Search Results: Diane Mary

Chemical scalp burns are usually caused by hair products such as dyes, bleaches or relaxers.

  Minor irritation and redness are common when getting hair processes done, but severe burns deep into the skin are a rare occurrence. However, chemical burns on the scalp can cause hair to break and stop growing in burned areas.

Scar tissue can form. The extent of the burn depends on the amount of chemical used, the amount of time the skin was exposed to the hair chemical and other factors. In this article I will explain a few ways to treat a burn at home, but it is important to note that some burns require professional medical help. It is best to seek the advice of a medical professional who can see and assess your individual burn first.

Do you still feel heat in the area of the burn?

The damage can continue even when you are no longer in contact with the item that burned you in the first place. That’s why running a burn under cold water feels so good, because it’s actually cooling the affected area. However, do NOT place ice on the burn, as it changes the temperature of the tissues too quickly and can incur further damage.

If the chemical is a solid or a dust, brush your scalp off immediately–don’t use your fingers, or they can get burned, too. You may be able to flush a liquid burn with water and using a cloth to dry. Be mindful of potential chemical reactions and side effects. Some chemicals may react with water to release toxic compounds or worsen a burn. Dowsing pure sodium with water, for instance, can even start a fire! Protect yourself by reading labels to determine reactivity. Seek medical attention if you have to.

If you can flush the area with water, do so copiously.

• Remove earrings, hairpins, hats and other items that may have come in contact with the chemical.
• Pay particular attention to the eyes.
• Dress the area in loose-fitting, dry bandages and observe.
• Use appropriate ointments to treat peeling, itching, and blistering.

3 Steps to sooth the burn

1. Remove the heat source and run the burn under cold water for at least 30 seconds. 

2. Rinse the burn with white or apple cider vinegar. Dab pure white or apple cider vinegar over the affected area.

3. Apply a burn cream or other healing salve with gauze, a clean towel or t-shirt.

Why vinegar helps

Weak acetic acid in vinegar balances the damaged skin’s pH, which accelerates healing and skin regeneration. This also reduces the amount of scar tissue. Did you know there is a patent filed stating that the mixture of any citrus juice and salt has been shown to “stop pain on contact, prevent blistering, cause the tissue to remain elastic, promote healing and prevent infection”?

Certain salves and ointments will help, too. Aquaphor is an affordable and effective option available at Target or Walgreens. Josie Maran Argan Balm is a good option for those who take the natural but store-bought route. Nourishing Joy shares a DIY recipe that is 100% natural.

DIY scalp burn salve

• 1/4 cup raw honey, preferably Manuka honey
• 1/4 cup unrefined coconut oil
• 1 teaspoon beeswax
• 1 tablespoon Sea Buckthorn oil, optional
• 1/2 teaspoon aloe vera gel, aloe vera juice, or rosewater

Why this works

Raw Honey is antibacterial, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory, but must be in its raw state to be of use in wound healing. For burns, honey is especially useful because it stimulates new tissue growth, soothes the skin, and prevents primary infection (according to Livestrong“>. Raw Manuka honey is notably more effective, so much so that the FDA has actually approved one Manuka honey wound dressing for use in the US. (In fact, if you’d prefer not to make your own burn salve, you can find the 100% Manuka honey Medihoney Wound Dressing at your local pharmacy or on Amazon.”> Coconut oil accelerates skin regeneration and stimulates collagen production within the tissue being repaired. It also  feels deeply soothing. Beeswax is used in this application largely as a firming agent, but it also locks in moisture and protects the skin while it heals. Beeswax also holds many of the same antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties as honey, so it is beneficial for burn healing in its own right. Sea Buckthorn oil contains more Vitamin E than any other oil and contains a high percentage of essential fatty acids, which makes it highly valuable as a cosmetic and rejuvenating component in healing and anti-aging creams. It is highly emollient and is very easily assimilated and absorbed by the skin. Aloe vera and Rosewater provide a deeply soothing sensation when rubbed on a minor burn (sunburn in particular”> and aid in pain management.

Directions

1.Heat the beeswax over low heat in a small saucepan or double boiler. 2. Add in the coconut oil and melt completely once the beeswax is nearly melted. 3. Stir in the honey and sea buckthorn oil and whisk over the heat only until the whole mixture is one uniform liquid. 4. Remove from the heat and either pour directly into tins or other containers OR stir in the aloe or rosewater briskly until the mixture is completely homogenous, then pour into your containers. 5. Let the mix sit until comfortable to touch before using. It should fully harden in approximately 6 to 12 hours. For an extra healing boost, infuse the oils with healing herbs before making the recipe. Comfrey and plantain are especially good options.

Almond oil is a pure and natural substance with no chemicals that softens, nourishes, and strengthens hair and skin.

The almond is a drupe–not an actual ‘nut’ by definition–which calls the Middle East and South Asia home. This beauty miracle started making its way along the Mediterranean through Africa, Europe, and eventually the United States. Now almond oil is in many of our hair and beauty products. It is a pure and natural substance with no chemicals that softens, nourishes, and strengthens hair and skin.

Adds sheen

Almond oil contains a high concentration of proteins and vitamins A, B and E, all of which help add shine to dull, dry hair. Additionally, fatty acids omega 9, 6, and 3 help to reflect damaging UV rays. It also forms a thin, oily layer on the hair which protects it from sun damage.

Fights breakage

Vitamins A, B, and E and fatty acids omega 9, omega 6 and omega 3 keep hair strong and healthy, preventing against breakage and split ends. Almond oil is a great sealant on wet hair over stylers and can also be used on day 2 hair and beyond, concentrating on the ends, to help hold in moisture in and further protect the fragile length.

Nourishes dryness

Almond oil is extremely nourishing to not only the lengths of the hair but the roots as well. Because almond oil is lighter, it’s also an excellent option for finer hair that gets weighed down easily. Also because of its weight, it is the perfect base for using essential oils that further moisturize the scalp and fight off dandruff.

Stimulates hair growth

Massage almond oil directly on the scalp before clarifying or co-washing to stimulate hair growth. It contains strengthening magnesium at the root of hair, which increases blood circulation to the scalp to promote hair growth. Massage almond oil onto the scalp nights before you are ready to wash your hair the following day. Sleep with a satin bonnet so your pillow does not become oily. Do this consistently every time you wash for the best results.

Almond oil contains essential vitamins for skin health and beauty including vitamins A, E, and D. Its healthy fat content is important for keeping the skin supple and hydrated.

Exfoliates

Almond oil is an excellent carrier for salt and sugar. The salt or sugar will remove dirt and dead skin cells. The almond oil will immediately replenish your scrubbed skin. Apply this treatment to your face or lips once or twice a week for best results. 

Almond oil facial cleanser removes dirt as effectively as the facial scrub. As a cleanser, it will open pores, forcing dead skin cells and dirt to come up to the surface. It also makes a gentle eye makeup remover as well.

Apply a generous amount of almond oil on dry skin, massage it in and then splash some water. Rinse your face with cool water and pat dry gently.

Evens out skin texture 

The best time to use almond oil for facial massage is right before bedtime. It ensures that the oil will stay long enough so that it can perform its functions well. Almond oil massage helps to reduce dark circles under eyes, remove dead skin cells, and improves the texture of your facial skin. Applying almond oil before bed is that the solution is also therapeutic.

The most common benefit of almond oil for face is that it can be used as daily moisturizer. It not only softens up rough or dry skin, but almond oil also creates protective layer on the face.

Reduces fine lines

There are many products out there that claim to help with under eye dark circles. If you are looking for a more natural solution, almond oil is always a good choice. You can simply apply the oil in the dark areas before bed, so you can let it work while you are asleep. For optimum results, you need to perform this treatment everyday for several weeks. This treatment will not only help the under eye dark circles fade, but it also can help to reduce dark eyelids and crow’s feet.

How to: Wet your hands with warm water, and then massage the oil to all areas of your face. This will help the oil to penetrate more easily into the skin. You can even apply makeup after the oil is fully absorbed.

Often the issue isn’t the hair growth from the scalp that makes length difficult to achieve, but preventing breakage from the ends.

For years, I’ve been growing my hair out as healthy as it can be. This is how.

1. Practicing safe hair coloring

Many people might insist that coloring natural hair is damaging and you can’t grow it long because of that. While it is true that coloring causes some damage, you just have to make sure to care for the colored hair safely.

2. Trims (only when I need them”>

When your hair has a lot of split ends, trim it–but not just because of your calendar schedule. I go between three and four months for our trims. I know I’m due for a trim when my hair starts tangling more easily, sheds more and looks limp.

3. Regular deep conditioning

Genetically, my hair is super dry and I color it which makes it dryer as well. I deep condition every single time I wash my hair and use a regular conditioner as a leave-in. Using a deep conditioner with heat or steam will make it work even better; one of my personal favorites lately has been the Briogeo Don’t Despair, Repair! Mask.

4. Using coconut oil

Coconut oil is one of the only oils that penetrates all the way to the middle of the hair strand. It helps provide strength, softness, and repairs damage to chemically treated hair. The night before wash day, I like to sleep with my hair saturated in coconut oil. Sometimes on day 2 or 3 hair, I will even use a little bit of coconut oil in place of a serum to minimize frizz.

6. Focusing on my scalp

While I sleep with coconut oil on my length, I use certain blends of essential oils on my scalp. I apply them before bedtime and then give myself a scalp massage, helping to increase circulation and blood flow to encourage growth. I like the Jessicurl Stimulating Scalp Oil Treatment.

7. Paying attention to ingredients

The more products I used that didn’t contain sulfates, non-water soluble silicones, parabens and heavy waxes, the better my hair health was overall. More natural products with moisturizers, healthy oils, butters and vitamins are so important. I especially notice when I don’t use products with heavy silicones my hair is less frizzy and better able to be managed.

8. Alternating between a shampoo & co-wash on wash days

I usually only wash my hair twice a week, alternating between sulfate-free shampoos and co-washes. I like to use Living Proof Restore one wash and then Nubian Heritage Strengthen & Grow the next time. Once a week, shampoo helps to remove styling products, sweat from working out, and environmental toxins. Every month, I use a sulfate-free clarifying shampoo to really help detox my hair (and keep my color from getting brassy”>.

9. Washing less

Washing your hair too frequently can dry the hair out because you are not allowing your hair to absorb the natural oils it produces. If you dry your hair out it becomes weak and prone to breakage. I use a dry shampoo and refresher spray on non wash days for the scalp to be clean.

