Search Results: Akshay Joshi

By Akshay Joshi · Published June 1, 2018

Experience Full Coverage Curl Care with Aunt Jackie’s Natural Oil Blends!

Photography by Osakpolo Igiede, @osa.igiede

Regardless of your curl pattern and texture type, you’ve probably run into the same issues that thousands of curlies experience on a regular basis. You know, irksome things that turn potentially great hair days into bad ones filled with frizz and flyaways, unintentional puffy tufts of coils, and even dry curly hair that has been deep conditioned.

Did you know that natural oils could kick those bad hair days to the curb?

Yes, natural oil blends are remarkable for sealing moisture into your hair strands and treating scalp issues.

Below is your ultimate guide to the best combinations of natural oils for the most common curly hair concerns in our community.

Isn’t it wonderful that you don’t have to mix these combinations up yourself?

There’s no need to spend time combining these natural oils. Aunt Jackie’s has you covered, from root to tip! And just so you know how thoroughly covered every curl on your head truly is, keep reading to discover the natural oil blend that will eliminate your specific curl concern.

Curl Concern: Hair growth and length retention

nortonrsx | iStock

Oils that help:

• Jamaican Black Castor – Known as the life restorer of all edges, Jamaican Black Castor Oil, or JBCO, is perfect for sealing hydration into the ends of your curly hair strands. It also stimulates the scalp, strengthens strands, while fending off dandruff and other scalp conditions.
• Argan – You’ll be pleasantly surprised with Argan oil. Why? Also known as “Miracle Oil”, this emollient is packed with Omega-3 & 9, both of which combat hair loss and repair damaged strands.

Recommendation: Repair My Hair Natural Growth Oil Jamaican Black Castor & Argan Oil

Curl Concern: Frizzy, dry curls

Anchiy | iStock

Oils that help:

• Coconut – Not only does it taste great, but coconut oil has restorative properties for damaged curls because it introduces nourishing fatty acids to the hair strand. It is ideal to use on hair prone to frizz because of it weight, and ability to shield the hair from humidity.
• Sweet Almond – Dandruff, shedding, and hair fall ON TOP of frizzy curls is a terrible combination of issues. However, sweet almond oil practically annihilates every single one! Since it’s rich with Vitamins A, B, and E the oil stops hair from breaking and stimulates the scalp.

Recommendation: Frizz Rebel Coconut & Sweet Almond Natural Growth Oil

Curl Concern: Stronger strands and healthy scalp

xavierarnau | iStock

Oils that help:

• Grape Seed – Antioxidant-packed Grape Seed oil is every curly’s friend! By protecting the hair cuticle with this oil, you’re setting your hair up to grow longer and stronger than ever before. It’s also a great oil for curlies with fine hair strands.
• Avocado – You’ll never think about avocados the same again! Why? Because avocado oil is an excellent friend to your curls, especially when protecting them from damage. This oil contain Vitamin E which adds softness and sheen to your hair, while keeping your scalp super healthy with antioxidants!

Recommendation: Balance! Grapeseed & Avocado Natural Growth Oil

For more curly hair tips, follow Aunt Jackie’s Curls & Coils on Instagram today @auntjackiescurlsandcoils

As ever, stay curly!

By Akshay Joshi · Published May 31, 2018

First of all, let me say…I love Juiceland.

‘What the candy-coated expletive does that have to do with the latest oil trends, April?’, you’re no doubt saying from behind the screen, but I’m GETTING there, okay. There’s a natural build to these things.

Anyway, Juiceland, for those that don’t have access to the chain and/or have more sense than I do, is a company that makes freshly squeezed and cold pressed juices and smoothies which can come with whatever new superfood/supposed miracle-cure edible added to them for a little extra. And one of those extras recently caught my eye: Moringa powder.

Now I’d seen the word Moringa before, for example in our latest Editors’ Choice offerings, we got some samples of True Moringa Refresh: a zippy blend of peppermint and moringa oil.

What does moringa do for your hair?

The True Moringa Refresh didn’t win my favor purely based on the fact that yours truly doesn’t like smelling like a candy cane, BUT I can say this about the oil–it absorbs with a QUICKNESS. It’s light, like almond oil, but while I’ve found that almond oil by itself still tends to ‘sit’ on my skin and scalp for a little while, my terminally thirsty pores AND hair drank the moringa up just like I inhaled that tangy, delicious smoothie.

It absorbs with a QUICKNESS. It’s light, like almond oil, but while I’ve found that almond oil by itself still tends to ‘sit’ on my skin and scalp for a little while, my terminally thirsty pores AND hair drank the moringa up

Speaking of…

The fact that moringa leaf powder made the add-ons menu at the ol’ JL got me curious. I usually roll my eyes at ‘superfood’ claims, because the term is typically used to mean ‘better for you than a McRib’, and isn’t bound by any science or governing bodies. I enjoyed the fact that it added an extra sourness to my mango-clementine mix, and normally, I’d have been content to leave it at that. But looking it up, Moringa actually IS a pretty amazing plant! Just 3.5 ounces of the leaves contain over half your daily requirement of A, B (1 and 6″> and C vitamins, which genuinely amazed me. And you can quite literally use the leaves of the plant for effective handwashing, as the phytochemicals therein have anti-septic properties, and the leftover seed ‘cake’ that you get after pressing the seeds for oil can actually be used to purify water! Let’s see kale do THAT.

So what’s the catch?

Hmmm, well. Because Moringa is mostly farmed in India, and other warm places like Ghana, Nica
ragua, and Hawai’i, and because the oil is taken from the seed of the plant rather than any kind of leaf infusion…it’s expensive. Turns out it’s a little more difficult to squeeze anything of significant quantities out of something the size of your thumbnail. Unless you have a hookup (or manage to catch NaturallyCurly shop sale“> you might be looking at around $20-25 per ounce here, but I have to say, I think it’s worth it!

But don’t worry, you can use it in tiny quantities, like mixing a couple drops in with your coconut oil as a DIY natural cleanser.

Granted, I in no way will be using the oil as a body oil, until I find that perfect rich old man that likes chunky fake-goth girls— and honestly, at the current price point, it won’t be a hair/scalp oil staple once my free bottle’s exhausted. As far as my cute face is concerned though, treating with moringa oil really hits the right spots! I have premature lines from my intermittent insomnia and my love of making simple things into giant problems, and using the oil at night HAS been helping smooth those out, so hey, it’s whatever works.

Final verdict: Try it, your skin and scalp will thank you.

…but maybe you drop hints to anyone that loves you to buy it for a special occasion first.

You can also find moringa as an ingredient in plenty of your favorite products. 

• The Mane Choice Tropical Moringa Daily Restorative Spray
• DevaCurl Wave Maker Touchable Texture Whip
• Carol’s Daughter Sacred Tiare Fortifying Conditioner
• Honey Baby Naturals Mama’s Magic Moringa & Honey Body & Bath Oil
• Kreyol Essence Haitian Moringa Oil Face & Hair Oil (pictured above”>
• Nefertiti’s Secrets Complete Hydration Conditioner

Are you feeling the moringa vibes, curlies? Let us know in the comments section–how does this oil fall on your cost-benefit analysis scale?

By Akshay Joshi · Published May 11, 2018

There’s no one in the world that holds a candle to your one and only mom.

She’s not only the giver of life, the best at whipping up your favorite home cooked meals, and the bearer of absolute truths when you need advice. Oh, no! She’s much more…

She’s your Style Maven!

