Search Results: Gabrielle Bone
Mother’s Day is the one official holiday that gives us a chance to show our love and appreciation for all that she does.
24/7 and 365 days a year, our mothers work hard to raise us to be the best women that we can possibly be. Show love for Mom and her natural hair by giving her a gift she will love throughout her journey. Consider one of these 5 inexpensive gifts.
Save mom the money and trouble of looking for the perfect detangling brush or comb. The Denman brush is the ultimate detangling brush for natural curlies and coilies. The Denman brush is composed of a soft rubber cushioned bottom that holds nylon bristles. This brush works through all those tough knots and tangles, cutting down on mom’s time for detangling and gentle enough to work through thicker and longer hair. Available at Sally Beauty.
The Laila Ali Soft Bonnet Dryer is great for moms that prefer to deep condition using heat. This bonnet dryer is pretty handy and doesn’t take up the space of a regular hooded dyer. It contains 4 settings and comes along with a flexible bonnet with a light grip that fits comfortably. Get great results for deep conditioning with this dryer. Available at Walmart.
Okay.. so your mom isn’t the kind to sit underneath the hooded dryer for a while just to dry her hair. But what about giving your mom The Original Curly Tee Towel. This is not just another towel, this towel is made up for material specifically designed to dry hair in the shortest amount of time. The Original Curly Tee Towel not only dries hair quickly but cuts down on the amount of frizz, keeping your hair soft, smooth, and of course frizz free. Available in CurlMart.
If your mom is a new natural and unsure about what natural hair products to use, consider getting her a Curlmart Kit. Curlmart offers a range of items in a kit that is targeted towards a specific hair type. Whether your mom has type 2a waves or 4c coils, Curlmart kits have what your mom needs to jump start her natural hair regimen. Your mother will enjoy having a personalized kit designed for her unique hair type. Available in Curlmart.
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Natural Hair Books and Guides
Does your mother love to read in her past time? What better gift to give her than a helpful guide on caring for natural hair. There are a range of natural hair books ready for purchase online to help encourage Mom on her journey. Available on Amazon and at Barnes & Noble.
Suggested books and guides
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“If You Love It, It Will Grow: A Guide to Growing Long Afro-Textured Hair” by Phoenyx Austin
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“The Science of Black Hair: A Comprehensive Guide to Textured Hair” by Audrey Davis-Sivasothy
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“Thank God I’m Natural: The Ultimate Guide to Caring for and Maintaining Natural Hair Book” by Christia Donaldson
If you remember the term chlorophyll, you still have a memory of your old grade school science course.
Chlorophyll is responsible for the green pigment in leafy plants and play a very important role in plants’ production of energy through the process of photosynthesis. Not only does it help plants stay healthy, but can be great for our bodies as well. Through years of researching chlorophyll, it has been found to provide plenty of health and beauty benefits.
What it can do for your hair
According to Follicleanse, “Chlorophyll is rich in minerals, vitamins, proteins, and micronutrients. There are specific nutrients the follicle uses to synthesize proteins into keratin and produce healthy hair and nails.”
The nutrients found in chlorophyll include vitamin B, D, & E, calcium, and potassium, which are key for healthy hair and nail growth. In addition to hair growth, chlorophyll has been found to actually slow down the progression of gray hair by continuously producing melanin in pigment cells in hair follicles.
What it can do for your body
Along with essential vitamins, chlorophyll also has a high oxygen content. The high oxygen and nitrogen are known to improve the circulation of blood through the body, stimulating the production of red blood cells. An increase in red blood cell count in your body helps to heal cuts and wounds, fight infections, and repair damaged tissues.
In addition to its high amount of oxygen and nitrogen, chlorophyll also contains a very special mineral, magnesium. It is responsible for chlorophyll production. Magnesium is the core of chlorophyll that helps plants and animals, food into energy and vital to the function of cells, bones, tissues in your body. It is also acknowledged for its ability to reduce population of smoke in our environment, helping us breathe lighter, fresher and cleaner air.
How to incorporate chlorophyll into your health routine
You can easily add chlorophyll to your diet through leafy green plants or by taking chlorophyll supplements. Because chlorophyll is naturally packed with nutrients, cooking leafy plants will actually significantly reduce the amount of nutrients you benefit from so you may want to opt for a salad instead. You may purchase chlorophyll supplements at your local health foods and drugstore. We recommend consulting your doctor before adding supplements into your diet.
Spring is in full bloom.
One of the hottest styles embracing both Afros and springtime in the natural hair community is affectionately titled Afro Bloomin. It’s even viral on social media.
The Afro is a timeless style and has been celebrated throughout the natural hair community for decades. The Afro was a pioneer that brought attention to natural hair as being new, fresh, and unique. The afro, like locs and twists, showed off the diversity of a person’s afro-texture coils. The Afro Bloomin trend has put a seasonal spin on a style that is timeless, showing naturals that their hair is a form of nature’s artwork.
The beauty of the Afro
“Black power is embracing the beauty of being black even though the whole world has taught us otherwise” @in.maevasheart
In the past it wasn’t the norm–because it wasn’t acceptable–to wear our textured hair out and styled in an afro. Society told us that our hair wasn’t beautiful; it was not “good hair.” Since the ever-growing support within the natural hair community, trends like Afro Bloomin have brought out the beauty in our natural hair.
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Those of us with afro-textured hair will no longer be looked down upon for how we choose to style our natural hair.
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“Society tells us that our natural, God-given kinks and curls is not ‘good hair.’ Natural hair, no matter what way a person decides to wear it should equally fit societies standards of ‘good hair’.” says Dazhane Leah, creator of the Afro Bloomin series.
