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I love my protective styles.
Who could blame me? Look at this—I look awesome.
And that’s kind of where I’m going with this.
Look, we know this much to be true: Box braids, wigs, weaves, and crochet braids DO 100% protect our edges, our ends, and promote healthy growth when installed and maintained properly. But that has NEVER been my reason for wearing them.
I like not being beholden to weather patterns when I go out. I like being able to experiment with length and color and texture with no permanent repercussions. I like being able to just flop down on my satin pillowcase after a long day and just go right to sleep, because honestly, by the time I’m finished with putting my hair up for the night, I’m more awake. I love it all! It’s the closest thing we curlies have to a superpower, and it’s awesome! So why is it that the onus is on me to explain why I “can’t just be happy with my natural hair” and why I’d “resort to putting all that PLASTIC in it”?
Gonna pause here for a moment, because I AM happy with my natural hair.
Obviously, right? It hasn’t grown this well for this long because it was making me miserable. But you know what? I’m not ALWAYS happy with how my natural hair looks. I’m not ALWAYS happy with how long it takes me to style. And I’m finally secure enough to say so. Bad hair days HAPPEN.
Sometimes the twistout doesn’t WORK out.
You know what I can be happy with though? OPTIONS. Freedom! If you could bottle the feeling I had when I wore a wig for the first time, meaning I didn’t have to attempt to style my hair and maintain said style for a formal event in some gross muggy weather I was already having to wear layers and a corset in? It would be an illegal substance the next day. It’s THAT good.
So why do we have to be on the defense?
There are a few reasons. I think a big implication is that if you wear protective styles, you don’t have your own hair, and therefore you’re less than, which—obviously—is some ridiculous mess in a number of ways.
No matter how much hair you do or don’t have, it’s nothing to keep you from being beautiful, even if you don’t feel that way 100% of the time.
Secondly, unless someone’s wearing a color that contrasts with their own in a box braid, or similar style? No one has ANY IDEA how much hair we have under our protective styles. Honestly, it takes a special kind of ignorance to pretend that you know what a stranger’s hair is like just because you see them wearing protective styles, and I need that to go ahead and stop.
There’s also the insinuation that comes from all sides: if you’re wearing fake hair, you have a fake personality or you’re trying to be someone you’re not—especially when you’re wearing a non-textured style.
Quick aside here: I’m not going to go into the politics of having to hide afro-textured hair for a racist workplace in this article, though there are more places on the site you can read about it. I’m also not going to cover those of us, my younger self included, that DID turn to protective styles to quite literally cover insecurities about our natural hair.
But I have to ask, how can you be any more YOU than by making a choice that reflects your own aesthetics? If who I am is pastel pink, back-length waves this week, and a Bantu knot-out next week, it doesn’t mean my personality actually shifts. It means I have the kind of personality that values stylistic spontaneity.
So how do we stop seeing protective styles as a second tier option with coincidental perks, and as a style for style’s sake?
I plan to just cop to it. So yeah. I’m fortunate in that my hair grows in fully, if slowly, and there’s nothing making it fall out, so I use protective styles as a way to switch up my look and save time, nothing more. Of all the things I might have to feel guilty about, that’s not one of them.
If people choose to be mad at that, there’s no stopping them, but I will laugh a little.
Why do you wear protective styles, curlies? Actual protection? Fashion? Both? Let me know in the comments!
I don’t have any current plans to loc my hair.
Currently I’m enjoying the versatility of it in its floofy form while I’m growing it out. But my plan has always been to start the loc process once the coils start coming in more silver than coal. Judging by my family, I figure that’ll be in about 30 years, which will put me right at Miss Angela Bassett’s age. Considering her portrayal of Ramonda, Queen Mother of Wakanda in Black Panther, I can’t WAIT.
Black Panther/Marvel Studios
Naturally, the whole movie had me drooling over the architecture, the tech, the… ahem, shirtless fight scenes, and alllllllll the glorious natural hair/lack thereof. But Ramonda’s silvery splendor really struck a chord with me.
I’m trying to avoid spoilers, but this is a pretty mild one… I think.
Because Mommy #2, *cough* that is to say Ramonda, spends most of the movie wearing a Zulu inspired headdress, we don’t actually see her locs until the falling action that precedes the start of the climax. Shout out to Twitter user @diasporicblues for presenting the research I was intending to do for this article for absolutely free, by the way. Much obliged. Without giving too much away, I can say that there’s a moment where she has to run for her life, and shed her more literal crown in order to move quickly and inconspicuously.
