural-kinks-and-curl/

Moisturize- After twisting hair with any type of Twist Cream or Shea Butter mixture, let dry for about 30 minutes before adding any additional moisture. Apply Butter Crème or Thick Moisturizer. Stretch hair with ponytail holder and add scarf. During the week, add moisture with water/oil or moisturizer. Listen to what your hair needs. Moisturize hair one day before pre-poo to avoid excess oil build up on scalp. Alternate with sealing.

Sealing-While your hair is in a protective styling, dampen hair with water. You can add a moisturizer to your twists/braids/hair. Make sure you smooth it down the entire length of your hair, especially focusing on your edges. Seal the moisture in your hair with an oil mixture or Shea Butter. You can also apply the oil mixture or Shea Butter directly after you mist your hair with water. It is totally up to you. Again, listen to your hair. If it’s thirsty, give it more moisture.

Here are some sealing process/products that I have tried before. Still working with my hair to figure out which one it likes the best. Personally, I prefer misting with water and sealing with Shea Butter/Oil mixture.

· Water/Glycerin/Aloe Vera Juice
· Hawaiian Silky 14-n-1 Miracle worker
· Oil Blend (Jojoba Oil/Castor Oil/Avocado Oil/Safflower Oil/Grapeseed Oil/Olive Oil)

OR

· Water
· Butter Crème/Thick Moisturizer
· Oil Blend

OR

· Water/Aloe Vera Juice
· Hair Milk or light moisturizer
· Jojoba Oil

Wrap hair with plastic to retain moisture. Atleast an hour.

Protect- Protective styles need to be worn throughout the week. Because your hair is already in twisted sections during your washing routine.....it will be easy to style your hair from here. Remember to work in sections!!! Protective style pictures and videos will be posted VERY soon.

**Hair regimen needs to be adjusted during the colder months when hair is more susceptible to dryness and breakage because of extreme bold and fabrics (especially wool from hats and scarves). Removing glycerin from the routine is essential. Glycerin attracts water and moisture. Using glycerin in colder months only attracts extremely cold air and moisture. This cold moisture in the air is too frigid for the hair. It makes the hair weak and more prone to breakage.

GROW- Well………hopefully!!!!!

10-4
Nia

Ingredients 101

I know there is always a lot of talk in the natural hair community about ingredients: which ones are good for our hair....and which ones are the devil.

Finally found a listing of sulfates and silicones (among others) that can help and/or hurt our hair.

Checketh! It's long as chill out and take your time.

Please note that professional salon products especially formulated for curly hair will always give the best results; however, drugstore products containing no sulfates or non-water soluble silicones are always preferable to any product brand containing those ingredients.

I am not in the least bit concerned about what "brand" you use. I care more that you commit to following the no-sulfate, no non-water soluble silicones guidelines than I do about what brand you buy, so always feel free to experiment and use the products that are best for you and your particular curls. I still experiment with different products myself, as I suspect almost every girl with curls will do for the rest of her life!

Sulfates

A surfactant—sometimes referred to as a detergent—is a substance that, when dissolved in water, gives a product the ability to remove dirt from surfaces such as the human skin, textiles, and other solids. There are several different types of surfactants, ranging from harsh to mild, with sulfates belonging to the class that is the most harsh.

Common sulfates as found on hair product ingredient bottles include:

• Alkylbenzene Sulfonate
• Ammonium Laureth or Lauryl Sulfate
• Ammonium or Sodium Xylenesulfonate
• Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
• Ethyl PEG-15 Cocamine Sulfate
• Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
• Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
• Sodium Laureth, Myreth, or Lauryl Sulfate
• Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
• TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate

Some milder surfactants—less drying and recommended in lieu of sulfates—include:

• Cocamidopropyl Betaine
• Coco Betaine
• Cocoamphoacetate
• Cocoamphodipropionate
• Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate or Cocoamphodipropionate
• Lauroamphoacetate
• Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate

Silicones

Silicones generally end in -cone, -conol, -col, or -xane and are found in many hair products. If any silicone name has the abbreviation "PEG" or "PPG" in front of it, however, it is water-soluble and will not build up.