New seasonal trends with the purpose to present natural hair appreciation have given black women with Afro textured hair the confidence to show it off. Our textured hair is no longer something that we hide and be ashamed of. An afro is more than a hairstyle, but an expression of who we are. So why shouldn’t we embrace something that is naturally beautiful and different?
Have you seen this spring trend on social media?
From deep conditioners, to curl definers, to gels–I get excited when hearing a new line or product is out on the market (or finding about one I didn’t know about”>.
I have to admit that some new products are hits and misses but I can’t help but to buy a curly hair product that has been getting some hype. These are the 5 hair care products that I couldn’t wait to try this month.
1. Camille Rose Naturals Curl Maker
It’s wash-n-go season for me, so I am into buying curl definers and gels that are light weight, don’t create a sticky film, and give me instant curl definition. I decided to purchase this gel after reading that it contains marshmallow root and agave leaf extract, known to give natural slip to work through those tangles. This product provides amazing hold and shine without leaving my hair flaky or gummy.
2. Elucence Moisture Balancing Conditioner
This conditioner has been getting a lot of hype. I’ve read tons of great reviews about it, and the one thing that stuck out to me was that this conditioner can double as both a rinse-out conditioner and a leave-in. I am a huge fan of products that can do double duty so I had to buy it. I also love this conditioner as a co-wash mid-week when I decide to refresh my wash-n-go style.
3. Curl Junkie Curls in a Bottle
My love for curl gels is strong and had to try another gel for my wash-n-go routine. I came across Curl Junkie’s Curls in the Bottle on Shop.NaturallyCurly.com and was convinced from the positive reviews to give it a try. After my first use, I noticed that my curls were super soft and defined. Yes the curls were poppin’! This is a very light gel and isn’t too heavy. This product also works to combat any frizz with second and third day wash-n-go. It’s a winner for me.
4. Ouidad Texture Taffy
I have tried and loved Ouidad’s curl products in the past and thought to give this texture taffy a try. I was a bit concerned that it would make my hair super sticky and cause build up. I used this product in my wash-n-go routine to lay down my edges that tend to get a bit frizzy throughout the week and spritzed a bit of water to reactivate the product. The texture taffy also works well to create super sleek styles and helps control the frizz from humidity.
5. Jane Carter Solution Nourish & Shine
This is the first product I bought from the Nourish & Shine collection–I like to try at least one product from a line and see how it works first. Similar to other products, I bought this product based on the numerous positive reviews. It is an all-natural blend of essential oils that deeply nourish my transitioning hair, fights frizz, and provides shine. I also love that this butter applies easily to the hair and will work great for 3C-4C curls and coils.
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Ever thought about doing a roller set, or tried and didn’t get the results you were expecting?
A roller set on natural hair is a simple (but often times complicated”> style.
With a roller set, you can have sleek, stretched curls without direct heat. This is especially great for those that want to achieve a stretched curly style and without putting their hair at risk for heat damage. With these tips and tricks, I’m sure you can get your best roller set.
1. Deep condition
The state of you hair’s health and how well you care for it prior to the style means a lot. An important step prior to doing your roller set is making sure that your hair is properly conditioned with a deep conditioner or protein treatment. These treatments not only repair your hair from the previous week’s manipulation and style but also prepares your hair for the roller style. So make sure your hair is conditioned and prepared.
2. Apply a heat protectant (as your leave-in”>
Although you are not putting direct heat on your hair from a straighter, you are using heat from a hooded dryer. For a roller set to be completely dry, it’s essential to spend about 30-120 minutes underneath the dryer. A great spray heat protectant leave–in for roller set is ApHogee Keratin and Green Tea Restructurizer. This product includes keratin, a common ingredient featured in heat protectants that helps to build a barrier and combat damage from heat styling.
3. Use a light moisturizing styling product
For a stretched style like a roller set, you want your hair to have volume, movement and not feel weighed down with product. It’s best to use a light moisturizer or hair serum. Stay away from styling products that include petroleum and butters that will be too heavy.
4. Perform a roller set on damp/dry hair
Doing a roller set on wet hair will be a challenge in itself. The slippery hair will make it much more difficult to wrap around the roller, leaving odd strands of hair from being curled. For an easy and smoother application, always roll your hair when it’s damp or dry. This will give your hair a better grip and you’ll spend less time underneath the dryer.
5. Divide your hair into small sections
The less hair for each roller, the better results you will get. Too much hair in each section will make it much harder to curl around the roller and take more time to dry. So divide your hair in small sections throughout your hair.
6. Use different size rollers
This is one of the tips I learned eventually. Using the same size rollers throughout your entire head will create the same curls. Using different size rollers will actually create fullness and add extra volume to your hair.
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pictured: StyleNook user NKNaturals
Everyone’s hair is different. Why should you use the same products?”
You have never met a brand that has shampoo and conditioner that is specifically designed for your hair. That is, until now. Meet Function of Beauty, the brand that is putting a dent in the the evolution of the haircare industry, changing the way you shop for hair products forever.
What is Function of Beauty?
Created and developed by team of experts, Zahir Dossa, Joshua Maciejewski, and Hien Nguyen, Function of Beauty understands the difficulty of shopping the hair care section of a store and finding a shampoo and conditioner that works for someone’s unique head of hair. This is why the computer scientist, engineer, and cosmetic chemist team designed a system that uses science to personalize hair products that fit your specific hair type. With over 300 million shampoo and conditioner combinations, Function of Beauty customizes sets that are cruelty-free, sulfate-free, silicone-free, and paraben-free. They are 100% natural. There is no guess work and the user no longer has to struggle with finding the products that work best for their unique hair.