As inconspicuous as the beautiful Angela Bassett ever COULD be in any case. I’m an admirer, could you tell?
Fangirling aside, as I said, the first time we see her hair is when she’s on the run, and those locs are just spectacular. They’re like snow on the peak of a majestic mountaintop, which coincidentally is where she’s headed in the film, but let me stop right there.
I got my first gray hair when I was seven as a fluke, and I have two now on opposite sides of my crown that I’m PRAYING merge together into a cool stripe as I age. But my hair goals here are actually more than just cultivating the ‘Creepy-cool witch lady that lives in THAT house’ aesthetic that I want when I’m older. Having tidy locs actually involves a decent amount of privilege—both in access to proper maintenance materials and in the mobility one needs to continue locking new growth. As much as I can, now I’m trying to lay the foundation for that as I’m coming up on my 30s. Right now, I think I have enough product to last me until maaaaaybe my 50s, so there’s still room for expansion and improvement as far as hoarding goes. And I already know I have joint issues in my matrilineal line, so I’m taking preventative measures with exercise and swallowing my weight in collagen every day. But that combination of privileges represents the kind of woman I want to mature into.
Comfortable. Independent. Queenly.
And if I do have kids, I could definitely do worse than a spunky genius and a kind-hearted monarch.
Between Camille Friend (head hairstylist for BP”> and Natascha Ladek’s (wigmaker”> work, I got some serious inspiration. If all goes as projected, Future April is going to look amazing. And if it doesn’t, eh. We’ll cross that bridge when we come to it.
What are your plans for when you go gray, curlies? Let me know, and be sure to stay tuned for our Watch n’ Go coverage of Black Panther next week!
You’ve heard that fortune favors the bold, right?
!Ancient Romans said it, and you know THEY were never wrong…until they were. But this isn’t the History Channel.
OffbeatLook
We are going to be talking about a kind of alien look though— that being super bright two tone hair!
Two tone hair, sometimes called split dyed hair when it’s directly down the middle, is that Monokuma/Harley Quinn/Cruella Deville/Nicki Minaj in part of the Superbass video look, and personally, I’ve always been of two minds about it. Which is fitting, I suppose.
On one hand, it’s SO. CUTE. On the other hand, if I somehow didn’t get everything exactly symmetrical, I think I would ACTUALLY die, probably of hyper-theatric-osis or some such similar syndrome. I realize that in our Austin bubble, the NC editors and I are all a little more sheltered from the general consensus of what ‘weird’ and ‘extra’ and ‘reasonable cost of living’ actually are, but this look is still pretty out there, and you’d want to get it right, right?
Camille Johnson of Offbeat Look is no stranger to styles that really rock the status quo, which is awesome right out of the gate.
Offbeat Looks
She’s taking us through her magnificent neon methods in this video, so watch, learn and if you adjust your screen’s brightness down to accommodate this radioactive look, you’re a wuss, but I don’t blame you.
I kind of love how hard she gets in there, very primal. Very…hands on.
__”Oh, and gloves? Those are for wimps”__
Nice.
I’m still super uncomfortable with the idea of dyeing my hair since that involves lifting the color out of it. Even though I’ve certainly seen many tutorials with how to do it safely and reviews of salons and stylists that have done it right, I’m scared. Two tone hair on me is going to mean neon colored box braids and wigs for me right now, but who knows, maybe one day I can take the bleach plunge. It’s not like I’m really hurting for deep conditioner after all.
The biggest worry, even in Austin, might be workplace issues. Personally, I work as a creative, and I think it’s probably worse off if clients DON’T think I look weird. But of course some of y’all are teachers and secerataries and nurses and judges and such, and you don’t quite have carte blanche as far as color (ba-dum-tssh”>. I feel like that’s were wigs come in. You can certainly grab a blonde one and practice your coloring skills yourself, or check out fun shop pages and find a cute ready-made one! Think of it as your own personal transformation sequence during your off-hours.
So what kind of color combos would y’all want to try with two tone hair? Would you keep it subtle with natural hair colors like black and auburn, or would you go all out with anime-protagonist type shades? Personally I’m thinking more along the lines of pastels…maybe a nice pink and seafoam mix? Just in time for spring!
