Search Results: Devri Velazquez

By Devri Velazquez · Updated February 26, 2015

1. Your styler is rich in emollients.

Certified Cosmetologist Ms. Ameena of Torrid Tresses says that if your styling gel contains a high content of emollients (coconut oil, aloe vera, olive oil, argan oil, etc.”> then skipping a leave-in on wash day is safe. These ingredients already provide what your leave-in is meant to do–protect, provide shine, and moisturize your natural hair. Eden BodyWorks Coconut Shea All Natural Leave-In for example lists aloe vera, coconut oil, and jojoba oil in the first 4 ingredients.

2. You’re drying out your hair.

Does your conditioner contain silicones or other synthetic ingredients? When using something as drying and potentially damaging as a silicone-based product, it is a good idea to restore the moisture balance in your hair after washing it. Certain alcohols may also be a culprit in adding dryness to your curls. As I Am Moisture Milk Daily Hair Revitalizer, however, contains Cetearyl alcohol, a good fatty that provides slip and help conditioner spread evenly across the hair.

3. You don’t need a leave-in, you need a trim.

Do you have more split ends that you can count? Now, it would be against natural hair scout’s honor to not advise you to get a trim, but it is understandable why you’d want to retain as much length as possible. Still, schedule that trim–in the meantime, use a leave-in to temporarily slow down the rate at which your ends are splitting in order to prevent further damage. Aussie Hair Insurance Split End Hair Protector and Nexxus Pro-Mend Leave In Treatment Creme both double as effective leave-ins, too, containing PEC technology, known for binding split ends.

4.  You’re putting your hair and scalp health at risk.

Look at the ingredients on the back of the leave-in conditioner you have been using for years. Are the majority of them found in nature? If the answer is yes, there is no reason to break up with your leave-in. However, leaving a product that is heavy in chemicals (like parabens, for example”> on top of your hair all day long can be harmful not only to your hair’s health, but your body’s as well. Be aware of what your scalp and skin are absorbing into your bloodstream. Oyin Handmade Frank Juice Herbal Leave-In contains a healthy concoction of vegetable moisturizers and herbs that will nourish while adding styling ease.

So, should I use a leave-in or not?

Remember, an effective leave-in conditioner should be these mostly natural–contain nourishing, gentle, moisturizing ingredients found in nature–free of synthetic ingredients like drying alcohols and silicones, and emollient rich. If your leave-in is all of those things, then it sounds like a keeper. Otherwise, it might be time to have it’s-not-you-it’s-me talk with your leave-in.

By Devri Velazquez · Updated February 18, 2015

I have fine, medium to high density 3C hair with a particular trouble spot that I have dealt with for quite some time now. I have been wearing eyeglasses for nearly 20 years now, and I’ve had a hunch that my glasses were causing a bald spot behind my ears. So I decided to research my condition in the event that others, like me, are experiencing this and share my hunch.

Women are susceptible to pattern baldness, too. 

Often times people assume that pattern baldness only occurs in men and is a reaction to repetitive behaviors like wearing baseball caps everyday. However, women are susceptible to pattern baldness, too. Thinning hair in women can be caused by a number of factors, like hormonal changes (menopause”>, medications, and heredity.

What can you do about it?

If you frequently wear tight ponytails or headbands you can mitigate your hair thinning issues by choosing a different hairstyle. But if, like me, you have to wear prescription glasses out of necessity, the solution is not so simple. Here are the remedies that I have found success in for my own problem area, you can adapt this to suit your needs if you are experiencing thinning on other parts of your head and scalp.

Look for products containing these scalp exfoliating oils:

• Castor oil
• Tea tree oil
• Sweet almond oil

My product suggestions

1. Pre-poo: Jane Carter Solution Scalp Renew Scalp Repair
2. Styler: SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Edge Treatment
3. Sealer: Simply Organic Sweet Almond Oil & Sunny Isle Jamaican Black Castor Oil

 How do you repair thinning edges?

By Devri Velazquez · Updated February 9, 2015

New year, new ‘do. Or, perhaps, new hue. Whether you’re a wannabe redhead or an ice queen at heart, this year’s trends will satisfy your inner daredevil. Ahead, six inspiring photos of curly girls with gorgeous color-treated hair. These are the shades that have been taking over Instagram feeds, inspiring the curly-haired everywhere to go for it.

PHOTO COURTESY OF GOLDENNLOCKS

Ecaille

Stylists who do this hair color on their clients choose a select few pieces of face-framing hair strands, coloring them one tone while leaving the rest of the hair as-is. This is a perfect fit for wavy and curly hair, as it gives the color even more movement. The pros pair colors like golden brown, burgundy, and sandy brown for a more natural, sun-kissed appearance. Ecaille looks gorgeous on round faces and beige-tan complexions.

PHOTO COURTESY OF WTFANINHA

Pale Red

If you have a natural reddish-brown hue, you won’t have to do much to embrace the pale-red trend we’ve been seeing. The shade is deeper than the strawberry-blonde and rose-gold trends of 2014, yet subtler than burgundy or crimson, causing blue or green eyes and freckles to stand out in a flattering way. This is a safe way to experiment with color on your curls if you’re new to dyeing your hair, since it doesn’t require the harsh bleaching of other looks on this list.

