Search Results: Charlene Walton

Why Your Moisturizer Doesn’t Work

By Charlene Walton · Published May 14, 2015

If there is ever a topic you need to understand as a naturally curly girl, then pH balance is one of them. The potential of hydrogen, also known as pH, is the measurement of how alkaline or acidic a substance is and significantly controls how the cuticle layers of the hair react to products. Measured on a logarithmic scale from 0 to 14, substances with a pH between 0 and 6.9 are acidic, 7 is neutral, while substances between 7.1 and 14 are alkaline. For example, relaxers rank higher on the scale with a pH normally around 13, pure water is neutral at 7, and apple cider vinegar (undiluted”> is on the opposite side of the scale around 3. What does this mean for you? A higher pH substance or product on the scale opens the cuticle and lower pH closes the cuticle.

Why is the hair cuticle so important?

Cuticle layers play a very important role in the health of your strands since it is the first barrier of protection against the inner cortex of the hair shaft. To further explain the importance of pH balance I contacted chemist and CEO of Obia Natural Hair Care Obia Ewah to lend professional and scientific knowledge about the importance of pH in hair care products.

According to Obia, pH is particularly important for people with naturally curly hair because it is a way to close the cuticle without the use of heavy oils and creams, using lighter products instead. Since the pattern of naturally curly hair makes maintaining a closed cuticle more difficult, using products that are properly pH balanced is an alternative way to close the cuticle besides other methods like temperature. Closed cuticles prevent damage and breakage, reduce dryness and frizz, and seal moisture. Since healthy human hair as a pH between 4.5 and 5.5, the goal is for your hair to maintain a pH around that level.

pH balance and products

If you ever wondered why we shampoo first and condition next, the answer also lies within pH balance. Obia states that clarifying shampoos contain a higher pH, normally around an 8, opening the cuticle to infuse water and immensely cleanse in order to remove buildup, which is the purpose of a clarifying shampoo. However, if nothing is done to lower the pH afterwards, then the cuticle remains open, leading dry hair and potential damage. This is where conditioners come into play, as they are formulated with a lower pH to restore the moisture balance by closing the cuticle after shampooing. Furthermore, leave-in conditioners should have the lowest pH, which is why it is used as the finishing product in most regimens. Again, the goal is for the hair to main its natural pH level between 4.5 and 5.5. Aside from a clarifying shampoo, seek a moisturizing shampoo with a pH close to 4.5 or 5.5 as well.

Obia also notes how pH also plays a significant role in continuous co-washing.

Given conditioners are normally on the lower end of the pH scale and are not as alkaline as shampoos, perpetual co-washing can lead to product buildup over time since the pH is not high enough the actually open the cuticle to cleanse the hair.

A healthy hair regimen should include a clarifying shampoo at least once a month.

Obia Ewah of Obia Natural Hair Care

How can I ensure my hair is properly pH balanced?

Using products that explicitly state they are pH balanced is the most effective way to ensure your hair is properly balanced; however, Obia also shares these effective options:

Use pH-testing strips. While this option might seem like a lot of work some women prefer testing their products at home with plastic pH testing strips, saving time and money on purchasing products. You might as well tests your products with pH strips before using them, so you can return them if you want to.
Use an entire hair care collection. Using products from the same hair care line has more benefits than just a bundle deal sale. If formulated correctly, the hair care line should be created from high to low in pH based on the order of how the products are used for optimal hair care. Ever wondered why a certain product flakes when mixed with other brands? Obia also warns of mixing products from different lines because they might not be formulated to work together. An adverse reaction, like flaking, could occur when mixing a leave-in conditioner from one line with a twisting butter from another line.
Contact the company directly. If the pH is not explicitly listed on the product label, contact the company directly through email to ask if the products are pH balanced or to inquire about the pH level of a specific product within a collection.
Pay attention to how your hair feels. More than usual tangles and single stranded knots is a first sign of products that are not pH balanced. If your cuticles remain open, it has greater potential for tangles versus hair with smooth closed cuticles.

Follow Obia here: Facebook and Instagram

Are you a stickler about pH balance? How has this changed your use of products?

