Search Results: Devri Velazquez
#CurlBoss Isabella is an Artistic Director and true visionary in the textured hair industry. Every time I see her, those curls are always on point. She recently shared with me her unique hack for defined, frizz-free hair that lasts all day long. Here’s what this method does for curly and coily hair:
- prevents frizz
- little to no curl breakage
- seal in the moisture by locking in moisture
- smooths the curls
- distributes product evenly
- lesser amounts products are used
- doesn’t allow your hands to create unnecessary heat (this can change the structure of the gel”>
My frizz fighting weapon of choice: saran wrap.
As I was evolving with the process, there were different ways I started to try this out.
This works best for type 3 curls
1. Detangle your curls and shake them into place.
2. Divide a piece of plastic wrap in 2 (they should be about an inch bigger than your hands; this is good for grip purposes”>.
4. Lay the plastic flat on either left or right hand and put gel on that hand.
5. Lay the second piece of plastic on the other hand.
6. Rub gel over hands gently together as if it were lotion, covering both pieces of plastic.
7. Glide onto your curls, section by section.
8. Do not remove the plastic just yet–take more gel and squeeze the hair to ensure curl formation.
10. Remove plastic and let the hair either air dry or diffuse.
This works best for type 4 coils
1. With gloves on your hands, apply conditioner to wet hair.
2. Finger detangle while using gloves (this helps in preventing breakage while finger detangling.
3. Apply product on the gloves, section by section; rub together as if it were lotion (this will help with creating a smoother frizz free curl separation”>.
4. Apply an oil on the gloves and gently squeeze your hair.
5. Remove gloves and let the hair either air dry or diffuse (if using this method to create a protective style, apply foundation products with gloves. Once the hair has dried, take 2 pieces of plastic wrap and apply or spray a shine product on them and glide the pieces through your hair”>.
Follow Isabella on Instagram @curlpop_n_hair and visit her blog curlpopnhair.com
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!
My name is Erik Emblen. I am a hairstylist and the owner of Curl Culture in Denver, Colorado, and I have been doing hair for twelve years, specializing in naturally curly hair for eleven years. I have received training at the DevaCurl Academy in New York and am certified in the Ouidad Cutting Technique. Additionally, I have studied at the Vidal Sassoon Cutting Academies in London and San Francisco and have learned balayage hair coloring from the L’Oreal Soho Academy.
I have been in Denver for 26 years and recently. Throughout the nation, I’ve noticed an increase in the number of salons that offer curly hair services, but as far as I know, I’m the only hair stylist here who works exclusively with naturally curly hair.
I think that continuous education is great, and is most beneficial when it is followed by a lot of practice. I currently have about 300 curly haired clients and it seems that I have worked with every curl type there is.
Even so, I still have more to learn, and I am sure that I always will.
I am constantly trying to find new ways to simplify and enhance the ways that I cut, color and style curly hair. My goal is to help more curly girls love their hair, and I can only accomplish this by continually improving at my craft.
The mistake I see most curlies making
One of the biggest mistakes that some of my clients make before coming to see me is in how they apply styling products to their hair. New clients often tell me that they dry their hair with a towel before applying a styling product. Then they wonder why their hair is frizzy. My recommendation is to apply a curl defining product to curly hair when it is wet, then use a microfiber towel to blot out the moisture from their hair after they have applied the curl defining product. This simple step helps them have beautifully defined, frizz-free curls.
How to work with a dry, cold climate
I find that women with thick corkscrew curls often like the dry climate because the dry air prevents their hair from absorbing moisture and getting too big and frizzy. It is still important, however, for them to deep condition their hair often. This keeps it from becoming too dry.
Women with fine wavy hair don’t like the dry Colorado climate because the dry air can make their hair waves appear limp. These women usually prefer a more humid environment where their hair absorbs the moisture and becomes more full and bouncy. No matter what their curl type is, I like to teach each client to use the best products for their unique hair so that their hair will look great.What makes this challenge so rewarding
The best part of my day is when I have finished cutting, coloring and styling a new client’s hair and she looks in the mirror and says “I love it!” It feels great to see the excitement and surprise in her face when she sees her hair looking better than ever.