Silicones that are not soluble in water, will consistently build up on the hair and will require a surfactant-based shampoo to remove include:

• Cetearyl Methicone
• Cetyl Dimethicone
• Dimethicone
• Dimethiconol
• Stearyl Dimethicone

Silicones that are not soluble in water, but whose chemical properties allow it to repel further deposit, helping to prevent buildup (although they will still lock moisture out of the hair and require a surfactant to remove):

• Amodimethicone
• Cyclomethicone/Cyclopentasiloxane
• Trimethylsilylamodimethicone

A note about amodimethicone: if you do an Internet search on amodimethicone, you will find quite a few sites that list amodimethicone as a silicone that is "slightly" soluble in water as long as two additional ingredients are included in the formulation:

Amodimethicone (and) Trideceth-12 (and) Cetrimonium Chloride (as a mixture in the bottle)

The assumption has always been that the inclusion of Trideceth-12 (a nonionic surfactant) and cetrimonium chloride (a cationic surfactant) render the amodimethicone, non-water soluble on its own, slightly soluble in water and it could be considered okay to use. Turns out that has been a completely incorrect assumption. What the Trideceth-12 and cetrimonium chloride do is render the amodimethicone dispersible in water. Once the amodimethicone is deposited onto the hair shaft and dries to a film, however, it is not water-soluble, will prevent moisture from getting into the hair shaft and will require a surfactant to remove.

Silicones that are slightly soluble in water, but can possibly build up on some types of curly hair over time, include:

• Behenoxy Dimethicone
• Stearoxy Dimethicone

Silicones that are soluble in water and can generally be considered safe to use (in addition to those listed with "PEG" or "PPG" in front of them) include:

• Dimethicone Copolyol
• Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein Hydroxypropyl Polysiloxane
• Lauryl Methicone Copolyol

Proteins

An additional note about proteins: some curly hair types, especially those with a coarse hair texture, are also sensitive to proteins, which can cause some curly hair to become dry and brittle. They are best avoided if any adverse effects are noted.

Common protein ingredients include:

• Collagen
• Hydrolyzed Collagen Protein
• Hydrolyzed Silk Protein
• Hydrolyzed Soy Protein
• Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein
• Keratin
• Keratin Amino Acids
• Silk Amino Acids
• Silk Protein
• Soy Protein
• Wheat Amino Acids
• Wheat Protein

Reasons You Aren't Gaining Length

By Dr. Phoenyx Austin
Posted on CurlyNikki.com

Growing longer hair should be pretty simple for every woman- right? I mean, the hair just grows out of our heads. It’s not like we have to look at our scalps on a daily basis and say “Yo follicle! Handle your business!” So why is it that some of us can never seem to grow our hair to the length that we desire? Many women are surprised to discover that the answer to that question isn’t found in taking hair pills or hunting for a new hair product. Growing longer hair is simply about allowing our hair to grow more than we are damaging it. It’s actually that simple. So if you’re having trouble gaining length, you may want to look a little closer at your hair care regimen. Maybe there are specific things that you are doing to cause damage and counteract your hair’s growth. Here are 5 reasons you may not be gaining length:

1. You’re over-manipulating and under protective styling
I constantly get questions about whether women can get away with not protective styling and still achieve length. The fact is that curlier hair is more delicate (and finer) than straight hair. Because of this, you need to protect it from frequent manipulation. Sure, you can try your luck with infrequent protective styling- but more manipulation equals more hair damage, which equals more breakage. And more breakage will always counteract attempts to gain length.

2. You’re not moisturizing and sealing
Curly, kinky and coily hair CRAVES moisture. Moisture is what our hair needs to preserve elasticity. And when hair is deprived of moisture, the result is that not so pleasant “B” word again—Breakage! To gain length (and prevent breakage), you must help your hair maintain its elasticity by making moisturizing and sealing part of your daily hair routine. Hair that does not gain length is simply hair that is breaking faster than it is growing. In the case of curly hair (especially curly, porous hair), you always want to counteract dryness and breakage by moisturizing and sealing.

**SIDENOTE: When I had mini-twists, I literally moisturized and sealed my hair everyday (or every other day if I was busy). I spray water on my hair atleast three (3) times a day. The mini-twists just made it so easy to take care of my hair and give it the proper moisture.

3. You’re using heat (FELICIA...This is for you)
With the exception of using mild, wet heat to deep condition, dry heat (i.e. from flat irons or blow dryers) should be avoided. Dry heat literally boils moisture out of hair- leading to dryness and ultimately breakage. I know there are women that like to flat-iron or blow dry their hair for the occasional sleek look, but those are two of the fastest ways to damaging your already-prone-to-dryness curly hair. I know it may be hard for some to accept, but to gain length you’re going to have to step away from the heat.