PHOTO COURTESY OF B.CURLS MICHELLE

Icy White

This growing trend is an edgier, fresher take on the double-processed blonde of 2014. Many curlies and naturalistas would cringe at the thought of bleaching their already-fragile coils, but, thankfully, with the invention of Olaplex, more stylists are able to achieve this color on their clients with minimal damage from bleach and other chemicals. You can keep your icy white from getting brassy if you use it with purple shampoo — this combination helps maintain the hue’s freshness.

PHOTO COURTESY OF EVELYN FROM THE INTERNETS

Indigo

Blue hair isn’t a drastic, in-your-face look left to the Kylie Jenners of the world anymore. The growing blue-black trend is both subtle and daring. If your workplace is accepting of creative colors, but you don’t want to go full-blown superhero, then this is your ideal shade. And, the night sky is dark blue — so this is arguably a color found in nature, no?

PHOTO COURTESY OF MISSEVERYDAYELEGANCE

Deep Brown

Unicorn colors aren’t for everyone (or every workplace”>, and neither are biweekly root touch-ups. Low-maintenance naturals who prefer to let their curls speak for themselves will find going deep brown ideal. Perfect for women with pale skin, this shade won’t wash out your features. It’ll also give your hair a healthy sheen and complement the warm tones in your skin.

PHOTO COURTESY OF KIERRA.MONIQUE

Gray

Friends and family may not get it, and it’s not the most flattering color for the majority of skin tones — but that’s not stopping us from attempting the gray trend in 2015. It used to be really difficult to achieve the hue, but Pravanajust made it a little easier with its first gray dye, ChromaSilk Vivids in Silver. If you’re ahead of the curve and already went icy white, then take your color to the next level with gray this year.

Are you going to try any of these color trends this year?

By Devri Velazquez · Updated February 2, 2015

PICTURED: JANAE

Hello my name is Janae from Nae2curly. I am a Detroit native who loves her city! I recently received a Bachelor of Business Administration from Western Michigan University. I love natural hair, social media and making people smile.

The transition period

I have been wearing my hair in curly styles since the summer of 2012. My friend Lanicia actually inspired me because she decided to transition. She rocked some curly styles which made me want to do the same.

Even though I only got perm on my edges I still wanted to “transition” and rock curly styles. I also needed to cut off my damaged ends that I caused due to stress.

I have too many products that I love.

I rather mention my top favorite brands who are Carol’s Daughter, Mielle Organics, Bee Mine, Eden Body Works and Motions. My favorite curly hair style is the Twist and Curl, High Puff and Perm Rod Set. I also like to stretch my hair before styling. At night I would wash my hair and put flat twists all over my head. The next evening I would then style my hair in any style that I am in the mood for. I found that stretching my hair reduces drying time, lengthens my hair and creates more volume.

First AND last impressions matter.

The most important thing I have learned from wearing my hair natural is that I am able to express a new side of me that I didn’t know was there. I also grew to love the look of big hair on me as well. I have learned that my hair styles actually have an impact on others and to also make sure my personality matches it. I always try to make a great first and last impression on anyone I meet.

Never get discouraged if you don’t master a style the first or second time. Love YOUR hair. Be your own hair inspiration. 

Follow me

By Devri Velazquez · Updated January 15, 2015

“Struggle.”

Why do we refer to our natural hair journeys as a “struggle”?

Sure, in comparison to others, our hair might look completely different than the girl’s curls on the commercial or TV show we watch every Monday, but have you ever thought to yourself–what if she saw your picture and thought, ‘I wish my hair looked like that… I love that cut… My hair isn’t as long as hers… My curls are limper than hers and can’t hold styles like hers do in these pics…” My point is, the grass simply is not greener on the other side. And it never will be. Who made said girl in commercial the ultimate goal for all things hair? 

Lest you forget a major reason for chosing to return to your natural roots in the first place. 

Stop comparing.

Someone will always have longer, curlier, straighter, thicker, shinier, coilier, more defined, frizzless, fuller hair than you. And yours will always be more than the next person’s.

Your journey will also be completely different than theirs, too. You will inevitably–and indefinitely–encounter various product, haircut, ingredient, regimen, technique, hairstyle, and hair color issues throughout that simply do not work for YOU. Every ‘mistake’, ‘slip-up’, or failed routine/technique is all an integral part of understanding the magic it takes to make you…truly, you. 

Start embracing.

The beauty of living with natural hair is the very thing we tend to forget on a day to day basis. We are freed from the cage that is society’s antiquated standards of beauty. Let us remember that and continue to move forward in our experience of self love and acceptance, rather than taking steps backward and setting boundaries and limit within our own lives when it comes to our personal beauty and hair.

Meditate on your personal decision to return to your natural roots in the first place. No one held you against your will and begged you to stop relaxing your hair. You made the decision all on your own, so live with it.

Why did you start the journey in the first place? Ask yourself that. Focus on that.

By Devri Velazquez · Updated January 10, 2015

As the brutal cold weather reared its head, I said to myself, Devri–it’s time to let your natural hair hibernate for a while.

No, I didn’t big chop. I just opted for another protective style… Havana Twists!

What are Havana Marley Twists?

Similar to Marley (Kinky Twists”>, Havana Twists are created with the same type of hair but secured into the scalp using the Invisible Root Method. One cannot tell where the added hair begins and my real hair ends. And I love it. In true protective styling form, my natural curly texture is completely sealed and tucked away, thus preventing breakage (split ends”>, and over-manipulation that I tend to do to my hair. It’s getting a real treat with these twists, let me tell ya.