10. Moisturizing often

Keeping the hair properly moisturized will help with breakage (which leads to length”>. The more dry your hair, the more moisture you need. I deep condition in the shower when my hair is wet and leave it in as long as possible. I’ll use a regular conditioner as a leave-in on days I don’t wash, and a refresher spray with a water-based leave-in to add moisture daily. It leaves my hair soft, hydrated and healthy.

11. Protecting my hair at night

Sleeping on satin pillowcases and spraying the hair with a moisture spray before bedtime are both great ways to let help your hair survive the night. Usually by morning, my hair–especially the ends–drink up my refresher spray as if it was a delicious milkshake!

12. Never over-processing with color

When I go in for my color, my hairdresser touches up my roots only. Not overlapping and putting color on previously colored hair keeps it so much more healthier than if the length of the hair were to get color processed every single time. Especially with long hair, the ends of my hair I think are at least 5 years old, so they have been through a lot.

13. Minimizing heat usage

I use heat styling tools as infrequently as possible. In the beginning of my journey, I went two years without straightening or blow drying it once. Now, I straighten once a year to see my length. I also air dry instead of blowdrying.

14. Detangling gently

A wide tooth comb or a Tangle Teezer is great to help tangle. Start from the bottom of the hair and work your way up the length to detangle. One big comb through from scalp to end will get the comb stuck in the hair and the results won’t be pretty. It might take a little extra time to detangle more carefully, but the reward of long healthy hair is worth it. Also, please don’t try and detangle hair that is all dry with styling products in it. That’s just a big no.

15. Watching my diet

Everything in our body, including our hair is affected by what we put into it. Eating a diet rich in protein, vegetables and whole grains is essential.

16. Taking hair vitamins

I have been taking hair vitamins every day for years. They are good for the hair and also for the body. I have gone through several brands and right now I am using the Hairfinity ones with good results. I suggest waiting at least 3 months before expecting to see results.

It’s all about consistency and patience!

Doing the scalp oils, the deep treatments and taking the hair vitamins consistently and in a routine will truly pay off. Remember, the average human hair grows about a half an inch a month. You might experience more or less but there is not one miracle way for hair to sprout inches overnight. If there was one, I’m pretty sure I would have found it already!

Happy hair growing!

Follow Diane Mary on her blog, Diane Mary Beauty.

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Coconut oil is a natural chelating agent, reducing iron and copper production which happens when you use bleach/peroxide on your hair.

  Coconut oil is an all natural beauty miracle for beauty and health. Applied topically or ingested, there are literally dozens of different benefits when using coconut oil. I have been sleeping with coconut oil in my hair as a pre poo treatment twice a week for over two years now and it has left my hair soft, shiny and more manageable.

Coconut oil can help with hair bleaching

Coconut oil leaves bleached hair feeling super soft and much more healthy looking. Using coconut oil on bleached hair can help hair that feels crunch or hay like feel significantly softer with consistent use and even make the hair more manageable.

How to use coconut oil for bleached hair

1. Coat all of your hair with melted coconut oil root to tip, at night before bed.

2. Cover it with a towel or shower cap and go to sleep.

3. Bleach hair as usual the next day with oil still in the hair.

Why it works

The idea is the night of oil-soaking replicates the buildup of natural oils in your hair and protects both your scalp and the hair itself from damage causing bleach. Some people have found that using oil helps their bleach to process faster than it would without it. Adding coconut oil to the bleaching process can create a barrier to help prevent the burning and itching feeling that usually occurs with the process.

Do you bleach your hair? 

pictured: @chloejaylois

Tea tree oil, also known scientifically as Melaleuca alternifolia, is an essential oil that has been extracted from a plant native to Australia and cannot be found naturally occurring elsewhere.

This oil is widely known for its topical antiseptic and antifungal treatment or infection-reducing benefits. Tea tree oil also has antibiotic properties aids against ailments like skin infections, rashes, burns, dandruff and much more.

As far as the hair is concerned, tea tree oil helps fight dry and itchy scalps and also can help combat dandruff thanks to the effective moisturizing properties within the oils. Though there is no scientific or clinical proof, I have read time and time again Tea Tree Oil also can help support hair growth. Thanks to its antiseptic and antifungal properties mentioned before, this oil creates the optimum condition on your scalp to grow hair. Being on a forever long personal journey to grow my hair long and healthy, I have counted tea tree as an ingredient in many, many hair growth stimulating oil mixes.

DIY Lice Prevention Spray

Although some studies have shown that tea tree oil is effective as a lice prevention treatment, there are not enough long-term studies to recommend it as a definitive prevention tool. That said, there are hundreds upon hundreds of anecdotal claims that it has been effective for families for years. If you are spraying a conditioning spray to detangle and keep your hair moisturized daily, you might as well add in some of this oil in for the potential benefits.

Directions

1. Using an eyedropper, drop 2-3 drops of pure tea tree oil (per ounce of liquid”> in a spray bottle full of water or a leave-in conditioner. 2. Shake well. 3. Spray on hair, rub in with your hands to distribute evenly, and style as usual.

You may also spray a little extra on your scalp and massage it in.

If you want to try and amp up the benefits, feel free to add 2 to 3 drops to your shampoo and conditioner. Do a patch test to make sure you are not allergic to tea tree oil if you have never used it before. If any reaction occurs, stop use immediately. Find tea tree oil at your local health store.

Always dilute it first

Because of how potent it is, it is always suggested to use tea tree oil diluted with another oil or conditioning mixture. Tea tree oil should never be ingested and is only to be used as a topical remedy.

How many times have you gone to the salon to ask for “just a trim” when all of a sudden half of your length is lopped off? Foregoing cutting your hair is not the answer to gaining length. Why? The split ends will accumulate and only get worse, traveling up the hair shaft and damaging more of our hair.

It is important to take care of your ends whenever you notice they are looking really frayed. There are 2 options: trimming and dusting. Each person is different.

There are 2 options: trimming and dusting.

Wavy or curly hair can usually go 3 or 4 months without a full trim and just minor dustings in between. It all depends on your hair type, length, and other factors. Here’s how to tell what your hair needs.

Trimming

In order to maintain healthy ends hair should be trimmed when necessary. There’s no use holding onto long hair with thinning, damaged ends. Cutting off the damage and retaining length will be far easier. There is a myth that says trimming hair often makes your hair grow faster. This notion is completely false. Hair is no longer living as soon as it emerges from the scalp, so trimming the ends makes no impact on growth. Maintaining healthy ends will help with retaining length. It will help with breakage, which is often the true culprit of your hair not growing. The key to trimming hair is knowing what needs to be trimmed and what doesn’t.  

Dusting

This involves cutting under a 1/4 inch off of the ends of the hair to keep them in the best possible condition. Trimming often removes a larger amount of hair, so for those that are conscious of keeping their hair long dusting is a good alternative. Dusting is usually done every few weeks, often at home, which lessens the need for trims. When dusting look for thinning or uneven parts of the hair. Hairs are most protected and less likely to get damaged when they are around the same length as each other. Dusting also makes for better length retention, too. 

Split end menders are just a temporary fix

All hair is susceptible to split ends regardless of whether you chemically process your hair or if it is natural. Split ends can’t be permanently repaired despite the claims from some specially formulated haircare products. These products can only temporarily glue split ends together so they appear repaired. Splits can occur at any point along the hair shaft but tend to occur at the end of the hair (hence the name”>. It is often advised that split ends should be cut as the split can travel up the hair shaft. Whilst this can happen, often splits tear or break off around the point they started. It’s best to just cut the split ends anyway as they can prevent full length retention.

When trimming, cutting or dusting hair, always ensure you use good quality scissors that are sharp. You don’t want to cause damage as you’re cutting it off. Make sure you are in good lighting to see exactly which parts of the hair are damaged. You may do this on either wet or dry hair.

Keep in mind that as curly girls, trimming hair while it’s wet may result in losing more length than you realize since curly hair does have shrinkage. It is important hair is cut straight across and not at an angle as this exposes more of the cortex layer of the hair which could lead to damage. If you’ve had hair layered using a razor blade or cutting at an angle you might find you have a few split ends, this is simply because the hair has not been cut evenly. 

How to Dust Your Own Hair at Home

1. Divide your hair into somewhat equal sections. Twist and clip the sections firmly on your head. If you have curly hair, consider putting your hair into several small two-strand twists to make dusting your hair easier to control and see.
2. Use cutting shears specifically designed to cut hair. It’s worth the splurge to buy professional hair scissors when dusting or trimming your hair. Regular scissors actually aren’t sharp enough to cut through hair without causing damage and possibly split ends, so always opt for hair shears when dusting your hair.  
3. Unclip one of the sections. Try to go from the hair in your front bangs and work your way around.
4. Examine each and every one of the ends. When you see a split end, then move on to to the next step.
5. Trim no more than 1/4″ from the ends of your hair. Anything more is no longer dusting and considered a haircut! If you’re dusting your hair while it’s styled in two-strand twists, cut no more than 1/4″ from the end of each twist.
6. Repeat all the steps until you have dusting all sections of your hair. This might take a while so plan ahead

A full head of thick, luscious hair is quite beautiful, isn’t it? Whether you were born with finer hair or you notice your hair began thinning over the years, you can still fake voluminous hair to the rest of the world. Here are six ways to fake having thick hair.

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1. Use a volumizing shampoo

One of the fastest ways to fake having thick hair is certainly with the use of the right products. Volumizing shampoos and cleansing conditioners give the illusion of thicker, fuller hair. Many of them also have ingredients inside that can encourage thicker curly hair from the roots over time, with consistent use. My pick: SheaMoisture Yucca & Baobab Thickening Shampoo

2. Use a thickening mousse or gel

A thickening mousse can give your hair all day volume with soft, touchable hold. No flat hair here! You apply either one on damp hair after the shower and comb it through the lengths, then style as usual. My Pick: Living Proof Full Thickening Mousse

3. Use a round brush with a heat protectant

Blow drying your hair with a round brush from root to tip will help smooth the hair. Turning the hair upside down during the blow drying process will give additional lift and volume. Do not use a flat or paddle brush if you have fine or thin hair–they are designed to smooth and flatten the cuticles. Don’t forget to use a heat protector spray so your hair gets minimally heat damaged. My Pick: Nubian Heritage Honey and Black Seed Heat Protectant Keratin Spray

4. Use a root lifting powder

Volume gives the appearance of thicker hair and volume is created at the root. Massaging a root lifting powder into the scalp and teasing the hair will help the hair to appear fuller and give added volume. A good root lifting powder will absorb almost instantly leaving no powdery residue behind. My Pick: Big Sexy Hair Powder Play Volumizing and Texturizing Powder

5. Use Velcro rollers with hairspray

Wrapping sections of your hair around large Velcro rollers and gently hitting it with the blow dryer will give you hair that is 1980s high but with modern day style. Simply blow dry the face-framing pieces and top section of your hair, wrapping sections around one or two large Velcro rollers. Let it sit for about 10 minutes, shake it out, and scrunch in a nice flexible hold hairspray. My Pick: Devacurl Flexible-Hold Hair Spray

6. Get the right cut

The right haircut will make a huge different. Consider a hairstyle that will flatter fine hair such as a classic bob. Another option is a shoulder-grazing cut angled in long layers around the face. If you have fine hair that is really long and looking too thin or stringy at the ends, cutting off a couple inches may help.