How it works
Getting started is easy. Simply complete a hair profile by answering a few questions about your hair type, its characteristics, and hair goals. Once you have completed your profile, choose a size for hair products and a name. The Function of Beauty algorithm will formulate your own personal shampoo and conditioner set and be sent to you in the mail.
How much does it cost?
You can choose between 8oz bottles or 16oz bottles. The 8oz set of shampoo and conditioner is $13 per bottle, and the 16oz set is $19 per bottle. For reference, a SheaMoisture bottle of conditioner is $10.99 for 13oz which works out to be $1.18 per ounce. A 10oz bottle of Elucence conditioner is costs $9, which is $1.11 per ounce. The 16oz Function of Beauty conditioner works out to be $1.19 per ounce, so it is very close in price to SheaMoisture and more expensive than Elucence, but not by much. You can also choose to buy the 8oz shampoo and the 160z conditioner for $32 if you (like many curlies”> use more conditioner than shampoo.
Who Function of Beauty is ideal for
Literally everyone. From those with straight hair, to wavy, curly, or coily hair. Function of Beauty offers the option of choosing from several haircare goals. The system is specifically designed to work well for chemically treated hair or scalps that suffer from dryness. This services also recognizes that not everyone is keen on a particular fragrance or scent, so they let the customer decide. There’s a selection of fragrance options from essential oils that can be added to shampoo and conditioner. You in in control of customizing hair products for YOU.
Adjusting your “hair profile”
Who said our hair goals will stay the same? Function of Beauty understands that our hair needs change depending upon several factors, from our health to a change in hair dye. Once you feel your hair needs a change you can alter your shampoo and conditioner set by simply logging in to your account and chat with a chemist that will answer any questions you have and adjust your hair profile to fit your needs.
We have reached out to Function of Beauty to see if we can try the products on a few different hair types and review them for you, but we would definitely like to hear from you if you have tried these custom products yourself – let us know in the comments!
Have you tried this service? Would you be willing to?
These apps will eliminate all the hard work for a busy stylist, keeping them organized and on top of their game.
From scheduling appointments and keeping contacts of clients, the life of a hairstylist is not easy. Especially without a receptionist’s help.
But with the help of smartphone apps, it has become easier for stylists to organize, book more appointments, and store other important info from past consultations. Here are the 3 apps every stylist should have on their phone.
MyChairApp
Available through the app store for iPhone and iPad, MyChairApp stores hundreds of clients’ contact info, including phone number and email addresses. This is a must for busy stylists staying on top of messaging their potential clients for openings as well as sending automatic reminders to existing clients who are due for a trim or color touch-up. It is perfect for a stylist with a large clientele and organizational problems.
StyleSeat
StyleSeat is a stylist’s destination to search thousands of professionals and clients to help build their business. This app is excellent for both mainstream and independent stylists to get their name out there, giving them the opportunity to connect with other style experts and professionals including makeup artists and estheticians. With this app, a stylist has their portfolio at their fingertips, as they can upload their portfolio and show off some of their best work.
Colorista
Certified stylists specializing in cutting, styling, and/or coloring will find Colorista helpful. This app acts as a personal receptionist, jotting down appointment schedules, openings, and client notes to help a stylist work more effectively. Colorista features a section known as client cards that stores each person’s information from their last appointment, a complete history of their last visit, and even their photos. This app also includes a selection titled formulas, which allows a style to keep an archive of their favorite styles and treatments to show off during consultations with new clients.
Are you looking for a stylist in your area who specializes in naturally curly hair?
Visit our Salon Finder for thousands of reviews by the community.
I’m a sucker for trying every new and little-known hair natural curly hair product on the market–a true product junkie.
As a true product junkie, I’m constantly trying new products from both large and small independent brands and came across some hidden gems. Here are the 5 virtually new and untalked about naturally curly hair products I think you need to know about now.
1. Pure Naturals with Smooth Moisture Coconut Oil Butter Crème
I stumbled across this product earlier this year after deciding to let go of one of my favorite curly hair products, Shea Moisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie. Not only was I was drawn to the fact that this product was under $10, but it contained similar all natural ingredients such as coconut oil, hibiscus, and mango butter. This product has a light but thick consistency and is great for any protective styling. After my first use, this product I noticed my twists were super defined with light hold and with no sticky film. I was stoked to find a new holy grail product.
Here’s what YouTuber creator, MyThriftedCloset, thought about the Pure Naturals line:
2. MYHoneyChild Honey Hair Mask (available at CurlMart“>
There are not enough good things I can say about this product. I came across it late last year after I wanted to switch up my hair regimen. I was tired of using As I Am Conditioner and thought to give it a try. Using this product, I noticed that it had a light, silky consistency that wasn’t not too heavy, gave me slip to break through tangles and easily, and penetrated my hair shaft. It was a real deep conditioner. I noticed that I had a lesser amount of hair shedding, so I was pleased with this product.
Here’s what YouTube creator, CamilleElle thought about the MyHoneyChild Honey Hair Mask:
3. Blended Beauty Curl Styling Butter (available at CurlMart“>
A new curly hair product in my transitioning hair regimen, this butter styling crème is definitely a hidden gem. When I found this product was wasn’t looking for a new cream moisturizer or butter, but thought it would be great to try. Blended Beauty Curl Styling Butter has a thick consistency but leaves no sticky film. It is perfect for those with type 3b-3c hair and type 4a curls and coils. You’ll look forward to a bomb twist-out or braid-out with this product.