Installation

I used about 7 packs of Zury marley kanekalon braiding hair in 1B (jet black”>–at 5 bucks a pop plus $80 installation, you definitely will get your money’s worth with this super versatile protective style. My beautician separated each small section of my hair into 2 equal pieces, placed the braiding hair in the middle through my natural hair’s two-strand twist. She separated the strands to help them blend in with the added hair, and then two-strand twisted the rest downward in a clockwise motion. With the ‘bend’ of the added hair, she started twisting down in the opposite direction for about 2 or 3 inches. She repeated on the other side of the twist in the opposite direction as well–this lets the twist look as natural as possible.

If you’d prefer your ends to look more natural and not just bluntly end, dip them into boiling water, or sleep with flexi rods overnight for a natural curl. Since I wanted my ends to be straight, I simply used the flame from a lighter to seal them together so that they do not unravel.

Maintenance

As mentioned above, I used a lighter to seal my ends. However, after many days of sleeping on the twists, they are sure to unravel or loosen up over time. Use a spray bottle with water to mist the unraveled ends and take a dollop of a gel or edge tamer to retwist the hair down. Twirl the very end around your finger to ensure that it does not come apart again for a while.

It’s important to let your natural hair breathe, every once in a while–especially if your ultimate hair goals include the healthiest, longest hair possible. This style takes little manipulation in keeping up with your hair, and allows it to grow in peace for up to 3 months if maintained properly.

Have you rocked a protective style this winter? I’d love to hear your experience. Let us know in the comments below.

By Devri Velazquez · Updated December 17, 2014

I am an aspiring television personality coming from Albuquerque, New Mexico but now out here in Atlanta, Georgia.

Currently I’m a patient representative at a hospital. My name is Sherelle Fox but I prefer to go by Shereal Fox. I would like to classify my hair type in the 4c category because it is very coarse and I don’t have an actual curly pattern, but it is still amazingly flawless. I think the thing I love the most about being natural is the fact that I feel free, yes it was a big decision to make but I don’t regret it one bit! 

As a child, I was stripped of my choice of relaxing my hair, being so young it was commonly done so it is like being reintroduced to my real texture and it has been a pleasure!

I know that everyone has a different opinion of what “being natural” is but I feel as if perception is everything and defining that for yourself will help. I have been natural for about a year now, after a fews months of trying to save my permed ends, they had to go; I ended up doing an official “big chop” sometime at the end of last year.

I do length checks every time I take my hair out of a protective style, which varies between weeks and months (depending on how long I wear that style”>. I did my first official length check and trim on Halloween where I got it done in a salon, it was washed, blow dried and silk pressed; I was very happy with my results!

My go-to style

I love to rock the twist outs from flat twists with bantu knot ends (flantus”> and also flex-rod sets. I love to use the Love Lotta Body with Coconut and Shea Oils Wrap Me Foaming Mousse, it is “Ahh-Mazing” the first time I used it, I fell in love; easy to say, it was love at first use. After using it, it didn’t make my hair hard or feel funny; it was really soft and smelled oh so good! I think that we all should use a protective style every once in awhile to give our manes a rest; I just love the idea of the styles.

As far as protective styles go, I have done, marley twists, kanekelon twists, twists with my natural hair, crochet braids with Jamaican braid twist hair, lace-front wig over corn rows, and french braids.

I feel that the best way to preserve your hair at night is to make sure you wrap it in some form of silk wrap or bandana, if you’re a crazy sleeper like me you definitely something that will stay on your head throughout your “sleeping journey”.

If you all would like to follow Sherelle Fox on social media, you can find her on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @SherealFox.

By Devri Velazquez · Published October 22, 2014

PHOTO COURTESY OF SARA CABRAL

I’m Naya Jones, a holistic practitioner, community organizer and graduate student based in Austin, Texas.

Sometimes people ask me how such different areas of my life connect. As a holistic business owner, I am committed to carrying on the legacy of Black women soulpreneurs  who grow not just clientele–but healing community. As co-founder of a food justice organization (Food for Black Thought”>, my partner Kevin and I facilitate workshops with youth and adult groups to foster a more just food system. As a PhD student I explore Black Diaspora healing ways and food traditions. My passion for listening to people’s stories, and my passion for social justice, connect these “branches” of my life. I love to read, hike, journal, meditate, have potlucks with friends, and travel. When I really veg out, I can indulge in British TV mysteries or sci-fi.

Rootwork

Rootwork helps folks “get rooted”, in touch with inner peace, connected with each other, and in tune with ancestors. We offer retreats, one-on-one sessions, group workshops, and outdoor excursions infused with Black Diaspora music, history, and healing ways. Our broader mission: to promote socially just holistic wellness. In that spirit, we specialize in programs for Black women and communities of color who face serious health disparities and possess rich traditions of healing.