Are you in the Denver, Colorado area and need a curly hairstylist?
I write a blog on curly hair tips and styling techniques which can be found on my website, www.curlculturedenver.com. Anyone who wishes to set an appointment with me may do so by calling 303-506-1493.
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.
[prodmod]
Hi! My name is Hortencia Caires, but people call me Tezz.
I’m originally from Brazil, but live in NYC. I’m currently working at B&H Photo as information for different camera brands. I’ve been rocking my curly hair on and off for 5 years, but strictly curly for the past 3 years. I can freely do as I please with my hair as long as it’s not too extreme. My personal style in the clothing aspect, however, is very limiting due to the company being very strict. I still manage to stay true to my style without breaking any rules, most of the time.
Get to know yourself and your hair, it’ll allow you to not feel so helpless and frustrated.
How I describe my hair
My hair is currently healthy, but needs lots of cream in order to stay hydrated. My curls are thick 3c with some 3a in my nape and behind the ears area. I have a lot of hair.
On a “bad” hair day…
I want to say it gets frizzy, but I’ve learned to embrace it. So I’ll say that some of my curls are inconsistent with its curl pattern in some areas. I’m kind of a perfectionist so it drives me a little crazy, but I can’t do anything about it so I just enjoy the stubborn curls regardless.
My curly hair routine
It took me a long time to stop myself from wetting my hair and starting fresh everyday. So right now I do it every 2-3 days and style my hair when it’s extremely wet. I use the Devacurl line, No-Poo Decadence Cleanser, One Condition Decadence and the SuperCream Coconut Styler in combination with the Bounce Curl Light Creme Gel (not shown in the video”>. The styling cream moisturizes my hair and hydrates it and the gel defines my curls. I just started to add the gel, which really plays an important part in how long my curls will last.Learn from my mistakes, excessive heat will cause heat damage that is irreversible.
My advice: Embrace what is yours!
For the longest time I just couldn’t love my hair and I found out it was because I wasn’t educated on how to style it. Get to know yourself and your hair, it’ll allow you to not feel so helpless and frustrated. Seek advice from blogs and other curly hair beauties, it’ll make a world of difference on your own hair journey. Learn from my mistakes, excessive heat will cause heat damage that is irreversible.
I’m loving these quotes…
“You will never gain anyone’s approval by begging for it. When you stand confident in your own worth, respect follows.” -Mandy Hale
This quote speaks a lot of truth to owning what makes you, you and allowing those around you to see it without you making any effort!
[prodmod]Keep up with me!
You can keep up with me via Instagram @stylefeen and my blog www.stylefeen.com.
Instagram is one of our favorite places to find haircut inspiration, our daily dose of unicorn hair colors, and other women dealing with the ups and downs of having curly hair. This is especially helpful when you don’t have many curly family members to look to for tips and tricks, or curlfriends to share in your natural hair journey. We rounded up some of our favorite curly girls to follow on Instagram in 2016…warning: serious hair envy ahead.
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Crystal Westbrooks
The second-youngest of a group of social media-famous siblings residing in Los Angeles, Crystal sets herself apart from her sisters in that she takes pride in her unaltered, natural curls.
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Curly Edgy
Better known as Edgy, this budding YouTuber shares product reviews, and attends various events and meetups, living a true curly lifestyle to the fullest.
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Mismmo
Talk about length goals. Bounce Curl owner, Merian, is passionate about maintaining a minimal regimen for her beautiful, luscious locks.
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Alexis Savage
The naturally ginger-tinted hair, the frizz, the freckles — Alexis basks in what would might generally be considered beauty oddities.
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Romance Cox
A never-ending stream of simple coily hair tutorials, giveaways, and the occasional lighthearted meme make Hey Curlie’s feed worth following.