This Is How Those "100 Years of Beauty" Videos Get Made

By Charlene Walton · Published May 12, 2015

100 Years of Beauty: USA from Cut.com

For the past two months, a video series entitled 100 Years of Beauty, featuring historic to modern beauty looks among different countries, has had everyone talking, sharing, posting, and tweeting. These riveting videos portray ten different looks over 100 years in a 60 to 90 second time lapse. Featured countries so far have included the United States, Iran, North and South Korea, and most recently Mexico. Naturally, no pun intended, we were intrigued and wanted to know who was responsible. Here is our one on one interview with the Co-Founder and Creative Director of Cut.com, Mike Gaston.

Cut has created several videos from parenting, to relationships and a few political videos. What was the inspiration behind creating the 100 Years of Beauty series?

My producer, Blaine, pitched the idea of doing a time lapse capturing women going through different styles over time. Really it was all about featuring technique (time lapse”> through the lens of fashion, but as we began the process of researching different looks it became clear that there was an opportunity to create something a bit more contemplative. By doing subsequent episodes on people from different cultures, genders, sexes, body types, and sexual orientations we could create a series that invited the audience to do their own reflection on how culture understands beauty. We decided that we wanted to show how cultural standards of beauty change over time and then get people to question the influences that cause the changes.

At the end of each video viewers are asked to comment and request which country he or she would like to see next. How does Cut decide which country to choose out of the thousands of requests?

It’s fairly arbitrary. A lot of it depends on how long the research will take and whether or not we feel confident in our ability to be authentic and respectful to a culture. Though, the comments have had an impact. There are a few countries we weren’t originally considering that are now on our list. Russia is one.

from The Cut.com”> Cut.com 650x365 2

100 Years of Beauty: USA (Marshay”> from Cut.com

The biggest thing viewers want to know is how is the research conducted? What components go into producing 10 different looks to accurately portray beauty in each country over the past 100 years?

There is a ton of research put into every piece. Every video has at least one researcher attached to the project. That researcher works with the producer/director and the hair and makeup artists to determine the looks and the justification behind each look. In the case of our piece on Iran we had two researchers. One of whom was recommended to us by a professor in the Persian studies department at the University of Washington where she is pursuing a major with a focus on the history of fashion. She also happens to be Persian. For a recent piece on the Philippines I tapped my cousin who is a PhD candidate in Anthropology at the University of Washington (UW”>. He is also half Filipino (as am I”>. The research goes out to people to review and critique before we decide on our looks. Every bit of research is sourced. Some of this sourcing comes from the internet but most of it is gathered offline from actual brick and mortar libraries like Suzzallo at the UW.

Comments on YouTube, good and bad, have really sparked conversation around what is considered the standard of beauty for each country. Did Cut expect the overwhelming feedback from viewers and does it affect how Cut creates videos going forward?

We thought this series could be popular, but we were all surprised by the response. We get it now. At its best this series can highlight major cultural shifts in a way that’s respectful and honest, hopefully even insightful. At its worst it can be seen as superficial and even cartoon-ish. Style is subjective and everyone thinks they are experts on their own country, so I’m no longer surprised by the radical differences of opinion our work tends to spark. The feedback hasn’t changed the way we approach the work (we always try to make videos that are true”>, but it has had an impact on how we view some of the pieces after the fact.

I love every comment whether it’s an instant reaction or if it comes from a place of sincere reflection. I’m grateful that people spend any time with our videos and I try to read every comment. That’s become impossible. But I will go through and spend a portion of my day reading and responding.

100 Years of Beauty: Iran from Cut.com

Continuing the topic on the standard of beauty, how significant are these videos to educating the masses to unknown beauty trends in other areas of the world?

I don’t know. To me these pieces are less about identifying different trends and more like every day-anthropology. These videos aren’t really about seeing what’s next as much as they are about acknowledging what has already come to pass.

To me these pieces are less about identifying different trends and more like every day-anthropology.

Can you tell us what’s next for the 100 Years of Beauty series? A particular country? Viewers have also commented on a male version of the series. Is this something Cut would consider as well?

Sure. Our piece on the Philippines is coming out next and stars my cousin April. We’re also planning some very different pieces that aren’t necessarily country focused including a couple of pieces featuring male looks. We’ve been planning the male looks since our very first piece. The biggest obstacle here is in finding models willing to let us cut their hair!

If you haven’t seen the videos, check them out for yourself on YouTube.

Have you been following this series? We love it!

