Search Results: Devri Velazquez
The stigma of a black woman being typecast as a certain character doesn’t have to be accurate.
We wake up early, get the kids ready for school, then head to work where we spend eight hours being the lesser paid–but equally intelligent–wing woman to a coworker (that is likely white, male or both”>.
During lunch, the bestie calls to catch up on life and vent. After work, we come home to wait hand and foot on bae while making sure the kids are finishing their homework. While preparing dinner, we throw in that last load of laundry. By the time dinner is ready, it’s too late to go to the gym, so we feed ourselves with a laxative tea and sleep with a waist cincher. After all, we’ve got to keep it right and tight for the viewing pleasure of others.As black women, we do it all. We are loving daughters, nurturing mothers, supportive partners, successful businesswomen, determined students, and innovative entrepreneurs. But once we get home and the cape comes off, what happens to the burdens that are left for us to bear? Who is there to pick up our pieces when the madness of the world leaves us depleted of energy and hope? Finally, why are we afraid to admit when something just doesn’t feel right?
The stigma of a black woman being typecast as a certain character doesn’t have to be accurate. The truth is, many of the circumstances that cause us to neglect our mental health are because of systems put in place that never intended to assist us in the first place. While addressing the stereotypes alone certainly will not cure any conditions, it is a necessary first step in figuring out the why.
The stereotypes behind the stigma
Dating back to U.S. slavery, each plantation had Mammy: the black woman convinced that everyone else’s wellbeing mattered more than hers. The matriarch who suppresses her dreams to assist in fulfilling those of others around her, Mammy thrives on being the most obedient yet solid rock of a servant as possible. When it comes down to it, she’s clutch and people praise her for it. Behind closed doors however, her spirit is as equally worn out as her hands and feet. A tired life of failing to practice self-care causes her to become numb to her own desires.
Another popular stereotype within the black community is the Jezebel: someone with an unhealthy appetite for lust and sex.
As a child, perhaps, she was badly mistreated and abandoned by the paternal figure in her life. Because of this, she builds a mental wall as protection from any future chance of heartbreak. This complex leads her down an exhausting life path of finding love in all the wrong places. She has adapted to enduring mental—and sometimes physical—abuse from her partners. Over time, her sense of self-worth and purpose completely exit her soul.
Then there’s the modern day Sapphire, a black woman who wears a chip on her shoulder.
She has a tendency of spewing hatred and bitterness, especially in relationships, she enjoys using aggression to bully and emasculate. She is deemed the ‘angry black woman’ to society. At home, she hates the person she has become although she feels she has no control of her emotions.
While Hollywood chooses to tell one side of the story of the black woman, it rarely considers the state of her mental health.
Anxiety, mood, psychotic, eating, impulse control, personality, obsessive-compulsive and post-traumatic stress disorders impact millions of women in the black community. Scientific data wants us to believe that the mental health conversation is an all-encompassing umbrella that shouldn’t be race-specific due to a lack in evidence when in fact, race might actually be the biggest factor. According to Mental Health America, 6.8 million African Americans have been diagnosed with a mental illness and the number among black women in the U.S. is probably much greater than reported. The social stigma surrounding our community might turn some away from seeking the proper help. We are so used to displaying unwavering strength to the public that we only further separate ourselves from the idea of wholeness we strive to maintain.
Since childhood, we learn to consistently internalize certain feelings for the sake of those around us.
We grew up watching the maternal figures in our family braving any and every potentially meltdown-worthy situation, from finances to illnesses. The cycle has continued and needs to stop. We don’t have to be defined by the stereotypes; it is possible to break through to the other side and achieve total peace of mind. By first acknowledging the stereotypes behind the stigma, we can begin an open dialogue and from that point, we can choose to overcome our fears of weakness or vulnerability. Yes, we are black women and we can do it all. But we shouldn’t be afraid to ask for help when we need it.
Follow me on Instagram @DevriVelazquez
photos courtesy of Rashad White + Monique Rodriguez
After meeting registered nurse Monique Rodriguez, I immediately sensed an entrepreneur on the brink of shaking up the natural hair care industry.
With major political movements come new leaders of the era.
With the shift in leaders comes a handful of deceitful conglomerates hoping to cash in on a group with a lengthy history of oppression and underrepresentation. However, Monique Rodriguez isn’t one of them. The registered nurse wants to tie back the importance of health and wellness aspect to the natural hair movement. Enter: the birth of Mielle Organics. Here is the original interview published in 2014, when the brand was virtually unknown.
My name is Monique Rodriguez and I am from the Chicago area.
I am African American; my dad’s side of the family is Creole. I currently work as a registered nurse. My hair type is a combination of type 3b and 3c. I decided to start my own business after a tremendous amount of research. I learned that our skin absorbs a great amount of whatever products we put on our body and is absorbed in our bloodstream. This prompted me to start reading labels and studying the different preservatives, mineral oil and petroleum that are put in our hair and skin products, which I found to mostly be cheap and unsafe safe for the body.,0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15″>; margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% – 2px”>;” data-instgrm-version=”7″>
I wanted to create a line that stays true to the word natural and organic.
The ingredients used in my products are certified organic [and made with] with natural herbs from the Earth. They all work well together to promote growth, retain length and maintain overall healthy hair. I always use my products on my hair then my children’s hair to make sure I absolutely love it before it goes public. I don’t believe in [there being] an overload of ingredients in a product for it to work. I believe in simplicity, so I take out all the unnecessary ingredients and doses that are not effective in growing and maintaining healthy hair. Our ingredients are simple, natural and still affordable.
With my background in science, I understand how the body works, as well as what will stimulate the hair follicles and produce growth.
