Search Results: Devri Velazquez

Argan, grapeseed, olive, coconut– we cannot seem to get enough of our beloved all-natural hair and skin oils. Oftentimes, however, Jojoba oil gets overlooked for its beneficial properties because it is one of the most commonplace oils used for hair and beauty. True Jojoba is derived from the Jojoba plant seed processed in accordance with the US Department of Agriculture’s National Organic Program (USDA NOP”>, free of pesticides, first-press, golden, and unrefined.

While it is called an oil, Jojoba is actually a liquid wax, also called a wax ester. Its molecular structure is extremely comparable to human skin oil. Unrefined jojoba oil appears as a clear to pale yellow liquid with a slight, nutty aroma. Jojoba oil is also ideal for those with allergy sensitivities.  Refined Jojoba is usually completely clear and has no odor at all. It is great for DIY recipes and large bulk recipes because of its shelf life; Jojoba is more shelf-stable than safflower, canola, and, and almond oils.

In cosmetic products, Jojoba is often used as a moisturizing agent in lipsticks, shampoos, face, hand, and body lotions. It can also be used on its own in an unrefined state for the following purposes.

Condition dry hair

Jojoba oil naturally eases the effects of dandruff and dry scalp. For hair, add some to your favorite conditioner, especially if your scalp itches after washday. Jojoba oil is antifungal, helping to kill of bacterial and fungal infections caused by dirty hair tools, the elements, etc. Jojoba does not interrupt the scalp’s natural balance because of its similarities to the oil your skin naturally produces.

Promote curl elasticity

Add 12 drops directly to your scalp and massage gently with the pads of your fingers to help the Jojoba penetrate your follicles. It literally hydrates your hair deep in the shaft, which help the curl to bounce back from hydral fatigue or over processing of chemicals (relaxers and bleach”>.

Lasting color treated hair

Before swimming, use a water and Jojoba mist all over your hair to help it fight the stripping agents found in pools. It will not strip your color treated hair, and help protect against the elements that are known for causing it to fade.

Encourage hair growth

Before clarifying and cleansing with a harsh shampoo and conditioner, add 10 drops of Jojoba directly to your scalp to balance out the natural oils you already make. Jojoba is a natural emollient, according to Neno Natural–it fills in cracks that are on the surface of the hair cuticle and helps repair heat and styling damaged hair.

Moisturize parched skin

Jojoba oil is used to treat Psoriasis and chapped sunburned skin. It can be used to replenish dry facial skin overnight, as well. Add a few drops onto your overnight mask, or dab a drop over your lips to coat and soothe during the day.

Calming aromatherapy

Jojoba has been clinically proven during massage and therapy to provide a sense of calmness to mind, body, and soul for its aromatherapeutic abilities. Jojoba Company says to use 20 drops in your bath at night, which is equivalent to 60 ml or 4 tablespoons.

Repel against mosquitoes

According to WebMD, a few drops of Jojoba oil rubbed into your skin will naturally ward off mosquitoes for up to 3 hours after application.

Soften cracked feet

Rub some Jojoba oil on your heels, palms, and knees to soften up the rough skin on them.

Products with jojoba

You can purchase pure Jojoba oil on Amazon or in your local health food store from brands like NOW and Aura Cacia (pictured above”> or you can find Jojoba in plenty of hair products. Here are three that have been formulated especially for wavy, curly or coily and are packed with the benefits of Jojoba oil.

• Eden BodyWorks Jojoba All Natural Revitalizing Conditioner, $8.99, is ultra moisturizing for coarse, thick, curly and coily hair. 
• Aubrey Organics 10% Organic Jojoba Oil, $11.67, is great as a pre-poo to soothe and hydrate dry hair before shampoos.
• Design Essentials Naturals Daily Moisturizing Lotion, $13.99, will moisturize your curls with the help of wheat protein to eliminate frizz

RELATED: 10 More Ways to Get Your Jojoba Oil Fix

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These days the term “Old Hollywood” elicits images of long, loose waves and the types of hairstyles that women with naturally curly hair cannot hope to recreate without the use of curlers or heat tools. But Old Hollywood glamour can be achieved with curly hair, just take one look at the stunning Dorothy Dandridge. 

If you are feeling bored with your wash-and-go, like I recently was, then channel Dorothy with this curly bob look.

How to get the look

Last night, I did bantu knots after deep conditioning and co-washing my hair.

I did 8 to 10 of them–while my hair was drying but still wet, I smothered each section with my Obia Twist Whip Butter, which is an excellent emollient for smoothing my frizzy cuticles and sealing them with moisture. Some naturals like to twist as close to their scalp as possible, but that does not matter so much with me–it looks more natural when my knots are a little imperfect and asymmetrical.

I then covered my hair with my satin headwrap, went to sleep and waited today for the takedown.

This morning, I unraveled my bantu knots gently.

To minimize frizz, I poured a dime-sized amount of Bahamian Tresses Peppermint Elixir to the pads of my fingers beforehand.

I separated each bantu knot out slowly as a further precaution, and I didn’t use a wide tooth comb or pick.

To give my hair the appearance of a curly bob for that Old Hollywood look, I tucked in the back pieces underneath with a bobby pin.

What I Used

• Deep conditioner: Briogeo Don’t Despair, Repair Deep Conditioning Mask
• Co-wash: Innersense Pure Inspiration Daily Conditioner
• Oil: Bahamian Tresses Peppermint and Eucalyptus hair Elixir
• Cream: Obia Twist Whip Butter

This style lasted a full day; if I had re-bantu knotted my hair at night, I am sure it would have been preserved for the next day and so on.

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Ever since DevaCurl’s recent Supercream Coconut Curl Styler product release, the natural hair blogs have been going wild.

Of course, I had to get in on the action.

I immediately contacted my Curly Hair Artist in Smyrna, GA, Robin Sjoblom at Fuzion Hair Studio and she sent me a bottle right away. “We are loving it here at Southern Curl,” she told me. I was anxious and excited to try it on my 3c curls, especially after finding out that it’s made especially for tighter curl patterns like mine. [prodmod]

The first 5 ingredients

• water: natural hydrator
• cetearyl alcohol: a naturally-derived fatty alcohol that gives the hair a smooth, soft feeling and helps the cuticle lie flat on the surface of the hair.
• coconut oil: a natural moisturizer that penetrates deep into the hair shaft.
• glycerin: helps to smooth and coat the hair shaft.
• hydroxypropyl starch phosphate: a plant-based starch that acts as an emulsifier, or a thickening agent for hair.