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Hiluv
As if her daring big chop wasn’t worthy enough for a repost, this editorial model’s striking features only enhance her natural hair.
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Stephanie Bertram Rose
This stunning bleach blonde curly girl has a knack for actually smiling in her selfies, a rarity in today’s viral pictures.
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Cheyenne Depree
Cheyenne is the definition of poise and grace. Her free-flowing curls support her perspective on life and career.
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Jasmine Winters
Jasmine never has a shortage of advice, product recommendations, or hair-care tips for her 40,000-something kinky curly-haired followers.
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Isabella Peschardt
This mixed model chick highlights her everyday fabulous lifestyle and modeling career on IG sprinkled with flawless no-filter selfies we can stare at for hours.
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Tamy Emma Pepin
Watch Canadian TV show host, Tamy, and her perfect head of curls, travel the U.S. on a mission to befriend other lovers of adventure.
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Avielle Amor
Twist-outs, tapered cuts, and TWAs are in abundance on Avielle’s IG, showing off the true beauty and versatility of natural hair.
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Frederikke Sofie
Before this year, we had no clue who Frederikke was. But this year, the model made huge waves during New York Fashion Week — she can thank her huge hair for that.
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Rayna
Known online as Happy Curl Happy Girl, this curly girl has a wide range of tutorial and care videos to let others in on her springy, defined ringlets secret.
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Adwoa Aboah
GURLS TALK founder and model Adwoa is known for her passionate feminist-friendly posts and beautiful, low curly-coily ‘fro.
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CarolSavannah
Carol Savannah, founder of MixxxedChicks and The Naturals Life, is a product junkie whose main focus is on the curly haired and multicultural communities.
Who are your favorite curly Instagrammers that we should follow?
It’s one of the fastest growing chain of hair salons in the U.S. And its number one focus is on textured hair.
This Saturday, Ken Burkeen, along with his closest friends-who just so happen to be some of the most prominent influencers in the natural hair community–welcomed a new baby to their growing family in Arlington, Texas.
The crafty h’ordeuvres and pinot grigio selection were enough to keep the crowd around for some upload-worthy small talk and photo ops.
However, the tone of conversation quickly shifted to something much deeper and inspirational.
“Wavy to tight coils–we don’t see race, we see texture,” Burkeen says in his commencement speech at the Dallas/Fort Worth area Huetiful Salon grand opening on January 23rd. “We are client centric. Everything we come up with is inspired by the needs of the client.”
Myleik Teele, founder and CEO of CurlBox, mentioned to the audience of her pact with Ken when he opened his flagship salon in Chicago, Illinois just a few years ago. “I promised to host every grand opening of Huetiful. Here I am again at a third opening in Dallas!” she said followed by the crowd’s bellow of applause and raised glasses.
I just had this belief that some things are meant to work…Why don’t we design a salon that is going to do what it takes?
In the two hour opening ceremony, Ken touched on a few important things to note why this was so special for him as a business owner and entrepreneur. “I just had this belief that some things are meant to work. Time is the most precious commodity. Why don’t we design a salon that is going to do exactly what it takes? There are no booth rentals here. I am not a landlord pimping out booths. We don’t work that way.”
It’s all about the stylist-client relationship
It became clear to me as a curly-haired consumer and frequent salon-goer myself that Ken’s personal mission is to please the textured masses. I couldn’t be mad at that! He took the time to thank many of the moving parts in this process individually, from the key stylists from the flagship location, to his wife, who made her Huetiful Steamer debut on the product’s original box. When describing the big players in the Huetiful family, he used words like “exceptional” and “phenomenal”.
No more being parked under the dryer all day…
Creative Director Nina Christmas stepped in to share her perspective briefly, as well. “We’re stylist specific,” she told the audience. “If a stylist doesn’t feel comfortable doing something, they don’t have to. Right now we offer 57 services, from color to perm rod sets, to Curl Formers. We don’t double-book, either–our stylists want to have one on one time with you, the client. I know you’ve all been parked under the dryer for hours before…”
In its beginning, Huetiful Salon started with 2 chairs.