PHOTO COURTESY OF VANITY FIRE

Afrobeat Meditation™ is the heart of Rootwork. A monthly tradition, this class is guided meditation + intuitive movement to Black Diaspora music. It’s a homegrown offering unique to Rootwork, born out of my personal meditation practice of 10+ years. After sitting or lying down in meditation for a decade, I started to move, sway, and stretch. My body wanted to move with inner peace! Then I heard Afrobeat music for the first time while visiting Brooklyn in 2012. I came back to Austin, Texas with the beginnings of Afrobeat Meditation™. This year I’ve watched Afrobeat Meditation™ classes grow in size and across age groups. Our youngest co-healer (aka participant”> was 12, and our eldest so far has been an 84 year old grandmother. She joined us with her daughter and granddaughter. We had three generations in one room, and I knew that this was the power of this work. Our classes are more like ceremony. We bring people together, move in circle, open with sage, and welcome ancestors.

The beginning of my mission

In 2000, I began a simple meditation practice. I breathed in three counts (1-2-3 breathe in”> and breathed out to three counts (1-2-3 exhale”>. This practice helped me cope as an incredibly stressed out, overachieving college student undergoing culture shock. I was one of few students of color on my college campus, and I came from a working class background. I attended a predominantly white, wealthy school. While I was deepening my meditation practice, I was also expanding my social awareness.

I learned more about Black history.

I read Gloria Anzaldua’s La Frontera/The Borderlands for the first time. I began to protest social injustice on campus. I was on fire! From college onward, I began practicing other meditation and spiritual practices with teachers in Texas. These practices expanded my desire to know my ancestors’ stories; the sense of connection I felt during meditation made me more aware of social injustice and imbalance. I felt even more passionate about addressing it. I took longer and longer hikes at local parks. I connected intensely with ancestors. One morning I woke up and just knew: it was time to facilitate meditation with the broader community. My first class was in 2008, and I’ve facilitated meditation (sitting, guided, and movement”> with youth and adults ever since.

What Inspires Me

Music inspires me. I bring my love for cumbia, downtempo, Afrobeat, Afro-pop, blues violin, trance blues and other genres into Rootwork. I’ve also met inspiring holistic practitioners on my path. They support me daily as Black, Brown, Chicana, and indigenous/Native American healers who do spiritual work wherever they are – at home, in the university setting, in the corporate world, or on the road. From them I’ve learned how to connect across distance in simple yet powerful ways – and still feel like part of a community.

Books inspire me, too. I like to begin the day by reading or with a quote. Sister of the Yam by bell hooks is one of my favorite books that continues to inspire me and Rootwork. Right now I’m also exploring two books gifted by dear friends, The Wild Feminine and Woman Who Glows In the Dark. And, our dog Josh inspires me when I need it most. Sometimes the challenges facing the planet can feel incredibly heavy. Feeding, walking, and spending time with him keeps me grounded. Playful. Present!

My goodness, what a journey it’s been.

Since I was a little girl people would ask where I was from and where I was born. My father is African-American and my mother is Chicana (Mexican-American”> and White. At home I was taught “Love sees no color”, but the world seemed very preoccupied with my racial/cultural background. From an early age, I realized the world does see color. From an early age, I noticed how my father and I were treated differently when we were together, compared to the glowing service my mom and I received. Then there were the compliments. People we didn’t know would stop us on the street to express how gorgeous I was. I remember strangers asking to touch my hair, to touch my curls.

As a child I basked in the attention. I felt special. Looking back, the compliments gave me a sense of false superiority. While I was complimented on my “good hair,” I was learning that being “too” Black was a bad or unattractive thing.

PHOTO COURTESY OF L. ZAJAC

What I learned in school confirmed this message. In grades K-12, I did not learn positive, inspiring history about my Black ancestors. I learned little about Mexican-Americans/Chican@s in Texas. And women were near absent. None of my identities were nourished or affirmed.

Growing up I excelled in school but felt alienated from my peers. I coped creatively. I wrote, drew, and played the piano. I competed in writing competitions that allowed me to express my feelings or debate social issues. My room at home became an artistic sanctuary. On one hand, I learned how to treasure healing solitude. On the other, I lacked understanding of my personal and collective history.

Rootwork comes from my journey as a Black woman with a mother of White/Mexican descent. I didn’t always, but now I do understand my on-going racialized/cultural journey as a gift. What a gift to understand Blackness as expansive. Diverse. Global. My journey with identity has taken me to Veracruz, Mexico and led me to teachers of diverse spiritual traditions. I am grateful.

I am a creative spirit who loves to laugh and likes to ask, “What are you waiting for?”  

PHOTO COURTESY OF VANITY FIRE

Social issues

I’m concerned about how stress is impacting women/of color – and specifically Black women – in our daily lives. Stress from taking care of everyone but ourselves. Stress over that promotion in the workplace or over those racial/sexual jokes at work. Stress from worrying about our family members when they leave the house because of police violence against people of color. Stress because our neighborhoods are tragically underfunded. Financial stress from losing employment, or from employment being uncertain. What concerns me further is how the stress of being a woman, let alone a Black woman, is little acknowledged by health institutions. Therefore we’re not getting at the “root” of dis-eases that disproportionately impact us.

For example, when discussing dis-eases that rank high among Black women, the focus tends to be diet or lifestyle alone. I witness this focus as a graduate student, holistic practitioner, and community organizer. But stress has also been linked to the very same dis-eases impacting this group (high rates of diabetes, heart disease, obesity, death from breast cancer”>. I’m concerned that interventions are focusing on one aspect of health, without considering the full picture. Without the full picture, what exactly is being treated? What social or economic issues are addressed–or not?