How I used it

I like to use a new product at least twice consecutively before coming to a conclusion whether my curls like it or not. Yesterday I scrunched the Supercream Coconut Curl Styler into a 3rd day twist-out that had been misted with just a bit of water. Honestly, I didn’t notice any impeccable results–my hair actually looked the exact same. Throughout the day, my curls remained the same–the usual frizz halo on my crown, some definition on my ends, and the random twirly curl and corkscrew here and there.

This morning, I quickly co-washed my hair to refresh my curls. When I got out, my hair was still soaking wet. I applied a nickel-sized amount of the Supercream using the praying hands method. Instantly, I felt the benefits of coconut oil–but my hair was still wet, so it’s normal to feel so much moisture in the beginning, right? Well, it’s been five hours already. By now my curls would have shrunken up and taken the Deva Cut shape. But right now, my curls look healthily elongated, enhanced, and super defined. I actually notice the length of my curls more and my hair still appears as if they’re wet and fresh out of a wash, even though they are 100% dry.

My curls are also softer than ever. I just got my hair colored two days ago, but I can say this styler has helped restore the natural sheen and life back into my curls. Its consistency is that of a cream-gel, with a bit of hold but not too much. I haven’t experienced any flaky cast that sometimes comes with a styling cream or gel.

Before

My hair usually shrinks quickly after washing–it’s big with some frizz at the top of my crown on most days. 

After

All day long, I have noticed defined, soft, and shiny curls that haven’t lost their definition or gotten frizzy yet.

Have you used the Coconut Curl Styler yet?

Conmuffin_ (3C”> recently posted this question in our Q&A section.

Question

My hair is 3c and recently it has been getting dry and matted at the roots especially, sometimes the ends. It happens no matter what I do. It can happen a few days after deep conditioning, right after detangling, or just anytime really.

I’ve been conditioning a lot and sealing with oil yet that still doesn’t help. [My hair] shrinks at the roots and get stuck in this round afro-shape…When it’s in this shape, I can pull a curl out and hear it crackle and pop and then that one curl will be longer than the rest. I currently have my hair in Marley twists because my hair is getting on my nerves. What can I do? I miss when my hair used to behave!

The pictures I included are one of a bomb wash and go 100% dry before the matting, the other is a day at work when my hair was matting. Note the length and shape difference. These were taken maybe a month and a half ago.

Answer

Based on the pictures provided, your hair type is 4a, which is a bit coilier than 3c but still appears to be fine in texture and medium (normal”> in porosity.

Since you didn’t detail your exact morning and nightly regimen and the products you currently use, I’ll outline a quick list of questions you may want to ask yourself. This should help you in modifying your personal steps to fit the needs of the current state of your hair:

“What do I do to my hair at night before bedtime?” 

Conditioning hair frequently doesn’t always help the cause. This can lead to hydral fatigue, which causes continual swelling of your hair cuticles, or over-moisturizing. Deep conditioning overnight as a habit, for example, can cause weaker strands.

Since your hair easily mats up, I recommend doing two-strand twists and wrapping each twist’s end with a foam roller or flexi rod. Not only will this be easier for next day’s wear, your coils will be defined, uniform, and the weight of the roller will help you avoid shrinkage and enhance your natural curl pattern and shape. Don’t forget to cover your hair with a silk head wrap–or sleep on a satin pillowcase.  On top of that, you put your hair in protective styles that further tug on the follicle, making your hair even weaker and more damaged over time. I suggest trying an at-home protein treatment twice a week with a gelatin packet or purchasing protein-enriched products to strengthen your hair fibers. Read the reviews of these community faves and determine which one you might like:

• Yes to Carrots! Leave-In Conditioner
• ApHogee Curlific! Moisture Rich Leave-In
• Carol’s Daughter Monoi Repairing Hair Mask
• SheaMoisture Tahitian Noni & Monoi Hair & Scalp Weekly Therapy
• Aubrey Organics GPB Balancing Protein Conditioner- Rosemary Peppermint
• Aussie Hair Insurance Leave-In Conditioner

“How do I refresh my hair the next morning?”

Your hair needs an even amount of moisture, day and night. Spritz water with a little bit of your favorite conditioner throughout your hair in the morning after untwisting. Or, if you would rather purchase a leave-in refresher spray, that works, too. On the weekend, treat yourself to a soothing steam session. There are portable handheld hair steamers like the Q-Redew, or you can make your own with 2 face towels, 2 shower caps, and a hooded dryer.

“How do I style my hair on most days?”

Try a twist-out, flexi rod or perm rod set instead of a wash-and-go. Like I mentioned above, this will allow your coils to clump into ringlets and tendrils rather than stand alone and get matted or tangled up easily. Also, it may be time for a trim.

It sounds like your hair is uneven since some pieces are longer than others. You may search a salon in your area that specializes in natural hair or try the Search & Destroy Method at home with a new (not dull”> pair of shears. With this method, you won’t lose as much overall length–you’ll just focus on the split ends that stand out and need to be removed.

“How do I currently detangle my hair?”

Have you considered investing in a detangling brush? You didn’t mention what tool or method you use to detangle your coils, but you may want to look into a Denman or Tangle Teezer to really get to the root of the problem, pun intended. You can also finger detangle, but make sure your hair is saturated with a ton of slippery conditioner to prevent that snap and crackle that you get. Watch how Naptural85 detangles her hair in the most effective yet fuss-free way possible.

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Have a curly question and need the NaturallyCurly community’s help? Visit our Ask section.

Remember those days when Daddy was in charge of our hygiene and maintenance for the day while Mommy was away? Oh, the blissful tragedy.

Kudos to Pops for making an honest effort. However, for most of us this was a day of resistantly dragging through an hour-long hair washing and braiding session while his hands stumbled to grip the combs, his mind scrambled to recall where Mom kept the extra hair ties, and his go-to style when it was all said and done was a half sopping wet low pony that was matted beyond recognition by the time Mom got back home.

If only Dad had access to one of these classes offered by Upper West Side, Manhattan Cozy Cuts for Kids salon.

“Dads want to learn,” said Cozy Friedman, owner of the salon. “I hear it all the time. But you can see right away on the playground whose hair was done by her dad. We’ve really had to start with the basics here.”

Early Monday morning, daughters ranging ages 3 to 9 attended the class, which ended up being filled to capacity so much so that father-daughter duos had to be turned away. The session lasted 45 minutes, starting with tips for brushing and detangling. It concluded with two timeless hairstyle tutorials: the ponytail braid and the braided bun. The girls of the crowd seemed mostly thrilled of receiving these styles, probably due to their wide popularity from the movie Frozen.

Full-time father and clothing manufacturer Ricky Zinn expressed his need to learn how to do his daughter’s hair was due to growing up with only male siblings. “I grew up with brothers, so I don’t know anything about it.”