Let us know how you’d do this ‘do in the comments!
The stars-only premiere of Black Panther went down this week.
I assume my invite was lost in the mail.
But I still got my life with all the actual attendees’ hair and outfits! I ‘Yaaaaassssssss’-ed myself hoarse!
You’ll see why.
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Angela Bassett is my angel, my light, and my backup Mommy in case mine gets called elsewhere. Her full wavy style accented by those earrings was all about being BOLD. I love it. And her. So much. I’m not crying at work, YOU’RE crying at work.
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Speaking of moms, look at Lupita and her own mother! Awwwww! Also, that Fulani inspired ‘do is just everything. Mrs. Nyongo (I should call her Tantie, honestly…”> in her TWA is also showing out! Afro’s aren’t for formal events? SAYS WHO.
No one that matters, that’s for sure.
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Yara Shahidi says her hair feeds off of black excellence! I wonder if that’d have an effect on my own inches…maybe I need to get to more black business owner workshops, or back to Afropunk this summer.
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Janelle kept her coils tucked up for this premiere, but she still looks royal AF amongst her squad! Sidenote, make sure you swipe through, and if anyone can get me in contact with that be-locked gentleman in the white, I’ve got um…a 100% professional interview I’d like to conduct that’s not fueled by objectification and thirst at all. Definitely.
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I’m a Texan coily, so big hair is in my genes times two. Nabiyah’s piled high curls warm my heart like a bonfire, and how appropriate that she’s wearing something that can reflect her and her co-stars’ greatness…literally!
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You’ll have to swipe for it, but Letitia Wright was good enough to give us a quick sweep of the afterparty! We’re so blessed, y’all.
These looks got me like
Y’all know we’ve BEEN excited since the trailers dropped last year, and the NC team is putting the last touches on their outfits so that we can show out at the movie theaters here. Check out Evelyn’s reaction Watch ‘N Go for the proof!
Curlies, did any of the looks here inspire you? Who had your favorite style on the Wakandan red carpet? Let us know!
Have I mentioned that our co-founder Michelle came out with a book?
I’m not in it, but you should buy it anyway. In addition to awesome interviews, curly insights, and hair-healthy recipes you’ll also get your hands on a hard muscled hard photocopy of Mr. Warner King Washington II, fitness expert, coily royalty, and my future uncle once I set him up with Auntie J.
Speaking it into existence…
But Warner didn’t answer my emails just to be shamelessly thirsted over by proxy, he’s got some great tips for us regarding, hair, health, and happiness; and it was my absolute pleasure to get a mini-consultation from him in interview form.
Here’s what he had to say!
Okay, so you’re a trainer. Do we really need to be that concerned about sweat and afro-textured hair mingling on a regular basis?
King: Concerned in the fact that it’s important to know your hair and skin behaviors and sensitivities. I was lost regarding hair care until I met Anthony Dickey and his team at Hair Rules in NYC. I used to apply all sorts of products to my hair, wondering why my scalp was dry. I would feel embarrassed, alone or otherwise, when I would get up from a flat bench and see flakes on the head-rest.
I was using well known commercial dandruff products that were supposed to prevent flakes on my head and shoulders. I would use the gym’s shampoo and conditioner after every workout, which typically meant once a day, unknowingly performing a serious disservice to my scalp—damaging my skin with alcohol-based chemical washes.
It wasn’t until a friend insisted I visit Dickey that I found my way. Learning that I shouldn’t use products for “all hair types” without carefully reading the labels because usually the manufacturer wasn’t particularly focused on my skin and hair texture.
Follow up to that, how do you take care of yours? Any products you’d like to shout out?
King: Dickey and crew began my hair care education the moment I walked in and my hair has only gotten healthier and longer ever since. I swear by Hair Rules products, the Cleansing Cream Moisturizing No Suds Shampoo, Quench Ultra Rich Conditioner, Nourishment Leave-In Conditioner are heavily rotated. When I’m styling for a specific occasion, I use Hair Rules Blow It All Out or Kinky Curly Cream. Days in-between I co-wash with Aussie Moist which is readily available at most hair care and big chain pharmacies and is a relatively inexpensive alternative suggested by the Hair Rules crew. As directed, I avoid any shampoo that produces suds and I only shampoo a few times a week max, while conditioning and rinsing daily.