Here’s what YouTuber creator, MakeupandBeautyJunkie, thought about the Blended Beauty Curl Styling Butter:
4. Darcy’s Botanicals Curling Cream Gel (available at CurlMart“>
Okay, so I admit that I have a soft spot for cream gels; when I noticed that Darcy Botanicals had one, I just had to get it. If you’re a huge fan of the wash-n-go, you have to give this crème gel a try. This cream gel is great for both looser and tightly defined curls and coils that can be used alone and light to work well with other products. I experienced no flakes, no product buildup, and no crunch. This cream gel is now a staple product in my wash-n-go routine.
Here’s what YouTube creator, CurlliciosJae, thought about Darcy’s Botanicals Curling Cream Gel:
5. Green Beauty Real Protein Treatment
My hair went through a pretty rough patch as I was using too many products that didn’t work well for my curls, leaving them matted and mushy. I decided to try this product since I researched the signs of an unbalance of moisture and protein. I was pretty susceptible to trying it but thought it would be the best thing to recover my hair. The results from one protein treatment using Green Beauty’s REAL Protein Treatment, my curls were super defined, soft, and highly moisture. Knowing what this protein treatment can do for my hair, I began to use this as a pretreatment before any heat styling with a blowout or flat iron. If you chemical treat or heat style your hair often, this is a must have to offset the possible damage.
Here’s what YouTuber creator, Cassy California, thought about the Green Beauty Real Protein Treatment:
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What under the radar products are you in love with?
Don’t forget to like my FaceBook page, Beautiful Beat Honey.
If you haven’t already found a 1 trick pony for your hair and beauty regimens, consider purchasing a bottle of witch hazel.
A hidden gem in the beauty industry, this all-natural plant extract provides natural benefits, treating and preventing common hair and skin issues. Here’s how you can use it in your beauty routine. Find it at your local drugstore in the same area you’ll find face wash.
1. Scalp cleanser
Witch hazel is a natural astringent, a cleanser to remove product buildup and excessive oil. This gentle cleanser great for those who want to clean their hair while maintaining a protective style. Use witch hazel in your no-poo wash day routine or to cleanse your scalp mid-week.
2. Facial toner
If you’re having trouble finding a gentle toner for your sensitive skin, use witch hazel. Witch hazel works well as a toner to help calm the skin from redness and common irritations. Using witch toner as your daily facial toner helps balance your skin’s pH balance after using harsh exfoliators and cleansers and adds a healthy glow. For best results, use it following your facial cleanser once or twice a day.
3. Under eye brightener
Sometimes our work load causes us to lose a couple of hours of sleep and we wake up with dark, puffy circles. Witch hazel helps to tighten up the skin and reduce the appearance of dark circles and puffiness. When using witch hazel as an under eye brightener, make sure it does not enter the eye directly–as this will cause significant dryness and discomfort.
4. Aftershave
Ever get those tiny red and itchy bumps after you shave? If so, these razors bumps are pretty common and actually caused by shaving too often or with a dull razor. Shaving with dull razors cause nicks, leading it to be more susceptible to skin irritations and infections. Heal your skin with witch hazel as it contains tannins known to alleviate and repair broken skin.
5. Acne scarring solution
We all struggle with that one blemish that just won’t go away and leaves behind a dark spot. Take on acne and add witch hazel to your skin clearing routine. Witch hazel helps to clear up and reduce the appearance of those acne causing discolorations. Simply take a cotton swab/round and apply a small amount of witch hazel to the blemish or other dark areas.
Other topical uses for witch hazel
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Shrink swollen veins
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Soothes sunburn skin
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Heals Chafing and clears up diaper rashes
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Eases Pain from Bug Bites and Stings
Do you use witch hazel in your beauty regimen?
Thought Bantu knots only worked for shoulder length hair or longer? Think again.
This protective style is an easy way to achieve super sleek and defined curls in little time. Here is a step by-by guide to getting gorgeous curls with a Bantu knot-out on shorter hair.
1. Moisturize your hair with your favorite styling product.
This could be a styling cream, butter, or oil. Make sure that your product is disrupted properly and your hair is completely saturated.
2. Begin sectioning your hair in small triangles.
Use your fingers or a rattail comb. The smaller the section, the more defined your curls will be.
3. Starting from the ends, lightly detangle your hair.
4. From root to ends, begin twisting your hair firmly but gently.
At the end of each twist, twirl your hair around your index finger to curl the ends.
5. Secure and pin each twist to your scalp with a bobby pin or duckbill clip.
Continue this throughout your entire head. Keep your Bantu knots up overnight or sit underneath hooded dryer until your hair is completely dry.6. During the takedown, apply a light oil to your hands and separate gently.
How to get the best Bantu Knots
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Make them on dry hair.
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Apply extra product to your ends if they are super dry.
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Try not to make too big of a section for each Bantu knot–less hair creates a more defined curl.
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Use coconut oil as you separate each twist–coconut oil is light, but very moisturizing that doubles as a finisher.
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To fluff out your style and create volume, use a styling pick or wide tooth comb, lifting the roots only.
The perfect styling products for Bantu Knots
Cantu Moisturizing Twist and Lock Gel (Available at Walmart and Target”>
Curly Hair Solutions Curl Keeper Styling Cream (Available at CurlMart”>
Miss Jessie’s Curly Pudding (Available at Target and CurlMart”>
Naturally Smitten Moisturizing Hair Butter (Available at CurlMart”>
Design Essentials Natural Curl Stretching Cream (Available at CurlMart”>
Watch ShineStruck’s tutorial
Exercise is essential to our hair and overall health. Sometimes we sacrifice our hair for working out, and vice versa.