Furthermore, advice for managing stress tends to focus on personal life incidents alone, or on changes that can be made on the individual level. Being Black and/or Brown and/or woman and/or queer in the United States can be incredibly stressful – if not traumatic – because of persistent injustice in this country. For those of us who know stress in this way, we know it is more than individual. We experience tragedies and hardship collectively on a regular basis.  We’ve seen lately how a traumatic incident that impacts one Black person or family, for example, can deeply concern the broader Black community. The deaths of Trayvon Martin, Renisha McBride, Michael Brown come to mind.

Other systems of healing, such as curanderismo from Mexican/Mexican-American traditions, understand that wellness is multi-dimensional. Wellness involves historical, physical, social, spiritual, and environmental factors. Stress can come from any of these sources, and stress can affect the mind, body, and/or spirit. I’m passionate about folks who have long experienced health disparities really, truly being well – from this holistic perspective. I’m inspired by feminists of color who consider wellness in this way, Patricia Hill Collins, bell hooks, Audre Lorde, Gloria Anzaldúa, AnaLouise Keating, and Jacqui Alexander among them. Scholars such as Dr. Naa Oyo Kwate (Rutgers University”> inspire me, as they explore the impacts of racism on Black immune function and psychological wellbeing. Grassroots circles among comadres, Sister Circles, and Sacred Women circles inspire me.

Through Rootwork, I share self-care practices like meditation because they are one way to sustain wellness for ourselves.

650X365″ src=”https://diana-cdn.naturallycurly.com/Articles/wd_NayaJones_5-2-650X365.jpg”>

PHOTO COURTESY OF VANITY FIRE

I’ve been meditating on the quote, “We are the ones we’ve been waiting for”, and I believe it. When we practice meditation ourselves and with our families and communities. We can cultivate our wellness from inside out, using practices that are always available to us. Meditation just requires breath. And practices like meditation can help sustain us when we take personal action or collectively address social injustice. This is what mediation gives me: clarity and self-care for inner and outer work.

You deserve time for yourSelf, without apology.  

With myself and with other women I meet, our greatest challenge can be saying “no”, “not right now”, or making time for ourselves – without apology. Too many of us feel guilty. Obligated. Exhausted. Overworked. Women of the Root! Please take time to stop and listen to your body. If the answer is “No” or “Not right now” or “Maybe”, notice the relief you feel when you say so. I’ve found that by saying “No” and taking regular retreat time for myself, more aligned people and more aligned opportunities come into my life. Energy starts to flow!

PHOTO COURTESY OF SARA CABRAL

In five years…

I see myself drinking a cup of tea as I prepare for a healing circle and book signing. I’ve traveled to another part of the United States (or another part of the world”> to share Afrobeat Meditation with a growing community. I have a newly published book I’ll be sharing, too, about how to live a more liberated, passionate, authentic life. As I review the schedule for the day, I feel calm.

I know that I am exactly where I need to be, and that the women who were called to this gathering are meant to be there. Spiritually I feel centered, inspired, and full. Physically, I feel well rested. I’m supported by friends, my partner, my family, and the Rootwork community. Mentally, I feel aware of my ancestors and spiritual guides. I’ve completed my doctoral degree, and I am completely immersed in Rootwork. Rootwork sustains me abundantly. I’m sole manager of my time. I’m living an inspired life!

Stay in touch!

Visit our website at www.root-work.com. Follow us on Twitter @rootworkaustin Find our growing Black Women Get Rooted™ Meetup community on-line. For exclusive monthly inspiration, offers, rituals, and recipes/recetas, join our e-mail list at connect@root-work.com. You can also bring Rootwork to you. Explore our guest workshops on radical self-care and more, here.

By Devri Velazquez · Updated October 14, 2014

When I met eight-year-old Calissa Allison and seven-year-old Ta-Niya Davis behind the scenes of the African Pride Dream Kids video shoot, the first thing I noticed was the two girls’ excitement in straightening their naturally curly hair. Much to my surprise, their moms watched on completely worry-free as hair stylists applied, washed, straightened, and blow dried their daughters’ textured hair straight. I caught up with Calissa and Ta-Niya on their lunch break from shooting all day.

How long have you worn your hair curly?

“All my life,” both girls replied with bright smiles on their pretty little faces.

What do you like most about yourself?

Calissa: “My mom is black, and my dad is white. I love my curly hair and my eyes.”

What do you enjoy about this experience?

Ta-Niya: “I get to wear my hair down. And I like being a star!”

From this conversation, I took away a clear understanding of the confidence both Calissa and Ta-Niya carried about their own unique looks and personalities. It was obvious that their mothers were the source of their amazing self acceptance. Naturally, I shimmied over to Nichole and Anntionette to get the deets on their tips for raising such confident, beautiful kiddos.

My favorite thing is that Calissa’s hair straightens within only one hour. Then it will revert right back in four weeks with no damage.

What do you appreciate most about the Dream Kids Texture Manageability System?

Nichole: “My daughter is a gymnast, so she has to wear her hair slick back in a ponytail sometimes. My favorite thing is that Calissa’s hair straightens within only one hour. Then it will revert right back in four weeks with no damage.”

Anntionette: “We have more versatility with styling. Her curl will come back in just a few weeks. I have even recommended it for my niece…I’m telling everyone about it!”

What important piece of advice would you give another mother whose child wants to temporarily straighten their hair?