How to Tell a High Quality Oil from a Low Quality Oil

By Charlene Walton · Published May 4, 2015

The quality of ingredients in hair products is more important now than ever before. Buyers are more conscious of what is placed in their hair and the benefits that will enhance the health of their strands over time. Brands proudly boast of their products being free of sulfates, parabens, and mineral oil to appeal to the newly savvy buyer. However, the biggest question I have found as I too become more sophisticated in purchasing products is how does one determine the grade and quality of the ingredient listed on the label, specifically natural and essential oils?

High quality vs. low quality oil

Curls CEO Mahisha Dellinger states there is absolutely a difference in quality when it comes to hair oils and always suggest sourcing organic oils whenever possible. Here are a few warning signs she suggests looking for when shopping for oils for your hair:

Scent – Low quality oils tend to have a rancid smell. Smell before you buy if possible.
Bottle – Check to see if the oil is packaged in a cheap plastic bottle. Chances are the oil itself is cheap oil blend. Certain oils like argan oil cannot be stored in plastic bottles.
Ingredients – How many ingredients are listed on the label for your oil? A high quality oil blend should just have one ingredient, 100% XYZ oil.

More about argan oil

Argan oil sometimes labeled as Argania spinosa kernel oil and often noted as “liquid gold” has amazing qualities for hair and skin. Here are a few additional ways to tell if your argan oil is of high quality:

As mentioned above, argan oil should always be packaged in a dark colored glass bottle. Light breaks down this oil’s properties, so if it is stored in a clear bottle it is not 100%.
Argan oil is also often priced on the higher side; low quality oil will also be partnered with a low price.
Check the texture. The oil should be smooth and silky, not sticky and watery when applied to the skin.
Cosmetic argan oil is a golden, yellow color. If your argan oil is too light it might be diluted with other oils.

Refined vs. virgin coconut oil

Coconut oil, often listed by its scientific name Cocos nucifera, is frequently found as an ingredient in hair care products due to the impressive moisturizing and conditioning properties. An interesting thing to note is there are two grades of each. Here’s how to tell which grade you have:

Refined coconut oil has a neutral scent and flavor. It is made from dried coconuts and can be heated up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
Virgin oil on the other hand has a true coconut scent and flavor since it is made from fresh coconuts. Virgin coconut oil can be heated up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Both grades provide the same level of benefits for the hair and skin so the decision is more of a personal preference for most women.

Do you care about the grade and quality of your ingredients? Is this important to you?

Do You Over-Moisturize Your Hair? Understanding Hygral Fatigue

By Charlene Walton · Published April 22, 2015

Upon reading the title of this article one could immediately see this question as a no-brainer. After all, everyone talks about the importance of moisture and deep conditioning so how is this even possible, right? Well, you can have too much of a good thing, and before you decide to keep scrolling on to the next article, there are a few points you should know about hygral fatigue.

What Is Hygral Fatigue?

Hygral fatigue is the result of constant, excessive swelling of the hair cuticle as water is absorbed and the contracting of the hair cuticle as it dries. Often associated with porosity issues, this continual swelling and contracting can lead to weaker strands over time, causing the hair to stretch beyond normal and eventually lead to breakage. In essence, the hair shaft is working overtime when too much water penetrates and leaves the hair quickly. Although everyone’s hair and texture are unique, here are a few things you may be practicing right now without knowing the potential harm:

Perpetual overnight conditioning
Deep conditioning longer than the recommended use
Rewetting a wash & go style daily without allowing the hair to completely dry
Solely using moisturizing conditioners that are void of protein

So what’s a girl to do to prevent hygral fatigue without fearing a simple wash day?

The Balancing Act

The key to avoiding hygral fatigue is having the proper balance between moisture and protein. According to The Science of Black Hair: A Comprehensive Guide to Textured Hair, if the protein structure is intact then the hair fiber will resist excessive expansion when wet, so ensuring a proper protein structure through timely conditioning is essential. Therefore, you should create a hair regimen that alternates between moisturizing and protein-based conditioners throughout the month. Check for ingredients in your deep conditioners such as hydrolyzed wheat protein, hydrolyzed keratin, and hydrolyzed silk protein, which will help restore the needed balance and repair weakness all in one step. Solely using a moisturizing conditioner that is void of protein does not provide strengthening properties and may eventually lead to breakage.

Preventing Hygral Fatigue

If you believe your hair suffers from hygral fatigue, there are a few steps you can do to prevent this issue.

