Search Results: Devri Velazquez
ECOCO’s Eco Style is arguably one of the most popular styling gels for transitioning naturals–but things just changed.
Known for providing some of the most trustworthy curl definition and elongation for transitioners with limp and frizzy hair, Ecoco just released two updates to their famed Eco Style Gel less than a week ago. “If I have to be on an island by myself, Eco Style is coming with me–that’s how tough I rock for Ecostyler,” says YouTube content creator CurlDaze. Per product junkie protocol, we have searched near and far and cannot seem to get our hands on the already sold-out additional stylers, but there is plenty of buzz online generated by those who were lucky enough to grab a jar or two.
Here is what we know so far:
- The jar of green gooey stuff now includes a jar that contains castor oil and flaxseed, and one with coconut oil.
- Both are considered on ‘level 10’ for hold.
- The consistencies are thicker than the original Eco Style, with different fragrance. Many bloggers claim to enjoy the flaxseed scent.
- Your coils will be softer and free from a gel cast. Unlike the previous Eco Style gel, these will not leave you with the stiff, crunchy, noodle-like elongation that many transitioners tend to confuse with healthy curl definition.
- The new formulations might not be ideal to cocktail with. Some YouTubers have mentioned that they noticed some residue when using the product in conjunction with an old favorite like the SheaMoisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie.
- They can be used as edge tamers, like most Ecoco stylers.
How to get your best results
- On soaking wet, washed hair, section off your coils into quadrants, focusing on one at a time.
- Finger twirl the product into your hair from the root to tip. Diffuse your hair on low heat on the warm setting, focusing on each quadrant.
- Lightly mist your edges with a spray bottle of water.
- Comb in a gentle upward, swooping motion.
- Smooth back with a gel-coated palm.
Watch these reviews and tutorials for more results:
Thinking about picking up one of the new Eco Style gels?
Let us know which jar you use, and post your results on StyleNook.
In the age of viral photos and social media, those hoping to satisfy their craving for staying on trend can go awry when they don’t possess the proper knowledge needed before trying a product. We feel the itch of curiosity for a new look, but when budget factors in many seek to go the most affordable, cost-effective route.
Boxed, store-bought hair dye has always been an accessible route for young people who don’t have the resources to book an appointment with a professional colorist, which brings me to the latest public visual to bring light to the dangers: Tylah Durie. The Australian 16-year-old was hospitalized this week after attempting to tint her eyebrow hair and lashes at home, which gave her severe chemical burns to her eyeballs as well as an extreme allergic reaction to her face and eyelids.
“My eyes had blown up like huge balloons,” Durie told Yahoo! Beauty. “I was screaming and crying. My mum said I looked like a frog because my eyebrows were folded over and my eyes were horribly swollen.”
What causes an allergic reaction?
The chemical p-phenylenediamine, short for ‘PPD’ in the hair and beauty industry, is an organic compound often found in permanent and natural hair dyes to assist in preserving the life of the color after multiple washes and styling. While it is considered to have a low toxicity level, PPD is a known irritant and allergen. It is important to do a patch test before applying a product containing PPD to your scalp, skin, and hair. According to dermatologist Dr. Debra Jaliman, severe hair allergic reactions affect about one in 250,000 people. “To be allergic to something, usually your immune system has to come in contact with it and decide it doesn’t like it,” she says. “Depending on how sensitive your system is, the allergy may develop more slowly than others.”
Tylah isn’t the only recent victim of a hair dye job gone wrong…
Back in August the internet went crazy for the “Chillest Korean Dude Ever,” who documented his horrible salon coloring experience in an unfortunate string of images which showed the world an allergic reaction literally ballooning, right before our eyes.
How to avoid having an allergic reaction to your hair color
Fortunately, both people started showing signs of improvement, but of course, everyone should aim to avoid the above scenarios altogether. This requires spending time doing the following things:
1. Always do a patch test.
This is necessary, especially when you are attempting to dye your hair at home. Experts at Renee Rouleau say “the side of the neck is a good starting point for true compatibility because it’s thinner and generally more reactive. The idea is that if it can be tolerated on your neck, then you can feel confident that it will be okay on the face. Also, should you encounter a negative reaction such as an itchy, red rash, you might want it to appear on the neck rather than on your face.” Wait 24 hours after a patch test to ensure that you do not have a reaction, as allergies develop more slowly for some than others. Do not skip this step.2. Research the ingredients label.