4. You’re not trimming damaged or spit ends
Hair doesn’t need to be put on a frequent trimming schedule. But if you are damaging your hair so much that splits ends and breakage become a common occurrence, then you need to trim your hair regularly to counteract this damage. If you don’t take care of these damaged ends on the spot, or ignore them, you’ll just have damage that will literally start to extend from the tip of your hair and up the hair shaft. In those cases you’ll end up having to do a bigger chop than when there was less damage. And this bigger chop will, once again, make it harder for you to achieve the length you want.

5. Keep Things Low Maintenance
Keep things simple with low maintenance and protective styling. All hair goes through normal wear and tear. But the less stress you put on hair by manipulating it with things like combing and heat styling, the less likely it will incur damage that will cause things like split ends and breakage.

Great tips ladies!!!! Make sure you keep these things in mind as we go forward with our challenge.

Question: Do I need to make more calendars for us? I think they semi-worked for us last time. However, with natural hair....it's so unpredictable. My mood and attitude about my hair is unpredictable. And most importantly, my laziness is strong like BULL!

Let me know.

Nia.

Ladies......

Hello there. How's everybody doing?

I'll be posting some info about the revisions to the challenge, hopefully tonight.

Hope everyone (and your hair) is doing well.

I'm almost at bra strap length. Woot! Now all that has to happen..... My bangs have to grow! Seems simple, right? :-/

Nia*

Slightly liberating

So I have mini twists and I love them, but I can really notice (visually and texturally) my heat damaged hair. So I cut of 5 inches of my hair. Mostly on the left side. Look at the pic.....my damaged hair is sooooo straight. I couldn't take it anymore. I'm sure there's still some pieces I need to cut. My shears are ready!

I CAN'T wait until I do a Bantu knot out. I think it'll be 2 dope! Only one more week for these twists.

Tomorrow the challenge starts! I'm already training myself to moisturize my hair all the time. I literally spray these twists every like 3-4 times a day. Spray a tad bit of water and smooth my hair. Then put it in a bun. Raise the roof for protective styles!!!! =D

Nia

Soooooo....……

So the banding thing worked and as I was sitting around playing with my stretched hair..... I started twisting. I've been wanting to do mini-twists since forever but always made an excuse.

So literally, I just did them. Didn't take me as long as I thought. Watched a basketball game and it was over before I knew it. Only took about 3.5 hours. These chicks on YouTube talking about it took them 3 days..... Uhhhhhh heffa stop being lazy!

I'll probably keep them in a bun. I want to keep them for 2 weeks, but we shall see.

Oh, also ordered some Bentonite Clay from Amazon. 2 lbs for $15 (including shipping). I'll let you guys know how the detox clay works after I take my twists down.

Later gators!

N*

Hair bandin'

So I wanted to stretch my hair without heat so it would be easier/manageable when I get it braided. So tried banding.....I like it!

I have 6 sections....washed/conditioned/ leave-in mixture. I had at least 3 bands wrapped around each of my sections.

In the pics, I took out the bands holding to length of my hair. I loosened the top band near my scalp so my roots could dry a tad more. I'll let you know how my set it off braids come out.

Laters.

N*

Blah!

So I have been experiencing some crazy shedding lately and I really think it's because I've only been washing twice a week. Clearly my hair likes getting cleaned and detangled once a week so I will go back to that.

I don't want to upset the strands.

Oh, I'm also looking up a retailer for some clays. I'll let you guys know.

March 1st....here we come!

N*

Sweet Almond Oil & Avocado Oil

Soooo....I'm in love! Their names are Sweet Almond and Avocado (PIMPIN!) lol

But no seriously, like on everything...these oils are the bomb. I was in Target last night and the 3oz bottles were $2.99 each, I copped em of course. I did my pre-poo with the two and some Tee Tree oil (on my scalp). I shampooed with Organix Tee Tree Shampoo and conditioned with my Argon Oil Conditioner. I then applied more Sweet Almond oil and some Castor oil and put some chunky Two strand twist in and went to sleep.

When I took them down this morning my hair felt so soft and silky, my hair texture even looks "calmer" lol. I'm gonna continue using these oils and I'll give another update then to really be able to give a good review! I would recommend them to anyone,  their very moisturizing and they help your hair to look very shiny.

Whoa....our Challenge is OVA!!!!

Totally forgot what day we started.

Happy to announce that our 4 month challenge is over!!!! Yippppeeeee!!!!! Congrats to everyone that experienced what it's really like to take care of your hair and for your hair to (finally) love you!!