She was the very first person to show you how to properly tie your shoelaces into a bow and then into a double knot. Her keen fashion sense compelled her to buy those sparkling, ocean blue Jellies that would match oh, so perfectly with your pinstriped overalls.

She’s also the person that styled your hair in her own image. Even if you hated it, when you think back on it now, you smile because you know that all momma wanted to make her baby look good for school, church, and going to the grocery store because you can’t walk outside the house looking like she didn’t even try to dress you.

In honor of this incredibly special human being, NaturallyCurly Editors uplifted their moms through the power of hairstyling!

You’ll laugh. You’ll cry. You’ll think to yourself, “Oh, goodness… Would I ever recreate my mom’s hairstyle?!”

?Wasn’t that the absolute cutest thing ever?

Are you feeling the love? Great! Share it with your mom for Mother’s Day! This is our gift to you and your mom because, well, we think you’re great and want to add one more gift to your Mother’s Day caboodle.

Are you excited for Mother’s Day 2018? What are you planning to do for your mom (other than share this super cute video with her”>? Tell us in the comments!

As ever, stay curly!

By Akshay Joshi · Published May 7, 2018

Hi, NaturallyCurly world! I’m back with more natural hair care product recommendations that are surely going make you go “Hmmmm… where can I get that?” 

Amazing Bantu Knots and slick edges || @mark.c for nappy.co

Since our natural hair can be remarkably temperamental, it’s no wonder we get a little frustrated when products don’t work. Well, I am here to tell you that I understand, especially if your hair refuses to stay moisturized and soft.

Read more: 10 Surprises In Store For Type 4 Coily, Curly Hair for Spring 2018

There are a few things you can do in order to achieve any of your texture goals, the first being: get the right shampoo for your hair care needs.

Alright – enough yappin’! Let’s get started:

Clear your scalp and hair strands of product buildup.

Keeping your natural hair free from product buildup is crucial to its growth. According to natural hair enthusiast Sabrina Perkins, “When hair stays coated with products for too long, moisture is prevented from nourishing the strands.” This is so true! No matter what your hair goals are, you won’t achieve them with hair strands that suffocate under the weight of product.

I recommend using the following shampoos once or twice a month (this is dependent upon how often you use heavy stylers such as gels and custards”> to clear your natural hair of product buildup and to keep your scalp in tip-top shape:

• Honey Baby Naturals Honeychild Moisture & Scalp Balance Gentle Shampoo
• Form Beauty Cleanse Shampoo
• Noughty Hair Care To The Rescue Shampoo 
• SASHAPURE Healing Shampoo

Gorgeous, fluffy twist out! || @photosbyphab for nappy.co

Add moisture to your hair strands.

As mentioned, keeping your natural hair moisturized is critical to its overall health. Since you will want to do this every wash day, you will want to use moisturizing shampoos that contain emollients such as Jamaican black castor, almond, hemp and flaxseed oils.

If you are not allergic to them, it is also helpful to use shampoos with proteins because of its ability to strengthen your hair strands. The following shampoos are perfect for adding moisture to natural hair

• Elucence Extended Moisture Repair Treatment – paired with the Elucence Moisture Balancing Conditioner
• SheaMoisture Manuka Honey & Yogurt Hydrate + Repair Shampoo
• Bounce Curl Pure Silk Moisturizing Shampoo
• Eprouvage Fortifying Shampoo (Great for those wanting to prevent hair loss!”>

Love wearing protective styles, wigs, or weaves? Keep your scalp clean!

Protective styles are so beautiful, but can be taxing on the scalp. In just a matter of a few days, you could experience a dry, flaking scalp AND product buildup simultaneously, and that is no bueno, my friend. Since I am obsessed with protective styles, especially box braids, I have found that the best way for me to maintain them, my scalp, and my sanity is to cleanse my scalp every week and then apply a cocktail of serum and oil.

To prevent your scalp from undue stress and dryness, I highly recommend that you keep it clean by using either of the following remarkable cleansers every week:

• Taliah Waajid Protective Styles Refresh And So Clean Bamboo, Avocado And Peppermint Dry Gel Shampoo (PSST: This one delivers a fresh feeling tingle and smells delightful!”>
• Girl+Hair Clarifying Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse

These parts are on point. ||@createdbyjarrod for nappy.co

Quickly detangle knots.

After much trial and error, I have found the easiest way for me to detangle my curls is in the shower. Fortunately, I can rely on a couple of shampoos to help speed up the process so I’m not running my water bill up! They’re listed below, but I also want to mention that both of these are good because they contain super moisturizing ingredients that will nourish your hair. You’ll love them!

• Design Essentials Natural Almond & Avocado Moisturizing & Detangling Sulfate Free Shampoo
• Renpure Originals Coconut Cream Nourishing Shampoo 

Prime your curls for extreme definition and sheen with a good shampoo.

No matter what curl pattern you have, we ALL want defined curls that shine. For those of us with Type 4a-c hair, that tends to be very difficult to achieve. I mean, essentially, our hair doesn’t really work like that… without A WHOLE LOTTA HELP.

One method I recommend to prime your hair for shine-inducing gels and oil mists is to use the shingling method when shampooing (and, of course, when adding in styling products”>. It may not seem necessary at first, but I have been trying this and my curls POP whenever I shingle shampoo, especially with these

• ApHogee Curlific! Textured Hair Wash
• Pink Lemonade & Coconut Super Antioxidant & Texture Beautifier Shampoo
• Evlogies Naturals Fortifying Purifying Shampoo (OMG, girl ??‍the sudsing action is everything!”>

Love these stunning coils ? || @KoffeeWithKay for nappy.co

Wow! I LOVE shampoo!!! Can you tell?

Read more: I Wash My Natural Hair Every Day. Is That Bad?

The following list is of my top 15 shampoos for natural hair because they have worked wonders for me. If you’ve tried them, let me know in the comments! If you haven’t, do you want to? Click on over to SHOP NaturallyCurly to get what you need.

As promised, I have all your natural hair and curly girl needs for Spring and Summer 2018! So, if you haven’t already, definitely sign up for our NaturallyCurly newsletter. If you want to see what new color my braids will be or how massive my Afro has gotten, follow me on IG @gerilynhayes today, friend.

As ever, stay curly!

By Akshay Joshi · Published April 18, 2018

Okay. I’ll be the first to admit that I have committed the cardinal curly sin: For years, I have been washing my natural hair with shampoo every 2-3 days.

Sometimes I’ve even shampooed it *GASP* every single day.

When I told this to my stylist, she immediately retorted, “You can’t do that to your hair, G!” Of course, being the hard-headed rebel I am, I said thought to myself, “Well, my hair and scalp are in prime shape, so I don’t know watchoo talkin’ about, fam.”

But even though a mule has nothing on my stubbornness, I knew that my stylist must be right… right? I mean, she’s the professional, not me. However, I’m also a skeptic who theorizes that since every head of curls is entirely different, that it must be okay to wash my coils every day.

Well, I have heard a multitude of things from cosmetologists, brand owners, at-home-kitchen-DIYers, and even my NaturallyCurly colleagues, but I’m still confused!

Can I, or can I not, wash my natural hair more than once a week?

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NC Curl Talk TV Host and Senior CopyWriter @gerilynhayes can literally slay every style. Do y’all use a pick for volume?

A post shared by NaturallyCurly.com (@naturallycurly”> on Apr 17, 2018 at 1:21pm PDT

To obtain further insights, I reached out to curly hair stylists and salon professionals for their expertise. Here is what they told me about washing natural hair and curls on a frequent basis:

There are no set-in-stone rules.