Don’t assume that because a product is sold in stores that it will be safe for you to use. Our bodies react to chemicals in different ways, and people with compromised immune systems should take extra precaution, as they are at risk for not having the ability to fight off infections or allergic reactions as easily.
3. Keep up with new formulations from your favorite brands.
Just because you have used a brand once (or many times”> does not mean that you can blindly trust that it will work for you. Brands are regularly reformulating their products, so make sure to stay aware of current package labeling.How to alleviate an allergic reaction
- apple cider vinegar
- aloe vera
- oatmeal
- baking soda
Have you ever developed an allergic reaction to hair dye?
Per usual, New York Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2017 is already serving up all of the beauty and style inspiration and typically, I am so here for the individuality in expression.
For some reason, however, we aren’t quite sure what to make of the following head-scratchers, erm, trends. Will they pick up steam and actually take the upcoming season by storm–as told to us by celebrity hair stylists and fashion tastemakers? Or will they pass by along with the rest of the hype once the week finishes wrapping up? Personally, I am still undecided on two of the three, but we shall wait and see. (In the meantime, let us know your take on Facebook.”>
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“The Good, The Bad and the Ugly”
No joke, that is the actual name of this style, created behind the stage by Amika lead stylist James Pecis under the direction of Adam Selman, a man we can thank for some of Rihanna’s most notable hairstyles.
This particular look, best suited on people with type 1 straight to type 2b wavy hair, is “western-inspired” according to Pecis. “There’s a bit of a western-feel where the hair’s rolled in a pompadour kind of way—but it should have a little bit of a tousled look to it.” To finish the look, the pro suggests leaving some bottom pieces of hair out so that “when you roll the bun, there’s some hair that also sticks out the back. It’s just really fun and soft.” For more volume, create big curls with a 32mm curling iron assisted by the Amika Un.Done Texture Spray used on the entire length of the hair.
- Tip: Women hoping to catch the attention of NYFW street style photographers’, keep extra bobby pins on hand just in case your roll tries to frizz up or unravel throughout the hectic day.
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“The Mini Mullet”
The New York Times, Harper’s Bazaar, and Glamour among other popular publications called it months ago and now it has been proven true: mullets are back. They are trying really hard, anyway–think Florence Henderson during the height of popularity on The Brady Bunch. Retro and edgy vibes are created with a chili bowl cut on top and longer razor-thin sides hanging over the ears. Sies Marjan, Off-White, Creatures of the Wind, and Alexander Wang are just some of the designers who chose to present this look to pair perfectly with their latest collections during Fashion Week. Celebrity hair stylist Orlando Pita creates the mini mullet on his models using a single bobby pin and dry shampoo for more of a tousled, undone look.- Tip: For those in a rush to beat the traffic and make a statement at the show’s front row, this look thrives on the ‘dirty’ look, so not washing your hair before the big event works just fine.
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“Frizzy, slept-in braids”
On Day 1 of Fashion Week, Ane Amour hair stylist Laurent Dufourg gave a messy touch to all of their models for the big show.
Adorned with headpieces that draped over the forehead, the #DaughtersofArtemis theme spanned across women of all hair textures and lengths, playing with just the right balance of drama and nature. As we find ourselves taking our caps and beanies off with each hour, this trend might just stick while the weather continues playing indecisive and we try our best to remain fashionable and warm simultaneously.
- Tip: Fashionistas with finer strands can use a backcomb with a light spritz of hairspray for a natural-looking hold that will last as the show schedule continues. Higher porosity and coarser hair textures can rely on second-day fishtail braids–and the humidity levels–for enhancing frizz.
Will you be rocking any of these hairstyle trends in 2017?
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As all of my thrifted items enhance my freedom of expression, I am able to hold parts of myself that I so desperately want to keep in this crazy world.
Pops taught me the art of the thrift
I picked up the habit of thrift–I call it an art–from my father during my childhood. He taught my sister and I how to look for good deals in clothing, home decor, and other items, by taking our time perusing locally-owned shops and doing comparisons before committing to a decision.
It gives me a chance to escape…
Even if it’s for a short period of time, I enjoy the story that each thrifted piece of clothing tells. I especially like taking on a new persona each time I wear it. Thrifting lets me take on a new persona each time, which is why it will never get old. Finding the perfect pair of pants or picture frame is the best feeling ever because to me, it feels like I am closer to completing the puzzle than I was before discovering that item.
…while preserving the sacred parts of myself.