My biggest concern in the gym hasn’t usually been my hairSTYLE, but my hair SIZE. Any advice in particular for those of us that still want to train with longer or more voluminous braids without getting horribly ensnared in the adductor machine?
King: First, you’ll do yourself and your muscles near your ischium a favor by getting off the adductor machine and doing squats, lunges, etc. and varying your planes of motion.
…well dang, okay then.
King: I typically pull my fro back or have it braided for protection when working out. I’ve seen men and women with impressive dreads, fros, etc of various lengths do everything from the same as me to investing in specialized caps, hair ties, etc.
Good to know! Since our interview, I have yet to go to Krav Maga or pole classes with giant crochet braids, but knowing there’s less to worry about is great!
How has your relationship with your body been over your life? Does self-love come after physical goals or before?
King: I was formerly obese. Close to 300lbs and 40% body fat. I exercised and lowered my weight to 150lbs then started bodybuilding which led to me resting around 185lbs ~8% while I modeled. Going from one extreme to the other, and how society responded to a leaner me afterward, has definitely warped my body image and I’m constantly critiquing myself. Especially as I mature, I battle indifference, complacency, and a shift in priorities. Or maybe elevated confidence in myself nullifies overcompensating. I know I presently love myself more than I did years ago. I’d be a great case study for someone. :”>
How about with your hair? Did you ever go close-cropped? If so, what made you decide to grow the ‘fro (which is awesome, by the way”>?
King: My family built itself from less desirable beginnings. Triumph and success are coveted. I recall government cheese in thin cardboard containers and cereal with hydrated powdered milk to attending a private college preparatory boarding school. Along my family’s socio-economic progression, I had many phases of self-exploration. At times losing myself, if I’m honest. I was expected to be “clean-cut” in order to contend with preconceived perceptions. I needed any and every advantage to succeed. Plus I had the dry skin problem. When I came to New York I wanted to set my own rules and show my hairstyle does not diminish my aptitude. My non-conformed hair does not make me uncouth. I wanted to challenge the status quo.
I don’t know much about the demographics of the kinesiology industry, but afro-textured hair has wrongly been made a stumbling block in many professional spheres. Have your coils ever been someone else’s problem in your line of work?
King: Yes. It has. I carry on because the precedent needs to be set. One can be excellent and have a “natural hairstyle”.
I wanted to challenge the status quo.
The yo-yo of interest in training and exercise, in general, is pretty infamous. New Year’s has come and gone, and it may be another year that people slip off the treadmill again…metaphorically. Hopefully. In your experience, what makes people relapse most?
King: Not setting realistic expectations and falsely believing behavior can be permanently changed with the passing of a second.
How do you counter that in your personal life?
King: I set goals as needed. I constantly critique myself. I seek knowledge and feedback. I create or join a community that supports my interests.
I especially like that last part!
Supplements, shakes, and the like have been a personal interest of mine for a while. Do you augment your diet with any in particular? Or do you feel they’re more of an inferior substitute for food-based nutrition?
King: I focus on providing my body with the nourishment it needs from a diet that consists of food of various colors and textures. I leave supplements alone. I tried keeping up with the supplement industry. The more I learn about nutrition and how the body works, the less I’m interested in supplements.
How has clean eating and exercise affected your hair? Pattern change? Growth? Or have you not noticed anything at all? Have any of your curly clients told you they’d seen a change?
King: I am confident my hair is growing long and strong because of my dietary and hair care habits. I focus on behavior and avoid referring to food as bad, good, clean, dirty, etc. There’s a time and place for almost everything. Portions and moderation are important. I receive compliments on my hair regularly. It’s awesome.
Wonder if I gained any inches during the No Sugar Challenge…
Personally, I hate push-ups, but I love swimming. Is there any particular exercise you dislike? What do you substitute it with if so?
King: Our bodies are interesting. They adapt to the stressors that act on them. If you want to build upper body strength stick with pushups. If you want to improve muscular and cardiorespiratory endurance, swimming is great. If your goal is the former, the latter will not ellicit the necessary adaptive response. I value the results of exercise which motivates me to perform the actions necessary. I don’t have any exercises I dislike. I’ll rarely pass on an opportunity to deadlift, however.