Nichole: “Research, research, research. Figure out what works for her. Be diligent so your child will understand later.”

[prodmod]

This post was sponsored by African Pride Dream Kids Texture Manageability System.

By Devri Velazquez · Updated September 30, 2014

I have never met a natural who wasn’t into protective styling.

A plethora of benefits come with it–faster hair growth, length retention, protection from elements of the weather and styling tools, and not to mention, they are convenient for those with busy lifestyles.

[prodmod]

Like every great thing, however, comes a list of rules to abide by in order to achieve what is desired. I consider myself simplistic in terms of my hair routine, so my list won’t be as long as some– lucky for you. Make the most of your next protective style with these 3 rules of thumb.

1. Deep Clean

Even if you are a low or no-poo girl, it is crucial to rid your scalp of product and dirt build-up before installing your next PS. On wash day before my styling, I opt for . During my actual protective style I like to use DevaCurl No Poo–all I do is shake and spray my scalp a few times to absorb the excess oils and dirt, since I’m not able to do a thorough wash while I have twists or weave. I like the Curl & Shine Conditioner for detangling and adding softness to my natural hair. Fresh out of the shower, I will spritz a leave-in like ApHogee Moisture-Rich, and seal with an all natural blended oil or serum like Rasa Namaste and Nubian Heritage Grow & Strengthen.

2. Low manipulation

The night prior to, I multi-pineapple my hair (since the normal pineapple method usually flattens the back half of my hair”>. A braid-out or twist-out is not entirely necessary since most of your natural hair will be tucked away within the added hair the next day, anyway. Stay away from the flat ironing or blow drying beforehand, as well. All of that extra pulling, tugging, drying, and twisting will wear your hair out by the time the styling process takes place. This might lead to weaker hair, which in turn ends up in breakage.

3. Moisturize from root to end

I live for a blended oil that protects my hair, seals my ends, and hydrates my scalp. I am sure to not saturate my scalp minutes before styling, as this can result in a more difficult time in adding hair or braiding. However, I do massage my scalp the night before (and after wash day”> with a blend of essential and carrier oils to promote hair growth while my natural will be tucked away for the following week or two.

By Devri Velazquez · Updated September 12, 2014

Believe it or not, every hair brush is not created equal. Forget the stigma you are used to hearing about the dangers of using one on your wavy or curly hair, because these 10 brushes are made specifically to cater to what textured hair needs.

Have you tried any of these? 

10 Brushes Your Curls Will Love

By Devri Velazquez · Updated September 11, 2014

Up until a month ago, I had never tried clip-in extensions before. I was hesitant at first due to my theory that too much hair will not enhance, but rather deflect my hair’s natural beauty and texture. But one day I came across Big Chop Hair by City Samuels, and I rummaged through her photos, blogger testimonies, and vast online presence when I made the decision to finally step even more out of my hair comfort zone and give these human natural hair extensions a try.

First impressions

As I mentioned I am a new to hair extensions, so you can imagine my fear in attempting to put these into my curly hair on my own. To my surprise, installation time was about 30 minutes and it was fairly simple.

The process

All I did was pop the clips open and attach them close to my scalp, snapped them close to secure, and continued.

Altogether I used 1 1/2 bundles and to me, that was just enough to keep my natural look while achieving the fuller, longer curls I’ll admit sometimes I wish I had.

Giveaway Alert!

I have 2 additional bundles that I did not use–and I am giving them away! Simply leave a comment on this article and follow @BigChopHair to enter. You may also either write me @DevriVelazquez to enter.

This giveaway ends Friday, September 19.

And right now, BigChopHair.com, is offering free shipping with discount code NaturallyCurly!

Have you tried clip-ins to enhance your natural hair? What was your experience? Let us know, and share your photos!

By Devri Velazquez · Updated August 27, 2014

Our Q&A Section allows our dedicated curly community members to post, ask, and answer questions all things hair related. Stop by and engage with others like you–and earn points while doing so! Member divergent46 posted this question:

Question:

I have no idea why but my hair is basically crimped on the roots then pin straight on the ends! The underlayer of my hair has some spiral curls but my hair was never this curly at the roots. It was kind of loose curls throughout my hair…Mousse only makes the roots even curlier and the ends straighter…it’s too frizzy for almost any hairstyle and I only like putting heat on it from a salon.

Answer:

Sounds to me like your hair has experienced either heat or chemical damage. When is the last time you straightened or relaxed your hair? And how often do you do so? If your answer is once a month or more, your hair is most likely damaged.

Put the flat iron down.

Hair that has been over-processed by heat styling tools (like a flat iron or curling wand”> are susceptible to breakage, thinning, and brittleness. Over time, it lacks the amount of strength, moisture, and elasticity it needs to curl and stretch properly. But if you absolutely MUST straighten, know that hair burns on a setting of anything over 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While blow drying, press the “cool” button quickly for a flash of cool air to seal your cuticle and give your hair a tiny break from the heat styling.

Big chop.

Realistically, the only way your roots will look just like the rest of your hair is if you start fresh and cut the damaged ends completely off. You can gradually do this by installing sew-in weave, marley twists, or other protective styles which veil the natural hair for a while as it grows out.