Some people I know like to take an old vintage thing and essentially destroy it to call their own, and there’s nothing wrong with that. However, part of the thrill of thrifting for me has been to collect and preserve the item just the way its original owner would have liked. On the other hand, I understand that it was something that the said owner was OK with getting rid of, so in a way, I am turning one man’s trash into my personal treasure–therefore, I will cherish it with the utmost dignity and respect. This is my self-care… it’s so necessary.
How do you practice self-care?
Watch other self-care rituals from some of our editors here.
Subscribe to NaturallyCurly’s YouTube page here
Follow Devri on Instagram @devrivelazquez | photos taken by @Monique_RDZ
Although it appears effortless at times, trust me when I say that being a fearless black woman is no easy feat. One thing I find incredibly powerful is being able to show support to like-minded women within the community so that we can all continue to strive to work towards the purpose for which we were placed on this Earth to fulfill. It is so necessary. I recently sat down to chat with WEtv star Mushiya Tshikuka of Cutting It In the ATL and here, I break down her advice into five must-know tips for balancing the operation of a successful black-owned business while maintaining a happy home.
I woke up one day knowing what my purpose was: to inspire and build women with confidence and self-esteem so they can know they can achieve their own purpose in life.
My mom knew how to do hair and initially taught me how to do hair, but she didn’t do it as a profession. She’s actually a French professor. But I started doing hair when I was small, like 12 or 13 years old.
It all started with my parents…
My attitude and in-your-face style came from my parents and being at home. They always told me I could do whatever. “You look stunning today,” my mom would tell me. This confidence has translated into a [sense of] fearlessness and confidence to do anything I want to in life. I know how it works–but guess what, I want to do it this way.
And now, I’m running a thriving brand.
I am from Congo but I came to the states about 15 years ago. I went to Canada then worked in New York to create my brand name and further my career. What I love about [settling down in] Atlanta is that it is an open city–you can make it whatever you want. Atlanta is a great place to lead a worldwide conversation.
Everything we do for The Damn Salon is outside of the box. It is a full experience–it’s about an attitude, a confidence, and that is what makes Damn, Damn! From the hairstyles, to the walls, to the way we market the brand: everything is Damn. We are always expanding, and the empire is going strong! With kinky curly extensions on the rise right now, Runway Curls is being carried in over 500 salons.
Keeping a happy home life is critical for success.
As a busy woman, the keys to a happy family unit include five roles you need to play for your husband: the trophy wife, the maid, the slut, the friend, and the business partner. We, as women, ask for complicated (and sometimes psychotic”> requests. We run the world, and we define the dynamic of the relationship by giving a man these simple things that he requires.
At home, I am obsessed with cooking for my family and eating a healthy cuisine–I am not a fan of eating at chain restaurants. Some of my favorite dishes include seafood, lobster, scallops, crab…I love a good fillet mignon.
The only difference between you and me is that I KNOW I can.
I want to use my platform to build up powerful women.
I woke up one day knowing what my purpose was: to inspire and build women with confidence and self-esteem so they can know they can achieve their own purpose in life. I take every opportunity and platform that is given to me to fulfill my own. The most important meaning is to inspire other women to be great and love themselves. My goal is to just to have bigger and great platforms to do so on an even bigger scale.
I always aim to have daily, weekly, and monthly resolutions. A lot of things don’t change for ‘New Year’s Resolutions’. Take your greater purpose and break it down into [granular] tasks you can–and will–accomplish. In my twenty-five years of experience, I can say one of the things that inspires me the most is affecting people, instilling hope and belief in oneself. It is a powerful tool. I see that I have the ability to stand in front of a little girl, and it is powerful.
Everything is authentic–including my doll and hair extension companies.
Even my dolls are accurate representations of little black girls. I knew that if I had this same problem, there are others having the same problem, so I decided to create a line of dolls for girls like mine. Our dolls have 100% naturally kinky hair from the collection, which has solved so many problems for customers.
We move so fast and we work so hard with this, so I see many things happening in this movement. The Runway Curls line is close to my heart bc a lot of women wear extensions, so I say, let’s celebrate our hair! I only have kinky hair [in my line because] it is super important that the hair requires the same amount of care as our real hair. Someone can seamlessly blend the extensions with their own hair instead of having to press that section of the hair; it is versatile.
The key to a fulfilled life is philanthropy.
My kids were part of the process of doll-making. They drew the doll on a white board when we went to the designer with our ideas. They were excited when they chose the material, and I even named the dolls after them.