However, it is possible to multitask and work up a sweat while deep conditioning. Read on to find out why you and or shouldn’t deep condition while working out.
Is it OK to deep condition your hair while working out?
While it’s great to multitask, leaving conditioner on your hair for too long could be bad for your hair. According to this article, the maximum time for deep conditioning is about 30 minutes with the minimum being 20 minutes. If you are going to for a brisk walk or a high impact work out for 20-30 mins you can benefit from deep conditioning. However, if you’re going to be spending an hour or more at the gym it’s best to leave your deep conditioner at home.
Is it really that bad?
Don’t think leaving deep conditioner on your hair is better. Deep conditioning while working out will result in your hair being overly conditioned–too much of a good thing isn’t always better. “Hair that is softer results from a change in keratin forming that will be weaker and more prone to breaking if manipulated.” The loss of keratin in your hair will cause your hair to lose its elasticity, making it much more susceptible to damage from heat and hair dyes. Keep your hair strong and don’t leave your deep conditioner in for too long.
Remember these 4 things
1. Only do a 20-30 minute workouts if you must while you deep condition. More than that will leave your hair overly conditioned with characteristics of mushy hair.
2. Wear heated plastic caps or thermal cap. The Hair Therapy Thermal Wrap works well for textured hair that lacks moisture.
3. Do get the most from you deep conditioner while working out and go for an intense 20-30 mins workout. The greater heat will give your deep conditioner a better chance to penetrate the hair shaft for a total deep conditioning treatment.
4. If you want a light conditioning treatment throughout the week, consider using a daily conditioner as a deep conditioner. DevaCurl One Condition doubles as a co-wash during the week and a deep conditioner on Sunday evening before the following week.
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Wavy girls, is your current leave-in conditioner not giving you the moisture it needs or weighing your hair down? It may be time to rethink your hair care regimen and switch out for a new one? Here are 8 leave-in conditioners that are perfect for wavy hair.
Tip: Apply your leave-in to soaking wet hair directly after co-washing–or in between wash days diluted in water as a wave refresher.
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Nexxus Diametress Volumizing Leave In Conditioning Crème
A great leave-in for those wavies that struggle with fine and flat hair. Nexxus Diametress Volumizing Leave-In Conditioning Crème does just what it claims–adds volume and body. Infused with wheat proteins and keratin, known to strengthen and protect your hair from chemical treatments, e.g hair dyes”> and give you stronger and thicker strains. Shop this leave-in at Walgreens and Ulta Beauty.
Miss Jessie’s Leave-In Condish
With wavy hair, you don’t need a leave-in that’s too heavy and weighs your hair down.. A leave-in that does a good job of keeping your hair moisture but not too overbearing is Miss Jessie’s Leave-In Condish. It’s formatted with natural ingredients such as aloe and soybean for moisture. You can find this product at Target and Sally Beauty.
Ouidad Moisture Lock Leave-In Conditioner
While some leave-in conditioners give your hair too much moisture, others won’t provide enough. Ouidad Moisture Lock Leave-in Conditioner is infused with moisture locking properties like green tea leaf extract, glycerin, and cetearyl alcohol to help you combat dry, frizzy hair. And a little goes a long way! Purchase this product at Curlmart, Ulta Beauty, and Sally Beauty.
Elucence Moisture Balance Conditioner
A favorite of NaturallyCurly editor Cristina, Elucence Moisture Balance Conditioner is a dual-purpose conditioner that does 2 things: works as a rich moisture rinse out conditioner and also as a leave-in to give life to dry feeling and dull looking hair. This leave-in features Squalene, a natural ingredient used to replenish hair that suffers from a lack of moisture and protein balance. Find this product at Curlmart.
ApHogee Curlific! Moisture Rich Leave-in
A top leave–in conditioner in my own hair regimen, ApHogee Curlific Moisture Rich Leave-in works well for all hair types. This spray leave-in features moisture locking technology to stops your hair from becoming dry and prevents breakage. It also doubles as a protectant for unwanted heat damage during styling with a curling wand or flat iron. Shop this at Curlmart and Sally Beauty.
Darcy’s Botanicals Herbal Leave-In Conditioning Spritz
If you’re a lover of all natural hair products, you have to try this leave in conditioner from Darcy Botanicals. The Darcy’s Botanicals Herbal Leave-In Conditioning Spritz, is a lightweight spray leave-in and detangler that helps you tackle those frizzies while providing moisture. This leave-in can be used on both wet hair to moisturize and dry hair to refresh. Shop this leave-in (and other Darcy Botanicals products”> at Curlmart.
Giovanni Direct Leave-In
No need to splurge on this. Giovanni Direct Leave-In gives you all the benefits of a great leave-in conditioner just without the price. With a lightweight consistency and packed with nourishing properties, this cream leave-in conditioner is best for chemically dyed hair and hair that struggles with maintain a proper protein-moisture balance. Giovanni Direct Leave-In is available to you at Ulta Beauty and Target stores.
Karen’s Body Beautiful Sweet Ambrosia Leave-In Conditioner
If your hair is excessively dry from a chemical or colored treatment, consider this sweet scented product. Hair that has been chemically treated that is vulnerable to breakage due to its lack of moisture; Karen’s Body Beautiful Sweet Ambrosia leave-in adds a boost of moisture and strengthens the strands, too. This leave-in also acts a barrier to protect you hair from damaged caused by UV rays and heat styling. Available at Shop.NaturallyCurly.com and Amazon.com.
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Are you having trouble finding one of the main ingredient in your do-it-yourself hair and beauty recipes? Here is a quick shopping guide for finding our favorite oils–including a list of 5 carrier oils every natural should have.