I believe that if you truly believe in a product working what other person to be the test dummy other than the owner myself I have tested and used to ensure my products are effective. My hair has reached tailbone length with some of my tried and true techniques and remedies; I just wanted to combine them all together to work effectively in giving consumers the hair and health they have always dreamed of, too.
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A photo posted by Mielle Organics LLC (@mielleorganics”> on
My first line of products will be focused on natural health, hair growth and retention.
I will have a vitamin for women and children using natural herbs vitamins and minerals. There will also be a mint almond oil to target scalp care. It works well with the vitamins to not only take care of the insides, but also properly care for the outside; in order to produce healthy hair and growth, you have to maintain a healthy scalp. This oil improves circulation to promote growth and includes a conditioning oil that prevents breakage and improves elasticity [of the curls]. There are more exciting products that are still in the works.
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It is important to know what you are putting in and on your body. A lot of products use unsafe preservatives that are absorbed through your skin. All natural and organic are ingredients that are made by nature are much safer than using chemically-altered products.
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Cetaphil and Dove Moisturizing Lotion make my simple day and night skin routine. On my hair, I use Mielle Organics Mint Almond Oil as a sealant and daily moisturizer. I also use a moisturizing cream from our line that I am working on but is not out quite yet. It keeps my curls soft, moisturized and not weighed down. I also apply a gel, depending on the type of look I want. I also like the Aussie 3-Minute Conditioner because it makes my hair soft. My favorite co-wash right now is by As I Am. And finally, vitamins and water keep my curls moisturized.
To stay up to date with my business endeavors and long curly hair tips, follow my personal Instagram @exquisitemo. Bring my vision to life by following the Mielle Organics Instagram, @MielleOrganics!
You can also ask me questions on my NaturallyCurly Q&A right now!
Editor’s note: Since the original publishing of this article on April 25, 2014, Monique has gone on to create a line for kids called Tinys and Tots.
The line features the following products, made with certified organic ingredients:
- Children’s Hair & Healthy Vitamins
- Sacha Inchi Cleansing Shampoo
- Sacha Inchi Detangling Conditioner
- Sacha Inchi Curl Enhancing Cream
Each product, including the Children’s Hair & Healthy Vitamins, was formulated to be gentle for children. Sacha Inchi Oil, a South American superfood that contains Omega-3 fatty acids, proteins and antioxidants, is the driving ingredient in each of Mielle’s hair maintenance products for children. For questions about the line, ask Monique by clicking here now!
Did you see the bride whose natural hair wedding pics went viral? I recently spoke with Nakyia Whitty to find out more about her inspiration behind the idea for her bridesmaids all rocking their ‘fros.
Hello! My name is Nakyia Whitty.
I live in Houston, Texas and work in Profits. I met my husband Jay at Texas Southern University through a mutual band friend. He and his twin were snare drummers and I am a majorette (dancer”>. It was definitely not love at first sight. Jay was a nice guy, but he was a freshman in campus, I was already seeing someone and didn’t look at him in that way at all.I’ve been wearing my hair natural for about four years now, and Jay is a big reason why.
He encouraged me when I initially came to him about my thoughts of going natural. He helped me learn my hair and even kept me going when I big chopped and couldn’t bring a comb through it to save my life! Jay was encouraging when I was self conscious about the length of my hair when it was a TWA. Today, Jay says he 100% prefers my natural hair over my relaxed hair. I have wanted to grow my hair out chemical-free for some time, but the idea wasn’t accepted well in my previous relationship, so I didn’t actually begin my journey until I started dating Jay. I stopped getting a relaxer and after about six months of new growth, I shared with him my plans for my hair. It was definitely a bonus that he received it well.,0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15″>; margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% – 2px”>;” data-instgrm-version=”7″>
My hair grows this way. I wear it this way on a normal basis. I just can’t find a reason as to why I’d straighten it because I’m getting married.The majority of the women around me are natural. I knew I wanted to capitalize on that natural beauty whenever my Big Day came. So yes, it was planned–I asked everyone’s hair be fro’d out, big and uniquely styled. To each their own. It was just important for me to represent me, a natural black woman. My hair grows this way. I wear it this way on a normal basis. I just can’t find a reason as to why I’d straighten it because I’m getting married. I cannot understand the limits we put on our hair. I love my hair and I work with, appreciate, and slay with what I was born with.
Own it boo. Own it!
There is absolutely no reason you shouldn’t feel comfortable with your natural self. Start with yourself. Reevaluate what beauty is and/or what is appropriate to you and question why it doesn’t include you being you? Whatever it is, drop it! Who set these standards of beauty and of what is acceptable here or there? How come we (women of Afro descent”> in our natural state just didn’t make the cut? I seriously thought about that one day and those thoughts resulted in a woman who didn’t care what anyone had to say about her hair. I mean, my chin was to the sky that day. I wore my ‘fro picked all the way out; I got looks but didn’t pay attention to whether they were disgust or admiration. I didn’t care one way or the other–I walked in that grocery store like I owned it! Most powerful grocery trip, ever.,0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15″>; margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% – 2px”>;” data-instgrm-version=”7″>
When I began my journey, I wasn’t confident at all. I slowly gained confidence in who I was until one day it just clicked: we are all fearfully and wonderfully made. No shame, just glory.
Experiment and find products that make your hair happy. It may take some time, effort and spare change but stay diligent, appreciate the process and you will begin to appreciate your natural self like none other.
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Follow Nakyia on Instagram and see more of her viral wedding photos here.
For me, the keys to a happy life are loving yourself, loving those around you, and choosing each day to be happy.