This is what it takes to achieve complete happiness. One of my passions is singing. I always attach a song to everything I do. I did one called My Natural Girl about a girl who is greatness personified. All she invokes is greatness. I wanted mothers to hear the song so they could know the power of speaking words. It’s for both of them.
Follow Mushiya on Instagram @mushiyatshikuka and Devri @DevriVelazquez
I have dyed my hair a total of four times and I have cut it twice. The reason is because, like most people, I got tired of it looking a certain way.”
Undoing decades of being brainwashed into thinking that your natural hair was somehow incorrect and needed to be fixed is one hefty habit to break.
Once you overcome that hurdle and make a full transition into wearing your unaltered hair with confidence, it can also be a bit exhausting keeping up with the ever changing trends in hairstyles, product options, and techniques talked about and passed around within the community. Dealing with these things could make anyone want to give up on their journey–and rightfully so. Just ask Ambria, a YouTube creator who can thank the natural hair community for gaining leverage in the world of social media influence.
“I went natural in May of 2012 and since then, I have dyed my hair a total of four times,” says Ambria. “I have cut my hair twice. The reason is because, like most people, I got tired of it looking a certain way.”
Ambria blames part of her dissatisfaction in returning natural on her obsession with length retention.
“The first couple of years of being natural I was all about length, and figuring out what type of styles I could accomplish. Then after a while, I became more focused with the health of my hair, but I still wanted to try something new.”
After switching gears to focus on the health of her texture still didn’t satisfy a craving for change, Ambria did another Big Chop. “I decided to cut my hair–into a tapered cut–and I began playing with color.” While this did the trick for a while, she quickly realized the constant maintenance that now came with the modifications.
I soon realized that having color in your hair means you have to constantly make sure your hair is moisturized…I failed to do that to the best of my ability.
Still, Ambria wasn’t ready to quit her natural hair just yet.
“To combat this, I cut off about 2 to 3 inches of my ends, which got rid of some of the color, but not all. After a while, I noticed that twist outs did not look good on me like they used to, even if I switched around products.” Once Ambria hit the styling plateau with her natural hair, her momentum had slowed down. “Pretty soon, I began wearing my hair up, tucked away or just refrained from styling it all together. I knew how much I loved my tapered cut so I decided I would get it again, but this time I would go even shorter!”Is Ambria done with natural hair for good? Nope.
Just three days ago the YouTuber Big Chopped yet again, and now feels a boost of confidence as a result in her TWA. “So, Saturday, May 7th, I got a haircut and it’s not in a TWA and I couldn’t be more happier! I feel more like myself than I ever have! I think I’ve found the style for my personality and lifestyle! “
Since the above video was posted, Ambria has continued to embrace her TWA! Below, watch her latest tutorial geared to other naturals hoping to ease their own ‘awkward phase’ in hair length.
My Dominican mom always felt that having my hair blow dried was more beautiful because no one walked around with what she’d call “un pajon.”
Growing up, it was not easy embracing my natural hair.
My Dominican mom always felt that having my hair blow dried was more beautiful because no one walked around with what she’d call “un pajon.” Whereas my dad, being Salvadoran, thought it was beautiful and different since everyone on his side of the family had straight hair. I was always confused.
SunKissAlba on YouTube really inspired me to start embracing my natural hair. Seeing her before and after pictures and listening to her talk about her journey really inspired me to start my own. I am happy I did.
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What the natural hair scene is like in D.C.
There are a lot of proud natural women where I live and that really warms my heart. Whenever I see another curly girl, I am always sure to compliment her so that she knows she is beautiful. Curly girls just click, ya know?
You can make eye contact with another curly girl and instantly y’all are low key curlfriends, haha! Many of my girlfriends now embrace their natural hair which is always a plus, too. I think curly hair is so beautiful, especially all of the different types of curls–uniqueness!,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″>
The biggest lesson I have learned in the past year
I learned to love myself and that putting myself first more often than usual isn’t selfish, nor conceited of me.
Overall, this embrace has made me more positive about my own beauty. I feel more confident now with my curly hair than when I decide to straighten it.What I wish I could tell my younger self
Don’t stress out all the time. It will eventually take its toll on you girl, so calm down!
How to keep up with my journey
If you’d like to keep up with me, follow me Instagram, snapchat, and twitter @beyondhercurls. You can also visit my fashion and hair blog, Beyond Her Curls.