Post pics and final lengths. I'll do mine later tonight.

Love
PEACE
and Shea Butter!!!!

Nia

New challenge anyone?

Hey lady bugs,

Since our challenge is almost over.....I decided to start planning for our next one. I mean that's only if you are down for the cause. Lol.

Ok..... So here are some points that I just jotted down for the next challenge. I think 4 months works perfectly with our lifestyles and such. I think our next challenge should start March 1st. This gives us a little time to re-up on products, if necessary.

•Protective styles throughout the week
•Only wear hair OUT 1 day of the week
•Implement Rhassoul Clay
•Deep condition once a week
•Protein treatments every 6 weeks
•Continue to take vitamins/Biotin
•Reintroduction glycerin into the regimen starting May once it gets warmer
•NO heat!!!!!! (Felicia....this means you! Lol)
•Cleanse hair every other week (I figure that since deep conditioning will happen once a week, it will rid the hair and scalp of loose debris as well as introducing moisture so shampooing every week won't really be necessary)
•Continue to massage scalp daily
•Challenge dates: March 1st-July 1st
Once the challenge is over, to reward ourselves, we should be a celebration style for the 4th of July. This can be ANY style we want. Flat iron that shit out of your hair if you want to!!!!! You deserve it.

What do you think guys? Let me know!

Over and out,

Nia

Let's try some clay one day!

Clay: The Medicinal and Cosmetic Benefits

A Guide to Some of the Most Popular Clays Available and How to Use Them

Clay has been used around the world for centuries by indigenous people as an important medicinal and cosmetic tool. Recently, medical research has emerged which supports the efficacy of clay, and it is now becoming increasingly popular as a rediscovered treatment for many different health and skincare conditions. Externally, clays are used to absorb excess oil, dirt, and toxins from the skin while simultaneously exfoliating and improving skin circulation. Some clays, such as Bentonite clay, are primarily ingested for medicinal purposes such as detoxification or mineral deficiencies. Other clays, such as French Green clay and Rhassoul clay, are used externally for skin conditions and for cosmetic purposes. Clays come in a variety of colors such as red, green, white, gray, and can range in texture from coarse and heavy to fine and fluffy. The different colors of clays occur because of their natural mineral content.

Bentonite Clay

Bentonite clay (also known as Montmorillonite) is an edible clay from naturally occurring volcanic ash sediments, and contains over 70 trace minerals. This clay is one of the most effective and powerful healing clays used to treat both internal and external maladies. The largest and most active deposits come from Wyoming and Montana. (Mountain Rose Herbs stocks a Wyoming variety). Bentonite clay is traditionally used as an internal supplement to assist with mineral deficiencies, and to help bind toxins making them more soluble. Externally, Bentonite is used as a clay poultice, mud pack, in the bath, and in skin care recipes. Bentonite clay has the ability to absorb toxins, impurities, heavy metals and other contaminants from the body, and is ingested to treat mineral deficiencies, anemia, stomach ulcers, diarrhea, intestinal problems, hemorrhoids, and for general organ health.

French Green Clay

French Green Clay (Also Known as Illite Clay or Sea Clay) is very absorbent, and literally "drinks" oils, toxic substances, and impurities from your skin. Its toning action stimulates the skin by bringing fresh blood to damaged skin cells, revitalizing the complexion, and tightening pores. Mined from bedrock quarries in France, it is sun-dried, completely natural, unscented, and fragrance free. Green clay is a bio-mineral, and contains decomposed plant matter as well as many trace minerals, such as: silica, aluminum, magnesium, calcium, iron, phosphorus, sodium, potassium, copper, zinc, selenium, cobalt, manganese, phosphorous, silicon, micro-algaes, kelp, and phyto-nutrients. Green Clay has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties which make it beneficial for muscular pain, swelling, and arthritic or rheumatic conditions. Cosmetically, French Green clay is revered for its ability to stimulate blood and lymph circulation, remove dead skin cells, absorb impurities and fats, and tone and strengthen connective tissues. After using French Green clay, skin feels fresh, smooth, radiant, and soft. French Green Clay is also marvelous for helping to clear problem skin areas, and is gentle enough to use weekly, or even daily on problem spots.