There really isn’t a RULE about shampoo frequency for any hair type.” – Sam Villa, Stylist at Lunatic Fringe Salon (Nashville”>

According to Sam Villa, the world-renowned co-Founder of Sam Villa and the Global Artistic Ambassador for Redken 5^th Avenue, you don’t have to follow one rule when it comes to shampooing your hair more than once a week., you don’t have to follow any one rule when it comes to shampooing your hair more than once a week. He told me, “There really isn’t a RULE about shampoo frequency for any hair type. While it is generally held that cleansing too frequently can strip the hair and scalp of its sebum and natural emollients, improper cleansing (or not often enough”> creates its own problems.”

Villa went further on to say, “Lifestyle, diet, stress levels, genetics, and so many other factors affect how the hair and scalp feel and behave. How often one should shampoo depends largely on how one wishes their hair to feel every day. A proper consultation with a qualified stylist will help determine how often to shampoo, which scalp and hair treatments would be best for one’s texture, and which products to use – and when.”

Learning this makes me feel much better about my inclination to wash more than once a week. I especially love that no matter if you have naturally tight coils or stick-straight strands, you can take care of your hair the best way YOU see fit. I love that!

What about thinning curly hair? How often should it be shampooed?

“The trend toward washing once a week is not working out well for those over the age of 40. ” –Michon Kessler, Licensed Cosmetologist and owner of Studio M

Hairdresser Michon Kessler has been in the business of hair for over 30 years and knows a thing or two about washing all hair types. She told me, “My clients with fine, thinning hair experience lack of cellular turnover and lack of stimulation as well as congested hair follicles. In other words, thinning hair needs more stimulation and cleansing than once a week.”

She also stresses the importance of using a Denman Brush when using a dry shampoo. “It’s silicon bristles will not break or blow apart fragile hair. They are like an amazing mini massage to the scalp,” she said, “These brushes cause so much less friction on the hair shaft and cause much less breakage than with a boar bristle brush.”

I’m excited to try this, mainly because in between my protective styles, I don’t necessarily need, or want, to shampoo my hair. Although I am not a fan of spray-on dry shampoos, I have found one that works beautifully for me in between protective styles: The Refresh & So Clean Bamboo, Avocado & Peppermint with Witch Hazel Dry Gel Shampoo from Taliah Waajid. This stuff is a lifesaver for my scalp, and I will be using it with the Denman, for sure! 

So, I CAN wash more than once a week… Awesome!

This is such good news because I really didn’t see any adverse effects to my natural hair’s growth or texture when I shampooed 1-2 days apart. In fact, I prefer this to prevent knots and to hydrate my hair on a regular basis.

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From Bantu Knots to Afro Pride: It's that time of the year when @naturallycurly editors product test Editor's Choice submissions for our annual awarding. So far, the submissions have been ahhhhhhmazing ? I can't wait to tell you about the brand that got my Afro L-I-T ?(but I have to ?”>Stay up on our announcements in a few months. For now, check out my latest shenanigans on the YouTube ✊? l 8 t r ✌? Props to @devrivelazquez for the pik ?????

A post shared by Copywriter ☆ CurlTalk TV Host (@gerilynhayes”> on Jan 17, 2018 at 1:02pm PST

Although I know that this is the best thing for my natural hair, I think that you would do well by following Sam Villa’s advice and talk with your stylist about the frequency of your cleansing routine.

So tell me: Do you wash your natural hair more than once a week?

??‍♀️

As ever, stay curly!

By Akshay Joshi · Published January 19, 2018

Curls, irrespective of pattern or texture, will experience dryness. This is a fact of curl life.

photo: m-photography | iStock

Whether you live in a humid environment, coat your hair strands in leave-in regularly, or refresh your curls throughout the day, you will experience a crunch, a crackle, a rough-to-the-touch curly hair day.

What if you could eliminate this curly hair phenomenon with three natural oils that nourish dry curly hair?

Woman-owned CurlyCoilyTresses empowers curlies of every creed, gender, and age with a collection of allergen-free products that you are certain to rave about.

photo: CurlyCoilyTresses Founder Angela Fields | CurlyCoilyTresses.com

Enterprising creator and founder Angela Fields is bestowing her love for clean, natural living onto us by offering a collection with standout ingredients:

• Babassu Oil – Primitive Outpost blogger and researcher Paul Koutras praises babassu by saying, “Because it is absorbed quickly, it won’t leave a thick greasy film which is a huge bonus. In addition to moisturizing the scalp, Babassu is perfect for combating [dandruff]. The anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties are perfect tools to help keep these issues at bay.” These attributes make the CurlyCoilyTresses Nourish Treatment the perfect choice for sensitive scalps that need pH-balance and moisture, to keep flakes at bay.
• Cupuacu Butter – There a good reasons why cupuacu butter should be intergrated into your curl regiment: it works wonders for dry hair! Don’t just take our word for it. Writer and researcher Janelle Sands praises the benefits of cupuacu butter. She states, “Cupuacu butter has rushed to our aid at just the right time. With the winter chills gliding in this season, we need advanced hair care. Cupuacu can benefit any curly struggling with moisture retention, dry brittle hair, or breakage by infusing your hair with moisture, increasing elasticity, and softness.” For many curlies with low porosity, the CurlyCoilyTresses Enrich Moisturizer is a lifesaver. Its cupuacu butter contents will deeply nourish every curl and replenish moisture to your scalp.
• Pumpkin Seed Oil – If you have yet to learn the amazing benefits of this powerful seed oil, you are in luck. At NaturallyCurly, we revel in this miracle seed that has been proven to stop hair fall. Truly! We did the research:

Pumpkin seed oil inhibits Dihydrotestosterone (DHT”> production, testosterone, and androgen levels so it assists in controlling hair loss. DHT blocks the hair follicles from absorbing proteins. -Natural hair researcher Sabrina Perkins

Getting this oil in your regimen needs to be your #1 priority.

That is why CurlyCoilyTresses Organic Pumpkin Seed Oil is highly recommended for all curlies that are experiencing hair fall or simply want to reinforce their growth regimen with a natural DHT-blocking seed oil.

photo: DMEPhotography | iStock

Eliminate Breaking, Dry Curls with Allergen-free CurlyCoilyTresses

If you are irritated by fragrances or chemicals, struggling with shedding, breakage, dry curls, frizz, and difficult wash days, then you need CurlCoilyTresses in your regimen.

NOTE: If you have extremely sensitive skin, you need to consult with your physician before conducting a skin patch test.

photo: digitalskillet | iStock

Want to try allergen-free, nutrient-rich CurlyCoilyTresses?

Hop over to CurlyCoilyTresses to get this allergen-free, nourishing ingredients-formulated collection today!

Tell me how you liked them in the comments below.

Follow Founder Angela Fields on Instagram @cucotress for product news and announcements!

As ever, stay curly!

This post is sponsored by CurlyCoilyTresses.

By Akshay Joshi · Published January 1, 2018

Ring the bells! It’s the New Year!

And it’s time to celebrate the New You with a healthy curly hair regimen that will carry you throughout 2018. We know that you love tried and true products that work wonders FOR all types of curls, so we rounded up the bestsellers in SHOP NaturallyCurly for you.

We also created excellent curly hair regimens for EVERY CURL PATTERN to help you all get off on the right foot this year. Take a look at each regimen, featuring our Top 10 bestselling curly hair products, perfect for every single hair on your head!