Every woman wants to feel good about their hair. With so many ways to fake having thick hair, you can get the hair of your dreams in no time.

We permanently dye our hair for many reasons–we may want to cover up grays, change up our look constantly and maybe we just do not like the hue Mother Nature has given us. If we spend all that time in the salon getting color processed, plus our hard earned money on our color, of course we want it to last until it is time to get redone! Here are some tips to help make our hair color last:

1. Don’t Shampoo Too Often

Frequent shampooing will cause your hair color to fade faster. Wash no more than 3 times a week and on the days between use a dry shampoo to help any oil at your roots.

2. Use a Shampoo & Conditioner with Color Protecting Ingredients

Using a shampoo and conditioner (or mask”> with ingredients to help prolong the life of your color is a great investment. You already spent all the money on your hair color, so you want it to last. Ingredients like UV protectors (more on that in a minute”>, plus butters and oils to moisturize and hydrate your hair is ideal, plus protein to restore the damage from coloring.

My favorite line to use for color protection is the Kerastase Reflection Chroma Captive range. Another great option is the Superfruit Renewal system by Shea Moisture.

3. Go Easy on the Heat Styling Tools

Keep blow drying, flat ironing and curling to a minimum. Color treated hair is more prone to breakage and damage from high heat tools. If you must use them (I get it, no one wants to go outside with wet hair mid winter”> it is best to keep it on a colder setting. It may take a bit longer to dry, but having less damage is worth it.

4. Deep Condition Frequently

This is always my #1 tip for hair health and with color, it is no exception. Deep conditioning will help the damage that hits your hair from the coloring process by restoring moisture and protein. Frequent deep conditioning leaves hair, softer, smoother and more manageable and helps preserve the color.

5. Add a Glaze To Your Routine

Using a glaze every other week will give your hair increased shine and boost your color vibrancy. It will help fight any dullness or fading that may start and keep your color looking fresh until next salon appointment. A great option is the Rita Hazan Gloss for your hair color (I use the Ultimate Shine Breaking Brass one”>

6. Use a Color Depositing Conditioner

These are great to boost the vibrancy of your color treated hair or help balance and tone. I personally love using the Clairol Shimmer Lights purple conditioner to counteract brassiness in my blonde. But be careful not to use them every single wash- as some color depositing conditioners can cause build up.

7. Invest In a Filtered Shower Head

Water is said to be the biggest culprit for fading hair color, but we NEED water to shower- there is no way around it! Investing in a filter for your showerhead will cut down on minerals like iron and lime, which can alter the hair, even being a culprit for blondes turning brassy! Aside from keeping your hair color truer, longer, using a flitered shower head will also help with shine, frizz and manageability. I personally have been using the T3 Source Showerhead Filter since October and can’t believe the difference.

8. Don’t Shower with Scorching Hot Water

Hot showers feel wonderful to our souls, but they zap our skin and hair of vital moisture. Showering with lukewarm water and even (gulp”> finishing with cool water will help your hair color stay shiny.

9. Use Products with UV Filters

“Ultraviolet rays can penetrate the cuticle of the hair and oxidize or bleach the color,” according to allure.com Not only will your hair color fade but it will also dry your hair out. Using a product with UV protectors in it, such as Living Proof Restore Instant Protection Spray will help keep your strands safe from the sun. When you go to the beach, or will be out in the sun for long hours at a time, wearing a hat is most ideal to protect your hair from sun damage.

10. Beware Of Chlorine

Especially blondes. If you go swimming unprepared, your curls can turn green! Coat the hair with conditioner and/or an oil beforehand so your hair does not absorb the chemicals. If you do wind up with a green tint to your locks, a good old remedy is using tomato juice on it- the red can help counteract the green.

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This article was originally published December 2014 and has been updated for grammar and clarity.

Being a curly wavy girl and self proclaimed hair product junkie, I have tried so many hair products over the years. Gel has been an important staple for me for styling my hair after showering. When layered with other products or used by itself, using gel helps with my curl definition, frizz control and shine.  More than anything else, I am often asked what my favorite hair gels are.

Before I discuss the products, these are the factors that make gels winners for me.

• Strong hold–not crunchy or stiff
• No flaking
• Can help extend multi-day hair
• Adds shine
• Tames frizz
• Increased definition
• Has beneficial ingredients

Regardless of which gel I use, application for me is always the same. I apply my gel on soaking wet hair that has not been towel dried after the shower. 99% of the time the gel gets applied over a leave in conditioner and before sealing with an oil. I like to apply my gel section by section using the popular Ouidad Rake & Shake technique.

Jessicurl Spiralicious Styling Gel

$16.95 in Curlmart

As a looser curly wavy, this alone doesn’t enhance my curl definition but it leaves me with nice, healthy looking hair that lasts even in bad weather! A great choice if you are on the CG method (note: I’m not full CG”> the company is spot on when they say this helps with frizz and does dry crunchy but the crunch doesn’t last. I like the Island Fantasy scent and also appreciate that this comes in Unscented as well. If I pair this with the company’s Rockin Ringlets, aside from the benefits mentioned I also get increased definition as well!

Original Moxie Hold Up Defining Serum

$23.99 in Curlmart

I know this says Serum but I find I can use it alone as a gel as well. This magical elixir is incredible. Shine? Check. Definition? Check. Frizz Control? Check. Soft, Touchable Hair? Check. This is just about everything I could ask for in a styling product. I love that it has strong hold but doesn’t leave my hair hard. I also feel it helps repair my hair as I use it. This stuff is also concentrated- you only need a little to achieve maximized results. Hold Up has a minty, refreshing fragrance.

Ouidad VitalCurl Tress Effects Styling Gel

$15 at Ouidad retailers

One of the oldest gels I have loved and I keep going back to. They formula was recently changed to add in Panthenol, but it is still just as good as it ever was! Aside from having the perfect amount of touchable hold, this gel really increased my curl definition wonderfully.  Note that with this product I find more is definitely better.

Raw Curls Firm Hold Gel

$30 on RawHairOrganics.com

I used the Medium Hold Gel by this brand, liked it but didn’t love it so I was very excited when they released a gel with a stronger hold. It has a thicker, jelly like consistency that does feel the slightest bit sticky in my hands which disappears after a minute. Using this on my hair I wind up with pretty, defined, shiny, frizz free waves. This is another product where less is more when using and there are some excellent extracts and botanicals in here as well.

SheaMoisture Yucca & Plantain Anti-Breakage Firm Hold Gel-Cream

$9.99 at Target

As soon as I saw SheaMoisture release this product, I could not wait to get my hands on it and I am so happy it did not disappoint! This product has the same fresh floral smell as the rest of the Anti-Breakage line. My favorite thing about this gel is all the awesome ingredients such as the yucca, plantain, baobab, cilantro and garlic that help hair from breaking since it was a problem I recently suffered from. This gel-cream a great amount of hold, minimizes frizz and helps with definition. I get nice shine from it, and it’s not a “less is more” type product. I do have to say I have noticed when paired with certain leave ins, this gel-cream shows white clumps on my wet hair but when my hair dries, they are all gone. But it’s worth mentioning.

So, these are my favorite gels right now!

Some of them have remained on my Holy Grail list for years at this point. Admittedly so, why I love them may sound similar to each other–but that is only because what makes gel a favorite for me has the same attributes and features.

SheaMoisture is one of my favorite brands. They are affordable, contain some excellent ingredients and most of the products I tried from them perform so well for my hair.  They brand recently reformulated one of their lines as well as added a bunch of new products to it! The Anti-Breakage line is made with natural and certified organic ingredients and is designed to help repair hair, making it thicker, fuller, stronger and more moisturized. I tried a few of the products prior to the reformulation and some of them were even Holy Grails for me so naturally, I was concerned about a change that I would love the products as much. Having experienced bad breakage a few months ago of course anything titled “Anti-Breakage” immediately peaked my interest! Keep on reading to find out what I think of the new line!

Everything in this line contains the following ingredients:

•        Yucca to promote hair growth for thicker, fuller hair.

•        Plantain Extract is rich in Vitamin B complex. Nourishes hair with moisture.

•        Baobab Oil contains Vitamins A, D, E and F to fortify and strengthen hair.

•        Baobab oil and cilantro extract refreshes and boosts shine.

The whole line also has a light, powdery floral smell just like they did before the re-formulation. I don’t find the scent to be overbearing at all.

SheaMoisture Yucca & Plantain Anti-Breakage Strengthening Shampoo

What They Say: This Sulfate-free shampoo gently cleanses hair and scalp, removing impurities and product build-up. Smoothes hair cuticles to reduce frizz and improve the appearance of split ends. Certified organic Shea Butter, Plantain and Yucca combine in a strengthening formula that helps weak hair resist breakage. Strengthens and thickens strands for thicker, healthier hair.

What I Say: This shampoo is great! I’ve been using it throughout my lengths once a week and then on scalp only with a co-wash the other time a week. It leaves my hair feeling clean and very moisturized. This may be one of the most moisturizing shampoos by SheaMoisture I tried. It’s a bit runny in consistency. I switched out the cap for a pump and use one pump on scalp and one through lengths. 

SheaMoisture Yucca & Plantain Anti-Breakage Strengthening Conditioner

What They Say: SheaMoisture Yucca and Plantain Anti-Breakage Strengthening Conditioner’s fortifying formula detangles and smoothes the hair cuticle for an improved appearance of split ends and frizzy hair. Infused with certified organic shea butter, plantain and yucca for a strengthening formulation that helps hair resist breakage.

What I Say: I only use masques as conditioners so I have been using this as a leave in sometimes alone and sometimes in a mix with other SheaMoisture products (If you follow my blog you probably know what I mean.”> The texture is a nice medium balance- not lightweight and not too heavy and builds the foundation for my styling products after. I really like this conditioner.