Read next
I transitioned to change my Dominican family’s perspective on natural hair
I returned to my Brazilian curls roots–once I moved to America
Whenever there was a hair conversation in grade school, I never failed to hear a girl say “my scalp is like a sponge, so I have to grease it everyday.” Following that statement she would eyeball my hair and (not so”> subtley hint that I should invest in some Dax to do something about the flakes on my shirt. Little did they know I have a condition called seborrheic dermatitis. Did it ever make me self-conscious? Only when people would beg to pull flakes out of my hair. Awkward much?
What is Seborrheic Dermatitis?
Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic skin condition where your sebaceous glands overcompensate in oil production. It has been attributed to environment, general health factors, genetics, and irritation from a yeast called malassezia. In case you are wondering, yes malassezia is a categorized under the genus of fungi. Is it due to lack of hygiene? Not at all. The condition has been passed on genetically in my family.
Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic skin condition where your sebaceous glands overcompensate in oil production.
The biggest setback in attempting to stabilize my condition was going on an oil frenzy. Although a flaky scalp is commonly associated with dandruff, if you are faithfully oiling your scalp and still experience intense flaking and itching, you may have seborrheic dermatitis. Applying scalp oils with the intentions of leaving them on will only agitate the inflammation.
An increase in how often you cleanse is essential to reducing the accumulation of flakes and dissolving the excess sebum on your scalp. Below are steps to maintaining a clean scalp and moisturized tresses.
MORE: Does an Itchy Scalp Equal Hair Growth?
5 Scalp Care Tips
- Hot oil treatments: Apply oil to your scalp, cover your hair with a processing cap, and allow it to sit for 10-15 mins while either under a hooded dryer or with a warm towel. This will loosen the flakes from your scalp. Gently use the pads of your fingers to agitate scales that may be adhered to the scalp. This can also function as a great pre-poo.
- Cleanse: Co-washing will not be sufficient to remove the flakes, sebum, and the hot oil treatment. It is best to use a shampoo to lift and remove the dirt and oil. If you need a potent shampoo I suggest trying some formulated with containing coal tar, pyrithione zinc, or salicylic acid help to effectively clean the scalp. Make sure you focus on the scalp and do not overly smooth the cleanser down the length of the hair. Rubbing it along the length can cause excessive dryness and rough up the hair shaft.
- Deep condition: The shampoo will refresh your scalp but leave your hair feeling like it was put through a shredder….forward and reverse. It is inevitable that the cleanser will rinse along the length of the hair, so it’s best to follow up with a deep conditioner in order to reinforce and seal in moisture.
- Do not oil (or grease”> your scalp: If seborrheic dermatitis is a result of your scalp overproducing sebum then last thing it needs are additional oils irritating the inflammation. The hot oil treatment helps to loosen the flakes before cleansing but oil should not be applied with the intentions of not cleansing off.
- Create a cleansing regimen: Straight-hair ladies are usually encouraged to shampoo more frequently than curlies, but that is not ideal for curlies. It will only be through trial and error that you customize your regimen according to how quickly oil and flakes appear on your scalp.
What’s next?
Haven’t seen a specialist yet? Here are 15 situations where you need to see a trichologist.
This is what my wash day with seborrheic dermatitis looks like.
Here are 3 things you should never put on your scalp, according to a trichologist.
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This article was originally published in 2012 and has been updated for grammar and clarity.
Here are the top 3 trending crochet braids styles to try this fall, as well as 6 tips for maintenance and protection.
I recently caught up with Twin Cities, Minnesota-based freelance hairstylist and makeup artist, Sheri T. (@beautybysheri“>.
A self-proclaimed crochet braids connoisseur, Sheri shared with me her top-requested crochet protective hairstyles, as well as must-know tips for making them last longer while keeping your real hair truly protected.
The 3 top crochet braids trends right now
- Crochet twists: I’ve pre-twisted and curled the twists prior to installation. I think they’re unique and chic on the ladies.
- Jumbo feed-in braids: A classic for many women, natural, relaxed or transitioning.
- Versatile crochet braids: They allow for putting the installation into a ponytail, giving a more natural appearing part.
Which hair type are crochet braids better for?
I personally find it easier to work with natural, more textured hair for the reason that it is textured. The hair has a bit more grip and I feel I can manipulate it more easily than relaxed hair.
How long should a good crochet install last?
A good crochet braid install can last from a month to about a month and a half but this is also with adequate maintenance.
How can a client maintain their style?