Ashly Rodriguez is a vlogger based out of Boston, MA. We asked her how she has found happiness in embracing her natural hair — despite insults and doubters. If you are struggling in your natural hair journey, or just want to hear some grounding positive words as you start your work week, take inspiration from Ashly, aka ActuallyAshly.
I’ve been embracing my natural hair for two years now. My hair is beautiful! Very thick and a mix of textures–coily and curly.
My family is absolutely supportive. At first, they weren’t sure how to react because all we knew growing up was the Dominican blowout. I was the first to really embrace my curls. After I continued on my journey, family members always ask how it’s going and even ask for tips for their hair. Now my sisters and my mother are starting to embrace their natural hair.
People have insulted my hair plenty of times, unfortunately. I just kill them kindness and hit them with some knowledge.
For me, the keys to a happy life are loving yourself, loving those around you, and choosing each day to be happy. I love working with the youth, so I am currently working with after school programs to start a girls group where young girls and teens can come chat and express themselves!
Subscribe to my YouTube channel, actuallyashly, follow me on Instagram @actually_ashly and Twitter @UmAshly.So if you are dealing with negative words from a stranger, an acquaintance or even from yourself, then trying killing that sentiment with kindness and knowledge! Here are a few encouraging phrases that you can practice saying if you need a pick me up, 10 Quotes to Help You Love Yourself More Today.
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If you didn’t attend CurlFest this year, you missed something big and meaningful. From fluffed-out ‘fros to delectable twist-outs and eccentric protective styles, Sunday made Prospect Park a hair crush haven with all of the proper fashion, music and refreshments to compliment. However, it didn’t stop there.
“It’s important for women of color in this industry to collaborate,” says Director of Public Relations and founding member, Charisse Higgins. Since 2014, Higgins has been working with Creative Director Melody Henderson, Director of Events Tracey Coleman, Director of Strategic Partnerships Gia Lowe and Director of Business Strategy, Simone Mair, together known as Curly Girl Collective. Each founder brings to the table the amount of drive and passion necessary for organizing a platform that is successful in providing just the right amount of groundbreaking product information with entertainment. In recent years, the natural hair movement has made more waves than ever before. Curly Girl Collective’s opening speech reminded us all how far we’ve come as a community.“What I love most about the natural hair community is inclusion. When we first started, we had three sponsors. Last year, we doubled that. This year, we doubled that. Our clients have become almost like family. [We want everyone here to know] you are beautiful that way God made you. This is what CurlFest is all about.” This year’s sponsors included a list of core influential brands within the realm of hair and beauty: Centric was the event’s media partner, with “curlfriend partners” SheaMoisture, Tropic Isle Living, ORS, “curl crush partners” Cantu, CURLS, Phyto Specific, The Mane Choice, Eden BodyWorks, Dark & Lovely Au Naturale and “curly girl partners” Made Beautiful, Dove and Ouidad.
Each brand shared space on the park grounds to offer up free full-sized goodies for the crowd’s product junkies, as well as summery photo opps and light refreshments made just for CurlFest. From cooling lemonade and chilly snow cones to sizzling sandwiches out near the entrance, all edible consumption bases were covered; festival attendees gathered underneath colorful umbrellas and spread out on cozy picnic blankets on the picturesque greenery. The party atmosphere carried no shortage of good vibes and energy from all whimsical walks of life. Clever graphic tees displaying bold statements of natural hair and Black pride bedazzled the crowd. Social media influencers stopped to mingle and take photos with fans, bloggers and entrepreneurs alike. And if the vibrantly colorful clothing and accessories didn’t make it known that summer is officially here, bold patterns and eclectic jewelry adorned the temples of CurlFest attendees and everyone stood out in their own unique way.It’s safe to say that CurlFest 2016 was lit. Don’t believe me? Here’s proof.
Photos courtesy of yours truly. Follow Curly Girl Collective on Instagram for updates on upcoming endeavors.
From my clothing to my hair to my makeup, every choice I make is a form of radical self expression. I will bask in this glow.
The other day I was at the grocery store when a much older white man approached me saying, “You’re the rebellious type, huh? Kids these days. You’ll learn one day what is acceptable.”
I know, I was shocked, too. I never go to the grocery store.
But really, all jokes aside. What in the world made this man feel like his comment was 1″> appropriate enough to share and 2″> compelling enough that I would at least sort of feel him on the subject matter? Sadly enough, I’ve heard plenty of these types of comments since returning natural some years ago. I’ve always worn bright colors and shown pride in where I come from, but perhaps the combination proved to be too much for the man to quietly walk by without making a declaration against my ‘rebellious’ dress code.
That, my friends, is called privilege.
It is quite the cunning way of another person invoking a sort of unspoken authority over me through crafty words and behaviors, for no real reason other than the fact that they feel it is owed to them. It has a lengthy rap sheet, especially in American history. In his work, W. E. B. Du Bois would mention the “psychological wage”, intended to create a sense of superiority from one class or group of people over the other. We don’t have to get into a full blown history lesson; nonetheless, I have a feeling you have either witnessed or experienced firsthand this form of oppression before.Everything was wrong with this man’s statement and yet, I couldn’t help but shrug it off, dismissing him with my staleness. It reminded the fact that there is a huge population of people in the world who might share his two cents. I had questions that needed answers but I realized, in the moment, they were best asked internally and reflected upon rather than directing back to the man.
What or who deems my clothing and hair choices ‘acceptable’? What past or current systems have given you the impression that I am rebellious in nature, and do you agree with those notions? Finally, what implies that I would benefit from your ignorant comments?
Read more: You’ve Got to Stop Asking Curly Girls This
I am my own version of beautiful.