I guess I DO want to be able to move more of my own furniture.
Lastly, do you have any playlists or favorite artists to help you pump up or cool down? Enquiring listeners want to know!
King: I have an eclectic playlist that jumps from BONE Thugs-N-Harmony, Florence and The Machine, French Montana, RiRi, to Death Cab for Cutie and Jimmy Eat World to name a few.
Sounds like a great mix!
So curlies, are you planning to take Warner’s advice?
Let us know about your fitness routines in the comments!
Meanwhile, you can follow Warner’s further exploits in exercise at his Instagram, and on Twitter. Bonus, to get a glimpse of his creative side, you can check out his art account! Don’t forget, there’s even more curly goodness in the book itself so be sure to pick up a copy of The Curl Revolution if you haven’t already!
All photographs by Karston Tannis.
I recently spoke to Phylicia Sadsarin, a Denver, CO based beauty and lifestyle content creator at askpRoy.com, an inspirational website that covers an array of beauty and lifestyle related topics with a strong focus in natural hairstyling and care. She has been natural for nine years now and personally, one of my natural hair motivations throughout my own journey. Here she discusses her latest initiative, Self Love Project 2018.
The moment I cut off the relaxed hair from my natural growth, it was like a “f*%k it” moment.
Regardless of what came from it, no matter how my curl pattern looked, didn’t even matter if it was a TWA or longer, I knew in that moment I had to accept me for me. Loving my hair came easy and because of the cut, I was able to see me fully and completely. It is so much bigger than “hair,” however hair was the starting point on my self discovery journey in finding my true and authentic self.
In 2014, I decided to embark on a self love journey.
I started the Self Love Project in February and went 28 days posting positive affirmations, completing self care, posting a self portrait, and complimenting someone.
Toward the end of 2017, I realized I hadn’t continued with the self love project as I had hoped to every year. (Why did I abandon it in the first place?”> Likewise, there were a great deal of people in my life that wanted to make a change, yet didn’t know exactly how to go about doing it whether it was new mamas wanting to reconnect or reaffirm with themselves or friends who wanted to better themselves for the new year.
Since January was right around the corner and is the official month for self love, I hopped on the opportunity to relaunch the project and invited others to join in on the fun and potentially transformative experience.
Yes, every single day I have to pamper myself.
Pampering myself means self care and self care isn’t always a bouquet of roses. Since becoming a mother, simple day to day self care has become a challenge. The truth is I sometimes sacrifice my self care in lieu of doing something else “more important”. The reality is, I am more important than mundane tasks, so I have to make time for myself.
My favorite way to decompress after a long day is definitely taking a long, hot shower alone (I stress alone because my baby is very mobile and will find me wherever I am in the house — new moms know the struggle”>.
I sometimes find it challenging to get my posts together because — as aforementioned — other tasks get in the way. This project has challenged me to focus on “me time” and commit to taking care of myself and doing the things I love (this project being one of them”>. I just take it day by day and give myself grace if I can’t get every aspect of the project completed. The great thing is I’ve made it past the halfway mark without failing – so far, so good!
The greatest reward has been me being able to live my best life while inspiring others to do the same.
You’ve got two pots full of dirt: one you plan to keep for yourself and one you plan to give away. You have one seed. Where do you plant the seed? If you plant the seed in the receiver’s pot, you are left with just dirt. Two things could happen: the person decides that when their plant grows, they will give you seeds in return. This could work, but you would be betting on someone else to give you what you need in order to be fruitful.
The other outcome is the person gives you nothing in return and there you are: just you and your dirt.
Rather, if you plant that seed in your own pot — water it, prune it, and nurture it — once it’s grown and it bears fruit, you can enjoy the fruits of your labor, harvest the seeds, and give those seeds to not just one person, but to many people while still having some left for yourself. The planting process can take place again and you can all grow together.
In this case, your seed is love and the pots represent hearts…
It’s true, you don’t have to love yourself in order to give love, but what are you truly left with if you aren’t giving yourself love first? If you show yourself love first, then you can freely give it to others. You can’t bank on others give you love in return, so you have to give it to yourself first and foremost.
Likewise, when you have enough love built up, you have an excess. Why hoard it? Give it away!