These New Year, New You! Regimens will suit all your curls’ needs throughout the year!

NaturallyCurly Graphic Designer, Editor Frances Shaw @somegirlfromtexas, photo @briophoto

Wash Day Maintenance for all Curl Girls

If sitting on the couch, binge-watching a new Netflix series, and applying all your Holy Grail cocktailing options onto your hair sounds familiar to you, take note of the regimen that will give you a new lease on your semi-weekly to monthly wash day:

1. Wash those curls with SheaMoisture Coconut Hibiscus Curl Shine Shampoo.
2. Repair and strengthen damaged strands and ends with Coconut Restore Keratin Intensive Repair Masque.
3. Thoroughly moisturize those curls with Many Ethnicities Leave-In Conditioning Cream. At NaturallyCurly, we pride ourselves on choosing only the cream of the crop for our curls. We especially laud those that we can use every day, not just on wash day. This reason alone is why we LOVE sharing our stories with you. So, when Editor Frances Shaw got her hands on this bestselling leave-in, we had to know what she thought about it:

“I tried the Many Ethnicities Leave-In Conditioning Cream, and this leave-in left my hair feeling moisturized with the perfect amount of definition, which is important to me.” -Frances Shaw

NaturallyCurly Sr. Copywriter, Editor Gerilyn Hayes @gerilynhayes, photo @briophoto

Weekly Low-manipulation, Bare-Minimum Wash and Go Routine for Every Curl

Curls of every pattern need not be bothered with the constant twirling and whirling of fingers and heat wands. In fact, all you will need to do for refreshed and defined curly hair between every wash day are as follows:

1. This step is for those of us whose hair is prone to frizz, fairy knots, and random tangles so, all of us! Coat your fingers with Design Essentials Almond & Avocado Moisturizing Detangling Conditioner and rake it through your curls, from ends to roots. After letting it love on and hydrate your curls, rinse it out, and dry curls with a micro-towel. For all day long hydration and style, move on to the next step.
2. Seal the moisture in and add shine to every ringlet, wave, and coil with The DOUX Bonita Afro Balm Shine Enhancing Texture Cream. Since every wash day needs to conclude with a beautiful style, this texture cream is the one you’ll want to set your style, no matter if you have wavy, curly, or coily hair. What’s even better about this texture cream?

You can wear goji berries in your curls!

Goji berries are Nature’s little power-packed miracle. Their antioxidants and Vitamin C content makes it the perfect curl friend to strands in need of nourishing moisture and strengthening. It is especially beneficial for those with high to medium porosity!

3. Finish your ultra-fast regimen with a gel. “Definition” is the name of your game for 2018 so make sure you reach for a firm-holding, non-crunching styler DevaCurl Ultra Defining Gel. A favorite among every curly girl in the NaturallyCurly office, this gel is ideal for every texture type.

NaturallyCurly Videographer, Editor Grace L. Hathaway @gracelhathaway, photo @repelmedia

Every Day Slay Regimen

FACT: You do not need to wash your hair every day of the week. However, you do need to slay every day, as Queen Bey told you. Give your curls the TLC they deserve every (other”> day of the week with this regimen:

1. For those that need it, quickly cleanse your scalp with Cantu Refresh Apple Cider Vinegar Root Rinse. It tingles as it settles into your roots for a waterless, squeaky clean your scalp.
2. Now it’s time to refresh your strands! Spritz hair with a water to reactivate conditioning leave-ins and creams from the previous day.
3. Don’t skip this step: Seal moisture into your curls with nourishing Ouidad Mongongo Oil. Start with a small amount; increase application as needed.
4. Depending on the type of hold you need for the day, reach for the mega-light Bed Head by TIGI Foxy Curls Contour Cream.
5. For the ultimate finishing touch, apply Ampro Pro Styl Shine ‘n Jam Conditioning Gel Silk Edges to those baby hairs. For wavies and curlies that experience flyaways, rub a dime-size amount between your palms and lightly smooth those hairs down.

Are you feeling confident that you can give your curls newfound glory with these New Year, New You! Regimens this year? Tell us about it for a chance to WIN all of the products recommended!

Keep reading for entry details and SHOP NaturallyCurly EXCLUSIVE discount!

New Year, New You! Regimen Giveaway

This year, we want you to keep all of your curly hair resolutions! That is why we are giving away ALL 10 of the New Year, New You! Regimen products, featured here and in SHOP.NaturallyCurly.com, to 1 super lucky winner. This Grand Prize Winner will receive:

• Cantu Refresh Apple Cider Vinegar Root Rinse
• Ouidad Mongongo Oil
• SheaMoisture Coconut Hibiscus Curl Shine Shampoo
• Design Essentials Almond & Avocado Moisturizing Detangling Conditioner
• Coconut Restore Keratin Intensive Repair Masque
• Many Ethnicities Leave-In Conditioning Cream
• The DOUX Bonita Afro Balm Shine Enhancing Texture Cream
• Bed Head by TIGI Foxy Curls Contour Cream
• DevaCurl Ultra Defining Gel
• Ampro Pro Styl Shine ‘n Jam Conditioning Gel Silk Edges

All you have to do is leave a comment below telling us why you would like to win!

Can’t wait to try all these fantastic curly hair superstars?

When you buy these bestselling products on SHOP NaturallyCurly, use NEWYEAR20* to save up to 20% on the Top 10 products for New Year, New You!

This giveaway ends January 31, 2018, and is open to U.S. residents only, as per our Terms and Conditions.

*This discount is for article readers only. Expires January 31, 2018.

**Please make sure you have liked @naturallycurly on Facebook so that we can notify you if you’ve won.

By Akshay Joshi · Published December 1, 2017

Did you know deep conditioners can make your curls soft, smooth, and easy to style?

istock / georgeclerk

When you use oil-infused deep conditioners, your results will be even more noticeable. This is especially beneficial for those of you with Type 3c and 4a curls that experience dryness during cooler temperatures. Understanding this need, I set out to determine how well one particular deep conditioner would work for you so that you can add it to your wintertime wash day routine: the SASHAPURE Restorative Conditioning Masque.

Its primary curly-lifesaver is its Certified Peruvian Sacha Inchi Oil that I and @ModelesqueNic have raved to you about before. Let’s revisit the benefits of this truly amazing lightweight oil for hair and skin:

• Replenishes moisture for dry, itching scalps and dry hair strands
• Quickly absorbs into the hair strand for immediate hydration
• Regulates the scalp’s natural oil production
• Strengthens hair strands, making curls easier to style
• Adds moisture to skin when applied topically

There are several more benefits of Sacha Inchi oil for your naturally curly hair, and SASHAPURE has everything you need to reap all of them this winter and well into the new year. Having used several items from the line myself, I can vouch for the results… and I have Type 4c curls that really need moisture all the time!

Keep reading to learn about my usage and discovery; I am confident that you’ll be able to take these recommendations and apply them to your regimen for softer, smoother curls.

Brio Photography

My Winter Wash Day Routine with Sacha Inchi Oil:

The steps are simple, my friend. And though I am certain you have your routine down pat, I want to throw in a few keys to your deep conditioning and styling success based on my personal experience with the SASHAPURE line. So, take note and if you have questions for me, please put them in the comments section.

Let’s get started!

STEP 1 – Pre-Poo

For this to work well for your Type 3 and 4 curls, you will need an elixir formulated with emollients that bring moisture to every hair strand. It’s important to note that I mention “elixir” because it has medicinal properties that you may not be able to find in individual hair and skin oils. In this case, the SASHAPURE Deeply Therapeutic Hair, Scalp, & Skin Elixir is the key to effectively deep conditioning.