If someone disagrees with my my choices, he or she can take the issue up with themselves. From my clothing to my hair to my makeup, every choice I make is a form of radical self expression. I make the conscious decision to embrace every single part of me and will not allow another person to deter me from basking in its glow. The only correlation of my appearance to my personality is my stance against capitalism and Eurocentric beauty standards placed into my mind and the minds of my relatives. As Marshall Harford III said, “To love yourself is to hate Capitalism in all its forms.” Personally, I couldn’t agree more. If my hair and clothing offend you: sorry but I’m not sorry. Wake up.
How do you practice radical self love?
Keep up with me @DevriVelazquez | Photos by Kameron Jackson with @KidAtHeartTX
Senator John McCain’s son rallies support behind a recent Old Navy ad showing an interracial family.
Jack McCain posted two couple selfies with his wife, Renee, to prove a point to “you ignorant racists” followed by the hashtag #lovewins.
From the Afro to the Akaba…
Black and Beautiful shows us a 1-minute glimpse into some other popular Nigerian hairstyles through the years.
This UK pop sensation wants you to know that perms are back.
Singer Kylie Minogue started sporting her perm from back in the day. The reason behind it? “My husband prefers my carefree curls.”
An illustrator pays homage to a legendary icon.
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Gary Card chronicled Prince’s famous looks from 1978 to 2013, which became a GIF to honor the late musician’s legacy on social media.
So who is Becky with the good hair? Iggy Azalea says, “not me.”
The Australian rapper replied to a fan tweet in regards to the popular Beyonce Lemonade lyrics “You better call Becky with the good hair.”
Men are not only embracing their natural hair, but learning the proper terms for it.
” src=”https://diana-cdn.naturallycurly.com/Articles/Y4_pjimage-15.jpg”>Until recently, columnist Damon Young had no clue that shrinkage existed–or what it was, as it pertains to natural hair, anyway.
‘Lemonade’ gives us life–starting with the hairstyles.
From Bantu knots to cornrows, a magnificent array of natural hairstyles are drizzled throughout Beyonce’s latest visual album, Lemonade.
When you Google the phrase “unprofessional hairstyles”, what are your results?
This tweet went viral to bring light to the stigma surrounding natural hair in the workplace. “Professional hairstyles,” on the other hand, shows a dramatic contrast in imagery. (And yes, that’s our own Video Manager, Nikki, in the top left”>.
Porosity is how easily your hair is able to absorb and hold moisture and chemicals. Your hair can be low, medium, or high porosity.
I have naturally curly hair that has high porosity.
Although I have refrained from using direct heat throughout my entire natural hair journey, I have permanently colored my hair. Aside from genetics, the chemicals in hair dye have contributed to me having raised, damaged cuticles. As a result, my curls also have the following characteristics:
- Frizzy
- Dry
- Coarse
Frizz
High porosity hair sucks up any bit of moisture it can find in the atmosphere. For this reason, frizz happens. To combat that halo atop the crown of my head, I use an anti-humectant product to seal in moisture. Anti-humectants prevent moisture from the air from entering the hair shaft and causing strands of hair to expand and lose definition.
For some naturals, this is when non water-soluble silicones come into play. In 2015 I had sworn off using silicones as much in my regimen, as they can clog my scalp, which isn’t great for someone who wants their hair to grow at a healthy rate. To combat this, I’ll sometimes skip pre-pooing and jump straight to clarifying with a good pH-balancing shampoo on days I use a styling product with silicones.Lanolin and beeswax not only block humidity from entering, but fight frizz. When applied in sections, a wax can add incredible definition and clumping to my head of high porosity curls. Certain fatty alcohols also have the same effect on porous hair, making for great styling ingredients.
I usually wash and condition my hair at night before bed, sealing with a moisturizing butter and oil blend. This gives plenty of time for the cocktail to penetrate deep into my hair shaft and replenish any weakened curls. At night, put my hair in a multi-pineapplebecause a single one doesn’t do any justice for my haircut. If you’re a crazy sleeper like I am, put a satin cap over your entire head and wrap a satin scarf around your edges. This will further fight a chance of frizz the next morning.
Dryness/Coarseness
High porosity hair absorbs water quickly; it also loses it just as fast. This results in hair that feels dry, coarse, and brittle to the touch. Choosing a reliable leave-in conditioner with slippery, hydrating emollients will be just the refreshment porous hair needs on most days.
By nature, textured hair has a hard time retaining moisture throughout the entire length of the strand compared to straight hair. Because of this, I try not to go without getting trims every four months or so to preserve my hair’s overall health.
Twice a month, a good deep condition with hydrolyzed proteins is also imperative to softening and strengthening my curls. This makes for easier manipulation throughout the weeks, only having to rely on co-washing and moisturizing to re-define.In order to make sure I’m paying equal attention to each high porosity curl in my head, a twist-out, Bantu knot-out, or twist-and-curl are reliable ways to evenly distribute moisture to dry curly hair. An added benefit is that these styles give naturals a damage-free stretch to their usual curl pattern.
Do you have high porosity hair?
Let me know how you combat frizz and dryness. Keep up with me @DevriVelazquez | Photos by @reesevphoto with @PsycheJewelry[prodmod]
What these recipes will do:
- balance your scalp’s natural oil production
- lower DHT levels, promoting hair growth
- reduce the risk of infection and allergic skin reactions
- restore your hair’s natural luster
Rosemary oil is an incredibly powerful and potent; It is green in appearance with thin, needle-like leaves with a deep, pungent smell. Note that rosemary–like other essential oils–should be used in conjunction with a carrier (or base”> oil in order to be applied directly to the skin. This essential oil has the ability to fight off fungal and bacterial infections, containing a high amount of the antioxidant ORAC, a free radical fighting agent that helps curb inflammatory reactions that those with skin sensitivities deal with. This includes scalp fungus folliculitis (scalp bacteria”> which cause itchiness. Rosemary is also known to lower DHT, improving hair growth and reducing premature baldness or gray hair.