SheaMoisture Yucca & Plantain Anti-Breakage Strengthening Masque

What They Say: This intensive treatment deeply penetrates to condition and smooth frazzled strands with a nutrient-rich fortifying formula. Transforms frizzy hair into sleek, healthy strands. Helps bind split ends and improves the overall appearance of hair. Certified organic Shea Butter, Plantain and Yucca combine in a strengthening formula that helps weak hair resist breakage.

What I Say: This was a product I used prior to the reformulation and I did like it but now I like it so much better. The old formula I couldn’t use alone, as it always would leave my hair feeling a bit hard and stiff. That issue has been resolved for me. I can use this on its own and it has an excellent protein/moisture ratio where after I rinse my hair just feels so soft, nice slip, detangles easily, has shine and less frizz. I’ve been using this once a week and haven’t added head to it yet.

SheaMoisture Yucca & Plantain Root Lifting Styler

What They Say: This lightweight styler lifts hair at the roots and boosts body for full, yet flexible styles. Certified organic Shea Butter, Yucca and Plantain combine in a strengthening formula that improves resistance to breakage. Garlic helps increase blood circulation in the scalp for healthier hair.

What I Say: This product is interesting. I don’t desire my roots to be lifted, in fact I don’t like much volume in my hair because it’s naturally pretty poofy. However, the ingredients in here are extremely beneficial for hair and scalp so I’ve been using it anyway. I like applying it to just my scalp on freshly washed hair and massaging it in. It doesn’t weigh down my hair or make it look greasy. Sometimes if I go too many days between washing I will also apply it after using a dry shampoo and my scalp doesn’t look oily. You have to make sure to shake this well before using.

SheaMoisture Yucca & Plantain Anti-Breakage Frizz-Free Shine Mist

What They Say: This multi-purpose mist provides light hold with movement and a boost of shine. Spritz on dry hair to build body and keep natural styles fresh. Conditions and smoothes hair cuticles to reduce frizz and improve the appearance of split ends. Certified organic Shea Butter, Plantain and Yucca combine in a strengthening formula that helps weak hair resist breakage. Thickens strands and increases volume for thicker, full-bodied hair

What I Say: This was a holy grail product prior to reformulating and I am happy to report that even after the formula change it happily remains on my holy grail list. My favorite way to use this is at night if my hair looks particularly dry to add some moisture in before going to sleep. It also makes a great second or third day hair refreshing spray for me. I haven’t used it on wet hair, but I love it on dry hair. It always adds shine, moisture and tackles frizz. 

SheaMoisture Yucca & Plantain Anti-Breakage Strengthening Styling Milk

What They Say: This lightweight cream softens as it works to boost body and strengthen hair. Improves manageability for easy styling. Can be mixed, blended and layered with other products for the ultimate smooth finish. Certified organic Shea Butter, Plantain and Yucca combine in a strengthening formula that helps weak hair resist breakage.

What I Say: Just like the mist, this was on the Holy Grail list before the formula changed and it’s still there. I have used it on wet hair with good results under a gel but I also really like this on second or third day hair. Generally I won’t use this AND the mist together, I pick one or the other based on how much moisture I feel my hair needs. It leaves my hair soft and it isn’t super heavy so my hair doesn’t get weighted down from it. Like the rest of the line too I like that every time I apply this on hair, no matter if it is day 1 or day 3, my waves are getting treated with the beneficial ingredients mentioned earlier.

SheaMoisture Yucca & Plantain Wave Defining Lotion

What They Say: This lightweight styling lotion defines and lengthens even the lightest curls and unruly waves. Hydrates and smoothes hair cuticles to reduce frizz and improve the appearance of split ends. Certified organic Shea Butter, Yucca and Plantain combine in a strengthening formula that improves resistance to breakage. Baobab Oil transforms hair and boost shine. Cilantro helps refresh, while Garlic helps increase blood circulation in the scalp for healthier hair.

What I Say: OMG I can’t say enough about this stuff. It’s brand new so it wasn’t on my holy grail list before but it sure is on there now. The consistency is very runny and I do need a decent amount, but the results are crazy good. This gives me some of the best curl definition on my waves I think any product ever has- and this is without a gel. I didn’t think I’d be able to use this without a gel on top but as of right now (aka before the humidity goes too high”> I can use leave in, this and an oil to seal and I’m done. Curl definition, shine, lack of frizz, almost perfection. (I say almost because my hair will never ever ever be perfect”> This is one of those products I want to have a backup of at all time. If you are a wavy with looser curls I highly encourage you to give this a shot. 

SheaMoisture Yucca & Plantain Firm Hold Gel-Cream

What They Say: This innovative styling gel-cream defines gorgeous waves and curls while providing a soft hold without any sticky, flakey residue. Hydrates and smoothes hair cuticles to reduce frizz, keeping curls soft and shiny all day. Certified organic Shea Butter, Yucca and Plantain combine in a strengthening formula that improves resistance to breakage. Baobab Oil transforms hair and boost shine. Cilantro helps refresh, while Garlic helps increase blood circulation in the scalp for healthier hair. Purpose: shine enhancing, Strengthening, Strong Hold, Smoothing

What I Say: This product has some excellent and one not so amazing attribute. I wasn’t a fan of the other SheaMoisture gel, in the pink jar- it was one of the few SheaMoisture products my hair didn’t love. I was excited to see the brand release a new gel! The one con to this is it doesn’t play well with all other products. A couple of times when I applied this over other leave ins the products produced white clumpy flakes in my hair. Sometimes when my hair dried they would disappear but other times, not so much. It did seem to work well with everything else from this line though. Less is more with this product. I love the hold it provides me, the lack of frizz, shine and the fact it is strengthening my hair. The Wave Lotion definitely defines my hair a bit more but this isn’t terribly far behind as far as definition goes for me. I believe the firm hold of this gel-cream will stand up to humidity in the upcoming months, we will see.

SheaMoisture Yucca & Plantain Thermal Protectant Serum

What They Say: This silicone-free oil serum helps protect hair against damage from hot styling tools. Certified organic Shea Butter, Yucca and Plantain combine in a strengthening formula that improves resistance to breakage. Cilantro helps refresh, while Garlic helps increase blood circulation in the scalp for healthier hair.

What I Say: I am on a no heat tool ban right now so I can’t give a review for heat protection or speed styling. However, I have used this on wet hair in place of oil as a sealer and i like it! It’s very thin in consistency and doesn’t weigh the hair down. I’ve also used this to add some shine to dry hair throughout the day if my hair started looking dull. Because it is smaller in size (4oz”> I like to leave this in my purse in case my hair needs touch ups throughout the day.

To conclude

SheaMoisture has done it again with impressing me. Since using everything in the line, I consistently noticed shine, less frizz and my hair felt so soft. I also noticed two amazing things: A significant amount of less hair in the shower shedding and a lot less breakage! This might be my very favorite line by them now! I plan on keeping them in my hair product rotation for the hair growth and anti-breakage benefits as well.

Since my Ouidad Carve And Slice Cut in early April, I have been getting a lot of questions. Going from really long hair to shorter, above the shoulder hair, required some re-learning and changes in my washing, styling and caring routine. In this article I will share what I learned, and still am trying to figure out, with all of you.

The Amount of Products Used

This probably seems like a no brainer. I am usually heavy handed with product, especially because my hair is uber dry and soaks products up. More often then I should admit, recently I styled my hair and realized I applied way more products then needed. On top of my hair being shorter now, a lot of the bleached damage is gone too and healthier hair requires less product. So I’ve become more mindful of using less. The added benefit is my products now last longer and I don’t have to re-buy as often – yay saving money!

Plopping

When my hair was really long I would ALWAYS plop after the shower. Not only would it enhance my curl definition but it would soak up some of the water to help speed along drying time. This also has to do with the fact it is not the dead cold winter, but I haven’t plopped since cutting my hair. I just apply my products (more on that in a minute”> gentle towel scrunch out some of the excess with my Curly Tee and let it air dry. My apologies I don’t have any shorter hair plopping advice for you right now.

Styling

I probably mentioned this in other articles and/or blog posts but I find the best results I get when applying products to my hair now that it is shorter is using Ouidad’s “Rake & Shake” technique going in section by section for seven sections (low back left, low back right, left side, right side, top of back of the head, left hairline, right hairline”> The only thing I add to  this technique is I do scrunch out some of the excess water as mentioned earlier to get it to dry a tad bit quicker.

Sleeping

This is my biggest challenge with shorter hair now. Aside from missing my length like crazy (I really do. I can’t wait for it to regrow. Anyway…”> I really miss being able to pineapple while I sleep to wake up with consistently good second and third day hair. I still sleep on a satin pillowcase or in a satin bonnet but my hair is just wild and free and it does it’s thing. I toss and turn like crazy at night fighting epic battles in my dreams so some mornings I wake up and nothing in the world will save it from wearing it down without completely re-wetting. It’s frustrating. I notice I am clipping or pinning parts of my hair back a lot more since it is shorter. 

Q-Redew

With the above being said, I have been reaching for my Q-Redew a lot more since it is shorter. If one thing can revive my shorter waves after a night battle sleep, it’s this. It also helped to re-form my wonky waves into better looking shapes after work outs too. 

Exercise

Speaking of working out, having shorter waves while exercising is….annoying. When My hair was longer I tied it in a low ponytail or braid, worked out and was fine. Now because some damaged pieces are so short, it all doesn’t go in a ponytail just yet. So on top of needing the ponytail, I also need a headband to keep it off my face AND I use clips because some of the hair flops around and annoys me behind the headband. Working out is important to me, so I do what I have to do to keep my hair off my face in the process.

Messy Buns

This is another thing I miss. So quickly throwing my hair in a cute messy bun when a good hair day isn’t happening, if I am running late or if I don’t want to be bothered. I can tie maybe about 75%-ish of my hair back now but the “ponytail” in a nub and a bun I simply can not make. There have been a few things I have been doing now that my hair is shorter that I didn’t do as much when it was longer. 

Headbands and accessories

I’ve been wearing a lot of headbands for fashion and different clips and barrettes to help hide some awkward length pieces and such. When I wear headbands, it is usually on day 3 hair so my hair is stretched out a bit and it gives off this 1960s mod-look vibe that I like!

Wearing my hair half up

I did this when my hair was longer too but I go to this style A LOT more since my hair is shorter. I clip some of my hair half up, take out a few face framing pieces and I’m good to go. It looks pretty put together and like I tried- meanwhile it took me less than 5 minutes.