Much like pre-pooing my curls, I wanted to ensure that my scalp wouldn’t lose its natural oils so I applied about 5-6 drops of the elixir to my scalp and gently palm-rubbed the remaining liquid onto the ends of my curls. I did this prior to applying the masque.

STEP 2 – Shampoo (optional, depending on your wash day routine”>

If you’re going to shampoo on your wash day, grab one that is formulated to prevent breakage and add strength to your hair strands. No matter hair strands’ width, it’s always a good thing to wash them with cleansers that have strengthening properties. Since sacha inchi is a natural strengthener for curls, I recommend that you use the SASHAPURE’s Healing Shampoo.

I used it several months ago, right on the cusp of summertime, before getting my first set of box braids and it helped my curls stay strong. I didn’t see a whole lot of shedding when I took my protective style out which I attribute to the sacha inchi in the shampoo.

STEP 3 – Deep Condition

Like I mentioned before, my curls need moisture consistently throughout the year, but even more so during winter months. Since SASHAPURE directed me to “combine the conditioning masque with a dime size dollop” of the elixir, I was hopeful that my curls were going to get the moisture and natural sheen they needed.

Starting from my ends and moving upward to my roots and scalp, I used my fingers and a wide tooth comb to work in the SASHAPURE Restorative Conditioning Masque. To ensure an even coat, I applied another generous amount of the masque all over my hair and covered up with a shower cap.

The directions say to let the masque absorb into your curls for 5-7 minutes, but knowing that my hair is stubborn due to low porosity I added an extra 5 minutes to the process.

After rinsing out the masque and drying my hair with a microfiber towel, I noticed that my curls felt softer. In addition to that, my curls and my scalp were moisturized – I have the elixir to thank for that extra boost!

STEP 4 – Dry & Style Curls

This part was a pretty exciting if I do say so myself because I wasn’t even done with my wash day, but I had thoroughly moisturized curls to style! Being a skeptic of most curl creams because their thick consistency doesn’t absorb fully into my hair strands, I was pleasantly surprised with the SASHAPURE Perfectly Defining Curl Cream.

First of all, the scent is delightful with bright citrus notes that don’t overwhelm the senses.

Second, my curls felt super soft after they were air dried. Again, this is something those of us with Type 3 and 4 curls are desperate to achieve so by using this line to winterize my current wash day routine, I was over the moon to see the results: pillow soft curls that are visibly healthy!

Keep reading to learn how I turned these sections into a shiny, fluffy ‘fro!

Bonus tip for shiny curls

Shiny curls, or lack thereof, are another concern for us Type 3s and 4s, and I know for a fact that in order to achieve this you’ll need to combine the elixir and the masque.

With my Type 4c curls, I went the extra mile for shine because, by their very nature, they do not reflect light as well as my looser curl patterned sisters. To do so, I set my curls into two-strand twists with a cocktail of the curl cream and the SASHAPURE Smoothing and Shine Hair Treatment. I also want to note that you can use the treatment on its own on days you want to refresh your curls and add high shine to them.

What I like best about this cocktail was that it actually worked beautifully for my twist out, the surefire style that will show my curls’ length and healthy sheen, and it didn’t weigh my hair down or result in those frustrating flakes some products leave on curls after they’ve dried.

Follow the steps for soft, sumptuous curls this winter

If you are frustrated with super dry curly hair, no matter what you do to it, I really want you to try this deep conditioning step-by-step tutorial! My curl concerns are yours; that’s why I know you’ll be excited to try SASHAPURE Certified Peruvian Sacha Inchi Oil line.

Because every wash day routine is different based on your curl pattern and texture type, I want to hear from you about your results. So tag me @gerilynhayes and @sashapurebeauty in your IG-selfies, and leave us comments about your experience – I’ll do the same.

As ever, winterize those curls, girl!

This post is sponsored by SASHAPURE.

By Akshay Joshi · Published September 18, 2017

Is premature gray hair cramping your style?

Image via GIPHY

You are not alone, curly.

Irrespective of curl pattern or texture types, premature graying can happen to any one of us in the blink of an eye. Some women have been sprouting gray hair since they were in their teens, while others are just now seeing platinum streaks in their mid-20s, late 30s, and early 40s. If you are experiencing this type of pigment loss, please take note of the following list below so that you can be 100% equipped with tools to manage (and EMBRACE”> those delicate silver ringlets, waves, and coils.

istock/Manuel-FO

Top 5 Things You Need to Know About Premature Gray Hair

1. This phenomenon indicates that your hair strands are losing pigment. Don’t be alarmed; this happens to many of us due to DNA. If you are experiencing medical or health-related issues in conjunction with the appearance of premature grays, you must consult with a physician. An underlying issue may be the culprit.

2. Why premature gray hair happens. Premature gray hair is not necessarily caused by assumed factors such as stress or an intense job such as President of the United States. It’s truly a matter of genetic factors. You can help stave off premature graying hair by maintaining a healthy diet, refraining from smoking cigarettes, and visiting your physician for regular checkups a.k.a. take care of yourself!

3. What can be done about it… well, sadly not much. I will be so bold and say that premature graying cannot be reversed (unless you have a Vitamin B12 deficiency, thyroid issues, etc.”>. With this in mind, it is important that you continue taking deliberate steps to maintain your curly hair health with products designed to keep hair moisturized and free from breakage. I recommend deep treatments like Eprouvage Reparative Treatment Masque and limiting the use of heat styling tools.

4. Consider protective styles like weaves, braids, faux locs, and wigs, all of which are great ways to keep your hairstyles fun while rocking premature graying hair. What’s even better is that these styles help your curls stay free and clear of breakage! I recommend this step to those of us just starting to see grays and are still deciding if you want to cover them with hair dye or wear them with pride. Just keep in mind that it is okay to give yourself time to make a decision about how you want to wear your grays. There’s no wrong or right way to wear your color; it’s your world, curl friend! Do you :”>

5. Embrace the gray! Have you heard of Grombre, yet? It is a hair color trend that swept through the curly and straight hair communities alike a few seasons ago, and it is not showing any signs of stopping. Although we may have a certain silver-haired dragon mama to thank for a role in this trend, I would like to say that all the women that have embraced their gray and displayed them with pride could help give you #graygoals.

#GrayGoals

The beautiful images below were retrieved from @Grombre, your #inspo for going all the way gray!

BONUS FOR THE GRAYS!

I’ve been told by many women that dying gray hair can be downright nightmarish, to say the least. That is why I recommend consulting with a professional hair colorist to help you either cover those grays for your desired color or to help your curls ease into the graying process by lightening your hair for a natural, uniquely YOU look.

You know I’m not going to leave you without a video to help you navigate this. And since I am not a hair colorist, I think that it is important for you to hear from a professional who can give you some insight!

Premature gray hair resources for you:

Aging Hair Signs and How You Can Treat Them | HuffPo

Can You Prevent and Reverse Gray Hair? | NaturallyCurly

Grombre | Instagram

How To Color Gray Hair | WikiHow

So… how will you rock those grays? Tell me in the comments below! Also, feel free to share your favorite hair colorists, stylists, and #graygoals influencers with your fellow curlies!

As ever, stay curly!

By Akshay Joshi · Published September 6, 2017

Let’s say you have tight, frizzy, color-treated, naturally dry type 3c curly hair.

Your curlfriend has medium length, high porosity, type 2c wavy hair.