Your hair routine

If you notice some product build-up in your scalp, it’s ok to wash your hair with a sulfate-free shampoo. Or try leaving pure Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV”> in your scalp for about 30 minutes, then rinse. I do this once a week, depending on how dirty my hair is. Use a moisturizer intended for those with heat damaged hair (those random straight hairs you have”>. Once a week, restore and strengthen your hair with either a DIY protein treatment or a good deep conditioner. Leave it on for about 40 minutes, then rinse and condition. For styling purposes, add a curl activator to enhance your natural curl and help it blend in with the damaged hair. 

Have a wavy, curly, or coily Q?

By Devri Velazquez · Updated August 26, 2014

PHOTO COURTESY OF INSTAGRAM

Blue Ivy Carter’s hair is natural. She is a child who cannot defend herself. Oh, and her mother is singer Beyonce and her father is rapper Jay-Z, so she’s basically music royalty. You’d take these facts into consideration before coming for someone, right?

Apparently that means nothing for model and longtime girlfriend of Chris Brown, Karrueche Tran.

I really did wake up like this, because my parents never comb my hair.

On BET network’s 106 & Park countdown during a live taping Monday, Tran provided a Blue Ivy impersonation in a skit entitled “Top 6 Things Blue Ivy Thought At The VMAs.” She said, “I really did wake up like this, because my parents never comb my hair.” This was followed by the live audience half cackling and half booing her, to which Tran bellowed, “Sorry Blue! I love you.”

Who is to blame?

According to Karrueche’s team, she was informed of a script change only moments before she and her co-host went on hair, due to the timeliness of the VMAs and the producers wanting to insert the skit into the show (filmed on August 25th.”> She was given the script on the scene and had no time to look over it for her better judgement–or lack thereof.

We (and the ENTIRE world”> think little baby Blue Ivy was the most adorable, overjoyed little girl, cheering on her mom from the audience and later joining dad Jay-Z on stage to congratulate Beyonce with the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award.

Aside from us gawking at her uncanny ability to keep winning us over with any and everything–what does the Queen Bey herself think? Beyonce has yet to sound off on the constant controversy and conversation surrounding her daughter’s natural hair.

BET’s commercials and campaigns often provide uplifting messages and products targeted directly toward young women with naturally curly and coily hair, so these hate comments towards the natural hair community are a marked contradiction, and one that won’t go unnoticed.

Is BET bitter or–nah?

On June 29th, Bey was set to perform alongside Jay-Z as part of their BET Awards performance line-up. However, the network ended up resorting to airing a clip recorded at their recent On The Run Tour. At the VMA’s however, Bey shut it all the way down, performing 16 of her songs for the world from her self-titled fifth studio album. The reasons are unclear as to why Beyonce and Jay-Z didn’t attend the BET Awards but we’re guessing the network’s producers still haven’t let go of their grudge with Queen Bey, and are coming for her by any means necessary–even if that means attacking her daughter’s hair.

Recently we’ve noticed an uptick in the number of people criticizing Blue Ivy’s hair on Facebook pages, social media, and traditional media outlets and we hope to be a place for supportive naturals to have their voices heard. By this stage we think it’s pretty clear where we stand (but just in case, we fully support any man, woman or, in this case, child’s right to wear their hair natural without coming under scrutiny”>, but we want to know how you feel about Karrueche’s comments. Let us know in the comments!

By Devri Velazquez · Updated August 21, 2014

Wearing a protective style is a great way to protect your hair from damaging elements of the climate–in the summer, the sun; in the winter, the chill. Either way, it’s only effective as you let it be, not matter which time of year you rock it. I hid my curls away into some Marley twists for a couple of weeks– and these are these are the surprising facts that I learned from having them.

1. They’re not expensive.

Some of you are reading the previous line and judging me. But for all you protective-styling newbies (like myself”>, you’ll come to find out that packs of Marley hair are only about $6 bucks a bag. I used 6 1/2 bags of Freetress Equal marley braiding hair. My stylist charged me $80 to install.

2. Installation time is only a few hours.

For those of you who get sew-ins regularly can feel me on this. It’s not fun to sit in one place for hours at a time with your head tilted in all sorts of which ways. Whenever you finally get out the chair your neck is halfway crooked and the sun’s going down already. Not with these bad boys.

3. They open your mind to new options.

Even though I had my hair in twists and not faux locs, it was still pretty easy for me to see myself with other new styles like long, beautiful locs in my hair. I’d been considering locking my curly hair in the past, so this gave me a useful visual.

4. They give you more styling versatility.

Because my hair was temporarily thicker, longer, and different colors (I used 3 different colors from the same brand”>, I was able to play around with different styles that I normally couldn’t with my real natural hair. It was a fun to play dress up.

5. They’re a mini detox for your hair.

As mentioned above, I only rocked the marley twists a little over a week. Still, that was plenty of time to give my hair a chance to breathe, replenish from the sweltering summer heat, and call me crazy but I feel like I even noticed some slight new growth after taking them out.

By Devri Velazquez · Updated August 11, 2014

My name is Melissa Etienne but everyone calls me City. I wanted to supply the natural hair community with protective styling options that helped us maintain our natural look for a reasonable price. I’ve been natural myself for a little over a year but I did my big chop in September 2013.

I started Big Chop Hair because I’ve been in the hair industry for a long time and I know high-quality hair. I had been exposed to this hair that I knew other people would want but didn’t know how to get. I felt the natural hair community didn’t have many human hair options available to them.