I look forward to re-growing it out and if you haven’t already, you can read my article about everything I am doing to re-grow out my hair here.

What are your tips and tricks for shorter curls and waves?

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When you first think of broccoli, you may recall it being on your plate as a kid and wanting nothing to do with it. This vegetable which is a relative to other leafy greens such as cabbage, spinach and Brussels sprouts actually has some incredible benefits for our hair!

When I was little, I always thought of broccoli as little trees. If you live in England, you may refer to Broccoli as “Italian Brussels Sprouts” Both the stalks and “heads” of the broccoli are edible. It can be eaten raw or cooked but the raw ones have a higher content of vitamins and nutrients. Broccoli is a popular vegetable in the United States and is used in a variety of dishes. I personally like to eat it as a side dish lightly steamed with some Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top or chopped up in omelettes.

Healthy hair requires certain vital nutrients to be delivered to the follicles.

This includes Vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin B5, vitamin B12, iron, niacin, zinc, sulfur, silica and germanium to be delivered to the hair follicles. Dark green leafy vegetables like broccoli are super food for hair and their consumption strengthens the hair at the roots. This is how broccoli can benefit the hair, from stylecraze.com.

• Promotes Hair Growth

Broccoli contains vitamin A, vitamin C and calcium which promote hair growth. Vitamins A and C stimulate the production of sebum, an oil based secretion that acts as a natural moisturizer and conditioner for scalp and hair whereas calcium strengthens the hair follicles.

• Strengthens the Hair Follicles

Broccoli seed oil extracted from the seeds of broccoli is particularly beneficial for hair and skin. This natural oil is packed with hair-nourishing vitamins like vitamin C and vitamin B6 that make your hair strong and silky smooth, while eliminating hair frizz.

• Combats Hair Loss

The antioxidants in broccoli seed oil, particularly vitamin C prevent hair loss by eliminating the free radicals, thus contributing to healthier and thicker hair. B vitamins such as vitamin B6 help in reducing stress, a factor that can contribute to hair loss. These vitamins support mental and physical health which in turn supports a healthy hair system. In addition to these, broccoli contains a powerful substance that can inhibit dihydrotestosterone or DHT which is closely related to hair loss and thinning.

• Imparts Luster and Sheen

Broccoli seed oil contains a unique fatty acid composition that is similar to silicone found in shampoos which is responsible for imparting shine to your hair. Also known as erucic acid, this omega-9 fatty acid gives your hair a smooth natural sheen without leaving residue of harmful detergents or chemicals in your hair follicles. Thus, it has an advantage over commercial shampoos and conditioners in this respect.

Not only can your hair benefit from eating broccoli, but using broccoli seed oil topically in hair products has some great hair benefits as well. Broccoli Seed Oil is rich in hair-nourishing vitamins, such as vitamin C and B6, which can keep your hair strong and silky smooth. This oil is straight from the broccoli seeds which are responsible for growing the vegetable

Broccoli Seed Oil contains a unique fatty acid composition that makes it similar to the silicone you will find in shampoos. Called erucic acid, this special omega-9 fatty acid helps give your hair a smooth, natural sheen without loading your follicles with harmful detergents or chemicals.

Benefits of Broccoli Seed Oil

Aside from containing erucic acid, broccoli seed oil has many, many benefits that can smooth out dry or frizzy hair. This is why it’s great for your hair, according to Emtage Beauty.

• It contains vitamin C. When it’s not helping eliminate the free radicals that can contribute to cancer, the antioxidants in broccoli seed oil can help prevent hair loss. As a result, people who get enough vitamin C usually have thicker, healthier hair.
• It contains vitamin B6. B vitamins can help reduce stress, a factor that can contribute to hair loss. It’s also a part of a spectrum of vitamins that support physical and mental health. When those are in check, your body can support a healthy hair system.
• It contains a powerful substance that has to power to inhibit dihydrotestosterone, or DHT. Why is DHT important? Because DHT has been correlated with hair loss and thinning hair–definitely two things you don’t want!

You can find pure broccoli seed oil at a health food store or amazon.com and squeeze a pea-sized amount of it into your hand and distribute it throughout your hair, using your palms. If you have dry hair, try concentrating the oil on the ends of the hair to prevent split ends or breakage. You can try some of the hair products before which contain the ingredient:

1. EverButter Invigoration Smoothing Cream– aids in healing weak, damaged thinning edges, while smoothing and laying down your hair
2. Kaia House Broccoli Shampoo For Curly Hair– helps restore shine and luster, while reducing excess grease that weighs down curly hair. When applied to hair, it puts back the spring in your strands.
3. Raw Curls Shine Serum blends the perfect combination of 100% organic oils to give your hair superior conditioning, shine, and frizz control while healing your scalp and skin of numerous ailments! 
4. Ouidad Mongongo Oil Multi-Use Hair Treatment contains Mongongo and Broccoli Seed Oil. The formula restructures hair as it deeply repairs damage to restore a healthy appearance to even the dullest locks. By forming a protective film over the hair fibers, hair is instantly more manageable and has a natural, healthy-looking luster. It coats hair to protect against UV rays and environmental aggressors to help defend against damage.

Have you tried broccoli seed oil on your curls?

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Between my product junky-ness and love of watching TV shopping channels, a couple months ago I watched a presentation on HSN (Home Shopping Network”> on a new hair care line called Tweak-d presented by a man who looked extremely familiar. If you are a long time QVC watcher you may remember Denis Simioni who used to present Ojon Hair products. Well, he is now on HSN presenting something new and because of how awesome Ojon used to be when he presented it, I had to stop and listen. He is nicknamed “The Indiana Jones of Hair Care” as he always finds new and innovative ingredients to help bring us our best locks. Tweak-d is full of lots (around 70 in each formula”> of different beneficial ingredients from all around the globe!!

So Tweak-d is a brand new concept in hair care and something I never heard of before. They are “Self Cleansing Hair Treatments” known for “Beauty Redefined” What you do is you apply the cleansing treatment to your hair DRY before you get in the shower. The theory behind it is applying it to dry hair helps to optimize all the beneficial ingredients inside. The brand website says that “this allows for maximum absorption into the hair shaft, of essential active ingredients in their most potent, purest and restorative state. Clinically proven to absorb more active ingredients versus a leading shampoo/conditioner applied in the traditional format.” It makes such sense!!  It may sound a bit tricky, because it is different, but I promise it is super easy to use. 

What I tried

Tweak-d has three different formulas and I have been using and loving two of them:

1. The Restore Treatment for people with dry, damaged hair
2. The Ultra Nourishing Treatment, a universal formula for all hair types, especially for normal to thick, unruly, coarse hair.

I have had success with both formulas, I apply them as directed on dry hair prior to the shower and usually wait around 10 minutes to get wet. The restore treatment says you only need it on for 3 minutes. Both treatments work successfully at cleansing and conditioning my hair on their own with nothing else needed. But being the product mixologist I am, I also have had great success using them and then following with other cleansers and deep treatments sometimes.

Tweak-d Hair Cleansing Treatments are all formulated without Harsh Chemicals, Sulfates, Parabens, Synthetic Dyes, Petrochemicals, Phthalates, Mineral Oil, PABA, GMOs, DEA, Triclosan, and Animal Ingredients. 

Restore Treatment

What They Say

Created Especially for Dry, Damaged, Frizzy, Weakened Hair. A 7 in 1 Multi-tasking treatment that helps to undo and prevent damage. Formulated with Dhatelo Oil from the Himalayas. Especially created to replenish and strengthen dry, weakened, damaged, frizzy hair.

• What is it? RESTORE Self Cleansing Hair Treatment was developed to offer consumers the opportunity to use it as an intensive hair treatment, shampoo, conditioner, deep conditioner, detangler, leave-in conditioner and shine enhancer all in one easy-to-use product. It’s a multi-tasking, no fuss system that saves time, effort and money. Featuring and formulated with DHATELO Oil from the Himalayas.
• What will it do? Our RESTORE Self Cleansing Hair Treatment is a super-hydrating recovery treatment that instantly restores strength, shine and bounce to dry, damaged, weakened hair. This seven-in-one multitasking formula provides maximum anti-breakage protection against chemical treatments and tools so that hair is not only repaired and replenished, but also thoroughly protected inside and out. 
• The treatment is full of botanical extracts, blend of essential fatty acids, amino acids, antioxidants, lipids and naturally sourced cleanser. It it formulated with no sulfates, chemicals, parabens, synthetic dyes, petrochemicals, phthalates, mineral oil, PABA, BEA and Animal Ingredients.
• RESTORE SELF CLEANSING HAIR TREATMENT IS CLINICALLY PROVEN TO REDUCE HAIR BREAKAGE BY 94% IN JUST 1 USE!

What I Say

I have been suffering from some terrible breakage, dryness, frizz and unmanageability so I am always super excited to try anything that will help it. The smell of this stuff is pure heaven. It has a warm, vanilla musky scent very similar to some Ojon products I used to use. This was the first Tweak-d product I tried and I used it on its own quite a bit before trying the Ultra Nourishing. I was using it every wash, 2x a week and now I generally am using it 1x a week and the Ultra Nourishing cleanser the other.

The product feels like a nice, thick cream. It does not lather in your hair, which personally I am fine with. It is SUPER concentrated and a little goes a long way. I like that this is in a tub, it makes it easy to scoop out and use without having to fight with a bottle spout or pump, especially because of the thickness.

I apply it on my dry hair before going into the shower. It says on the label to not leave this product in for more than 3 minutes but sometimes I do wind up leaving it longer. It is nice to know though I can get all the benefits rather quickly- time saving for sure. From my very first use, once I get in the shower I rinse the treatment out, my hair already my hair feels better. My hands glide through my wet hair with ease- much more than I am used to! The directions state once you rinse it out to reapply it on soaking wet hair and the scalp, adding a splash of water to help emulsify. Sometimes I do this now, and sometimes I wet and emulsify the product when it was already on my hair first use and follow up with other stuff to mix. I massage my scalp and spent time massaging the product through the lengths of my hair. Then I do my other shower stuff (cleanse body, brush teeth, etc”> and rinse it out. Detangling was effortless and I just could not believe how smooth my hair felt.

Whenever I use the Restore treatment, my hair feels like silk instead of hay. 