What happens when both of you decide to swap wash day routines out of curiosity? Nothing short of chaos, that’s what. Ah, but that is the beauty of having a hair care regimen that is unique to a unique head of hair!

A battle between moisture retention and curl definition

On a normal day I typically reach for a moisturizing conditioner as well as a creamy leave-in conditioner as well as a milky, oil-based curl definer. Clearly I love moisture and hydration; these two things are key for keeping my 3c curls from turning into a frizzy, untouchable hot mess by the end of the day. With this regimen, I can also prolong my wash-and-go so that it does not have to be revisited until maybe day 4. And in the meantime, I can use a refresher in between for a little more oomph to texture that falls flat or feels parched.

The amount of milk and oils in my curly wash day regimen might have been a bit too much for Cristina’s poor waves to handle. True story: after filming, she entered every meeting with a microfiber towel draped around her shoulders to catch the moisture overload from my regimen.

I go easy on the stripping my scalp of its natural oils — nah, I need that. I do this by making sure to rub in a co-wash or a non-lather shampoo with the pads of my fingers for a solid two minutes to promote additional blood circulation to my follicles.

When swapping routines, Cristina suggested that I use a shampoo brush to promote even more stimulation. Unfortunately, this started causing my curls to feel dry and matted after rinsing them out. As a result, I had to get rid of a giant knot with a pair of scissors we found. Losing length is not fun, so I will continue to use my fingers, which also allow me feeling existing knots ahead of time and gently undoing them.

Cristina relies on using a diffuser to add more curl definition to her hair. While I might use one once a year, the curl-enhancing tool isn’t one that my head of hair usually requires, as natural volume forms throughout the day by way of the outdoor humidity and sweat. It was fun, however, to learn Cristina’s rule of thumb for diffusing: tilt your head to the side while holding it underneath for a few seconds on each section — or clump — of curls.

Moral of the story: our curls are unique.

Cristina and I had found out the hard way. Although the experiment was all in good fun, I lost a couple of good inches from the back of my head and Cristina had to enter every meeting with a towel draped around her shoulders. To my fellow curlfriends out there: the best piece of advice I could ever give is to understand what works for your specific hair type, including genetics, curl pattern, length, chemical or heat usage and lifestyle. Tip: if you are transitioning and still have not found the set of products that work for you, keep looking. The amazing thing about having naturally curly, wavy or coily hair these days is the vast selection of products, tools and even salons to choose from for the most proper and extensive healthy hair care.

Swapping wash day regimens from your curlfriend?

Consider these tips for a fun and hassle-free, scissor-free experience!

• Ask each other how to use products or tools properly. Since I wasn’t too familiar with how to actually use a diffuser or a shampoo brush, Cristina was sure to help me every step of the way.
• Make sure your curlfriend isn’t allergic to any ingredients in your holy grail. I was sniffling up a storm when I poured a dollop of Cristina’s fragrant shampoo into my palm.
• If she enjoys the product, be a pal and offer it to her. Better yet, create a two-way consolation prize at the end of the wash day challenge by swapping a holy grail for the other to try.

Want to watch the madness that ensued when Cristina and Devri swapped wash days?

Of course you do.

Check out this and other NaturallyCurly videos on our YouTube channel.

By Akshay Joshi · Published August 1, 2017

No pain, no gain? It has to be your mantra!

For years, our curls have suffered through the installation of braids, weaves, and extensions for the sake of enviable style and grace. The tighter the braid, the longer the style lasts. However, this beauty practice can come at a cost: scalp itch and traction-based irritation.

It is time for a new way to care for your scalp when protective styles are installed, worn, and maintained: the new Jojoba Oil and Ucuuba Butter Track Tension & Itch Relief Serum from SheaMoisture offers a cooling, calming scalp reliever that nourishes as it soothes.

Whether your style featured box braids, cornrows, or flowing wavy extensions, this easy-to-apply serum soothes discomfort and keeps those moments of pat-down-my-weave at bay! What makes this serum even more wonderful is its natural and certified organic ingredients.

Use this serum for protective styling every time!

The SheaMoisture Jojoba Oil and Ucuuba Butter Track Tension & Itch Relief Serum is comprised of powerful antioxidant Carrot Seed oil, deeply hydrating Jojoba oil, and fast-absorbing fatty acids-rich Ucuuba butter!

You will love this soothing scalp serum. Learn how to use it now!

Click GIF to see video!

Long-lasting protective styles don’t have to be a pain! Get the SheaMoisture Jojoba Oil & Ucuuba Butter Track Tension & Itch Relief Serum today at Walmart stores and Walmart.com now!

This post and video are both sponsored by SheaMoisture.

As ever, stay curly!

By Akshay Joshi · Published June 12, 2017

If you have been looking for the best moisturizing gel to set your protective style with, you have come to the right place.

Click GIF to learn more!

The new Jojoba Oil and Ucuuba Butter Braid-Up Conditioning Gel with Carrot Seed Oil from SheaMoisture offers a lightweight, yet powerful styler that keeps protective styles moisturized and intact for longer, more comfortable wear. 

From the most intricate cornrow designs to gently woven crochet and box braids, this conditioning gel hydrates hair strands, soothes the scalp, and adds slip to curls for ease of installation. Because you deserve the best, this gel contains natural and certified organic ingredients that will not add cakey build up to your protective style. This gel is also recommended for naturals that want to switch up their look with extensions and weaves. 

What makes this gel different from others used in protective styling?

The gentlest conditioning gel for protective styling on the market is comprised of the following quality ingredients:

• Carrot seed oil – In addition to the fact that this vegetable lends its delightful smell to the conditioning gel, it is also an antiseptic and antioxidant, that detoxes the scalp and your curls upon use. Since this oil contains carotene and Vitamin-A, your scalp will be stimulated by these natural cell regenerators that promote healthy hair growth.

• Jojoba oil – One of the most popular plant-based oils is one of the key ingredients in this conditioning gel. Why? It has to do with Jojoba’s ability to control evaporation so your curls and scalp with retain moisture throughout the life of your protective style. Another added bonus of Jojoba oil: it is a naturally occurring fungicide that controls the growth of mildew, which is perfect for long-wearing protective styles!

• Ucuuba butter – This fatty acid-rich butter derives from Central and South America, and has been used to revitalize hair strands that need moisture. Post-use, you will notice that the conditioning gel gives twist- and knot-outs a health bounce and natural sheen that can be attributed to Ucuuba.

Watch how to use this conditioning gel for protective styling! 

Click the GIF to see this tutorial on our Instagram!

As demonstrated by Houston, TX stylist Okwe, you can achieve stunning long-lasting protective styles with the SheaMoisture Jojoba Oil and Ucuuba Butter Braid-Up Conditioning Gel with Carrot Seed Oil. Get your tub of this amazing conditioning gel today at Walmart stores and Walmart.com now!

This post and video are both sponsored by SheaMoisture.

As ever, stay curly!

By Akshay Joshi · Published June 7, 2017

As its moniker indicates, this hairstyle protects hair from external factors like environmental conditions, such as humidity and heat – both of which are enemies of natural, textured curls. To combat these conditions, textured hair needs nutrients and moisture sealed and locked into every strand. One of the best protective styles to achieve this is Bantu knots.

Simple and easy to create, Bantu knots are a staple in the African-American community and beyond. According to Ebony magazine writer Princess Gabbara, “Bantu knots made a comeback in recent years with celebrities such as Mel B. a.k.a. Scary Spice, Jada Pinkett-Smith, Rihanna, Blac Chyna, and Teyana Taylor stunning the masses. These women and plenty of others slayed Bantu knots, helping to bring them to the forefront. However, the hairstyle can be traced as far back to at least 1898.”