Whatever you do to your hair is your choice. Nobody can tell you how to be you.

I’m different from other companies because I’m out there for everyone to see. I’m not a secret person, I’m not hiding, everyone sees pictures of me, they see pictures of my family, they’re able to call me, they’re able to text me and have one-on-one conversations with me.

The reward is seeing how happy everyone is once they receive their product. I get so many happy emails and texts from people. They send me pictures, tag me on Instagram and all these things make me so happy because I love seeing that I am supplying these wonderful women with a wonderful product that they love!

Visit my website and social media to see what everyone thinks of Big Chop Hair:

Website | Instagram

By Devri Velazquez · Updated August 6, 2014

Our Q&A Section allows our dedicated curly community members to post, ask, and answer questions all things hair related. Be sure to stop by to engage with others like you and earn points while doing so! Member Godluvsme101 (3C”> posted this question:

Question:

Answer:

It’s important to understand how a sealing oil works. Grapeseed oil doesn’t have penetrating powers strong enough to do anything other than sit on top of the hair, acting like an umbrella of protection from climate that would otherwise suck moisture from your curls. Grapeseed is also known as a carrier oil, which is something people used combined with an essential oil in order to moisturize.

Depending on what you’re using the grapeseed oil in conjunction with, I suggest testing out other combos of either products or carriers, as each one works differently.

It’s been chemically processed

Grapeseed oil has been through a rigorous process of having its oils extracted from the grape, going through machines, having the solvent hexane, which is actually toxic. Therefore, by the time it’s bottled up and sent to your local beauty supply store for you to purchase, it’s been refined, chemically altered, and then some. Look for the words “cold pressed” on your labels for the raw product in its truest form.

Slather on the shea butter

Next time you’re attempting to seal moisture, add a layer of shea over your hair after you apply oil. For many curlies like yourself with dry hair, this usually works wonders.

Olive oil + Coconut oil

Also, use coconut oil as either a pre-poo or moisturizer on freshly washed hair. It’s known to soften rough spots of hair and add definition to your spirals. I use extra virgin olive oil, and this is also great for penetrating the hair shaft and when used with a water-based leave-in, it’s amazing for high porosity hair.

Look for these

• H&B Oils Cold Pressed Unrefined Raw Coconut Oil
• Eden Body Works Coconut Shea Leave-In
• African Pride Olive Oil Miracle Growth Oil
• Nubian Heritage EVOO Pre-Poo Treatment

Have a wavy, curly, or coily Q?

We want you to have your healthiest, happiest hair possible! If you have any questions, feel free to visit our Q&A Section for helpful advice from curlies like you!

By Devri Velazquez · Updated July 18, 2014

Our Q&A Section allows our dedicated curly community members to post, ask, and answer questions all things hair related. Be sure to stop by to engage with others like you and earn points while doing so! Member Tatiana5C recently posted this question:

Question:

Answer:

Tatiana, if we explored in depth every single reason you’re experiencing excessive hair fall, this article would be dozens of pages long, which might defeat the purpose of a straightforward answer that I’m sure you are looking for. And for the purpose of getting straight to the point, I’ll pinpoint these general possibilities and how you may solve the issue:

First of all, know what is normal and what is not.

The average head of hair has 100,000 to 150,000 strands. Losing up to 50 strands is normal, however, anything over that is not. By nature, curly hair sheds more than straight hair.

Stop brushing your hair.

Add vitamins A, D, & E to your daily regimen.

While it’s important to note that there IS such thing as too much of these, it’s also just as important to not neglect them completely from your diet or beauty routine. They both help regulate your hair cycle focusing on length and strength. The antioxidants in vitamin A moisturize the sebum in your scalp. Taking your daily dose of Vitamin E will also promote healthy hair growth, as it increases blood circulation and stimulates the hair follicles. Ask your mom to buy you cantaloupe, carrots, and dark green vegetables. She can also get a multivitamin (containing all of these vitamins in 1 capsule”> that can be found at any grocery store in the wellness section. 

Don’t dye, relax, or straighten.

You mentioned that you no longer flat iron your hair, so we know heat isn’t the culprit in this case. I’m not sure if you have experimented with harmful box dyes or relaxers. Right now your hair is in a super fragile state, so I’d suggest staying away from things like ammonia, lye, bleach and chlorine. Here’s an easy, natural recipe to color and thicken your hair at the same time if you absolutely must color your hair.

Use a scalp stimulator.

Every few days, add a few drops directly to your scalp (per the product’s instructions”> to promote faster hair growth and strength. Castor, tea tree, almond , and jojoba oil will be your best friends for the next few months. We like:

• Eden Body Works All Natural Tea Tree Hair Oil
• Mielle Organics Mint Almond Oil
• Nubian Heritage Strengthen & Grow Serum
• Karen’s Body Beautiful Heavenly Jojoba Hair Oil

Go see your doc.

Hair shed at a young age can be due to an underlying health situation, like thyroid issues, anemia, alopecia, poor diet, or even genetics. Discuss with your mom if anyone in the family experienced hair loss at a young age, and that may help you understand where yours is coming from. Schedule an appointment to see your doctor.

Have a wavy, curly, or coily Q?

We want you to have your healthiest, happiest hair possible! If you have any questions, feel free to visit our Q&A Section for helpful advice from curlies like you!