Where to buy oils
You can find many of the common oils at your local health food stores, which vary depending on where you live. If you have access to them, you can try national stores like Sprouts, Whole Foods Market, and GNC. You can even find some of the common cooking oils (like olive, grapeseed and coconut”> at a regular grocery store, so check there first. If you cannot find essential or carrier oils where you live, they are very easy to find online. Here are a few online resources for oils.
Mountain Rose Herbs
If you’re looking to buy a large amount of essential oils, then you definitely have to shop at Mountain Rose Herbs. This is your stop to purchase carrier and essential oils, herbs, and organic butters in a bulk. If cost is an issue, this online shop always has weekly specials and deals.
Now Foods
Now Foods was the first brand I shopped as a beginner to essential oils. This store offers organic essential oils in both small and large bottles (26 ounces”>. Now Foods also has natural organic products for body care, hair care, and essential oils for aromatherapy purposes. Now Foods can be purchased from their website, but if you can’t find what you need in-house, they are available on Amazon as well.
Butters-N-Bars
Want to shop for more than essential and carrier oils? Check out Butters-N-Bars; it’s home to organic unrefined butters (shea and mango”> and all natural hair care items including shampoos and deep condition masques. Similar to Mountain Rose Herbs, Butters-N-Bars carries large quantities of product so you no longer have worry about having to come back too soon to restock. Butters and Bars also have specials and giveaways known as Freebie Fridays.
5 Carrier oils every natural should own
Olive Oil
Widely known in the natural hair community, olive oil is a favorite for every curly girl. Olive oil is affordable and great addition to hot oil or deep conditioning treatment. Even though olive oil is a heavy emollient, it can easily penetrate the hair shaft and condition to provide moisture and improve your hair’s elasticity. Find out the other benefits of olive oil.
Jamaican Black Castor Oil
You heard a lot about castor oil but have you consider trying Jamaican Black Castor Oil? Jamaican Black Castor Oil is often confused with original castor oil, but it’s just an unrefined form of castor oil. Jamaican Black Castor Oil is very versatile. Curlies of all patterns and hair types are fans of JBCO because it moisturizes, thickens, strengthens and encourages hair growth.” Learn more about Jamaican Black Castor Oil.
Jojoba Oil
Jojoba oil is a natural girl’s best friend. Similar to jojoba oil is versatile and works well for all hair types and textures. Jojoba oil is known for its light consistency and odorless which makes it perfect to mix with other essential oils. Although it’s pricey, jojoba oil is the perfect for sealing in moisture and put a stop to those dry ends. Read what else jojoba oil can do for your hair.
Grapeseed Oil
Grapeseed oil is a light and odorless carrier, commonly used to mix with other oil blend recipes. This oil provides numerous benefits for the hair and skin, but is most notable for containing high amounts of antioxidants and oligomeric proanthocyanidin complexes (OPCs”> that increase the production of cells in the hair follicles to promote growth. Want to know more about the benefits of grapeseed oil? Check out this article.
Argan Oil
Commonly used in commercial hair care products, argan oil is one of the best oils that help to prevent dry, frizzy hair and improve your hair’s elasticity. Argan oil contains key nutrients for your hair, including rich fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamin E to provide shine. Read this article for more info on how argan oil can better your hair and beauty routine.
Where do you buy your hair oils?
Are you struggling to find a hair stylist that caters to your naturally curly and coily hair?
This list should help guide you in the right direction. Here are 5 of the top natural hair salons located in Florida. Have another salon you want to include? Add it to our Salons page.
Hydra-Bar Hair Spa
Established in 2013, Hydra-Bar Hair Spa has been making waves in Coral Spring, Florida. This is a full service salon that offers a wide range of services for those starting their natural hair journey and those with more experience. In addition to their services, a curl expert will have a detailed one-on-one hair consultation to make sure you receive the right treatment for you. Hydra Bar Hair Spa also known for their hyrda steam treatments that enhance natural curl definition. Experience a hydra treatment and book your appointment here.
Curls Rock Hair Studio
Boca Raton-based Curls Rock Hair Salon is known for their emphasis in Devacare, including Devacurl No Poo Curl Treatment and well-known Heaven in Hair Deep Treatments. This salon also specializes in deva and tapered cuts for all curls types. The curl girl team will leave you with healthy, full, and luscious curls! Treat your curls and schedule your appointment to Curls Rock Hair Studio.
Tranzitions Hair Salon
If you’re a lover of Ouidad hair products, you must visit this salon. Tranzitions Hair Salon in Tampa specializes in curly hair care and styling. The stylist here only use the best hair care products formulated to give your best curly hair. The professionals at Tranzitions Hair Salon are both Ouidad and DevaCurl certified so you are sure that you will get the top curly hair treatments, shapes, and styles. Tranzitions Hair Salon also offers full nail and esthetician services so you look your best from head to toe. Make sure your schedule your appointment with curly experts today.
Natural Trend Setters
Want more from a salon than just a simple cut and style? Why not visit Natural Trend Setters. Natural Trend Setters salon is a first in south Florida to focus in the care of curly, kinky, and coily hair. Since its humble beginnings 13 years ago, it continues to make a mark in the natural hair care industry. Natural Trend Setters offers moisture treatments and protective styling from loc twists to kinky twists. The natural hair experts will give you more than a great cut and style, but educate you on the basics of healthy natural hair and suggest range of products and styles. Get more from your salon experience and check out it out here.
Have another salon you want to include? Add it to our Salons page.
Jasmine oil is commonly used in Asian and Eastern cultures. Its fragrance is known to be aphrodisiac.