Limit the amount of time your hair is drenched in water, such as overnight conditioning. After rinsing out your conditioner, opt for sealing the moisture with a great leave-in conditioner.
Pre-poo with an oil like coconut oil, olive oil, or avocado oil, which are small enough to penetrate the hair shaft, attach to the protein structure, and reduce the amount of swelling to the hair cuticle.
Utilize pH-balanced products to help close the hair cuticle combating overly porous hair.

Read more: Does Natural Hair Need Proteins?

How to Tell If Your Hair Is Over-Moisturized

Low elasticity is one of the main indicators of over-moisturized hair. If your hair has a hard time stretching when wet and does not return to its natural state after pulling, your hair more than likely has low elasticity. Research shows elasticity cannot exist when there is an imbalance of moisture and protein. Keratin helps to strengthen the hair strands, which ultimately reduces breakage when stretched while moisture aids in helping the hair stretch and return to its natural state.

Overly moisturized hair is also associated with a limp, gummy-feeling of the hair when wet. This is where most women turn to intense protein treatments, such as the Aphogee Two Step Protein Treatment or lighter treatments such as Joico Moisture Recovery Treatment Balm. However, before jumping headfirst into either one of these options, it is best to consult a professional stylist if you are unsure of your needs. Too much protein can send your hair into the opposite spectrum of hygral fatigue resulting in protein overload, also known as protein sensitivity, which can also result in breakage. Remember it is all about balance.

Has your hair experienced hygral fatigue? How did you deal with this issue?

12 YouTubers Who Look Amazing in Their TWAs

By Charlene Walton · Published April 14, 2015

Did you recently big chop and need a little inspiration as you embark on your natural hair journey? If so, this is definitely a list you want to save and bookmark for later. While there are several popular vloggers with long, flowing curls, we realize that naturally curly women come in all different lenghts and textures. As a result, we are shining light on some fabulous TWA (teeny weeny afro”> vloggers you should get to know and follow.

Paville Aldrige

If you have seen a TWA tutorial chances are you have come across Paville. Her super chic style and hair will make anyone want to big chop. Need a quick fix for your failed twist out? She has it covered!

Instagram: Pavilleis

Carmen

Carmen from My Natural Sistas has provided great TWA videos for years and recently posted a detailed tutorial on trimming your natural hair at home.

Instagram: lynnettessilhouettes & mynaturalsistas

Ciara

As one of the faces of The Mane Choice hair products, Ciara has several videos ranging from finger coils to how to install clip in extensions. Love the versatility.

Instagram: Ayeciara

Kendra (Miss KenK”>

Although Kendra recently received a tapered cut she has one of the best Bantu knot tutorials for short hair I have seen to date, plus a lot of extra fun videos for protective styles and make-up.

Instagram: MissKendrak

Annisa LiMara

With a recent cut and color that would even make Amber Rose look twice, this beauty vlogger is on her third big chop. Her videos also address great tips for color treated hair.

Instagram: ilovealimara

Kerry (SimplYounique“>

As a five year vlogger, Kerry is on her second big chop so she is definitely someone to follow. Her complete natural hair journey from big chop to mid-back length and back to TWA over the past five years is all available on her YouTube Channel.

Instagram: 1simplyounique

Erica (Glammzmore”>

This freelance MUA and hairstylist big chopped two months ago and already have amazing tutorials on her channel. Her finger coils area also marvelous.

Instagram: Glammzmore

Traeh

Updos, wash and go’s, faux locs, and high buns are just a few tutorials Traeh has on her channel so she has a little something for everyone with a TWA. She also has the cutest tutorial with her daughter inspired by the new DreamWorks movie HOME.

Instagram: Iamtraeh

Sadora Paris

If you thought there were only a few styles to do on your TWA, Sadora is definitely someone to follow. She has transformed her hair from a traditional TWA style to tapered cut with shaved sides and an incredible undercut.

Instagram: SadoraParis

J Mayo

After a bad experience with a relaxer, J Mayo started her natural hair journey over again and is now on her third TWA. We love her blonde curls and minimalist approach to her styling.

Instagram: _j.mayo

Anna Kai Mitchell

From natural hair to relaxed, tex-laxed and back to natural hair again, Anna’s journey is documented via YouTube over past three years. Since she ultimately preferred natural hair, she is on her second big chop and dishing out great TWA styling advice.