In such a short amount of time, it has since expanded to 26 stylists in 3 states: Chicago (Bronzeville”>, Atlanta (midtown”>, and now the Dallas/Fort Worth area (Arlington”>. In addition to the widely popular Huetiful Hair Steamer that made its debut years ago in the natural hair community, Burkeen and his team have introduced a multitude of different product collections, their latest being the Curl Collection.
Are you in the Dallas or Fort Worth area and are craving an exceptional quality service that caters to your actual, natural hair texture? Book an appointment online with Huetiful Salon today. You won’t regret it.
If occasional flat ironing your hair gives you the versatility of your dreams, doing these three things both before and after will minimize potential heat damage.
1. Cleanse
The ingredients in your shampoo matter. Not only do you need something strong enough to totally rid the scalp of any dirt, product build-up and impurities, but there needs to be a moisturizing factor included as well. Sulfate-free shampoos are great, especially for natural hair, as they thoroughly cleanse without the detergents that strip hair. Look for a cleanser that contains hydrating fruit extracts and nut oils. Argan and olive oils work together to neutralize the strong detergent ingredients a shampoo may have in order to help your curls keep their soft, uniform appearance and feeling after you’re done rocking a straight style. Argan Smooth’s Epic Moisture sulfate-free shampoo thoroughly deep cleans while adding moisture back into the hair.
While every curly head is different, it is possible to use a shampoo too frequently or not enough. Finding the perfect balance is the key. Look for the following signs: Does your scalp get greasy fast? Is your hair struggling to retain length? Do you notice a ton of frizz at the top layer of your curls? Does your head itch often?
2. Deep treat
If you’re going to straighten your hair for a special occasion, use a deeply moisturizing reconstructive treatment that is known to soften and smooth down particularly coarse, frizzy textured hair. Doing this for 30 minutes to an hour should be fine, depending on your hair’s porosity level–but overnight isn’t necessary. Use a masque or treatment that contains shea butter to deeply penetrate the hair shaft and give your curls their highest level of moisture before (and after”> utilizing a heat styling tool. This will balance and restore your curl pattern, as long as it was a one-off occasion.
Try the Baggy Method for sealing in the most amount of moisture: Use saran wrap or a plastic bag to trap steam and help your product penetrate your texture. Seal that moisture in with a sealant like the Argan Smooth Leave-In Softening Sealant that comes in their Silk Press Natural Hair Thermal Straightening System.
3. Protect
Maintaining a straightened hairstyle can be challenging if there is even a little bit of texture in the hair. Use a heat protectant like the Argan Smooth Silk Press Crème to coat your hair for a few reasons: to keep the style in place as long as you want it, and to act as a barrier between the heat application and your natural hair. Silk Press Crème seals and smooths cuticles, and evenly distributes heat throughout hair, so that “hot spots” (spots throughout the hair where heat concentrates and weakens it”> do not occur. In the worlds of all-natural and do-it-yourself, argan oil has been proven to be an effective super ingredient for protecting naturally curly and coily hair from excessive heat damage. Use argan oil products before reaching for the flat iron, and remember to never let the tool sit on a single part of your hair for more than a couple of seconds at a time. Constantly let it pass through your strands, allowing for the lightweight oil to produce a silky and moisturized straightened style at its healthiest and least damaging.
The Argan Smooth Silk Press Natural Hair Thermal Straightening System is a kit for curlies who are looking to straighten their hair temporarily (there is no chemical straightening involved”>. It contains their Epic Moisture Shampoo to cleanse the hair before straightening, the Strengthening Miracle Hair Masque to deeply condition, the Leave-In Softening Sealant to seal in moisture and the Silk Press Crème to protect hair from heat damage and maintain your heat style. Silk Press Crème also smooths cuticles, causing them to lay flat, which helps keep the style frizz-free, smooth and straight.
This post is sponsored by Argan Smooth.
I get out the shower and do my routine. After 30 minutes my curls fall–an hour later, I have this crazy dry lion mane.