For an oily, greasy scalp, a carrier oil like jojoba, coconut, or sweet almond will balance your scalp’s natural sebum production while moisturizing your strands. It is known to also promote stronger, healthier hair and at the same time, help fight against toxic environmental factors that also cause the greasy feeling. These recipes also work well after taking down a protective style like a sew-in or Marley twists.DIY Rosemary Scalp Rinse
1. Crush fresh rosemary in your hands to bring out the aroma.
2. Place the crushed herbs into a glass bottle and fill with a carrier oil of your choice (almond, olive, coconut oil”>.
3. Store the bottle away in a cool, dark place for 2 to 4 weeks.
4. Apply the infused rosemary oil directly onto your scalp. It can be strained and used as a hot oil treatment for weekly deep conditioning, or as a pre-poo treatment before clarifying with a sulfate shampoo for your greasy, oily hair.
DIY Rosemary ACV Rinse
1. Crush fresh rosemary and add to a jar of apple cider vinegar. 2. Follow the same steps as the oil and store in a cool, dark space for 2-4 weeks. 3. Shampoo hair with a lathering sulfate shampoo. 4. Mix 1/4 cup of your rosemary vinegar to 1 cup of water and apply directly to your scalp. Don’t rinse out this This is best used as a gentle cleanser, a hair treatment for Ph balance, or for shine and conditioning.Now Foods Essential Oils, Rosemary, retails for around $6.10 in the U.S. You can get this at the all-natural section of your grocery or wellness store.
1. Introduce yourself!
My name is Jewellianna and I am originally from Washington DC but moved to Maryland in 2005! Last May, I graduated from Salisbury University where I majored in Psychology. Since graduating, I lived in Washington DC for a few months but now I am living back in Maryland. And just a few weeks ago, I started a new job at a real estate agency. Oh and my hair–I am not a fan of the hair typing system.2. Why did you start a YouTube channel, and what is your main focus?
I wanted there to be a way for me to answer questions from my Instagram followers. I originally started an Instagram to connect with my friends, but soon I started to get lots of questions from people about my hair. YouTube was a way for me to share my knowledge and experiences with people in an easier, more informative way. I never expected for my channel to grow so much and I am so thankful to my friends and supporters on Instagram for pushing me to make a YouTube channel. Many of my YouTube videos are about natural hair care and beauty in general.
3. What makes you feel beautiful?
What makes me feel beautiful is self-love. I don’t care if I’ve spent hours doing my hair, makeup, and picking out the best outfit; if I don’t have self-love, then nothing in the mirror will make me feel beautiful. For me, self-love comes from accepting the fact that I have many flaws and that I will never be the most beautiful, outgoing, friendliest, or successful person. To truly love myself in all of my entirety, I must accept and love my flaws, past mistakes, and faults because they are JUST as important in making me the individual that I am as my more positive and admirable qualities. Honestly, self-love is what makes me feel beautiful.
When I look for confidence or reassurance in external sources or people, sooner or later I am always disappointed.
4. Where do you draw your confidence from?
I draw my confidence from within. When I look for confidence or reassurance in external sources or people, sooner or later I am always disappointed. I have come to know that everything that I need to be at peace and to be confident in myself, is within me. Reading about spirituality, inner peace, and inner growth, spending time alone and away from electronics, being around positive people, and giving love, makes me feel confident. When I spend too much time tuned into other people’s lives on social media and not enough time with myself and my inner needs, I start to lose focus and purpose and that is when the insecurities begin. Don’t get me wrong, I love social media and going out with people, but becoming too immersed in it and relying on it for happiness takes a toll on my confidence and inner wellbeing.
5. Who is your celeb crush?
I actually don’t watch television at all–I haven’t owned one in 5 years. I usually am not ‘keeping up with’ the latest trends or celebrities. And I actually don’t consider myself a stylish or trendy person either. I usually just wear whatever is in my closet and is going to flatter my body. I will do hair and makeup that I know will work. I am trying to be more experimental and I’m trying to step up my game with my style, hair, and beauty this year; so we will see.
6. What’s the worst thing someone has said to you about your hair?
My hair has been called a disgusting mess, fake, too much, ridiculous, nappy, etc. These are all things that people have said online. Most people don’t say mean things in person. Sometimes, when I am sitting in public, I will hear people behind me talking about my “weave” and how it is just “too much” for them. Of course, these people don’t think that I can hear them, or maybe they don’t care? But most of the negative comments are about the volume of my hair and how it is “too much” for them. It’s understandable though because I know that I do have a massive amount of hair and sometimes it’s a lot for me also!
7. How do you deal with online trolls and haters? Do you respond or just ignore them?
I used to respond to them, but never in an aggressive way. One of the worst things about social media is how the internet causes a disconnect between two sentient human beings. It creates this illusion that because I am on the internet, that I am different; and some people forget that I live a regular life and that the internet doesn’t take away my emotions and feelings. I am a very loving and friendly person so I used to get so caught off guard when people would react to me in a very unloving and unfriendly manner or when people would misunderstand my intentions. When I see negative comments, I know that they are always coming from people who aren’t completely happy with themselves or their lives; only hurt people will hurt people. There isn’t a single person who is truly confident, full-filled, and filled with self-love who will purposefully bring down another person. So I realized that reacting in an unloving way to a person who is lacking in love in some way–whether it is self-love or external love–isn’t appropriate. Now I just ignore negative comments. If I could, I would honestly give each of them a hug and a compliment because I know that love is all they need!