Instagram: annakaimitchell

Miss V Charles

Ever wondered how that fabulous style is holding up after day one for your favorite vlogger? Vee provides extremely detailed videos on her TWA routine and follows up to show you her second, third, and fourth-day hair. We also love her extremely honesty reviews of each product.

Instagram: MsVCharles

Who are your favorite vloggers with TWA’s?

Finally, 6 Brands with Unscented Products

By Charlene Walton · Published April 7, 2015

If you are not a fan of products with fragrances, then reading the back label is probably the first thing you do upon finding a new product. Just about every hair product contains some type of fragrance whether naturally derived or artificial. A naturally-derived fragrance is a blend of essential oils, isolates from those oils, and isolates created from bio-fermentation. In short, the mix of oils and how they react to one another creates a fragrant smell.

Another interesting thing to note is unscented products may still technically contain a fragrance, which works as a masking agent to the other ingredients for a no-scent result. According to the Food and Drug Administration, cosmetics marketed for retail purposes must list each ingredient individually under the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act. However, companies are also allowed to only list “fragrance” as a way to not force brands into selling trade secrets.

So the big question is how do you know which products are truly fragrance-free? Honestly, it is really hard to tell. The FDA does not regulate the term “fragrance-free” or “unscented” so reading the label is your best bet for now. Thankfully, we have done part of the work for you. This list contains brands with unscented or fragrance-free product options, which is perfect for babies and those with sensitive skin or those susceptible to fragrance-induced headaches.

Oyin Handmade

Some people hate the natural smell of shea butter, and with the Oyin Handmade Whipped Shea butter you can order the unscented option. If you are looking for a natural oil to use from head-to-toe without the overwhelming scent of essentials, then try their After Bath body oil.

SheaMoisture Fragrance-Free, Gluten-Free Baby

This collection includes a Fragrance-Free Wash and Shampoo along with a Fragrance-Free Healing Lotion. This is perfect for babies and children with sensitive skin or skin conditions.

Jessicurl

Jessicurls offers their complete line of shampoo, conditioners, stylers, and oils with a no-fragrance option. With three separate collections for fine, thick, and coarse hair, this line has a little something for every curl type.

Karen’s Body Beautiful

Known for a variety of amazing scents such as pomegranate guava, lavender vanilla, and chamomile sage, Karen’s Body Beautiful offers unscented options for their cleansers, conditioners, and leave-in conditioners as well. Karen’s Body Beautiful can be used on natural, transitioning, or relaxed hair.

Koils by Nature

Koils by Nature offers the Fragrance Free Hydrating Shealoe Creamy Conditioner, Fragrance Free Moisturizing Shealoe Leave-In Conditioner, Nourishing Hair and Body Butter, Herbal Soothing Curl Defining Gel in unscented options. These products are great for anyone with sensitive skin, as the cleanser contains the healing property of calendula.

Miss Jessie’s Curly Pudding

Miss Jessie’s Curly Pudding is a staple for many naturals due to its amazing ability to define tight curl patterns. If you do not care for the scent of the original formula, then you should try this one.

If fragrance-free options are a real concern for you, then research will be your best line of defense. Also, if you are still unsure when reading the back of a label, steer towards products where the ingredients are comprehensible.

What are you favorite fragrance-free products?

How to Transition with Wigs… the Right Way

By Charlene Walton · Published March 12, 2015

If you have not noticed, naturally curly, coily, and kinky wigs are in! They provide a way for women to switch up their look and have a little fun during the process. Since more women are embracing their natural textures, wig and weave companies are finally getting it right. Long gone are the days of limited texture options. Thanks to YouTube more women are learning how to make their own naturally curly wigs, which are great for transitioning.

Transitioning can be tough, time-consuming, and sometimes emotionally frustrating. If you have found yourself at a crossroad with your natural hair journey, consider transitioning with a wig as a protective style to give yourself a break. But first, you must know how to do it the right way.

Choose Installation Type

Selecting the type of wig to install is just as important as choosing the type of hair you will buy. Let’s discuss full, half, and u-part wigs.

Full Wigs & Half-Wigs

Full and half wigs, usually accompanied with either a drawstring or wig clips, are quick and easy to install. Both pieces are great options if you have never worn a wig before. Don’t want to spend a ton of money? There are several great options at many local beauty supply stores for as little as $25. Full and half wigs are also perfect if you wish to have little or no natural hair left out while protective styling.