1. You have hygral fatigue.
Hygral fatigue–over-moisturizing–refers to your hair cuticle swelling as it absorbs water and dries. Textured hair cannot always handle frequent co-washing. Next time you are in the shower, gently tug on a clump of curls and let go. Do they retract (curl back up easily”>? If it does not, hygral fatigue could be your issue. Be cautious, as this can cause more breakage over time.
Re-evaluate your current regimen and look for ways to avoid saturating your hair in water as often as you might be doing. In the curly community we call this 2nd day hair–personally, I like to avoid touching my curls by wearing a headwrap, hat, bun, or even a fluffy ‘fro till the next time I wash my hair.2. You have high porosity hair.
Coconut and argan oils are universal miracle workers for most hair types, but in my personal experience, not so much with curls that are highly porous.If you are not sure what yours is, do an easy test by taking a strand of shed hair and placing it in a glass of water. Does it sink or float? If it starts sinking, you have high porosity hair.
This could be a result of environmental damage or over-manipulation in your case. Hair has gaps and holes in the cuticle, which let too much moisture in your hair, causing individual strands to raise and tangle when moisture is present in the atmosphere. This makes your hair prone to damage because any contact with water can make it weaker if you’re not proactive in providing it with a barrier.
If you enjoy using oils, I recommend using it in the following 3 steps in your regimen–as a pre-poo, sealing after your wash, and as a monthly hot oil treatment. Almond, sunflower, avocado, and soybean oils been proven to deeply penetrate and keep medium to high porosity hair moisturized. Use a humectant. This will provide a barrier between your hair and humidity. On product labels, it will likely be called a “frizz-fighter”. Also look for a pH-balanced shampoo and conditioner. They will help close your cuticle and prevent additional moisture from entering the hair throughout the days.Do you have a question for our NaturallyCurly community or editors? Post it here on the ASK page.
photo: @VicStyles
When it comes to helpful advice for men with curly hair, there isn’t a lot of useful or up to date information out there. But that’s changing, just ask Robin Sjoblom, top U.S. curly hair stylist and owner of Southern Curl in the Atlanta, GA area.
“So many of my curly women have curly boyfriends or curly husbands,” Sjoblom says of the recent boom in men growing to embrace their texture. “It is so great to see men trying out women’s curly products in the shower, only to discover how much better their curls look. Men like what their women are using. For a lot of guys, simple is the way to go.” Here are here simple rules of thumb to get the curly male in your life to love his god-given curls.
Outline This No-Fuss Wash & Style Routine
1. Cleanse once a week with a sulfate-free shampoo like DevaCurl No Poo. “If he prefers a lather, Innersense Organic Beauty Pure Harmony Hair Bath. It’s coconut-oil based, which offers many moisturizing benefits for textured hair. Long Hair Don’t Care is another fantastic gender-neutral cream cleanser, made with peppermint oil.”2. Condition once a day with DevaCurl One Condition or DevaCurl Decadence Conditioner. “Both are lightly scented with a lemony, clean scent. They also provide great slip for easy detangling, making them both easy to use options for men.”
3. Style in the shower with a gel or a cream, depending on what his curls need more–moisture or definition. “He can use DevaCurl Supercream Coconut Styler if his curls seek moisture and are coarser. DevaCurl Light Defining Gel or Frizz Free Volumizing Foam are great for light hold and definition for men with fine, wavy to curly hair. A couple of pumps raked through his hair will keep the curls clumped for a long time–and they dry quickly.”
4. Plop with a t-shirt to lightly blot excess moisture from curls. He shouldn’t walk around with a large wet ring on the back of his clothing. “Drying time is important, as it should be fuss-free.”
Why a professional service is important for his curly journey
The next wave in curly hair men’s trends?
Sjoblom notes that men with curly hair are starting to be proud of sporting longer hair. “Men will continue to grow out their curls while keeping their sides and back neat and groomed. able to be more playful & unstructured on weekends. They’re learning to #rocktheirblessing just like women.”