Fuller's Earth Clay

Fuller’s Earth clay is a naturally occurring sedimentary clay composed mainly of alumina, silica, iron oxides, lime, and magnesia. It has been widely used as a skin-lightening agent, and it produces a lightening effect on the outer epidermal layer of the skin. Because of its enormous drawing capabilities, Fuller’s Earth clay literally draws and absorbs oil from the skin, and is the number one choice for those with oily skin or those who are prone to acne. This clay is highly recommended to those with acne problems, blemishes, and people prone to oily skin. It is also a useful base ingredient in facial recipes for those with oily skin. Traditionally, Fuller’s Earth clay was used to remove oils from sheep wool because of its oil absorption properties. It has also been used in kitty litter, and in autobody shops to help absorb and remove grease and oil spills.

Rhassoul Clay

Rhassoul clay is a truly exquisite Spa quality clay from ancient deposits unearthed from the fertile Atlas mountains of Morocco where it has been used for over 1400 years as a skin conditioner, soap, and shampoo. This clay has a long history, and was used in ancient Rome and Egypt by those of nobility. Rhassoul is a mineral rich, reddish/brown clay that blends extremely well with water making its application to the face and skin a smooth and delightful experience.
Today, upscale spas and resorts across the globe utilize the toning and enriching benefits offered by Rhassoul clay. It is very high in trace minerals such as silica, magnesium, iron, calcium, potassium and sodium, making it truly one of the finest treasures for pampering your skin. Because of the high mineral content, astringent properties, and absorption properties, Rhassoul clay is a wonderful and effective clay for cleansing, detoxification, and for general skin care treatments. In clinical tests, Rhassoul has been shown to be effective on skin elasticity, clogged pores, removes dead skin layers, removed surface oil from skin, improves skin clarity and appearance, and reduces flakiness and dryness of both the scalp and skin. Try using Rhassoul clay in soap recipes, facial masks, body wraps, clay packs, shampoos, and conditioners for a luxurious and decadent experience.

White Cosmetic Clay

White Cosmetic clay (also known as Kaolin clay) is one of the most versatile clays, and is also the mildest of all cosmetic clays. It is commonly found in skincare preparations and cosmetics because of its gentle nature, mineral content, absorbent properties, and ability to “fix” scents. White clay is made up of fine clay particles, and has a lightweight fluffy consistency. This clay is more widely used than any other cosmetic clay, and is frequently found in powders, body packs, skin care products, deodorants, soaps, scrubs, poultices, cosmetics, facial masks, and toiletries. This clay will gently draw impurities from the skin without removing natural oils while simultaneously exfoliating, cleansing, and stimulating circulation. White clay is suitable for all skin types, whether it be oily, blemish prone, normal, sensitive, dry, or mature skin.

I have heard a lot of great things about Rhassoul Clay. Let's think about implementing Rhassoul Clay in our regimen (maybe bi-weekly). Not only does it detoxify our hair (we would never have to 'clarify' again), bit it's also EXTREMELY moisturizing. AND you can buy pounds of this shit at a time. Yesss Lawd! I'll post a YouTube video that made me even more intrigued with this clay.

Holla back.

N*

Yarnbraid pictures

Anyone else in favor of keeping this blog going?

Yarnbraids

I am so proud of myself!! I am in the process of putting in yarn braids as a protective style. This is my second time getting them but my first time actually doing them myself. Michelle is helping me and we started Monday. We did the perimeter first and I did about 15-20 braids myself last night. We are finishing the rest up tonight and curling the yarn.

I am using 2 skeins of Red Heart yarn in a dark brown, I believe the color is called chocolate. I used the regular size skeins, not the Gigantor size. I am using the 2-strand method all around. I am wrapping my hair rather than braiding all the way around. I like this method because It is easier to take out and it looks more like dreads and it hides my own hair completely from the elements.

I plan on keeping this in for at least 2 months with re braiding the front periodically. I'll moisturize with an oil + water mix daily, at least twice a day. If I can find it in Sweden, I'll use the VO5 clarifying conditioner to wash my scalp 2 time a month.

I will post some pics of the finished results!

Hair update!!!!

3 months into the challenge and we are in the home stretch!

Super exciting. Experienced a lot of growth. Stayed as consistent as I could, but there is room for improvement.

I attached 2 pics but I also put something up on YouTube. I thought I could post the vid on here, but I don't really know how. I'll figure it out tomorrow.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GJHaBsmz-sI&feature=youtube_gdata_player

Nia*

I Am Slacking

Totally didn't do a hair update for the blog. I'm going to do it tonight.

Pinky promise!!!!!

Nia*