Early Monday morning, daughters ranging ages 3 to 9 attended the class, which ended up being filled to capacity so much so that father-daughter duos had to be turned away.

Another working father of a curly-haired daughter, David Shapiro, attended the class to educate himself on styling his daughter’s unique ‘corkscrew-like’ texture. “I get her ready in the morning–my wife goes to work early. But I have to leave the hair part to the nanny.”

Ira Cohen is a lawyer by profession and a dad by default. That doesn’t mean he wasn’t also willing to learn how to care for his daughter’s naturally curly hair. “It’s a completely different situation,” he said.

One seat over was Zinn had trouble using the bobby pins given during the ponytail tutorial. “If I let go, this thing is going to go.”

While these dads struggled to adapt to the tricks of the trade for styling and maintaining their daughters’ hair, not a single one gave up on the initiative. And the impact of this class will hopefully be followed for salons and cities to come.

We definitely love to see more dads willing, eager, and able to enter the women’s hair care world with confidence–especially if it’s for their number one girl, their daughter.

According to an article by Shirea L. Caroll, “Extracts come from the actual extraction of the nutrients and essential elements of the ingredient. The extraction process can vary greatly, depending on the botanical and which part of the botanical contains the essential nutrients.” 

Starting your natural hair or curly hair journey can be both overwhelming and expensive, but these botanical extracts will add multiple benefits to your regimen and give you the best curls possible after regular use. Get these in bulk, powder, or capsule form at your local natural foods grocer. If you would rather BUY than DIY, we have suggestions for you, too.

MORE: Why Do Brands Put Extracts In Your Products?

1. Bamboo

Bamboo is rich in organic proteins, which strengthen the hair follicle and retain moisture. It is also known to promote natural shine in dry hair. Bamboo contains a rich source of silica, an essential nutrient that helps our bodies absorb and retain potassium, magnesium, and calcium. It also keeps our ducts clear, promoting speedier hair growth. Read more about bamboo extract here.

• If you would rather BUY than DIY: Alterna Hair Care Bamboo Smooth Kendi Oil Dry Oil, $25 at Sephora

2. Oat kernel

This vegetable protein, which is also called Avena Sativa, is found in numerous bath, body, and hair products. According to Cosmetics Info, It is used to temporarily protect and relieve minor skin irritations and burns. If you experience a chemical burn from hair bleaching or relaxing, oat kernel extract will soothe your scalp, neck, and face. For those with particularly sensitive scalp, excessive dandruff, or eczema, will find nourishment in this ingredient.

• If you would rather BUY than DIY: Innersence Quiet Calm Curl Control, $20 on innersencebeauty.com

3. Rhatany Root

This naturally derived root extract provides conditioning properties to dry, parched hair. It is a natural astringent and can be used in place of apple cider vinegar to clarify the scalp. Rhatany root, also called Krameria Triandra Root Extract, has a shelf life longer than most (2 years”> and is water soluble for any amount of water. It is typically added to water and glycerin hair styling products as a natural emollient.

• If you would rather BUY than DIY: Workable Finishing Mist, $16.95 on onestahaircare.com

4. Ginseng Root

Invigorates the scalp and hair follicle to add volume at the root. It has been proven to slow down the hair loss process, and is used by those with thinning hair and alopecia. This nutritious herb belongs to the 11 species of slow growing perennial plants. Its fleshy roots and leaves carry potent medicinal properties derive. Read about the 5 beauty uses of ginseng root here.

• If you would rather BUY than DIY: Aubrey Organics Men’s Stock Ginseng Biotin Shampoo, $9.95 on Amazon

5. Lotus Flower

The sacred lotus flower or Nelumbo Nucifera, is a short-living plant that provides a number of medicinal benefits with its seeds and bark. The bark contains polysaccharides which are anti-inflammatory, astringent, and antiseptic when applied to the skin and hair. It elasticizes as is used for promoting bouncier curls. Read about what the seeds can do here.

• If you would rather BUY than DIY: Wen By Chaz Dean Six Thirteen Cleansing Treatment, $61 on qvc.com

6. Chamomile

If you want to lighten your hair naturally, chamomile extract is effective. It is also used as a natural leave-in because of its follicle conditioning properties. Chamomile nourishes and strengthens the hair and stimulates the scalp for fullness. Read 9 uses of chamomile extract here.

• If you would rather BUY than DIY: Blended Beauty Curl Styling Butter, $21 on Shop.NaturallyCurly.com

At one point in time, it was difficult trying to find a salon that catered to your natural, curly hair. Thankfully these days, it’s much easier–here are the top (but underrated”> natural hair salons in the DC-Maryland-Virginia area. For curly specialist recommendations in your city, visit our Curl Salons page for salons with curl specialists all over the country, reviewed by curly community members.

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Fiddleheads Salon

1515 17th St. NW Washington, DC 20036

Book an appointment or read reviews

With 2 locations, the Fiddleheads gang focuses on the Deva Cutting technique, the Deva 3-Step process, and offers other services like Pintura color, Escape Root, and even extensions or a blow dry.

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Diaspora Salon

2412 N. Charles St., Baltimore, MD 21218

Book an appointment

If you’re yearning to be welcomed into a salon that is sophisticated, calming, and embracing of your hair texture, then this salon is for you. Filled with highly skilled staff who know how to cater to curly and coily hair types, Diaspora specializes in DevaCurl and uses Qhemet Biologics on their curly clients. [/do] [do action=”gallery-slide”]

Urban Nature

2802 Georgia Ave NW, Washington, DC 20001

Book an appointment

With convenient locations in DC, Silver Spring, Greenbelt, Temple Hills, and Alexandria, the stylists and locticians of Urban Nature focus on creating intricate and unique designs for their clientele.

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Jaha Hair Studio

Book an appointment

Not only does this salon offer natural and transitioning services, they also specialize in loc maintenance. Each of their stylists really knows how to work a person’s natural texture like a charm.

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Cole Stevens Salon

Book an appointment or read reviews

Top educator Diane Cole Stevens knows natural hair. This salon has two locations–one in the heart of DC, and another on the outskirts in Greenbelt, MD. They offer an array of styles from two-strand twists, flexi rod sets, bridal, and more, with DevaCurl products.

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The Divine Touch Hair Salon

Book an appointment

From updos to loc retwists, this salon offers versatile and trendy yet affordable and accessible options for those with natural hair of all textures. They also provide services for relaxed, naturally straight, and men, too.

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Bang Salon

Book an appointment or read reviews 

For its 4th consecutive year in a row, Bang has been called “Best Hair Salon in DC” by Washington City Paper. It’s known to the locals as the ultimate place for reviving bad past curly haircuts.