Some curly hair stylists offer an educational experience, not just a cut and style. “We call the education of my cuts The Bootcamp,” Robin mentions. She says the biggest obstacle is getting him to read his labels. “I tell him it’s just like reading his food labels. Men need to read product labels when shopping curly products. Sulfate free. Nothing ending in CONE (silicone=plastic”>!”
Book an appointment with Robin Sjoblom and visit her website, Southern-Curl.com. Client photos courtesy of Southern Curl.
Of course whenever we think of marshmallows, our brain automatically resorts to s’mores, hot chocolate, and campfires. But what if I told you that marshmallow is actually the PERFECT detangler and moisturizer combination? It really is.
Why does marshmallow root work for detangling curly hair?
Marshmallow root is a mucilage, meaning it is known to produce a thick consistency to protect and coat membranes. The extract provides anti-inflammatory properties from its flavonoid content. In addition, the phagocytosis in marshmallow root extract have been proven to help slough away dead cell tissues within the skin. This helps make for great exfoliating and restoration component.
With that said, I have a tendency of relying heavily on hair product with marshmallow root extract for my 3C curls because of how great it works on detangling annoying knotty, matted, and tangled hair. And if you have that same problem with your curls, try one of these, if you haven’t already.
1. Aunt Jackie’s Curls & Coils Quench! Moisture Intensive Leave-In, $9.99
With extra virgin olive oil and shea butter’s assistance, the amount of hydration your thirsty curls will receive from using this will be impeccable.2. SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Extra Moisture Detangler, $11.99
Glycerin, coconut oil, elm and marshmallow extract make this detangler the ultimate go-to for loosening what seems like an impossible hair knot.3. Naturally Smitten Tangle Free Pudding, $14.58
The pudding consistency of this water-based detangler/moisturizer provides amazing slip for hair types 3B and 3C.
4. Happy Soap Company Knot Anymore Hair Detangler, $9.50
Infused with peppermint and lavender essential oils, the marshmallow root is just the icing on top of this invigorating, freshening detangler.
5. Kinky Curly Knot Today, $12.00
Marshmallow root and elm provide slip, while Behentrimonium Methosulfate helps to promote thicker curls and coils.
[prodmod]pictured: @Westbrooks.Crystal
If your hair is fine, frizzy, textured, and always dry, then you will benefit from all of the amazing things grape seed extract can offer.
An introduction to grape seed extract
Grape seeds have been recognized for their medical value and nutritional properties dating back to Ancient Egyptian civilization approximately 6,000 years ago. Deriving from the vitis vinifera (grapevine”>, this magical tonic was first introduced to European and North American people in the 1600s.
It was in those areas that grape seed started being useful to cure common diseases of the time–cancer, skin disorders, smallpox, and eye infections. European herbalists made ointments from the sap of grapevines and used them to treat smaller, less threatening ailments like a sore throat, nausea, constipation, and thirst.
The types of products that you’ll find grape seed oil in
This oil is most commonly used alone as a sealant or heat protector from blow drying and flat ironing. Grape seed extract is also useful as a moisturizing agent in hair and skin products. It’s known to provide the following for these types of products:
- Hair: shine, softness, silkiness, texture definition, frizz prevention, growth, split end mending, length retention, fullness
- Skin: firming, UV protection, wrinkle prevention, elasticity
The smell, look, and feeling of grape seed extract
Grape seed is popular for being virtually odorless, this yellowish-green oil is ideal for those with sensitivities to smell. The aroma of grape seed is light, nutty and sweet, much like almond extract. The oil itself feels lightweight and slippery, and coats the hair and skin without making them feel heavy, over moisturized, or greasy.
What makes grape seed so great for hair growth and moisture?