Well known for its sweet, light fragrance and aromatherapy uses, jasmine oil is recognized to sooth the mind and to relieve stress and reduce muscle tension. However, it has been found that this natural oil helps to achieve healthy hair and skin. Keep reading to find out the benefits of jasmine oil.
What is Jasmine Oil?
Jasmine oil is a natural essential oil derived from the Jasmine flower. Jasmine oil is commonly used in Asian and Eastern cultures. Its fragrance is known to be aphrodisiac, but it also has benefits for your hair, scalp and your skin.
This is why you should consider incorporating it as your beauty oil of choice.
Strengthens and stops hair breakage
Jasmine oil contains moisturizing properties to stop prevent hair breakage. Similar to fan favorites such as jojoba oil, jasmine oil is light and able to penetrate the hair shaft and cuticle to deeply conditions. It also maintains your natural moisture and elasticity. Tip: Add jasmine oil to in your DIY deep treatment masque or along with other oils for a hot oil treatment.
Fights scalp conditions
Jasmine oil is an antiseptic that purifies the scalp of bacteria and buildup. The natural healing properties found in jasmine oil work to eliminate and reduce the possibility of infections and scalp conditions such as dandruff. Tip: If you are suffering for a dry itchy scalp, try adding a few drops of jasmine oil to your scalp oil or adding it to your pre-poo routine.
Tames frizz
Jasmine oil creates a conducive condition that not only hydrates but seals in moisture to the hair and scalp. The added moisture with tame those frizzes and give life to your curls. Tip: Along with coconut oil, use jasmine oil as a sealant following your favorite leave-in-conditioner or moisturizer.
Softens hair
Curls feeling a bit dry and brittle. Jasmine oil can help. Remember those moisturizing properties mentioned earlier? Yes, the moisturizing properties found in jasmine oil deeply conditions to combat scalp and hair dryness. The added softens will stop your hair from webbing, making it easier for it to detangle.
What it can do for your skin
- Reduces the appearance of scars and stretch marks
- Used to heal dermatitis and eczema
- Treats dry, rough skin
How to make a deep conditioner with jasmine oil
1. Make a mix of 1 part of jasmine oil with three parts of grapeseed oil, olive oil, Argan oil, almond oil or any other carrier oil and take a tiny bit of the same on your palm and run your greased fingers through your wet hair.
2. Comb your hair starting from top and right up to the bottom and leave it as is. This method can be applied every time you wash your hair but be careful about the quantity to be used as too much can make your hair too greasy.
3. Cover head with a plastic cap and leave mixture in for several hours or overnight. Wash hair as you normally would.
An all-natural substance, bamboo extract is derived from the leaves of the bamboo plant. Because of its high concentration in micronutrients, bamboo milk has been featured in tons of commercial beauty products targeted to strengthening hair, skin and nails.
This is what it can do for you naturally curly, coily, and wavy hair.
1. Strengthens weak hair
Bamboo extract contains 70% of silica, a natural substance that promotes the growth of strong and healthy, nails, skin, and hair. It’s known to strengthen the hair shaft that protects and prevents the hair from losing its elasticity and breaking. Because of this, bamboo extract is also used in hair growth supplements and multivitamins to treat thinning hair. Bamboo extract is found in commercial anti-aging beauty products with collagen to firm sagging skin (wrinkles”>.
2. Gently cleanses the scalp
If you feel that your shampoo leaves your hair feeling too clean, dry, and tangled, your shampoo is too harsh for your scalp. Bamboo extract can be found sulfate-free shampoos, conditioners, and co-washes. It won’t leave your hair dry or brittle long after cleansing. It is a light, natural cleaner that washes away all the dirt, excess oil and product build-up without stripping away your hair’s natural oil and moisture.
3. Softens & smoothes frizzy hair
Sometimes with the excess pull and stress we put on our hair, it loses it’s life and becomes weak, limped, and tired. Bamboo milk will give your curls that boost it needs. Bamboo milk has a weightless texture and doesn’t create a sticky film on our hair. Instead, it’s able to saturate our hair and produce soft, and smooth, volumizing curls.
4. Restores lifeless curls
The truth is our hair loves moisture! So when your natural curls feel a bit dry and lifeless, there is a chance that your hair is suffering from lack or hydration. The ingredients found in bamboo milk conditions and provides your hair’s with maximum hydration. Tip: add a deep conditioning treatment that includes bamboo milk to your hair regimen. Use this deep conditioning masque while doing a steam treatment for best results.
These curly hair products contain bamboo milk
- Briogeo Be Gentle, Be Kind Green Tea Shampoo
- SoCozy Boing Curl Conditioner
- Mop Top Leave-it-in Conditioner
- SheaMoisture Yucca & Plantain Anti-Breakage Strengthening Styling Milk
- Dark and Lovely Au Naturale Anti Shrinkage Curl Defining Crème Glaze
The simple fact is that shrinkage is part of the natural hair journey, so you should know how to work with your curls, not against them.
Struggling with natural hair shrinkage? Here are products along with tips and tricks to help you combat that unwanted shrinkage and show off your true natural hair length.
The best products to stretch your curls
This curl definer is infused with active ingredients mango and bamboo milk which are known to moisturize and elongate curls. Dark and Lovely’s Au Naturale Anti Shrinkage Coil Moisturizing Souffle is a must for achieving a defined style without the crunch.
This light cream adds intense shine and definition to your curls. Specifically for stretching curls, this cream will deliver moisture and control unwanted frizz.