8. What do you hope to accomplish in your career?
I don’t have a clear plan for my future right now because I haven’t found my true passion yet. But my top dream job right now would be to become a college professor! I love to educate people and I love the freedom and creativity of being a college professor and how they can choose how they teach their classes. I was lucky to have amazing college professors who have made a huge impact on my life, and I would love to do the same! I think a little part of me would also like to become a successful YouTuber. I like how I have a more intimate connection with my subscribers right now. A part of me is afraid of what comes with being a successful a YouTuber, which is being held up on a pedestal while underneath a microscope. But the more that I grow and develop, the less afraid I will be of taking chances and being criticized, judged, and misunderstood.
Follow me @jewejewebee on Instagram & subscribe to my channel, JeweJewe Bee.
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Hey, Naturally Curly world! Devri here. I recently got temporary faux locs installed, and I loved them!
There are, however, five things I realized were important to have done beforehand in order to make it an even more seamless install next time. In the words of DJ Khaled here are my 5 “Major Keys” for a successful faux locs install.
1. Protect your hairline.
I had my stylist do the crochet braiding technique for a more natural appearance of my faux locs. This was my first time trying it, and frankly, it hurt my scalp way more than other techniques we’ve used. If your stylist is yanking too hard on your scalp to keep the extension hair in place, don’t be afraid to let them know! If you notice your baby hair has little white bulbs, that means your hair is being pulled too tightly, which might result in unnecessary hair fall or in the long run, thinning.
2. Clean and hydrate your scalp.
Think of your natural hair as a blank canvas for some amazing art that’s about to happen. This art is meant to be protective, encouraging hair growth while taking a break from manipulation. Make sure you properly cleanse and hydrate it beforehand; I usually pre-poo and clarify the night prior to my appointment.
3. Stay moisturized.
Again, you don’t want anymore manipulation than what is needed to install your faux locs–the less, the better. Do yourself a favor and deep condition or do a hot oil treatment on your hair the day before. Drink plenty of water, too, to allow the proper bloodflow to your scalp, which not only promotes healthy hair growth, but eases the manipulation.
4. Avoid the headache.
This doesn’t get talked about a lot in the community, but all that tension on your scalp can do a number on your head. I get painful headaches, and if I don’t take two ibuprofen about an hour beforehand, count me out of a long three-hour (or sometimes longer”> protective style installation.
5. Detangle beforehand.
Trust me, your hairstylist won’t have mercy on your tender headedness. The crochet technique is a little different than others; it requires literal crocheting of the hair into your existing cornrows. It’s better to do the detangling yourself, so it’s a seamless installation that won’t leave your scalp in pain.
Have you rocked faux locs yet?
Tell us your experience! Subscribe to The Twist by NaturallyCurly on YouTube.,0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15″>; margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% – 2px”>;” data-instgrm-version=”6″>
Are you getting bored with styling your wavy bob (wob”> every single day?
If you’re a low-maintenance kind of girl when it comes to beauty, these 3 simple looks are perfect for you. All you need are 3 bobby pins to freshen up your wob. These looks are also great if you are attempting to grow out your bob and want to creatively hide your split ends in the front without resorting to scissors. Our type 2 editor Susonnah shows you how.
1. Condition your hair.
Susonnah uses Mop Top Daily Conditioner. It is protein rich and contains soothing botanicals, ideal for helping natural definition bounce back without a lot of manipulation.
2. Apply a creamy leave-in and detangle.
While your wavy hair is still wet in the shower, apply a quarter sized amount of Karen’s Body Beautiful Sweet Ambrosia Leave-in Conditioner in the hair. It has slip and is light, making it great for detangling looser curl patterns.
3. Air dry and lightly scrunch hair.
To speed up the process, Susonnah puts on her Studio Dry Hair Drying Gloves while lightly gripping each clump of waves. They are fast-absorbing and will encourage natural definition without causing frizz that a terry cloth towel or t-shirt tend to do.
4. Apply a light hold styling product.
Using DevaCurl Light Defining Gel, twirl a few pieces in the front for a more structured wave. Run a thin layer of AG Hair Cosmetics Beach Bomb–it is alcohol-free and infused with keratin, guaranteeing a lasting natural bounce to the wave and sheen that will last for a couple of days.
The looks
- Casual & Chic: Place 3 bobby pins next to each other, parallel, on a front section of waves.
- Flirty & Fun: Take a front section of waves and twist it to the back center of your head. Use 3 bobby pins spaced out to keep the twist in place.
- Pretty & Glam: Grab a front section of waves (or your bangs”> and gently pull it up and back on the top of your head to form a slight bump. Space out the 3 bobby pins to keep the ends in place.
Is Susonnah your hair twin?
Explain the look Johnny created for tonight’s show.
This is like a goddess bun. A loose bun, with the plump braids. It’s a very regal updo. I think everyone with texture can do it at home, no matter the size or length of their curls.
What is it really like being a textured hair model?
How do you describe your hair?
When it’s stretched out, my hair is down to my waist. I have cut layers in it, but it’s pretty much there. I don’t do the hair type thing. The whole ‘I’m in this box–you’ll never see me do that’. Also, the shrinkage is real. But all the time, you learn to work with it.
What are your own hair goals for 2016?
My goal is to get all my hair down to my tailbone; I made this vow when I started this journey to go back to my roots. When the hairstylist messed up my hair that one time, that was kind of a great opportunity to transition and just go for it.