A major benefit of grape seed oil is that it contains oligomeric proanthocyanidins, also referred to as OPC’s. Found in grape seeds, they inhibit DHT production, stimulating hair follicles when applied directly to the scalp on a regular basis before washing. Grape seed also contains a high vitamin E content, which is great for natural sun protection (for both hair and skin”>. This extract is also vital in curing dandruff, fungal irritation, seborrhea, build-up, eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis, for those with a sensitive, dry scalp.
The types of hair & skin products that include grape seed extract
This oil is most commonly used alone as a sealant or heat protector from blow drying and flat ironing. Grape seed extract is also useful as a moisturizing agent in hair and skin products. It’s known to provide the following for these types of products:
- Hair: shine, softness, silkiness, texture definition, frizz prevention, growth, split end mending, length retention, fullness
- Skin: firming, UV protection, wrinkle prevention, elasticity
Include grape seed extract in your hair regimen this year
- Conditioner: Avalon Olive and Grape Seed Moisturizing Conditioner
- Cleanser: DevaCurl No Poo
- Moisturizer: Obia Natural Hair Curl Cream
- Leave-in/Detangler: Alikay Naturals Knots Be Gone Hair Detangler
- Heat Protectant: Frederic Fekkai Smooth Hair Finishing Cream
Just a few years ago it was hard to find a meetup dedicated specifically to the natural and curly hair community. Now, we need a calendar to keep up with the many events going on that surround our unique, closely-knit lifestyle! Here are some exciting upcoming natural hair events, expos, and seminars happening during the month of January:
CHICAGO, IL
Afro Fashion Show, 1/17 @5pm
Chicago naturals will be joining forces for a day filled with fashion and beauty. Complete with a fashion competition, live performances, and indoor market place, you won’t want to miss out on this mid-winter natural hair event. Get tickets here
COLLEGE PARK, GA
Nourishing Scalp Oil Formulation Class, 1/3 @12pm
Oils are gold to the natural hair community. Learn how to make your own, whether you are an expert homemaker, natural hair stylist, barber, loctician, braider, or natural hair product enthusiast. Don’t feel like spending money on hair oils from the store or beauty supply? Here’s your chance to learn everything you need to be a DIYer. Get tickets here
HOUSTON, TX
Natural Hair Pageant, 1/16 @8am
You haven’t seen a pageant like this one. Featuring women of color who rock their locs and natural hair with pride, this unique event offers the winner a personalized float in the 2016 Martin Luther King March in Houston and an official shoot with the help of a celebrity makeup artist and stylist. Get tickets here
LOS ANGELES, CA
Big Chop Party, 1/3 @11am
Are you ready to make a change and walk into the New Year boldly and confident? Reserve your spot for a big chop at this event. There will be others just like you, ready to mingle and bring the new year of changes with drinks and appetizers provided. Get tickets here
TAMPA, FL
I Am Not My Hair, 1/15 @5:30pm
Sit in on this free panel discussion and ponder topics such as men’s preferences on natural hair, texture discrimination in the media and workplace, and embrace your heritage with others with a similar mindset. Held at the Robert. W. Saunders, Sr. Public Library in Tampa, you can’t miss this informative panel.