If you’re for a gel that doesn’t produce shrinkage for your wash-n-go’s? Aunt Jackie’s Don’t Shrink Flaxseed Gel works well on all curls and coils to give you a defined look without losing your length.
Shrinkage-fighting ingredients
If you don’t want shrinkage, look for products containing these ingredients.
- Flaxseed
- Bamboo Milk
- Shea Butter
- Mango Butter
The best curl stretching techniques
There are several ways you can achieve a stretched look with your curls. Try one of these options to style your hair and to reduce your shrinkage.
Braid-Outs, Twist-Outs, Bantu Knot-Outs
These stretched styles work wonders to stretch your hair, producing beautifully defined curls. Braid-out and twists are simple enough to create for any level of expertise.
Tip: To get the most out of your style, begin pinning them to the opposite side of your head. The hair on the left, you’ll stretch and secure with bobby pins on the right side of your head, and you’ll do the same on the left. This tension helps your curls to retain the length while the hair is stretched, so the coils won’t be able to shrink as easily.
Roller Sets
Want a way to create sleek, soft curls without heat? Try roller sets help to create smooth, silky curls.
Tip: To create a frizz free style, style on damp hair and detangle each section before rolling. For roller sets, it’s best to stay away from heavier products example butters and opt for a foam or mousse such as Shea Moisture’s Coconut Hibiscus Foaming Mousse Be sure to sit underneath a hooded dryer and allow your hair to dry completely before removal.
CurlFormers
These stretching tools will give you the look of juicy stretched curls without damage. CurlFormers are flexible mesh curlers that are great to stretch even tighter coils. With practice and a little bit of patience you too can create bounce full curls.
Tip: Only use CurlFormers on wet and dampened detangled hair! Apply a light moisturizer or alcohol-free mousse to each section before putting your hair through the tool. If you are having trouble, twist the root of each section before hooking. Also check to make sure you don’t use too much hair or you could end up snagging your strands when pulling your hair through the CurlFormers. Let your hair completely dry before removing and you’ll be left with light, bouncy and stretched curls!
Bunning
The easiest and most simplest stretched style, bunning is your friend. The best thing about bunning is that this can be done on both wet and dry hair. If you want the most stretch for your hair, make sure it’s moisturized by using a good leave-in and styling product.
Tip: Pay special attention to your ends and use a dime amount of butter or pomade to keep your edges smooth. With longer hair, begin twisting the loose hair in three to four twists to give you looser curls.
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Have the harsh winter months put wear and tear on your gorgeous hair? These are the 4 signs of healthy hair to help your curls bounce back.
Shrinkage
Your spring factor means your curls have been getting the moisture they need.
Shrinkage tends to be the thorn in many a naturalista’s side. Although it hides our hair’s true length, shrinkage is one of the best indicators of textured hair health. Natural hair that is properly hydrated and moisturized will shrink.
Shrinkage is also a sign of your hair’s elasticity and its resistance to breakage. Also called the “spring factor”, this means your curls’ structure and integrity of your hair are still intact. Ensure your hair is healthy by proper hydration via steaming and deep conditioning and be sure to seal moisture into the hair.
Shine
Shiny hair tends to be low porosity and retains internal hydration better.
Your hair’s natural shine is also another factor of healthy hair. Test yours by taking a closer look on the next wash day. After cleansing and conditioning (and before applying any styling product or oils”>, take a curl or two and pat dry with an old t-shirt”>. Are they dull and drab, or on the shinier side? Shiny hair tends to have low porosity and retains internal hydration better. On the other hand, hair that is dry or damaged will appear dull and flat. Rethink your current regimen and determine if your hair is suffering from product buildup or could use a hot oil treatment. Incorporate ceramide-rich oils in your hair routine that will help boost your shine factor the right way.
Elasticity
Hair that stretches lifelessly or breaks when being tugged on is lacking keratin.
Healthy hair is like a brand new scrunchie; you can stretch it as far as it will go, and it will bounce back into its original form. Hair that is not completely healthy will struggle with the stretch and springback–either stretching lifelessly or breaking. According to this article, “elasticity is one of the primary indicators of the health of your hair. Your hair’s elasticity is responsible for your curls it body, bounce and curl formation and retention.”
Elasticity is related to the integrity of the keratin within the hair. Hair that lacks elasticity is more prone to breakage and has difficulty withstanding manipulation. Generally, hair with high level of elasticity should be able to be gently tugged and spring back into place without breaking.
If you find that your hair is suffering from lack of elasticity, consider treatments that focus on elasticizing the hair via balancing protein and moisture. Try treatments such as ApHogee Keratin 2-Minute Reconstructor, Hydratherma Naturals Amino Plus Protein Deep Conditioning Treatment, and ApHogee Texture Treatment.
Fullness
Determine fullness by evaluation your hair in its completely natural, unaltered state.
Fullness is another inductor of healthy hair. This is certainly the most difficult to measure due to the diversity in each strand’s texture, curl diameter, density, and thickness. The amount of product you use also affects your hair’s illusion of fullness. A heavy-handed application or use of thicker products will add weight and give you the impression that your hair is thinner or finer.
The best way to determine your hair’s fullness is by evaluating it in its natural state (when it’s product-free and hasn’t been manipulated on wash day”>. By seeing your hair in its natural state, you’ll focus on areas that seem thinner, or that have suffered breakage/damage.
What does healthy hair look and feel like to you?
If you are suffering from lack luster hair, try thickening treatments, shampoos, and sprays will only provide a temporary boost to your hair that will go down the drain on your next wash day. Also, consider getting regular trims and shaping that can help your hair appear thicker and fuller.
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photo courtesy of tunart (Getty Images”>