Whenever I use the Restore treatment, my hair feels like silk instead of hay. It has helped all of my hair, but especially the newer last 6/7 months grow that don’t have underlying bleach on it. It looks shiny, feels smooth and so soft. I think using this regularly has really stopped with breakage and excess shedding which is AMAZING for me. This is now Holy Grail status and if I had to only pick onetweak-d formula to use, this would be it!

Ultra Nourishing Treatment

What They Say

This cleansing formula is designed to be Universal. Perfect for all hair types and textures, especially for people with normal, thick, coarse and unruly hair. Renews softness, shine and manageability. Formulated with CHUIRI Butter from Nepal. (1 of 79 Ingredients tweak-d to perfection”> FeaturesProprietary EmulsiFOAM technology that ensures the proper distribution of thr ingredients, while cushioning and maintaining a moist environment allowing for greater penetration of our active ingredients into the hair fibers.

• What will it do? This Intensely nourishing Self Cleansing Hair Treatment has a rich consistency that sensuously disciplines the hair fiber with a smooth fluid touch from roots to ends, delivering frizz control while imparting an incredible shine. Enriched with humectants, hydrating butters, oils, extracts and a hydrolyzed protein, our ultra-nourishing formula provides overriding moisture retaining properties, fuel for appropriate nutrition, strength, structure, conditioning, and aids in the restoration of potential surface damage done to the hair during every day processing. No matter what kind of hair you have it will instantly and easily detangle to avoid damage from excessive combing. Thick, curly and unruly hair may splurge daily; others will love as a weekly soak.

What I Say

This cleanser smells yummy as well. It is not quite as musky as warm as the Restore, it is more of a sweet gourmands meets a light floral. Regardless I really like it. The product dispenses out of the container like a foam mousse or shaving cream. I rub it between my hands and distribute evenly on my dry hair section by section. I apply it and do the same things as I do with the restore treatment. Like the Restore treatment, this also leaves my hair feels very soft and silky. I also feel that this really moisturizes my hair extremely well. The one drawback to this product is that it’s hard to tell how much is left in the can so I will always need a backup on hand in fear of running out. I have no complaints and love the addition of the Ultra Nourishing to my hair care routine as well.

To sum it up

Since regularly using these two tweak-d formulas as part of my wash day routines, I have noticed less breakage, more softness, and shine, better manageability and less frizz. Sometimes I will also add a little or either/or back in as a leave in conditioner. I really like that each formula has a lot of different beneficial ingredients to get my hair healthy again and also keep my scalp healthy and clean as well. I already repurchased both.  In USA, they are only available on the HSN website and do tend to sell out so I may or may not already have 3 backup jars of the Restore.

I recently got a haircut and want nothing more for it to grow long again healthier and stronger than before.

This led to extensive research to find what, if anything, can help speed this process up. One plant in particular kept appearing in many of my readings, both from internal and external use: bamboo. I have been testing this ingredient for weeks on my own hair and want to share with you some of the claims as well as my own hair health results.

Bamboo is actually the fastest growing plant in the world!

Bamboo is actually the fastest growing plant in the world! Certain species of bamboo can grow up to 10 centimeters a day. Not only does it grow quickly, it also stays strong and flexible in the process. According to OrganicAuthority, bamboo stalks are “strong as steel, more sturdy than concrete and grows to timber size in a year.”

Bamboo has the highest amount of vegetative silica in any plant–up to 70%! Silica is a trace mineral that slowly depletes as we age and if we are lacking in it, it can not only affect our hair but also our skin, nails and other organs in our body, as well. Also known as silicon, silica it is a combination of silicon and oxygen, the two most abundant elements on the planet.

Silica is a trace mineral that slowly depletes as we age and if we are lacking in it, it can not only affect our hair but also our skin, nails and other organs in our body

Briogeo uses bamboo extract in their hair products because it “helps improve the moisture and natural sheen of the hair, while increasing strength and elasticity. This nutrient rich ingredient also has protective antioxidant properties and improves hair health through its silica rich nutrient base. Silica is known to improve hair texture, prevent split ends, and accelerate hair growth.”

The benefits of silica

You should be getting enough silica. Here’s why:

• adds shine to lackluster hair
• may help increase hair growth
• help to prevent hair thinning
• may help to address hair loss
• ensures the hair follicles are supplied with all the vital minerals necessary for hair growth and vitality.
• hair can become stronger
• decrease in hair shedding
• hair may become thicker
• may help temporarily mend together split ends
• helps to restore the appearance of healthy hair

How to consume more bamboo

Bamboo leaf tea is a popular way to consume bamboo and get your daily dose of silica. I have been drinking two cups a day for the past two weeks. Of course it takes a while to notice any true difference and it isn’t magic, but the taste is pleasant to me and a few days in I noticed less shedding and an added benefit that my body has not felt as achy. I look forward to seeing what it does for my hair as I continue to drink it, I’ll be posting updates on my blog. Bamboo leaf tea has a nice, fresh, earthy taste to it that I enjoy without adding any sweetener.

If you won’t want to drink bamboo tea, several companies also make bamboo supplements as well.

Bamboo shoots are a vegetable, very popular in Asian dishes that are nutrient dense and another way to get the benefits of Bamboo internally as well. Bamboo shoots are low in calories, high in fiber and contain vitamins and minerals as well.

The hair benefits

Our hair can also benefit from bamboo being an ingredient in our hair products.

• Shampoos that contain bamboo extract are good at washing away dead skin cells and other unwanted agents that can build up on hair strands. By playing a role in removing a build-up of pollutants, body oils, and chemicals on the hair, bamboo extract can also add a natural shine and luster to your hair.
• Bamboo has anti-irritant and antioxidant properties which is especially beneficial if you have a sensitive or dry scalp.
• Using hair products with bamboo in them can help the overall appearance of your hair, allowing it to become more manageable, shinier, softer and stronger. 

Products with bamboo

A few lines that contain Bamboo extract in them are

• Briogeo
• Verb
• Alterna Bamboo Line
• Nubian Heritage Grow & Strengthen Line
• Carol’s Daughter Monoi Line

In addition to hair health, bamboo and silica can have excellent benefits for the skin and body as well. This extract can be worth looking into not only to achieve optimal hair health, but to help your body overall. Please note this article is for information only and absolutely should not take the place of advice given by your medical professional. Individual results using bamboo enhanced products and/or drinking bamboo tea will vary.

Original Moxie is a cruelty free line of hair care products for all different types of hair. The line was developed by Rachel Blistein, a beautiful curly girl who decided to create her own line of products out of frustration not finding products that worked well for her hair.

The brand’s website says that “Rachel personally crafts each product, from customizing herbal infusions, to sourcing pure, natural ingredients and fine-tuning Moxie’s iconic essential oil fragrances.” All of the products are  made to nourish hair from the inside out and labeled with Original Moxie’s 3-D Diagnostic System that helps you identify what products work best based on your hair’s own density, curl pattern and dryness level. I have had the chance to play with quite a few products from this line, some of them are part of my Holy Grail list, so of course I wanted to review some products from the Original Moxie line for the NaturallyCurly community!

For a list of stores and salons that carry Original Moxie, click here.

Get Clean No Foam Shampoo

What They Say: Break your Foam Addiction!  Sulfates, the chemicals that produce heavy foam, also strip hair of its natural oils.  Our Sulfate- free Shampoo takes a gentler approach, harnessing the cleansing properties of Wild harvested Yucca Root & Soap nut to remove dirt and excess oil without disturbing your scalp’s natural balance. Gentle cleansing for normal to dry hair.

What I Say: It doesn’t lather at all, which I don’t mind. It leaves my hair feeling clean, soft and moisturized. To me, it is more of a co-wash than an actual shampoo. It smells a bit like chocolate mint, but not spot on. A great cleanser that doesn’t leave my hair feeling squeaky clean or too stiff. 

Intense Quench Deep Conditioner

What They Say: “Most conditioners are like empty calories for your hair – a fleeting feeling of slippery goodness followed by disappointing results.  But our unique blend of botanicals, herbs, proteins and emollients is like a smoothie for your hair, nourishing from the inside out.  Hibiscus encourages strong growth and Strawberry adds shine.  Not only does it bathe your senses like a trip to the spa, it delivers stronger, softer and healthier hair. So give your thirsty hair what it really wants – Intense Quench™! For dry and damaged hair.”

What I Say: It had a nice minty/fruity combo scent. I used this with and without heat and got positive results each time. This deep conditioner is not super heavy and thick, yet it is still very moisturizing. I did need a decent amount to thoroughly cover all my hair. It helped detangle my hair effortlessly and left my hair soft, smooth and prepped it very well for styling products. I like the combination of all the essential oils and butters in this. The one drawback to this deep conditioner for me is it does contain menthol which sometimes my scalp can react negatively to.

Emollience Pre Treatment

What They Say: “Hair that suffers from chronic dryness needs an extra boost to regain its luster.  Enriched with Cupuaçu Butter & Castor Oil, Emollience™ breaks the cycle to restore your hair’s natural shine and elasticity. After just one use, hair is noticeably softer, silkier and more vibrant.  That’s Mmm-hmmm-mollience! A penetrating oil treatment that restores the correct moisture balance to parched hair for extremely dry hair that needs help to recover from harsh environmental conditions or chemical treatments.”

What I Say: A little goes a long way with this one. I used it overnight as a pre-poo treatment or if my ends look extra frizzy I would apply a little to dry hair to tame it. Unfortunately, I didn’t really like the fragrance– a bit strong and herbally for my personal taste. But as far as performance goes, it is an excellent moisturizing product. 

Oasis Moisture Gel

What They Say: “Has your hair lost its groove?  Get it back with this miracle treatment that restores life to damaged strands. The initials are ‘OMG’ for a reason! Sodium Lactate, a powerful, naturally occurring humectant, attracts moisture and binds it to the hair, creating a dramatic improvement in softness and body after just one use.  Who needs to live in a desert when you’ve got an Oasis™ at your fingertips? An oil-free, highly-concentrated humectant gel that restores moisture to dry hair and activates curls and waves. For hair that is brittle, dry or  damaged by chemical treatments. Also works great to add volume and moisture without weight to all hair types, including delicate, mature hair.”

What I Say: This is a Holy Grail product for me. I can’t use it on its own because it doesn’t have enough hold for me, but when worn under a firm hold gel I love the added definition and incredible shine it provides for my waves. When I use this, I feel my hair looks super healthy and I like that it is repairing my hair all day long! It is a lightweight consistency and a little goes far. It has a unique scent that I am having a hard time putting my finger on–I don’t dislike the scent but I also wouldn’t say it smells amazing. 