Now, it is your turn to get this stunning look that is steeped with tradition!

Watch this super cute How-to-Bantu video, starring your favorite mommy blogger and SheaMoisture Ambassador Jenell B. Stewart:

YouTube video provided by sponsor: SheaMoisture

Jenell used the Jojoba Oil & Ucuuba Butter Braid-Up Conditioning Gel with Carrot Seed Oil to achieve her gorgeous Bantu Knots. Each of the hero ingredients aforementioned are rich emollients that provide deep moisturization to curls. Because Bantu knots help curls retain moisture and keep fragile ends free from dryness and snagging, this reliable gel will help curls stay healthy and strong.

The Braid-Up Conditioning Gel is great to use for other protective styles such as box braids, cornrows, extensions, and weaves. It is color-safe and also free of sulfates, mineral oil, parabens, petrolatum, phthalates, and propylene glycol. The Track Tension & Itch Relief Serum is a must to cool the scalp and soothe tightness, itching, and discomfort.

For travelers, summertime sunbathers, and curly girls that want to switch up their look, Bantu knots are a beautiful way to protect curls while looking beautiful at every turn. Grab your 12 oz jar of the SheaMoisture Jojoba Oil & Ucuuba Butter Braid-Up Conditioning Gel with Carrot Seed Oil today at Walmart stores and Walmart.com now to get the look of the season!

This post and video are both sponsored by SheaMoisture.

As ever, stay curly!

By Akshay Joshi · Published June 5, 2017

Argan oil has been heralded in Morocco and throughout the world for its moisturizing, restorative properties. Its popularity has grown over the past decade and has created a sustainable source of economic and environmental growth.

In addition to its benefits outside of the cosmetic industry, argan oil is one of the best plant oils for naturally curly and textured hair because it is comprised of Omegas 3 and 9. As noted by CurlyNikki Contributing Writer T. Johnson, “Omega 3 helps to prevent hair loss while Omega 9 repairs damaged hair follicles.”

It is also important to note that Argan oil is a miracle worker for skin problems, so if you experience scalp issues such as dryness or pH-restoration, you will want the plant oil in your hair and scalp care maintenance kit.

Argan seeds and oil | Photo credit: istock.com/luisapuccini

What Argan oil did for me:

You need Argan oil in your curl hair regimen. Period.

That is why I am telling you about the Creme of Nature with Argan Oil from Morocco line that moisturizes, enhances, and improves the health and appearance of curly, coily, and wavy hair. Its Argan oil and Exotic Shine™ formulations quench dry hair and improve hair health, which in turn helps to establish a prime environment for daily curl maintenance and styling.

For us product junkies, I often recommend clarifying cleansers to keep the scalp free of product buildup and debris. In this case, I recommend the Creme of Nature Apple Cider Vinegar Clarifying Rinse for its ability to sooth the scalp with clearing out heavily built upproduct. The most impressive characteristic of this clarifying rinse, besides that lovely Argan oil scent, is the shine it leaves on my 4C coils. Exotic Shine™ is a unique formulation that my coily hair responded verywell to.

To maintain the shine, I followed up with a combination of the Moisture & Shine Curl Activator Cremeand the Flexible Styling Snot, both of which kept my curls defined throughout the day. The Curl Activator Creme has a medium consistency that adds a hefty dose of moisture to mycoils, but is still lightweight enough to rake through my damp hair, which I credit to the Argan oil.

The Flexible Styling Snot gives a super strong hold and will not flake on you. Its thick consistency is great to use your edges and for long-wearing protective styles like finger coils and two-strand twists!

All in all, the Creme of Nature with Argan Oil from Morocco has MVPs in the line that you will want to get your hands on for sure. So, why not try them all today? Simply visit SHOP NaturallyCurly and Creme of Nature – #IAmSuperNatural to have them delivered to your doorstep.

If you are feeling lucky, enter the NaturallyCurly + Creme of Nature giveaway right now!

Enter the contest by telling us what makes YOU supernatural!

Enter the new Creme of Nature #IAmSuperNatural Giveaway Now!

When: June 5, 2017 to June 7, 2017

5 lucky winners will receive:

• Creme of Nature Moisture & Shine Curl Activator Creme

• Creme of Nature Twist & Curl Pudding

• Creme of Nature Curl & Hold Custard

• Creme of Nature Flexible Styling Snot

• Creme of Nature Moisture Recovery Leave-In Curl Milk

• Creme of Nature Moisture-Rich Hair Butter

• Creme of Nature Apple Cider Vinegar Clarifying Rinse

• Creme of Nature Creamy Hydration Co-Wash

• Creme of Nature Strengthening Hair Masque

To enter, comment below with the #IAmSuperNatural hashtag to tell NaturallyCurly + Creme of Nature what makes you a super natural!

This giveaway is open to U.S. residents only, as per our Terms and Conditions. Please make sure you have liked us on Facebook and Instagram, so that when we can notify you if you’ve won.

BONUS:

The ladies of The Real RAVED about the Creme of Nature with Argan Oil from Morocco collection, and with good reason: Argan oil is a dream come true for naturally curly and textured hair!

To purchase curl-savers from the Creme of Nature with Argan Oil From Morocco line, visit SHOP NaturallyCurly today!

#IAmSuperNatural, baby – and so are you :”> As ever, stay curly!

By Akshay Joshi · Published May 19, 2017

You know why pyrite is called Fool’s Gold?

Classism, honestly. If you were a desperate prospector, half blind from sweat and cave dirt, and down to the pickaxe you had to give up your last 14 rations of gruel to buy, you’d jump on a nugget of this comparatively worthless stuff in a heartbeat while the upper-crust laughed their waxed mustaches off.

iStock/ ian35mm

Even though a raw gold nugget looks…fairly dissimilar, you have to admit the struggle can make you see what you want to see.

iStock/bodnarchuck

And when it comes to properly caring for our curls and coils, it’s easy to fall into the same role as that overworked miner. If you’re growing out transitioning afro-textured hair, sometimes the combination of  breakage, shrinkage, slow growth, and cultural baggage will get you frantic to grab at anything that looks like it’ll help you out. That’s a great mindset…for any less-than-scrupulous manufacturers.

Of all the types of ingredients that pop up as THE next thing for your hair, oils take the lion’s share of mentions. There’s always going to be a rotation of old and new carriers, essential oils, and infusions, and it’s a good thing!

As avocado seed oil rotates to the bottom and almond oil comes back up, more newbies that need the lighter oil will get the message, and the old guard that the heavier avocado works for can enjoy a season of finding their favorites on the shelves and stocking up before the hype rebuilds and a new crop of fresh big-choppees gets their feet wet in caring for their natural texture.

And when newcomers like baobab or broccoli seed oil pop up, we all get to check out what might be an undiscovered holy grail!

But it’s that naïveté and excitement that brings the fakers running with their sub-par weasel wares.

iStock/aapropphoto

At least real weasels have the decency to be cute.

For all the fresh TWAs out there, and even some of us who aren’t new to the game, but could always use a refresher, here are a few things to be aware of when you’re buying oils to help figure out what’s actually best for you.

Specialty stuff? Triple check labels!