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Natural Motion

Book an appointment

If you are still transitioning between weave/protective styles and wearing your natural texture out, this salon is up your alley. Rumor has it, owner Liz Nolan can do a mean blowout.

Do you love a curly salon in the DMV that we missed? Share it in the comments!

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Finding an awesome stylist when you have curly hair can be — to put it mildly — a challenge. We’ve all walked out of the salon with hair shorter than we asked for (it’s called shrinkage, people”>, an uneven cut, or the dreaded pyramid head. It’s enough to make you swear off haircuts for good. But, you can’t avoid the salon forever.

So, we searched around the globe and listened to reviews from members of our community who vouch these stylists and their curl expertise. No matter where you’re based — or happen to be jet-setting to — and what your budget and needs are, we’ve compiled a list of the most reputable and sought-after salon experts in the industry. From New York City to Paris, they’re here just for you, curly girl.

Related: 7 Worst Curly Haircut Mistakes

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A photo posted by Shai Amiel, Curl Dr® (@shaiamiel”> on Mar 7, 2014 at 6:07pm PST

Shai Amiel (Capella Salon in Studio City, CA”>

For years, Amiel has owned and run one of the first Los Angeles-based curl-friendly salons; today, he is the go-to hair artist for popular YouTube personalities and celebrities who want to begin their healthy natural hair journeys. Just see Tamera Mowry-Housley’s lovely transition back to curls via DevaCut perfection.

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JOIN US IN WISHING OWNER and FOUNDER OF hair rules A VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!#hairrules #vavoomhair #alltextures #color #pop #straighthhair #wavy #hilights #black #brown #blond #naturalhair #naturallycurly #naturalhairdaily #naturalhairjourney #naturalhaircommunity #blowout #teamnatural_ #protectivestyles #confident #hair2mesmerize #washandgo #healthy_hair_journey

A photo posted by hair rules (@hairrules”> on May 12, 2015 at 11:43am PDT

Anthony Dickey (Hair Rules in New York City”>

With clients like Solange Knowles and Rihanna, Dickey has earned his title of curly connoisseur. In 2009, he cofounded the Hair Rules salon, which caters to textures from loose waves to super-tight coils, and became the first and only multi-textural salon in the U.S. On top of that, he’s authored Hair Rules! The Ultimate Hair-Care Guide for Women with Kinky, Curly, or Wavy Hair and launched his own successful line of hair-care products — all of which were created with the same message: to encourage people to embrace their natural beauty.

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Good bye hair that takes a whole day to naturally dry . I’m pretty lucky to live in Melbourne with adventurous clients always wanting different looks ! #curls #restyle #curljedi #curlyhairspecialitst #curlyhairsalon A photo posted by Neel (@neellovescurls”> on Mar 21, 2015 at 2:02am PDT

Neel Morley (Neel Loves Curls in Melbourne, Australia”>

Neel Morley headed to the U.S. to learn the DevaCurl technique, and then returned to his hometown to open up the very first curly-hair salon in Melbourne after serving clients at Cherry Bomb in Collingwood. Morley has teamed up with Lou of Love Your Curls Australia, and participates in curly-hair education seminars in his area. Read more of Neel’s storyhere, and the next time you find yourself down under, don’t forget to make an appointment with this curly-hair genius.

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Super awesome morning today with @devrivelazquez from @naturallycurly!!! We used @innersenseorganicbeauty for her deep conditioner and her styling. Her hair the Curl Control & Hold Gel! Call me if you want to schedule- 779-490-6485 or find me on Facebook @ Robin Sjoblom Curly Hair Specialist A photo posted by Robin Sjoblom (@robinsjoblom”> on Apr 18, 2015 at 5:12pm PDT

Robin Sjoblom (Capri Salon in Smyrna, GA”>

Robin’s passion for educating people on the uniqueness of textured hair and her dedication to bettering the salon industry have worked together to give her copious amounts of recognition. 

Robin hosts curl-education seminars, is a member of the prestigious Curly Hair Artistry, and has been working as an independent curl stylist for over 16 years.

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A post shared by Ouidad (@ouidad”> on Mar 8, 2017 at 6:54am PST

Ouidad (Ouidad Flagship Salon in New York City”>

Known for her trademark Carving & Slicing curl-cutting method and the Rake & Shake defining technique, Ouidad has earned her way into the curly hall of fame. In 1984, she opened the first salon in the U.S. catering specifically to curly hair, and has a widely popular line of hair products sold in beauty stores like Ulta and CurlMart. Find a Ouidad-certified salon near you.

Camilla Tressvant (Black Hair Care of Sweden in Stockholm, Sweden”>

Owner and head stylist of Black Hair Care of Sweden salon in Stockholm, Camilla has been a trailblazer for the natural hair industry in Sweden for 20 years. In 1995, she opened her salon — which carries Curls, Redken, and Mixed Chicks brands — and soon after, started the Swedish Afro Hairdressing Society in an effort to educate and uplift other curl stylists in her country.

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Oh yeah!!! #MACON it’s about to GO DOWN!! Are you ready?

A photo posted by The Doux™ Salon (@thedouxsalon”> on Sep 16, 2014 at 1:20pm PDT

Maya Smith (The Doux Salon in Macon, GA”>

With over 20 years of experience as a celebrity stylist in Los Angeles, Maya Smith relocated to Germany after feeling the urge to make a dent in the “neo-natural” hair movement and the noticeable shortage of professional, natural hair-care services. She opened The HoneyComb in 2008, but uprooted her salon and moved back to the U.S., where she now serves natural-haired clients at The Doux salon in Macon. Maya’s The Doux hair-care products can be found at retailers in Germany, Italy, France, and the Netherlands. 

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The dye in her hair works so well in creating an interesting view. Our popular #puffythread hairstyle put into a #mohawk. You have #shorthair? Not to worry because we can make it happen for you Don’t be left out, visit us for your #puffythread style this week! We’ll post some more of the style so stay tuned! #naturalhair

A photo posted by O’Naturals Beauty (@onaturals1″> on Jun 1, 2015 at 11:20pm PDT

Omozo (O’Naturals Salon in Lagos, Nigeria”>

This visionary owns the youngest salon on our list: It has been on the type-4 natural hairradar since 2013, and is quickly gaining notice and praise. With her personal blog kickoff in 2009, “President” Omozo marked the start of a movement of pride for the naturals of Nigeria. Using only local ingredients in her homemade products and making a point to also specialize in protective styles, Omozo has made O’Naturals a one-stop shop for healthy manes.