Hold Up Defining Serum

What They Say: “Frizz doesn’t stand a chance against the strong hold and curl-plumping properties of this silicone-free styling concentrate. Water-resistant, crisp definition locks in your style and delivers multi-day hair that can withstand the elements. Shine-enhancing botanicals, plant-derived proteins, and penetrating humectants mean your hair will feel as good as it looks. So put your hands in the hair and keep those curls where we can see them – this is a Hold Up™! A silicone-free defining concentrate that softens and strengthens hair while offering strong hold and curl activation. Fine to thick ‘wavys’ and ‘curlys’ who seek curl plumping, lift, and strong hold.”

What I Say: My other Holy Grail from this line. I like this a bit more than Oasis. If you want to try just one product from this brand, this should be it! When I use this, it helps eliminate steps in my after shower styling routine. I will use a leave in, this product then seal with an oil. I get excellent definition, shine and hold all in one with this one! It also greatly helps to reduce my frizz. I like that there are proteins in here so it is a treatment and styler in one. Another huge plus for me with this product is when I use it, my day 1 hair isn’t as “puffy” as usual! A little goes far with this one too and has a delightful cucumber mint smell.

Shape Shifter Re-forming Crème

What They Say: “Change your look in one easy step!  Our unique floral wax formula helps your hair to bend and stretch – allowing you to go from kinky to curly or straight to wavy without chemicals.  Depending on your needs, this amazing product can lengthen and “de-poof” curls or add pliability and wave to thick, straight hair. As a bonus, this ultra-rich crème also deep conditions, detangles, & smoothes along the way.  An elasticizing and moisturizing cream gel. Thick, straight hair that needs more wave and thick, curly or kinky hair that needs more stretch.”

What I Say: This is a unique product. My front hairline is a lot curlier than the rest of my head. Not only is it curlier, but the curls are very oddly shaped and wonky. I liked the idea of this crème to help loosen them up to match the rest of my hair. I used it on soaking wet hair prior to other stylers. It did help loosen the curls, but I still found I had to clip my hair to set it and I was hoping this crème would have eliminated that step. It did help to greatly “de-poof” my hair, as the claims mentioned and I really liked that part. I also like that it helps to treat my hair’s poor elasticity. It has an herbally smell that I don’t love, but the product has its benefits so I can get past that.

I hope my review of these Original Moxie products were helpful.

Believe it or not, there are still so many more products in this line other than what I mentioned here! If you are a product junkie on your holy grail quest, or if you just like trying new products, I urge you to give Original Moxie a chance. They even offer convenient trial sizes so you don’t have to invest in full size when you don’t know how your hair will react to something.

I had an amazing experience at the Ouidad Flagship salon in NYC today. I learned so many tips and tricks and got such an amazing haircut by the talented Jason who is a top stylist and also one of Ouidad’s Artistic Directors. Before I get into my experience, here is a little back story on why I chose to cut my hair.

My hair was long, down past my chest and I loved it.

I used to bleach it (at a different salon”> to get it light blonde and despite doing frequent deep treatments, air drying 95% of the time, using good styling products, etc around December 2014 I started noticing some bad breakage. Throughout this past winter the breakage kept on getting worse and worse, despite my best efforts to repair it until I was left with only a few pathetic looking scraggly long pieces. I purchased clip in curly extensions I was wearing to keep my length on special occasions, but my lack of selfies was not just coincidental. I figured it would look better to cut it shorter and re-grow it healthy then to continue to cling to the unhealthy ends.

I learned from Jason today how badly bleach can damage hair. Even though I was treating my hair the best I could, sometimes that can only help so much. I also learned there is no true repair from such bad chemical damage aside from cutting it and growing it out. I have not used bleach since September 2014 and at this point I am also highly considering growing in my natural hair color. Why couldn’t I just be born a healthy light blonde? Sigh. Anyway, okay back to the experience. 

Ouidad is the only salon brand that caters to the 4 specific curl types: loose, classic, tight and kinky.

They have 2 Flagship salons to help assist in practice what we preach approach. Aside from the Flagship salons they have many certified salons throughout the country where the stylists are trained in the Ouidad Carve & Slice cutting technique, the Rake & Shake styling method, as well as being well educated on how to use all of the Ouidad products.

I have personally been a fan of Ouidad products for years. They are one of my Holy Grail curly brands and also one of the first curly brands I had ever tried. I usually do their “Rake and Shake” method to style my hair, though I learned today I was doing it incorrectly. More on this method later.

The Carve and Slice Cut

Jason asked me why I never had a Carve & Slice cut before and I admitted, “Carve & Slice” sounds scary. Turns out, it totally isn’t! This exclusive method of cutting curly hair was developed by Ouidad in the 1980s– before that, there never was a specific way to cut curls. I had so many misconceptions about this technique that Jason cleared up for me today.

Here is what I learned about the cut from Jason: The “Carve and Slice” cut is done to mimic the natural curl pattern in order to have curls puzzle in like a puzzle piece. Only small amounts of hair are cut off and this is only done on the inside of the hair, not the outside to avoid the dreaded “pyramid” or “triangle” so many curly girls dread. This cut also helps take out excess bulk if there is any so the hair will lay closer to the head and fall better. Also, by doing so on the inside if you do decide to blow out your hair once in a blue moon, you won’t see it. The cut is also tailored to each and every individual. Based on the desired result and hair texture, not everyone gets carving and slicing, this truly is cut specialized to you. The hair is cut at the curvature of the curl.

[quote]Mimicking the curl pattern is important because it allows the technique to intertwine with the curls so there is no awkward grow out. [/quote]

I asked Jason about cutting hair wet versus cutting hair dry, because I know there are so many people who swear by only cutting curls once they are dry. He said that “Our hair changes day to day and cutting it dry you are only cutting the hair’s shape for the one day and when you cut it wet and clean, it’s being shaped so it can be styled well every day from then on.” That explanation just made so much sense to me. My hair is a mix of loose and classic curls and sometimes they stretch out and don’t bounce right back. It’s incredibly rare my dry hair looks exactly the same on two days so this approach is wonderful.

I won’t lie, I was SUPER nervous about the cut.

After countless bad cuts in my past, haircuts are such a fear. Jason went above and beyond for me with this cut. My biggest concern was I didn’t want to lose any more length than I already lost from the breakage. He respected that wish. Also, in the back of my head I have shorter breakage that I know I just want to grow out before anything is done with, I didn’t want a ton of layers and he listened to that too and knew just what I was saying. He also checked with me before cutting at all, I honestly could not have asked for more! Honestly I feel like my hair somehow looks a little longer after the cut! Not sure how that is possible, but it is incredible.  Before cutting, he took me to the sink with these super comfy chairs and cleansed and conditioned my hair with the appropriate Ouidad shampoo and conditioner for my specific hair concerns. 

Deep treatment 

After the cut I got the signature Ouidad Deep Treatment! I love this deep treatment and use it at home as well. I learned there was a part of it I was doing incorrectly at home. The Ouidad Deep Treatment contains Amino Acids and Proteins to help calm frizz, enhance the natural curl pattern and also assist with dryness, which is natural for most curlies out there.

Though the Deep Treatment can help repair hair to an extent, it can’t perform miracles and magically heal hair that is damaged beyond repair like my bleach damage was. It contains Amino Acids and Proteins to help calm frizz, enhance the natural curl pattern and assist with dryness.

Jason applied the Deep Treatment in small sections and really pushed and massaged it into my hair strands for maximum absorption. He then put a plastic shower cap over my head and I sat under the dryer for 20 minutes (note: based on your own hair you may not need to be under the heat as long”> It is so important to use heat to activate the Deep Treatment. He then rinsed my hair with cool water and applied the Balancing Rinse Conditioner on my hair, leaving it on for 2 minutes. Prior to this, I always applied conditioner directly on the deep treatment and didn’t realize I had to rinse the deep treatment out first.

Because the Deep Treatment is full of protein, you need to use a great conditioner like the Balancing Rinse with proper pH to help close the cuticle and finish treating the hair.

He told me to do it at home once a month or every 2 weeks max and not to overdo it. Jason also said it is great to use the Deep Treatment with my Hair Steamer at home.

Rake & Shake Method

I learned so much about how to style my hair after the shower from Jason. You want to apply products directly out of the shower on wet hair, do not towel dry and if you can, do not ring out the excess water either. Jason said that the “Rake & Shake” method is the Ouidad form of a roller set.

Your fingers used to create and set curl pattern and create longevity out of the curls. Just like a roller set, you want to wait until your hair is fully dry to break open cast to create a soft look. By Raking and Shaking, you are smoothing the cuticle down to create frizz free definition.

When I asked Jason what was the main difference between this and just scrunching, he said that scrunching clumps the curls together and doesn’t leave the cuticle as smooth and frizz free.

What you do is you apply hair product in small section, rake the products through and shake it at the ends. The shake at the end is what helps encourage your curl pattern. Also, it is important to not tie your hair up in a twist or to do anything to disrupt the curl pattern. I was actually Rake & Shaking at home and then scrunching after- which explains why my hair didn’t turn out as well sometimes.

Jason first applied the Moisture Lock Leave In Conditioner which is also a primer that fills in the cuticle with moisture to prevent crunch and help with consistent curl pattern. He then used the VitalCurl Tress FX which gives hair soft but strong, touchable hold. After raking and shaking the products, I sat under the hooded dryer for a while. I also had a Latte which was delicious. I then went back in the chair and Jason used a regular bowl diffuser on me and said when diffusing to make sure it is aimed down, this helps prevent frizz and added “poof” I usually would wind up getting if I diffuse at home.

While diffusing he used the Ouidad Styling Mist Setting & Holding Spray and a little of the Shine Glaze Serum to break up the cast the gel created. He then sprayed just a little Frizz & Flyaway Fighter Spray for additional shine. Jason was also super kind and styled my hair as you can see in the pictures- pinning one side back and French braiding the other side. 

To conclude, I am so thankful to everyone at Ouidad for my wonderful Ouidad Flagship Salon experience!

From the moment I walked in the door until I left, I felt respected, appreciated and valued as a client. I look forward to seeing Jason again in a few months when I need a trim so he can help me grow out my curls nice and healthy. I wasn’t sure how I would feel about my hair being shorter and aside from the fact my neck is cold I actually feel really good about it and will enjoy it as it grows.

My hair feels healthier already even though I still have a little more bleach to grow out. I can see my curls are coming alive again and my hair is so soft and shiny!