I suggest moisturizing their hair, especially their scalp. I advise wearing the hair into a ponytail at night and/or putting on a satin bonnet or scarf to sleep.
Explain your “knotless part crochet braid” technique.
The knotless part of a crochet install is a method of installing the hair that allows for the part made to appear as if it is coming from the client’s root and scalp. This method hides the knot created from crocheting and gives a more natural appearing install. It is great especially when installing hair similar to the person’s natural hair texture or curl pattern.
How do you suggest a client keeps their real hair protected during an installation?
I always advise a client moisturizing their hair daily and if not, to do so every other day. A quick spritz to the hair and scalp [followed by] an application of the oil of their choice via a bottle with a pointy-nose nozzle.
What’s your secret for the perfectly curled crochet twists?
The trick is to give the hair ample time to dry. With good time, the hair can retain a strong, long, staying curl pattern. It is also best to curl prior to install.
Want more?
Follow Sheri on Instagram @Beautybysheri or Facebook at Beauty By Sheri.
Read my step-by-step process of maintaining Marley twists.
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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
From gold teeth to cornrows, there’s been no shortage of black youth culture appropriation. Our fashions, hairstyles, and pride are labeled ‘trendy’ through the mainstream, non-white lens.
As pieces of the black diaspora are discarded and recycled for general consumption, we–the black youth–find crevices in the Earth that allow us to live our truths without judgment, even if only for a weekend. Enter: Afropunk Festival.
“Fans Are The Bands And Bands Are The Fans.”
In 2003, a vegan tattoo artist named James Spooner created Afro-Punk, a documentary film that followed the punk lifestyle of four black people. Its popularity took hold across the globe. Soon after Afro-Punk’s 100th screening in its first year of release, Matthew Morgan noticed the film’s growing fan base.
Connecting with Spooner, both creatives decided to give the people what they wanted while staying true to their own roots. This connection resulted in Liberation Sessions, an event showcasing performances by three bands followed by the documentary film screening.
These sessions’ successful turnouts led to enthused continuations in the form of picnics at Fort Greene Park in Brooklyn. It was there that New York natives and world citizens, all adorned in a kaleidoscope of unique wares, mixed and mingled.
Following the success of both the documentary and its subsequent events, Spooner and Morgan wanted to offer fans more room for expression and connection.
After a couple of years in the making, they created a concert to rival all others: The Afropunk Festival.
No -isms Allowed
Beside each stage reads a lengthy list of things prohibited at the festival including racism, sexism and hatefulness. Basically, leave your discrimination at the door with your open cans—there’s only room for embracing positive vibes and authenticity. This year’s Afropunk Brooklyn reflected just that.
While Afropunk Festival was never intended to appeal to the masses, Spooner and Morgan understood its necessity in providing a safe space for millions of black youth with sentiments similar to its origin. What started as an indie film quickly broke out beyond the 66-minute tape roll to become a movement that is now heard and seen at events held annually in Paris, London and Brooklyn.
Afropunk has given a mic stand to a crowd that doesn’t always receive the most accurate or positive spotlight. Staying true to the original picnic-style concept, the festival has become a majestic source of all-around inspiration for the audience, the performers and the media.
I Am, We Are Afropunk
I have attended many festivals in my lifetime and I’ve yet to attend a festival that stands above Afropunk. This weekend reminded me of what I already knew but might have sailed away from within my own soul.
We must continue to live authentically and show off every color that resonates within us. Our values and morals do not have to be similar to that of ‘the mainstream.’ Popularity should never be an influence nor should it act as a barrier.
Because of this manifesto, we are deemed as punks with no purpose, rebels without a cause. Our response to pop culture is by bathing in its synthesized madness with a bold, knowing grin.
We know, feel, and revel in our truth on stages occupied by dope bands—one stage to rage to, the other to fulfill our need for nostalgia. We remove psychological and societal borders. We display our individual pictures of perfection.
It is here, at Afropunk Festival, where we delete our labels and live vibrantly, without restraint and in bold freedom. Rain or shine—we bask in the sun’s rays. Our hair stands tall and effortlessly with the elements.
Every adornment beset upon our bodies is the rawest reflection of our souls’ Southern trees, because we are not strangefruit. We are Afropunk.
Did you attend Afropunk this year?
Follow me @DevriVelazquez to see where I’m headed next! | Photos by @Stylefeen
Read my CurlFest + Essence Fest 2016 recaps!
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]