Sometimes even reading the labels isn’t enough, you also have to do research on what labels to look for! The FDA official logos for organic cosmetics products..don’t actually exist for instance. And country-specific origin of appellations for products that are explicitly only from one region of the world with certain standards to meet will all vary. This is the mark that will distinguish your legitimate imported champagne France from your sparkling white wine (still good though”>. You can make out the Monoi Institute’s official stamp on products in ORS’s Monoi oil line for example, and that mark is going to be how you know what you’re getting into. 

Beware the Blends…sort of.

Oil and water don’t mix, but oils and oils do! However, while DIYers like myself go out looking for essential oils to work with, there’s a wall that we can hit. Rose Absolute, for instance, is something like two dollars per tenth of an ounce. That’s about one pulse point tap if you’re not a liquid measurements whiz. It makes sense—flowers are mostly water after all, so you need literal truckloads to extract oils from of them.

But that steep price is what makes blends a blessing and a curse.

On one hand, some companies choose to bury the fact that you’re not getting 100% essential oil down in the fine print. You get what seems like a bargain, only to get an overly diluted end result once you’re done over the double boiler.

On the other hand, essential oils are only meant to be used with no filters in humidifiers. Anything that goes directly on your hair or skin in large quantities needs to be suspended in a carrier oil, or mixed in with some butters, or you WILL get burned—it’s why you’re meant to spot treat acne with tea tree oil rather than slather it on like a night cream. Take it from someone that added pure lemon and clove to a bath to a VERY un-relaxing effect.

Blends are a great thing, but when they’re not disclosed up front, and the price looks too good to be true, that’s when you know to take your money elsewhere.

Prioritize Packaging

The sun, as much as it may do a decent job of sustaining life on this planet, is no friend to unprotected skin OR unprotected oils.

iStock/adamkaz

It’s a complicated relationship.

While it won’t happen in an instant, heat and UV rays break down the useful components of oils, and lead to decreased efficacy at best, spoilage at worst. Looking for bottles that are dark in color or are labeled as having UV protection despite being clear is going to save you that pain, especially if you’re anything like me and need to see everything you have at all times.

As always, look for packaging with a prominent ingredient list—even on single-ingredient items like almond oil. Not only will you see the exact species of plant used, you’ll also be able to avoid anything you’re allergic to, and know that the brand you’re buying holds themselves accountable for quality and accuracy.

Has there ever been an oil you’ve had to pull back on? What happened, and what did you move on to?

Let us know in the comments, and keep tuned for more purchasing tips!

Curlfriends don’t let curlfriends use anything less than the best.

By Akshay Joshi · Published May 17, 2017

The answer is YES!

Tahitian gardenia, istock.com/SageElyse

The reason why monoi oil is good for your curly hair lies in the power of Gardenia taitensis, most commonly known as the Tahitian Gardenia or Tiaré Flower. The flower’s scented oil extract has been a health and beauty staple in the French Polynesian culture for hundreds of years, used primarily as a skin and softener. These benefits are now brought to you by NaturallyCurly.com sponsor Design Essentials and their new Coconut & Monoi collection! By combining the softening power of monoi and maximum moisturizing propers of coconut oil, this offering is ideal for all textures, no matter porosity, width, or curl pattern.

BONUS: Monoi plays well with coconut oil!

Coconut oil: The go-to for moisture.

Understanding that coconut oil reacts differently for every texture type and porosity level is important. As much as it is lauded within our natural hair and curly community, coconut oil is not a straightforward ingredient for all hair types. It can work wonders on low porosity waves and coils, while drying and caking onto medium porosity ringlets and curls at the same time. That is why the Design Essentials Coconut & Monoi has blended coconut and monoi oils, creating a lightweight and nourishing formula that is suited to all textures.

AUTHENTICITY TIP: When studying the authenticity of product ingredients, make sure the label says “Cocos nucifera” for coconut oil and “Gardenia tahitensis” for Tiaré flower extract, or monoi oil. Rest assured, you will find this on every Design Essentials Coconut & Monoi item because it is the real deal.

I got healthy results from monoi and coconut oil blends. You can, too!

Because the hair shaft is so dynamic, opening and closing according to environmental factors, it is challenging to keep curly hair soft and hydrated for curls that are healthy and primed to withstand the elements. That is why the Design Essentials Coconut & Monoi Collection offers moisturizing, emollient-rich formulations to define and nourish natural curl patterns for people with curly, coily, and wavy hair. What’s better is that all items in the maintenance and styling regimen contains quality ingredients and leaves out gluten, petrolatum, parabens, paraffins, and phthalates.

These attributes are exciting to me, not mention I am an advocate for effective ingredients. I could hardly wait to try the line and tell you about it… and now I can! Take note so that you too can have excellent results from monoi and coconut blends by Design Essentials:

Second-Day Hair

My coily hair concerns center around low porosity, which means that my tight curls do not absorb products quickly (or sometimes at all”>. To address this concern, I sectioned my hair in 6 parts and applied a nickel-size amount of Design Essentials Coconut & Monoi Curl Enhancing Dual Hydration Milk to my coils post-wash day. For better absorption, I spritzed warm water onto my coils to get them damp, not wet, prior to application. To ensure that my hair would get the full hydration treatment, I firmly smooshed (or squeezed”> and massaged the milk into each section, working through from root to tip with my fingers.

Sidenote: I rely on the smoosh/squeeze technique because it allows product to fully penetrate the hair shaft.

After each section was fully hydrated, I spritz on Coconut & Monoi Intense Shine Oil Mist as a finisher. Because I like accessorizing, I pushed my coils back into a halo with an elastic-lined multipattern headband so they could air dry and also look stylish. As per usual, I went about my day – writing, researching ingredients for you (*wink*”>, meetings, et. al.

After several hours, I noticed that my hair was still moist which was surprising to me. Normally, my hair gets very dry due to evaporation and other elemental factors. In this particular instance, my hair was fluffy! It was very difficult to not touch the hair because it was that soft and moisturized.

As my day progressed, I did not need to refresh my curls with water or product. Talk about a win! I can only attribute this to the coconut and monoi blend in the dual hydration milk. As mentioned, the emollients in the milk are very powerful. However, the most impressive aspect was that the blend was able to penetrate my low porosity curls. As mentioned, that is something I look for in a product on a consistent basis. The Coconut & Monoi Curl Enhancing Dual Hydration Milk exceeded my expectations. I will be adding this product to my second-day refreshment and styling routine because of this.

Wash and Go Hair

About the third day into a style, I get a bit bored and default back to the tried and true wash and go. When this happens, I reach for my favorite curl cleansers and leave-ins and get to work! This time around, I grabbed the Design Essentials Coconut & Monoi Curl Defining Gelée and applied a quarter-size amount to sectioned, wet hair and finger-raked it through from tips to roots. It has a thick consistency which I would normally be intimidated by, but I found that my hair was very responsive to it.

Much like my accessorizing for second-day hair, I push my curls back into a halo with a headband and let them air dry. To add an extra layer of ‘cute’ to the style, I applied a finger glide amount of Coconut & Monoi Moisturizing Edge Control Glaze to my hairline with a toothbrush. You can use a regular sized brush or small-tooth comb, but I stick to my tradition of toothbrushing the edges down. The glaze has a pomade-like consistency and slides onto the hairline very smoothly, almost like butter. I really like it!

BONUS: Perfect your Wash and Go – watch our quick and easy tutorial!

I am excited to share my first-hand experience with you because, much like me, you are searching for a collection that works for your texture type. The Design Essentials Coconut & Monoi collection is one I highly recommend you try. Just click over SHOP NaturallyCurly today to get your hands it!

As ever, stay curly!