U-Part

U-part wigs allow for more natural hair to be exposed, which makes for better blending. They are highly customizable with the ability to hand select your texture and color. If you choose to make a U-part wig, the installation can be time-consuming even with the best YouTube tutorials. Luckily, some of the top naturally kinky and curly weave brands such as Heat Free Hair and Indique both offer pre-made U-part options. U-part wigs can be secured by wig clips or by sewing the perimeter of the wig to a braid, similar to a full sew-in style. Some women prefer the sewing option to ensure that the wig stays in place over a long period of time.

Synthetic vs. Virgin Human Hair

While both synthetic and virgin human hair are great choices for transitioning with a wig, your desired time frame will be the deciding factor. Synthetic hair wigs are extremely low maintenance with an option to literally pop the wig on and go. They are less likely to last as long as wigs made from virgin human hair

If time is on your side, virgin human hair is the best choice. Virgin hair will need to be maintained and cared for in order to preserve the weave’s texture, softness, and manageability. Co-washing and deep conditioning virgin human hair allows the wig to stay in pristine shape and blend with your natural hair. If you are a novice to wearing a wig as a protective style while transitioning, my advice is to choose the less expensive synthetic option to get a feel for wearing a wig full time.

Continue Daily & Weekly Maintenance

Now that you have decided on the installation and texture, do not forget about your real hair, which is one of the biggest mistakes women make when wearing protective styles.

Protect Your Edges & Leave Out: The perimeter of your hair is the most fragile area, so you will still need to treat it with care. Keep your edges and leave out moisturized to prevent dryness and breakage. Twist or braid the leave out with a product like As I Am Twist Defining Cream or your favorite leave-in conditioner. Choose a wig with a curl pattern that closely resembles your own or will resemble the texture of your twist out to help with blending. If you choose to wear a straight style, only place heat to your natural hair while the hair clean. Ultimately, you want to make sure your real hair remains healthy to not reverse the purpose of this protective style.

Take Care of Your Scalp: Continue to shampoo and deep condition your hair as normal if you choose to remove the wig once a week. If you choose to install a u-part wig using the sewing method and will not remove the wig as frequent, a clarifying shampoo is necessary to remove product buildup. Also use anti-fungal oils such as tea tree oil or coconut oil when braiding the hair that will be under the wig. If your scalp begins to itch uncontrollably, that is a sign that it is dry and in need of moisture. The Alikay Naturals Lemongrass Leave In Conditioner is a great option to moisturize your scalp while the hair is still braided.

How has your wig experience been? Are you ready to try a wig?

Rooibos Tea Rinse to Soothe Scalp and Dandruff

By Charlene Walton · Published February 10, 2015

Have you been contemplating a tea rinse for your hair lately? Black and green tea rinses are super popular for reducing shedding and promoting growth; however, if you are thinking about trying a different tea rinse, then consider adding red tea to your list. Rooibos, also known as red bush tea, actually is not a tea at all but an herb from the rooibos plant cultivated in Cedarberg, South Africa. With a long list of amazing health and beauty benefits, this herb definitely deserves to be placed on the “must try” list.

Health Benefits

Rooibos tea is linked to similar benefits of green tea, except it is caffeine-free, making rooibos a great alternative for children and breastfeeding mothers. Due to this reason red tea is also a great calming drink before bed if you suffer from insomnia. Red tea is rich in antioxidants, which are great anti-aging substances and has also been claimed to help fight against several diseases. Elsevier concluded that after six weeks of traditional use of rooibos tea, lipid profiles as well as redox statuses of 40 adults significantly improved. In simple terms, both of these factors are relevant to heart disease in at risk adults. Other traditional uses of red tea in South Africa include treating infantile colic, allergies, asthma, and dermatological problems.

Benefits of Red Tea for Hair

Red tea is enriched with zinc, copper, potassium, and calcium, which all promote hair growth and strengthening. The high dose of copper assists to prevent premature graying of hair, while anti-inflammatory agents of the tea can also help to soothe the scalp and fight dandruff. Since red tea is caffeine-free, it does not serve the same purpose for your hair as the popular black and green tea rinses. Caffeine is sited as blocking dihydrotestosterone (DHT”>, the hormone responsible for a few forms of hair loss. However, one of the main antioxidants, polyphenol, is said to help promote shiny, soft hair and protect from sun damage.