NEW HAVEN, CT
Brown Skin Women Natural Hair Meetup, 1/6 @6pm
Connect and network with likeminded naturals and professionals and bond on things like business, natural hair, and products. BSW will provide hair and beauty inspiration with raffles from sponsors and vendors, including the opportunity to grow your professional network during this evening of positive energy and fun. Get tickets here
BILOXI, MS
Flower Crown Workshop, 1/12 @4pm
Are you a fan of the floral headpiece? Do you have a wedding coming up and want to rock a unique and beautiful flower crown? This event is for you. Perfect for you and your bridesmaids friends, the Mississippi State University Coastal will host this 2-hour seminar on how to make your own floral crown, hosted by Dr. Jim DelPrince, a floristry expert. Get tickets here
ALTAMONTE SPRINGS, FL
New Year, New Me, Naturally, 1/2 @8pm
Come meet Central Florida naturalistas in this hair and skin tip-filled event. With several raffle drawings, a swag bag full of hair product, light appetizers as well as exercise advice from Brittany of Killer Body Fitness, you’ll get a kickstart to your healthiest year, yet. Get tickets here
DALLAS, TX
#IDEFINEME Big Chop Slumber Party, 1/8 @5pm
Picture a room full of women expectant for change. Kala G of The KG Lifestyle is doing the big chop in honor of her upcoming birthday, and she’s inviting you to join her. Wear your onesie and get ready to see what the new year has in store for the new you. Get tickets here
SILVER SPRING, MD
Winterize Your Hair, 1/2 @6pm
Come to this event and refresh your knowledge of proper natural hair care during the winter, like how to battle brittle curls and which products you should use. If you live in the DMV area, The Natural Hair “Nstitute” will especially be helpful in creating a protective regimen for yourself during the brutal winter season. Get tickets here
LONG BEACH, CA
The Hair Seminar, 1/3 @1pm
Education doesn’t have to be boring. Come to this fun seminar that will teach you how to become a natural hair vendor at an event. Best of all, it’s free to the public, at Elation Extensions Lounge in Long Beach.
HARTFORD, CT
Natural Hair Twist Out Workshop, 1/9 @11am
Learn how to master a twist out on your curly natural hair for ultimate definition. The products used during the live demonstration will be available for purchase to attendees. Get tickets here
NEW YORK, NY
Laying a Lace Front Closure Workshop, 1/16 @ 2pm
Want to switch up your look for 2016 or protect your natural hair in the harsh winter climate? First Lady of MIHI, Abby, will show you how to create a braid pattern that is ideal for a lace closure, how to create the sew-in closure, and overall tips for maintaining healthy hair underneath the protective style. Get tickets here
Meet Merian, a curly girl who was passionate enough about sharing her secret to perfect ringlets that she created a styling product called Bounce Curl. Watch her recent demonstration on how to apply it to different hair types.
Introduce yourself!
Hi, my name is Merian, and I am the owner of Bounce Curl. I recently graduated from Northern Arizona University with a Bachelors of Science degree in May 2014. I am currently residing in Arizona, while working on a few different businesses with my family. My first career choice has always been dentistry; however, while working to get accepted into a dental school, I decided to launch Bounce Curl because of my own experiences with hair care products. I wanted everyone to be able to embrace their natural curls with my product!
How long have you been wearing your naturally curly hair?
My hair has been curly my entire life! For many years I struggled trying to find the right product that wouldn’t weigh my hair down. I have been able to learn a little bit from my grandmother, who has used product in my hair since I was 5 years old. She used a few Middle Eastern ingredients that really made a difference in strengthening and growing my hair. I wanted to take what I have learned from her and be able to put all of these ingredients into one styling product, Bounce Curl.
What’s important to you when shopping for a new curly hair product?
It is important to not have to go through many steps to use the product. I want it to be able to do the most in the least amount of time and effort. I only like to use one product at a time, because too many products will end up weighing my hair down. It is also important to me that my product to be free of any parabens, silicones and sulfates.
Walk us through your styling routine.
I have recently put all of my routines on Youtube so people can watch me style my hair. I also have a second day tutorial for my curls too so that people can see what the curls look like after the second day and how to manage them. I usually take a spray water bottle and dampen my hair and then use my finger to comb through all my frizzies. I apply some Bounce Curl Light Crème Gel all over and usually air dry–or sometimes I’ll end up diffusing it.
What’s your secret to perfect curls?
Bounce Curl Light Crème Gel is a product that has many weapons in one. It is a universal product that will work for every texture and curl type including wavy, spirals, and kinky curls. It helps with any type of ethnic hair from loose to tight textures. It will hold and define curls, but it also gives hair a soft weightless feel. It does not have a crunch after feeling to it or make you feel like your hair is weighted down. I included some of the ingredients that my grandmother used on my hair.
Keep in touch!
Personal Instagram: @MisMmo | Bounce Curl Instagram: @BounceCurl | Youtube Channel Username: Bounce Curl | Product website bouncecurl.com