What does your hair love and hate?
My hair goes through cycles, depending on the season, my diet, and other factors. I stick to basics for the most part; I love extra virgin olive oil and shea butter. I also really like some products from Carol’s Daughter Hair Milk collection. I’m not someone who gets the whole line–I think it’s important to use what you need, even if it is one or two products and not the entire collection. I recently got sick and was very tender headed, and it was hard to do certain things to my hair. It all just depends on what my hair responds to in that moment.
Are you excited about walking the runway tonight?
I am so enjoying myself. I love looking around the room and seeing so many afro-textured women of all various textures and colors, feeling empowered. We’re about to go up on stage and show the community. I am so excited!
Follow Tessa on Instagram @Afroista | Visit Tessa’s blog, Afroista.com
Valentine’s day should be celebrated with one thing in mind: love. You love your naturally curly, wavy, and coily hair–and we do, too! But what does your significant other think of that fabulous texture of yours?
Even if you don’t have a significant other, it’s always interesting to know what others around you are thinking when they come in contact with you.
In this amazingly adorable video recently posted by DevaCurl, one bashful sandwich maker recalls his regular encounters with a customer who has thick, curly hair. “There’s a girl who comes to my work a lot now, with curly hair. I’ve been trying to talk to her for weeks. There’s not a lot of words between us, but she kinda does the googly eyes thing with me, and I look at her–then she orders a weird sandwich. Someday, I’ll talk to her. “
One woman proclaims her love for the way curly girls’ hair smells, and how it’s much better than those with straight hair. She even breaks out into a dance because the smells are just that good.
A buff wavy haired man also professes his obsession with naturally curly women–and a tactic for meeting singles in the area. “When I see a girl with curly hair walking down the street, my immediate thought is, How do I get to know her? Is she on Tinder?”
One man enjoys getting his fingers caught in the crown of her curls. And another lists curly hair as the top attribute a woman could have. “You have curly hair, that’s the sexiest thing. Number 1, awesome hair!”
Even the husband of our very own naturally curly contributor Rochelle (DiscoCurls”> admits that her head of hair attracted him to her more after she went natural. “When we first met, she actually had straight hair. When she had her naturally curly hair, it’s like I fell in love with her all over again. I just think that naturally curly hair is beautiful.”
Another man says, “Natural beauty is the way to go. Just do you, booboo.”
On Valentine’s Day, the men in this video encourage you to avoid straightening your hair or altering your curls. They love your unique head of hair the way it is! And we do, too.
Have you used rice milk yet?
Made from milled rice and water, this starch is great for curlies with protein-sensitive strands who still desire a creamy, shine-enhancing conditioner recipe to make at home free of chemicals. Rice milk is super slippery, which makes it a naturally wonderful knot detangler. An alternative milk for those who don’t drink soy, cow, or almond milk due to allergy or dietary reasons, rice milk contains a number of important nutrients like niacin, vitamin B-6, iron, copper, and magnesium. , according to LiveStrong. Rice milk does not contain lactose or cholesterol, which are found in cow’s milk. Wheat germ oil has age-defying qualities, according to Bustle‘s Kristin Collins. It is also rich in essential vitamins that repair damaged or weakened hair.What You Need
- One cup of plain rice milk
- One tablespoon wheat germ oil
- One tablespoon amla oil
- 2 tablespoons of apricot, lime, or grapefruit essential oils (used in this recipe as preservatives”>
- 25% of a ripe banana
Directions
1. Purée the ingredients into a fine cream.
2. Apply the cream evenly to freshly cleansed hair, from ends to roots, finger detangling from the ends up to the roots.
3. If using as a daily conditioner, rinse out after thoroughly distributing throughout hair until water runs clear.
4. If using as a deep conditioner, keep this in your hair for 30 minutes or so and then rinse and follow-up with a cleansing conditioner.
This can be stored in a spray bottle because of its thinner consistency, making for an easy application to tangles if used as a detangler.
Have you made this? Tell us how it works for your hair!
Find the original recipe for this conditioner on Curly Demure (it has been altered for those with protein sensitive hair”>.
This has been the effect of using Killer Curls by Kevin Murphy just one time.
What the label says:
A leave-in anti-frizz curl defining creme. For medium to coarse, curly or wavy hair. Paraben free. Directions: Apply to towel dried or damp hair and scrunch to activate curl.
The active ingredients are water, lanolin wax, propylene glycol, and cetearyl alcohol. Together, these ingredients create the perfect frizz-fighting, curl-defining creamy substance that is light and ideal for helping curly girls like myself keep their volume and clumped curls at the same time. It’s a killer combo, no pun intended.
What Killer Curls looks, feels, and smells like
A fine milky liquid that feels sticky when pumped onto the pads of my fingers. The Helichrysum essential oil (“everlasting” oil”> scent is potent–herbal, musky with honey tea undertones.
First impressions
This product without a doubt gives me luxurious vibes. It comes in a modern mint green geometric shaped bottle that I wouldn’t mind proudly displaying in my shower or on the bathroom counter. It stands up with an easy pump nozzle that gives me easy access to controlling the amount I want to use.
How I applied Killer Curls
1. Right after co-washing and detangling my curls in the shower, I rinsed one time with lukewarm water but didn’t reach for my towel yet.
2. Using the pads of my fingers only, I pumped enough cream to coat them all after getting out the shower.
3. Running them through mainly the ends of my hair and my problem area of frizz at the crown, I gently twirled each section (think: creating bantu knots”>.4. Then, I grabbed my towel and scrunched the excess water and product out until it didn’t feel as sticky in my hair and there was no more white residue.