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#curls #beautiful #curlyhairartistry #scottmusgravehair @megnoelleee thank you!

A photo posted by Scott Musgrave (@scottmusgravehair”> on Nov 22, 2014 at 4:26am PST

Scott Musgrave (Scott Musgrave Hair in Cary, NC”>

The “East Coast Curly Hair Specialist” is a pioneer in the natural hair movement. With a multitude of creations spanning across the textured hair educational platform — the CURLYS Method, the MagiCurl Application Process (MAP”>, the Curly Hair Artistry group — Musgrave’s many accomplishments in the salon industry have made him a Renaissance man when it comes to working with waves, curls, and coils. 

Phil Gifford (Parlour Hair in Birmingham, England”>

People flock to Parlour in hopes of scheduling an appointment with “Filly Gift” for his precision, expertise in cutting and styling short hair, and soothing head massages. Serving wavy and curly clients in an area where there are over 146 salons and hair “parlours,” and still making a name for yourself, is truly a gift in its own right, and Phil possesses his talent with poise.

Fulvio Tirrico (I Love Riccio in Milan, Italy”>

Fulvio Tirrico, creator of the X-Curl cutting method and a lover and student of curly hair, opened the first — and, currently, only — salon in Milan that focuses on textured-hair needs and styles. With an education from London’s Vidal Sassoon Academy under his belt, Tirrico continues to innovate through his partnership with Hairmed, an Italian hair-product line. Related: NaturallyCurly’s Must-Read Interview With Fulvio Tirrico 

Nicole Pembrook (Polished Hair Care in Paris”>

American-born Parisian mother and businesswoman Nicole has every aspect of the professional natural hair salon down to a science. With over 20 years of experience, Pembrook has made a name for herself catering to the local naturalistas and curly-haired women. The third-generation visagiste (“beauty specialist””> finds a way to channel her passion for the 1980s in California through her uniquely shaped haircuts.

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Hoje é um dia especial. É o dia deste ser iluminado @janinegoossens Fundadora da marca Jacques Janine e inspiração para milhares de profissionais da Beleza! FELIZ ANIVERSÁRIO!!!

A photo posted by Jacques Janine (@jacquesjanineoficial”> on May 7, 2015 at 8:10am PDT

Janine Goossens (Jacques Janine in Sao Paulo, Brazil”>

Since 1958, Janine Goossens has been heavily involved in the hair and beauty spa industry, specializing in bridal and formal looks. Having curly hair herself, she constantly receives rave reviews from the many textured-hair clients she has transformed. In 2010, Janine received the You Brazil Featured Business Award for her efforts to shake up the salon industry. With over 60 salons all over the country, Janine has always believed that exceptional quality is the key to success.

Majeeda Al-Amin (Heads Up Salon in Pearl City, Hawaii”>

Through a paramedical partnership and an education at the National Trichology Training Institute in Stockbridge, GA, Jeeda ended up in Hawaii where she honed her craft from an all-natural perspective. Ten years later, the licensed cosmetologist has gained a vast clientele with expertise in healthy hair care. Now, she’s bridging the gap between hair extensions andnatural hair, retailing for a virgin-hair company that caters to her transitioning curly clients.

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Silver Fox caught on 5th ave nyc

A photo posted by Lorraine Massey (@curlywhirledtour”> on Jan 24, 2015 at 12:17pm PST

Lorraine Massey (Devachan Salon, New York”>

No roster of curly stylists would be complete without Lorraine Massey, creator of the #NoPoo movement in the curly-hair community. With three flagship salons in New York and one in Culver City, CA, Devachan is the go-to salon for true curl transformations from none other than the creator of Curly Girl: The Handbook. Massey’s line of DevaCurl products shows curly, coily, and wavy clients the true beauty of their natural texture.

If you haven’t found a curly hair stylist close to you, you can search our Salons section and read reviews from other curlies.

Because even in our spare time, we cannot curb our obsession with all things hair.

According to Vogue, North West is inspiring a Natural Hair Movement.

North West is arguably one of the cutest little curlies to grace the overexposed stage that is called Celebrity. While we will not deny that, claiming that North is the sole trendsetter in a movement that has been decades, centuries in the making, is an offensive, dismissive stretch. Yesterday Kim and Kanye’s daughter turned 2 years old, an age at which most children do not receive relaxers or other chemical straighteners anyway. So the likelihood of a mixed race toddler rocking ‘natural curls’ is high and it’s the norm, really–celebrity kid or not. Marjon Carlos of Vogue says “North’s pint-sized hair styles… [have] established little Nori as a kind of hair icon for a nascent and diverse generation of tots rocking their natural curls with unprecedented flair…” What do you think, NaturallyCurly world?

Men don’t think curly hair is sexy, according to Harper’s Bazaar.

From Olivia Palermo’s “long & straight” hair to Gigi Hadid’s “slick high ponytail”, we can’t help but notice the absence of curly, textured hair representation in Harper’s Bazaar’s slideshow of 12 hairstyles that every man fawns over. What does your significant other think of your natural hair?

This writer wanted to be pre-meltdown Britney Spears for a day.

From Baby One More Time pigtails to I’m A Slave 4 U, Britney Spears had some pretty hot hairstyles in her videos before the dreaded Kevin Federline-barefoot-headshaving era. Bustle contributor Phoebe wanted to highlight Spears’ glory days through her iconic hairstyles. Ah, pop culture nostalgia–everything was better in the ’90s. We are here for this.

Lebron’s barber defends “Bigen hair dye” claims.

The playoffs are over and the nation has been crying Lebron tears ever since. Amidst all the game talk, everyone has also been focusing on one specific thing during the season that had nothing to do with basketball at all–Lebron James’ hairline. According to the Cleveland Cavaliers’ star player, barber Nick Castemanos stands by his claims on the head of his “toughest client”. “There is no dye. No additives. No preservatives,” Castemanos told Yahoo Sports. “Everyone thinks he’s dying his hair using [temporary hair colorings] Bigen or Black Ice. It’s all his hair. They still don’t believe me. I get Bigen comments all the time.

Finally, a hair care system that focuses solely on the needs of the consumer.

QVC founder Joseph Segel is funding ProfilePRO, which may just be the miracle hair care system we’ve all been waiting on. For $15, you can formulate your own conditioner and shampoo based on your hair type and needs, create a customizable label for your line, and choose either full size or travel-size products. Seriously, how cool does that sound? 

This Cuban performance artist reopened the racial beauty discussion with a natural hair competition.