DIY Red Tea Rinse

You can complete a red tea rinse similar to other tea rinses. If you are a lighter blonde color, red tea can also be used as a natural hair dye. Here’s how to prepare your rinse:

Steep tea for minimum of 30 min. in boiling water, then allow to cool.
Shampoo and condition hair to your liking.
Pour tea over freshly washed and conditioned hair or use a spray bottle if preferred.
Allow tea to sit for 20-30 min. before rinsing.
Follow with deep conditioner and style as desired.

Although it may seem like every other day a new thing emerges in the world of hair care, tea rinses have actually been used for many years as a natural option to treat several hair problems. If you are still on the fence about tea rinses, take some time to do additional research. Nothing is worse than hopping on a bandwagon without being knowledgeable.

What other tea rinses have you tried and what were the results?

5 Transitioning Tips for When You Want to Give Up

By Charlene Walton · Published February 2, 2015

“Natural hair is too much work, I can’t do this! I’m going back to a relaxer. This is hard I don’t know what to do!” These are a few statements I have heard over the past few weeks from women during conversations about transitioning. Trust me, we have all been there! But before you decide to crack open that new box of relaxer, I have devised a few tips to reenergize your perspective about your natural hair journey. It is ok to be frustrated but do not let it take over and take the fun out the experience.

Follow Someone with Your Texture and Current Length

There are tons of gorgeous women in the natural hair community and it is quite easy to experience hair envy. Although it may be fun to follow a popular vlogger with luscious curls flowing down her back, do yourself a favor and also follow someone whose texture and length closely resembles yours for more realistic, daily tips on hair care, maintenance, and styling. Following techniques of someone who does not share your day-to-day struggles can leave you even more frustrated. Every curly girl cannot pineapple her hair at night and everyone cannot make a twist-out last for seven days. If you really like a particular vlogger, dig around in their archives to see how they transitioned from the beginning. However, there is enough inspiration out there for all hair types! Find it and back in the game.

Re-evaluate Your Regimen and Goals

Ask yourself this question: “Why did I decide to go natural?” Some women want healthier hair while others probably want the ease of versatility. There is also a possibility you are going natural due to health reasons and just decided to live a more holistic lifestyle. Whatever the reason, remind yourself of why you went natural and begin to move forward from there. Focus on the end goal. If healthier hair was your goal, then prioritize moisture retention and low manipulation styles to get through the frustration. Opting for a healthier lifestyle? Continue to drink water, eat protein rich foods and super foods packed with Omega-3 fatty acids, and your hair will transform.

Protect Until It Goes Out of Style!

Sometimes you and your hair just need a break. For most women, the connection to our hair is an emotional one and by now you are probably tired of agonizing over the next style to try. Before you give up your natural hair journey altogether, install a low maintenance protective style to get you through the next few months and kick-start some hair growth. This will enable you to leave your hair alone and plan your next move without all the pressure of styling every day. Choose a protective style that will still allow optimal healthy hair while installed such as braids, textured updos, or sew-in weaves. The main focus is tucking away your ends to ensure you are retaining length.

Consult a Professional Stylist

Overwhelmed by all the YouTube vloggers and bloggers? Never underestimate the power of a professional stylist! Cut out the chaos and conflicting tips. Consult with a stylist who is knowledgeable about natural hair care so you can devise a healthy hair plan for your transition. This plan will likely consist of regular trims, low heat styling, and other professional treatments to ensure your hair is at its healthiest state. Often, we believe we know what is best for our hair because we deal with it every day, however, allowing a professional stylist to feel your hair can also work in your favor. The stylist can help you make healthy hair decisions based on your curl pattern, density, porosity, and even alert you to breakage you cannot see in certain areas.

Maintain a Healthy Diet!

Healthy hair starts from within and although I previously addressed this, it is definitely important enough to expand upon. Foods such as salmon, tuna, and mackerel, darkly leafy green veggies, flax seeds, chia seeds, and walnuts are all packed with Omega-3 fatty acids. Love green smoothies? Drop a teaspoon of chia seeds in your recipe in the morning. Need an afternoon snack? Have a handful of walnuts. Take the complication out of eating healthy and just take it one step at a time.

Are you about ready to give up your natural hair journey? Tell us why!