5. Normally I would finish my wash and go style with a light oil to seal, but this time I wanted to see how Killer Curls stood on its own.
Where you can get Killer Curls
On the Kevin Murphy website. Yes, it’s about $34 for 6.7 ounces, but a little goes a long way. Like I mentioned before, only a few pumps over the pads of my fingers to smooth my frizz was enough application to last an entire week.
Have you tried Killer Curls?
Let me know what you thought in the comment section! And follow me @DevriVelazquez for more curly inspiration!
Admittedly, I didn’t actually watch the 2016 Screen Actors Guild Awards.
What I did do, however, was troll the blogs and social media to weigh in on the most beautiful red carpet hair. And I think the public vote on who stole the award show’s spotlight has been clear.
Curly hair as a…fashion statement?
While Gaby Hoffmann made Entertainment Weekly’s ‘Best Dressed’ list for “rocking carefree disco curls,” paired with a bronze sequin dress to round off the look. The NaturallyCurly world was being wooed by Girls actress Gaby Hoffmann. Who said curly or frizzy hair was unprofessional, unkempt, and ill-prepared for a glamorous Hollywood event? Surely not Hoffmann. And we don’t think so, either.
I’m human–I have hair.
Known for taking a defensive stance about her hair in the past, Gaby is no stranger to various critiques made by anyone from close industry colleagues to social media bullies. “I’m human, I have hair,” the New Yorker has said in response to fans inquiring about her Girls character, Caroline, wearing purposely poofy and visibly unbrushed naturally wavy-curly hair.
Her curls are a classic
Born into a Bohemian society at growing up in the Chelsea Hotel with her mother, Hoffmann has never felt the need to apologize for qualities that others have called out as ‘typically feminist’ or ‘radical’. After spending nearly 15 years away from the Hollywood life since appearing in such classics like Now and Then, Sleepless in Seattle and Field of Dreams, Gaby has re-emerged as a fan favorite to the Girls club. Still, the haters have always loved lurking around. “You know what’s great for feminism?” she asked The Debrief. “Respecting everybody’s own choice.”
Social media’s stance
When she appeared on the red carpet this past weekend for the 2016 SAG Awards, social media had much to say about her happily flowing cropped curls. One follower asked Twitter, “Why does Gaby Hoffmann always look like someone took a knife to her hair?” Another poses the question, “Can somebody take away Gaby Hoffmann’s SAG card please? #NoOffense #OrWhatever #SorryImNotSorry #YouCantDoThatOnTelevision.”
Redefining natural hair’s role on the red carpet
Those of us who support Gaby’s embrace of self in her natural beauty applause the actress. One Twitter follower shares our sentiments, saying “ugh, Gaby Hoffmann has wonderful hair… #obvious.” Hopefully more women in the industry will, like Hoffmann, make the choice to show off the hair that grows from their hair as it actually appears without any heat alterations on the red carpet.
If you haven’t deep treated your dry natural hair with coconut milk yet, you’re truly missing out. But if the sound of opening a canned food item and pouring it over your hair in the shower doesn’t sound appealing, we totally understand. This milky liquid is squeezed from the nutmeat of the coconut seed, which is found on a coconut tree.
For curly hair it’s extremely effective in providing slip, moisture, and definition that lasts days on end.
Do you want to benefit from the following attributes that this nature-made goodie without heading to the canned goods aisle? These hair products are formulated to be used specifically on your textured hair–and contain coconut milk. On your product ingredient list, look for cocos nucifera.
MYHoneyChild Coconut Hair Milk
For natural hair that frizzes up at the hint of a drop of moisture in the air, this refreshing hair milk will prevent that from happening. At the same time, it won’t make your curls feel greasy or weighed down. The glycerin acts as a barrier to seal in moisture for a prolonged period of time, so you won’t have to co-wash the very next day after applying this on wash day. Olive oil will deeply penetrate even the thickest, fullest head of hair all the way to the root.
Honey Baby Naturals Honey Sweet Softening Conditioner
Breakage can be a big deal while detangling curly hair, whether it is soaking wet or dry. This conditioner doubles as a detangling treat for hair that is particularly dry and matted. It also has organic honey that’s known as a powerful natural humectant to give parched hair a boost of moisture. The milk protein strengthens weak or damaged curls, making detangling knots a super simple and pain-free task.
TreLuxe Curl Supreme Styling Creme
If you are still deciding if a cream-gel is for your hair, this product will likely sway you to be in favor. The aloe vera leaf juice coconut milk, and rice amino extracts make it the total package for inducing curl-quenching hydration and strength. Your curls will have just enough bounciness for the perfect looking wash-and-go, in addition to hold that will allow your curls to expand throughout the day as they dry without flaking up or losing volume.
Organix Nourishing Coconut Milk Shampoo
Most of us with naturally curly and textured hair don’t wash our hair often. If you fall in that ‘low-poo’ category, you understand the importance of making your wash day worth it. This shampoo will wipe away the impurities of your scalp–buildup from products, the environment, and its natural oils–with this refreshing concoction. Egg white proteins will help rebuild the structure of brittle curls that have suffered from color treated damage. It’s water-based, so it won’t be as harsh as some shampoos.
Renpure Coconut Milk Nourishing Shampoo
There aren’t many shampoos that are both cleansing and creamy but without a lather. This one seals in moisture while delivering the necessary nutrients to hair that is dried out and damaged. It also contains seaweed and red algae that have been proven to make textured hair more defined naturally without a leftover crunchy feeling.
Thinking of making a homemade coconut milk hair cleanser?
Use this recipe by Adore Botanicals for CurlyNikki.com.
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