Discrimination among the Cuban population has been prevalent for quite some time, and while it is often a discussion that gets swept under the rug, Havana performance artist Susana Delahante invited 70 women to participate in a friendly hair competition. Two of the competition’s three categories were fulfilled–natural and braided. According to US News, “Sociologists say black Cubans’ reluctance to identify themselves as such is a powerful indication of lingering prejudice.”

Don’t ask a girl if her natural hair is “an add-on”–then touch it without asking.

Last week Mad Men actress Teyonah Parris had to shut down a blissfully ignorant man while lunching with friends. An “old man” approached her, proceeded to let her know that her hair was “stimulating” and asked “Is that yours or an add-on?” in the next breath. Parris shared a series of tweets to support her rant that, basically… “#ignorance, #privilege” and being unabashedly “dumbfounded” ain’t a good look. This week, Selma director Ava DuVernay had a dishearteningly similar experience with a perpetrator.

An 8th grader gave his principal a Lebron cut.

It was an effective incentive, that’s for sure. 8th graders at Bennett in Chatham County, North Carolina, got to watch their principal, Dan Barnwell, get his head shaved to a buzz cut for passing the End of Grade (EOG”> testing with a 90 percent proficiency in the Science category.

After years of color and element damage, my bangs have had their share of wear and tear. I noticed the most breakage on my head was with my bangs. I recently got my biannual DevaCut, which was much needed. Before my trim, these were my 6 go-to styles for helping my bangs blend in to the best of my ability.

Day 1: Wash-and-go on partially twisted hair.

At night before going to sleep, I do sort of a multi-pineapple, separating the back and front half of my hair. For my bangs in particular, I do a few two-strand twists. The next morning, I untwist, take my two sections down, fluff, and add Zenzele Leave-In Conditioner (and some water if the back half is flat from my pillow”>.

Day 2: Messy pompadour and bun.

While I’m in between trims, I try to avoid bobby pins at all costs–the harsh metal can further promote breakage. But sometimes my bangs work in my favor by letting me twirl and tuck them into another curl. This helps hide the breakage/split ends.

Day 3: Ninja bun.

Again, for this style, no bobby pins were used. I twirled my bangs in the form of a large bantu knot and tucked the ends in. The back half just needed a little finger fluffing and some SheaMoisture Yucca Styling Milk, and I was good to go.

Day 4: Wash-and-go with brushed bangs.

Yes, brushed. The night before, I co-washed my hair and this time, I used a detangling brush to smooth my bangs. Of course, my hair was smothered in Yes to Carrots Daily Conditioner–brushing it in also helped the product penetrate where it needed to–and my curls were defined, naturally.

Day 5: Messy high ponytail.

Messy is a necessity when I am in between trims. If everything was so sleek and put together, it might be easier for others to notice where the split ends and breakage is happening throughout my head–just no. So for this, I am sure to leave a few random curls out, and I don’t tie my ponytail too tightly.

Day 6: 2nd day flexi rod.

I like to retexturize my 3C curls every now and then. But while my hair is in a state of weakness and breakage, I stay away from Curlformers or rollers– so flexi rods are my best bet. They safely alter my pattern while allowing my hair to sit comfortably around the tool rather than being super manipulated. I used SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Styling Lotion for the hold and smoothness.

Hi, I’m Daina Lyn Walls, New Jersey from North Jersey, but now live in South Jersey–there’s a difference, I swear! And I am a Copywriter for the Creative Team at Destination Maternity Corporation.

I have always worn my hair curly. I have never mastered straightening my hair myself.

However, in high school one year my friends was becoming cosmetologists and between Sun In and bad box dye jobs, my hair was not only orange, but it went completely & string-ishly straight! Then again in college, I was bored with the curls (I know, what a travesty!”> and between always coloring, the Brazilian Straightening before they got rid of the formaldehyde and my inability to not use gel with alcohol, my hair was ruined.

I had been with my boyfriend for years and said that once we got married I wanted to do my own hair and showcase my own completely grown out curls. So, in 2010 I vowed to have healthy, untouched, truly natural hair and that is when I discovered Lorraine Massey’s Curly Girl Book. I got married in 2013, did my own hair and have been CG for 5 years.

My curly hair must-haves

Obviously conditioner, since I co-wash. I look for a thick, creamy conditioner because I like to feel the slip and the moisture in my really dry 3b hair. I currently am using AG Re:coil. I really want to try Briogeo Curl Charisma Conditioner because I have heard pretty good things about it. I am not 100% faithful to conditioner, as long as it allows my hair to be finger-combed, I will try it!

As for styling products, I am a one product at a time girl. I only wash my hair twice a week (3 if I must”> and I don’t like to mix or layer products. I hate build-up and the one thing I noticed right away when I went CG was that I never get dry scalp anymore. I used to have dandruff every single day, so I don’t want to be over product-y, even though I always use too much anyway. I swear by Uncle Funky’s Daughter Curly Magic Curl Stimulator.

I know that one of the original owners broke off and created the same product under the name Sweet Soul Magic. I will use either, as long as it contains the original formula! I also make my own hair gel with just flaxseeds and water. At this point, I think most people have seen the how-to videos on this gem. I have also used AG Re:coil Curl Activator Cream, but I always just use too much of it. I like SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Extra Moisturizing Transitioning Milk when I want one of those super soft hair days or when it’s day 3 and I need to do a braid in order to not scare people.

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I am my biggest hair issue.

Every other year, like clockwork, I cut bangs. And immediately, I cry and swear I won’t ever cut bangs again. Then, I look at pictures of Keri Russel in Felicity (before she cut her hair”> and envy how long her front layers were. But other than that, I would say it is dry. I cannot seem to keep it moisturized. Oils and butters are too heavy, so they make it look waxy. Sometimes products with protein make my hair turn into hay. I think the less is more strategy works for me, but unfortunately I have a heavy hand with everything I do, so that quarter size amount companies recommend I take as silver dollar pancake size. I have gotten really good with leaving it alone and just letting it live its life. If it wants to get big, then so be it. I am from New Jersey and I am Italian… my hair just wants to show that.

Wind is not a friend. I hate getting caught in the back seat of someone’s car and they have their windows open. I have an unrealistic fear that once the wind gets a hold of my head, the spirals will unfurl. It doesn’t help with the creepy little bangs I keep cutting and regretting either. I also think the usual suspects like rain and humidity, but I have accepted frizz, so it is what it is. This is not a challenge, but it’s wild… people always want to touch my hair. I allow it.

So, in 2015 I am way behind or a complete radical… or just lazy? I am like a nonexistent person in the social media world. I do write social posts for the company I work for, which is ironic. I have Facebook, because well, I am not 100% off the grid, ya know? I know once upon a time I signed up for Instagram and my goal for 2015 is to utilize it, so you can follow me on there. My username is @Daigala! Once I start, people tell me I won’t stop. The one thing you will be sure to see? Curls.