My hair pattern actually does get curlier as it grows which Jason said is normal for certain hair types. I will be sure to keep updates here and on my blog about my cut, styling and everything. I still need to figure out how to sleep since I can’t pineapple at this length!

By the way, Ouidad.com has so many helpful videos that explains their methods and shows proper techniques of what I mentioned above so be sure to check them out! (This post was not sponsored”>.

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Hair grows approximately 1/2 an inch a month. If you are trying to grow your hair halfway down your back, this certainly does not sound like a lot of length. Factor in necessary trims and it may feel like your hair is taking forever to gain some length. Eating well, taking hair supplements, and giving yourself scalp massages a couple times a week with oils may help to increase the growth a bit. The Inversion Method, however, is supposed to significantly help with hair growth. This method is not scientifically proven but of course, I had to give it a try. Read on for my personal results.

The Inversion Method claims to grow up to an inch of hair in seven days.

The theory behind it is that being inverted, along with a scalp massage, is supposed to increase circulation to the scalp and allow more blood flow to your hair follicles allowing hair growth to increase. I have seen bloggers and YouTubers try this method and share their results anecdotally so I was anxious to try it for myself.

How to do the Inversion Method

1. Massage an oil of your choice onto your scalp. My personal favorite is coconut oil.

2. Invert for 4 minutes. Suggested positions: Sitting in a chair or on a couch and lowering your head slightly toward feet as if you are painting your toenails, standing at kitchen sink and lowering head as if you are getting ready to wash your hair.

3. Leave the oil to sit on scalp for at least two hours. Co-wash to remove excess oil if necessary.

4. Repeat everyday for only 7 consecutive days/one week. Wait at least 3 weeks between each attempt otherwise, your body gets used to the extra blood flow. Then the method will not work as well, if at all. At worst, you become susceptible to some dangerous health risks. So, only attempt to do this over seven consecutive days once per month (no more than that”>.

FAQ

A question that often gets brought up is why we have to wait 3 weeks before trying this again. People who have found success with the Inversion Method have reported that after 3 weeks their bodies adjusted to the improved circulation directed toward the scalp, and they experienced minimal, if any, growth. Overuse has also reportedly lead to headaches and feelings of weakness.  In my opinion it’s not worth putting your health at risk for the extra hair growth.

My Results

I faithfully used the inversion method every day for 7 days for 4 minutes. I chose coconut oil to massage my hair. I found the best way for me to do the inversion was laying off the side of my bed with my head upside down. It wasn’t comfortable at all on my neck which became a bit of an issue.

I do not think I could invert for any longer than 4 minutes. Note, I also have a history of neck problems and dizziness so that may not be the norm, I am just sharing my personal experience. More than once I got a little dizzy, but nothing unbearable that caused me to stop. Much to my dismay, my hair did not miraculously grow an inch that week. I had high hopes and didn’t want to give up.

My hair grew about 1/4 inch which is slightly above average for a week. I will happily take any extra hair growth of course, but I really wanted to achieve 1 inch like so many others did. Something else I was thinking about regarding my results is I do regularly practice yoga a couple times a week, so because there are times when I am inverted in poses perhaps my head is used to the blood flow?

You can chart your progress by taking pictures of your hair or measuring your hair with a ruler. Because I colored my hair and went for a touch up right before trying the inversion method, I measure my new growth in my roots.

Overall, I am disappointed with my results with The Inversion Method, as I hoped for a significant increase in growth like so many others have achieved. I suppose I’ll keep hoping for a different hair growth miracle.

Note: Hair Diary says to avoid trying The Inversion Method if you have any of the following conditions: pregnancy, hernia, low or high blood pressure, recent stroke, heart or circulatory problems, glaucoma, conjunctivitis (Pink Eye”>, detached retina, spinal injury, swollen joints, osteoporosis, unhealed fractures or injuries, ear infection, obesity, or are otherwise unhealthy, or during menstruation. 

To read more about the science (or lack thereof”> behind the Inversion Method, read here.

If you have tried the inversion method, please let me know your results below!

Living Proof is one of my top favorite hair product lines ever. I have backups of the Restore Treatment Mask and Repair Lotion at all times so as not to hyperventilate. They have been on my holy grail list for years. You can see my past articles reviewing the Restore line here and the stylers here. So imagine my excitement when I heard that Living Proof would be releasing a product line specially formulated for CURLS! I literally squealed in excitement and couldn’t get my hands on the products fast enough to try. Because of how I truly adore this brand as a whole, I had very high expectations that the curl line would blow me away.

Product claims

Living Proof says:

Beautiful, defined, frizz-free curls are here to stay. The cure for every kind of curl – from the slightest wave to coiliest curl, we’ve got you covered. Thanks to Extended Curl Memory technology, your curls now have more lasting power. Every kind of curl, every single day – no weather report required. Our exclusive Extended Curl Memory technology delivers beautiful, defined, frizz-free curls that last 2x longer. Curls stay intact through any of life’s assaults – humidity, wind – you name it, we’ve got you covered. Powered by our patented Healthy Hair Molecule (OFPMA”>, an optimized emollient and polymer blend and time-release conditioners that repel humidity for superior frizz protection. Provides residue-free cuticle smoothing for long-lasting curl definition, and delivers touchable hold for long-lasting, resilient curls. Finally, life-proof curls that are beautiful, frizz-free, and defined – and stay that way 2x longer.

Overall

All of the products have that signature fresh citrus Living proof scent to them which I don’t mind. To me, it isn’t overbearing or too perfumey.

All of the new Curl products play well with the other Living Proof lines and products which is great! Like all Living Proof products, everything in this line is free of parabens, silicones, oils, sulfates and safe for color treated and chemically processed hair.

Continuing reading on for my individual review of each product.

Curl Conditioning Wash

Product Claims: Curl Conditioning Wash cleanses and conditions in one step. This breakthrough formula combines cleansing ingredients with a conditioning base to give you smooth, conditioned curls that are both clean and healthy.

• Cleans and conditions in one step
• Gently cleans hair of dirt, oil and build-up
• Starts defining curls in shower
• Time-release conditioning keeps hair smooth and conditioned, in and out of the shower
• Perfect for all curl types
• Sulfate free, silicone free, and color safe

My Review: There is no lather at all. Absolutely zero. I don’t mind this personally because I am used to non lathering co-washes. Not only did it feel nice and clean after using, when I rinsed this out of my hair, it felt very soft and moisturized too. I like everything about this product except one thing – I find that I need to use a pretty significant amount each time to saturate all of my hair. Even so, I would still rebuy it because of the benefits and effects.

There is no lather at all. Absolutely zero.

Curl Detangling Rinse

Product Claims: Curl Detangling Rinse is NOT a conditioner. This water-activated, gel-like formula is unlike anything you’ve ever tried. It instantly detangles hair the moment it hits water, prepping hair for frizz-free styles.

• Detangles and defines curls the instant it hits water
• Replenishes lipids to help hair look and feel its best
• Preps hair for frizz-free styling
• For use after using Curl Conditioning Wash
• Perfect for all curl types
• Silicone free and color safe

My Review: Oh Living Proof, I am so so sorry. I don’t like disliking your products. In fact, I only didn’t love one other Living Proof product prior to this, and I tried practically all of them! I tried and played for over a month to have my hair and this detangling rinse get along, but sadly this formula and my hair don’t have that loving relationship. I am disappointed. They do say it is not a conditioner and in that respect they are not lying. It does do what it says- it detangled my hair in the shower at lightning speed. When I rinsed it out my wet hair felt fine but as my hair dried it felt dry, stiff, unmanageable and looked very frizzy. I have never had my hair feel so awkward and weird. I tried so many time with tried and true styling products and tweaked other variables, and I was able to single out this is the product as the culprit in making my hair feel not so lovely. I don’t know where I went wrong here- maybe it is because my hair is extremely damaged? This won’t be a re-buy for me but that’s fine because 99% of the time I follow up cleansing with a masque or deep treatment anyway.

This water-activated, gel-like formula is unlike anything you’ve ever tried.

Curl Enhancing Styling Mousse

Product Claims: Curl Enhancing Styling Mousse shapes and defines natural waves and curls that need a boost. Extended Curl Memory technology combines with contracting resins to give you touchable, enhanced curls that stay beautiful and frizz free, longer.

• Extra hold
• Light conditioning
• Provides frizz and humidity protection
• Creates flexible, long lasting touchable curls
• Perfect for naturally wavy or curly hair
• For extra conditioning, use with our Curl Defining Styling Cream or No Frizz Leave In Conditioner
• Silicone free and color safe

My Review: I LOVE this product!!! Hi holy grail. Never before have I been able to use a mousse with no gel on top of it and still feel that my hair looks good. I apply this after cleansing and conditioning on top of my leave in conditioner and Living Proof Prime Style Extender and Repair Lotion. If your hair is pretty healthy you probably don’t need the repair lotion. I use an oil on top to seal it. But basically I apply it section by section, scrunch and air dry. My waves feel so soft, look shiny and frizz free. I think wavies everywhere would like this product because it has the perfect amount of hold- not too much, not too little plus conditioning properties.

Curl Defining Styling Cream

Product Claims: Curl Defining Styling Cream has extra conditioning and light hold to define and control curls with a stronger curl pattern. Our Extended Curl Memory technology combines with long-wear, flexible resins to give you weatherproof curls that stay beautiful, defined and frizz free, longer.

• Extra conditioning
• Light hold
• Blocks humidity that causes frizz
• Creates smooth, long lasting touchable curls
• Perfect for naturally curly or coily hair
• For extra hold, use with our Curl Enhancing Styling Mousse
• For extra conditioning, use with our No Frizz Leave In Conditioner
• Silicone free and color safe

My Review: According to the website, this is made for stronger curl patterns. Being a 2C/sometimes 3A but lately 2B because I’ve been enjoying my hair loosely wavy lately, this doesn’t directly apply to me so I didn’t use it after showering on wet hair. HOWEVER, I did use it on day 2 and/or 3 on my dry hair and it helped to re-moisturize (is Winter over yet?”> add some shine and help with some frizz that make have snuck onto my head. A little goes a long way for this too.

The Line as a Whole

Overall, the Living Proof Curl line has some winners for me and one disappointment (I really am so sad about that”> I will be buying more of the mousse and conditioning wash, and possibly the curl cream too. The big test for me with this mousse as a styling product without gel will be in summer when it is more humid out and my hair is naturally frizzier.

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Disclaimer: These products were provided to me from NaturallyCurly for review consideration. All opinions are my own and honest thoughts and I did not receive any monetary compensation for this review.