Generation Y is executing a full-fledged plan of action to restore the decade that made them: the ’90s. Nostalgia-prone tastemakers have influenced big-name designers and celebrity hairstylists to leverage that time when Nintendo ruled our TV sets, Clarissa explained it all, and you couldn’t go ANYWHERE without an extra scrunchie in your mini-backpack.

And then, there were the ‘dos. From crimping to grunge-inspired wispiness, it was a decade of wild experimentation. Ahead, the ’90s hair trends we’d like to take into the future with us.

Kiss Curls

Think the perfectly plastered baby hair of Chilli from TLC. With the ever-growing popularity of the selfie, people are seeking out up-close-and-personal facial-feature enhancements. Need inspiration? FKA twigs (seen here”> and Zoe Kravitz get the kiss curl right — every single time.

Wispy Bangs

Every teen-thriller actress had stringy bangs that just so happened to fall over her eyes while she was being chased through the neighborhood by a masked serial killer. One of our biggest inspirations is Courteney Cox, who had crush-worthy bedhead bangs that charmed us every time we watched (and continue to watch”> Friends — move over, Jen Aniston. It Girl Alexa Chung takes the trend into 2015.

Bantu Knots

Rihanna has played a major role in the revival of this craze. She wore bantu knots to the iHeartRadio Music Awards and in an editorial for i-D magazine. But, lest we forget our ’90s crushes who made bantu knots edgy enough for the runway, yet still sufficiently mainstream for an MTV music video — back when MTV only played videos.

Crimped Hair

Recently, Beyoncé debuted a crimped version of her signature, pin-straight honey-blonde tresses and as usual, we fell in love with the crimping iron all over again. Weave and wig companies took note, as we are now seeing tons of crimped human-hair extensions online and in beauty-supply stores around the world.

Freeform Locs

Remember Kriss Kross’ hit single “Jump”? Of course you do, and that means you also remember those parted-down-the-middle baby locs. Rapper duo Rae Sremmurd and others have been bringing back this too-cool-for-school look.

Protective-Style Lobs

Brandy’s self-titled 1994 album showed the starlet’s natural hair in choppy, protective-style braids, and Maxine from Living Singlerocked hers with exuberant confidence. Today,we’re seeing a slightly revamped version of the long bob in the form of chin-length box braids. That icy-blue hue adds a fun little something-something, doesn’t it?

Who would have thought foods that taste so good would also make the best deep conditioning treatments? The key to these great recipes is remembering that they are for your curls and not your stomach (at least until you have finished the recipe”>! You’ll notice that these recipes have a lot of similar ingredients because these are what have worked the best for so many curlies thus far. Try them out and see which base product makes your hair feel the softest.

Sweet avocado

• 1 avocado
• Extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO”>
• Honey

Avocado is great for deep conditioning. It can also be used for a quick softening, conditioning, and moisturizing mask. The use of honey on hair is talked about everywhere. Honey by itself is not sufficient enough to provide the conditioning necessary, but when combined with other ingredients it can make your hair feel softer and smoother. Substitute this recipe for Darcy’s Botanicals Avocado & Honey Twisting Cream or Miss Jessie’s Curly Meringue.

Baby banana

• Organic banana flavored baby food
• EVOO
• Honey

Banana is another great kitchen item that can help give you that soft hair you have been wanting. The key to this recipe is using banana baby food instead of using an actual banana. If you do not blend well enough or use a rice strainer to sift the chunks, then it can leave pieces of banana throughout your hair. You would then have to shampoo and condition your hair several times to get them out and that would defeat the purpose! When you use the baby food it is already strained and liquefied so it can mix easily as well as still provide you with a great conditioner. Substitute this recipe for MYHoneyChild Banana Crème Conditioner or Curl Junkie Hibiscus & Banana Deep Fix Moisturizing Conditioner.

Cucumber and egg

• 1/2 cucumber
• 1 egg
• 1/2 an eggshell’s worth of extra-virgin olive oil

Cucumber is a natural refresher so it is no wonder that a great treatment would include it. It is a great finishing touch to a deep conditioning treatment. Eggs are also great to give your hair a great smooth finish. An important thing to remember when using this treatment is no heat (including hot water”>! The heat can literally cook the egg into your hair which can lead to a disaster. Your hair will also smell like cooked eggs, which is unpleasant. Substitute this recipe for Wen Lavender Cleansing Conditioner or Aubrey Organics Sea Buckthorn Leave-In Conditioner.

Fruit salad

• 1/2 banana
• 1/4 avocado
• 1/4 cantaloupe
• 1 tbsp. yogurt
• Any oil

You might be hungriest after making this one so leave some fruit aside for you to enjoy while the treatment goes to work! The fruits in this treatment all work great together to give you soft hair that also will smell just as great. If you are worried about using the banana, substitute the banana baby food so you can be sure to avoid the chunks. If you have no fear of the actual banana, be sure to blend it well and strain it before mixing it with the other items. This recipe will make your hair smell fantastic and it will provide you with a great, healthy snack. Substitute this recipe for MYHoneyChild Olive You Deep Conditioner.

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This article was originally published July 2010 and has been updated for grammar and clarity.

Looking for a little online inspiration to help you take the hair color plunge into a shade of blue? Teal, midnight, electric… here are 10 crushworthy women rocking 10 different shades of blue hair on their texture. [do action=”gallery” title=”10 Women Who Rock Blue So Fiercely” /][do action=”gallery-slide”]

@Shantrinas

Elisa’s natural hair tutorial videos and photos give us life in an array of blue hues. Watch her stunning braid-out technique on cornflower blue hair.

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Teyana Taylor

Once upon a time, the young singer-model sported turquoise tips in an ombre fashion, and although the actual coloring trend may be passe, we enjoyed her cyan moment.

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@forsakensilencesweetvengeance

Nefertiti experiments with color on her natural hair, that is what she does–just watch her Youtube for tips and tutorials on maintaining sky blue with care.

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@ilovelimara

Annisa knows how to help make her tapered haircut on coily hair really burst–using Garnier’s Color Styler in Blue Burst, to be exact.

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Hilary Duff

We don’t mean to encourage an uncoupling in a positive light, such as Hilary Duff’s divorce–but it’s so hard to ignore just how radiant the former Disney star has been looking in her selfies with charming turquoise wavy hair.

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Kelis

Her milkshake days may be behind her, but this eclectic singer-songwriter never fails to wow us with her hair color and style choices. We love her denim-hued curls the most.

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@muchmorethanbeauty

As if her long, luscious curls weren’t perfect enough–Estefani pulls off these temporary oxford blue highlights as if her color flawlessly.

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@cometakeapuff

A pretty-faced cosmetologist turned Youtube sensation with an knack for pulling off vibrant rainbow colors, this baby blue looks just as jazzy on Ahzani’s curls.

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@feralcreature

From pale purple and silver to teal, this fierce chick sure knows what hues compliment her striking facial features.

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@Fizzglam

When it comes to all things beauty and lifestyle changes, Ify is the expert at hand–and her beautiful midnight blue crochet braids show just how confidence conveys through a photo.

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Wavy hair tends to lose its curl and fall flat sometimes. A root lifter can help with the dreaded “hat head” look. If you have long wavy hair it can get weighed down when it is wet, and if you’re not careful it will dry that way. Similarly, women with fine hair often struggle to create lift and volume at their roots. You can get creative by using jawclips at the roots of your waves and curls, but if you’re looking for a quick way to fake bed head hair then try one of these root lifting products. We promise you, your waves will fall back in love with you.

1. Innersense Inner Peace Whipped Creme Texturizer

If you’re going for a piecey look on say, a wavy pixie cut or an edgier bob today, use this texturizer. Not only is it non-drying, but this creme is free of petroleum but still manages to create hold like a true pomade, fortified with shea butters and fruit oil extracts.

2. Oyin Handmade Boing!

Wavy and loose curly girls can benefit from this lightweight holding cream– it avoids the crunchy after-effect, leaving hair soft. When used to create a volumizing hairstyle like a ‘bumped’ bang or textured ponytail, Boing delivers with natural vegetable glycerin to provide shine and keep frizzies away, coconut and jojoba oils to penetrate heat-styled hair and provide moisture from the roots to the shaft.

3. Herbal Essences Naked Volumizing Souffle 

A water-based styler fortified with grapefruit extract and peppermint oil that leaves weightless, fluffy definition on type 2 and 3 hair. It is also silicone and colorant free, leaving hair with minimal build-up and hair that fingers can easily run through for the tousled effect.

4. Ouidad Playcurl Volumizing Spray

This spray-gel is lightweight enough for daily use as a wave or curl refresher. It is made with a polymer blend to prevent sticky, stiff hair while promoting definition and volume on fine hair. The glycerin in this spray adds moisture to condition the hair for styling manageability and seamless wash-n-gos.

9. Jessicurl Celebration Spray

Another spray-gel that won’t weight your waves or curls down, this root lifter provides lasting hold and definition on dry hair. It contains nourishing flaxseed oil and aloe vera juice to seal the cuticle for more shine.

10. AG Hair Cosmetics Beach Bomb

An alcohol-free cream infused with keratin and silk amino acids to smooth the cuticle, lift the roots, and add natural-looking texture to hair. Get the sun-kissed, beachy waves effect without the actual beach–and no yucky second day hair, either.

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It’s hard getting out of the old habits that we were so accustomed to years ago. This list will help you revamp your regimen to reflect your hair in the state it is in now–natural.

1. You brush your hair dry.

Unless it’s made especially for detangling sessions on soaking wet curls, this is a huge no-no. Brushing dry hair can weaken the shaft, causing friction and promoting breakage and split ends. Use these ONLY when detangling a matted knot:

• Tangle Teezer
• The Wet Brush

2. You use drying gel on your edges.

Relaxed hair can usually withstand the drying effects of short-chain alcohols like Ethanol, Ethyl, Isopropyl, or Benzyl. However, these cause natural and curly hair to lose moisture. Look for an edge tamer made with one of these good alcohols, instead. We get that some hairstyles call for smoother edges, so go next time for a water-based tamer made with moisturizing carrier oils to penetrate moisture but still maintain a healthy hold along the hairline.

• Original Moxie Hair Bling High Shine Pomade
• Design Essentials Natural Honey & Shea Edge Tamer 

3. You use products with mineral oil.

This ingredient is found in many products. It clogs pores, preventing hair growth and inducing a dirty, oily scalp–sometimes promoting the chance for bacterial infections, too. When our hair was relaxed, we used this (hair grease”> to protect our scalp from the harmful side effects of a possible chemical burn on our scalp, forehead, and neck. This product is now unnecessary for natural hair. Use a hair cream or moisturizer rich in nut derived oils and butters so you can feel the same effects of what hair grease used to give you on relaxed hair.

• MyHoneyChild Type 4 Hair Cream
• Alikay Naturals Moisture Rich Parfait
• Darcy’s Botanicals Eucalyptus Mint Herbal Scalp Conditioning Butter

4. You use bobby pins and rubber bands.

When our hair was chemically straightened, it might have been ok to create intricate updos with metal bobby pins and rubber bands. Naturally textured hair in its unaltered state shouldn’t be subject to the breakage factor when it comes to these styling items, however. When using a bobby pin, face the curved side downward to go with the flow of your curl pattern, and never use it on the very end of your hair. Leave about a half-inch, if possible, unexposed to the pin-down. Rubber bands should be tossed out completely–that long-term friction is damaging to the hair shaft.

5. You tie your hair up into a tight ponytail.

The ends of your hair aren’t the only part to focus our care on. Your edges need love, too–tight ponytails put an unnecessary amount of tension on the root. Doing this too frequently may result in extra hair fall, a thinning hairline, and a compromised curl pattern, over time. Use a Goody Ouchless ponytail holder not only to secure your style, but to blend in with your hair color, too.

6. You use silicones everyday.

If you’ve straightened your hair, using a silicone product is OK for acting as a heat protectant. But everyday use is not good for natural hair. Water-insoluble ingredients in your product can keep water from entering the cortex, causing it to become dehydrated, and over time, completely disrupting our natural curl pattern. If you notice your curl losing elasticity, try one of these to rebuild the strength–free of silicones:

• As I Am Hydration Elation Intensive Conditioner
• Bee Mine Bee Lovely Moisturizing Daily Conditioner
• MopTop Bamboo Daily Conditioner 

7. You apply heat on dry, unconditioned hair.

There’s nothing wrong with us desiring a straight style for a few days. Just keep in mind that hair needs to be well conditioned first. In addition, do a hot oil treatment a day beforehand to re-introduce moisture and oils your hair might lose once it gets straightened with a heat styling tool. Do quick passes–don’t hold the flat iron on one part of your hair for a long time–and don’t let your flat iron exceed 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Try one of these heat protectants with protective silk protein next time you have an itch for straightening or blow drying your hair:

• CHI Silk Infusion
• SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Shine & Moisture Mist
• Jane Carter Solution Restore Moisture Mist

Do you have any bad hair habits that you would add to this list?

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