Perhaps when you give it away, the person who bears fruit will share of their seeds with you just as you did with them. Even if they decide not to, you will have more seeds than you can harvest so you’re good either way. The end goal is to be self reliant on happiness and love, yet understand that the more you give the more likely you will receive. This is why it is just as important to give love as it is to receive love.
Want to be part of the Self Love Project 2018?
Follow Phylicia’s self love journey on askpRoy.com , @askpRoy Instagram, and on Facebook, or Twitter. and/or by using the hashtag #askpRoyselfloveproject on Instagram.
If you would like to join, it is very simple: For 31 days, commit to posting a selfie/portrait daily, post one affirmation daily, compliment one person daily, and commit to one act of self care daily. That’s it. We would love to be inspired by your transformation, so if you’re up for it use the hashtag #askpRoyselfloveproject to document your journey.
Up next: How This Influencer is Making an Impact on the Afro-Latina Community
I recently spoke with the brain behind The Curl Talk Project creator, Johanna Yaovi, a French marketing professional currently living in London. Below, get to know Yaovi’s personal inspiration behind the initiative and more. A collection of stories of women from a range of various countries, backgrounds and ethnicities who share the reality of having textured hair in today’s society, the Curl Talk Project is all about representation and showing unconditional love to people who deal with a “condition of beauty: hair” in their everyday lives.
I used to have a curly afro but decided to shave my hair recently.
I now have tiny curls growing out of my head.
Now that I embrace my curls, my hair journey is very fun and simple. I like to try different routines and procedures; I am becoming more curious about the different things that can be done with my hair.
As curly haired women, we are lucky enough to have a very versatile hairtype. It’s important to have fun with it but also be aware of the amount of love and care it needs.
Topics such as representation, diversity, race, and culture have always been very important and interesting to me, but, I didn’t feel like I was doing anything with these passions.
And so, as a curly-hair-obsessed individual, creating something that would link textured hair to these notions was an obvious decision. I tend to think that your interests should lead to somewhere or something concrete, and, if it doesn’t come to you, you need to create it yourself.
The biggest challenge and reward in The Curl Talk Project
The most challenging part was to believe in myself and my ability to create something great. Not knowing how to use a real camera, my insecurity in regards to my written English (as a nonnative English person”> or even my introversion, made me doubt a lot about the possible end result. But as often, these doubts are mostly irrational. The idea is to stop finding excuses and do the work, whatever it takes.
The most positive part? The way the Curl Talk Project has been received. Since its launch, so many women are getting in touch, telling me how important this is for them but also for following generations.
It’s great to see that what you had in mind and what you worked for is reaching the hearts of so many people.
My thoughts on natural hair in the workplace
It really depends of the sector people are working in. Curly haired women working in creative industries might be in a better place than curlies evolving in a very corporate environment.
However, this contrast shows that textured hair isn’t fully assimilated, it’s still not seen as a normal thing everywhere. Even when colleagues have nice things to say about our hair, they will very often highlight how different it is. Not different from theirs, just different. In my opinion, this is where the issue lies.
Being different from each other is unavoidable and it’s what makes our society so rich and multicultural.
But simply being defined ‘different’ by someone who sees him/herself as the norm can be frustrating, as it almost questions our place in society. I believe that the general perception of curly hair needs to change for it to be fully accepted in the workplace.
We still have some work to do on this.
I believe the natural hair community has an immense impact on each of us. It materialises the idea that we shouldn’t limit ourselves to what the mainstream media are showing us. This community is sending a strong message: not seeing ourselves represented doesn’t mean we should let this happen without trying to create and disrupt the beauty industry as it is today.
However, more could be done. Opening a discussion about the curly hair experience is the reason why I created the Curl Talk Project as it’s also important to associate our hair with more than just beauty tips and routines.
My advice for beginner naturals
Take your time and question the decisions you are making in regards to your hair. Are you altering your hair nature because you don’t like it? If so, why don’t you?
Are your decisions taken to please yourself or society?
When we are younger, we tend to convince ourselves that we made a choice but questioning our own mindset enables us to see if it really is the case. I wish someone could have told me that when I was 12 and convinced that straight hair was the only way for me to be beautiful.
Real talk, this No Sugar Challenge is driving me a little bit nuts.
I swear this was an accident.
No seriously, when was the last time you were on your knees ugly-crying in a produce aisle? I honestly hope the answer to that is ‘Oh my GOD, April, NEVER’, for y’all’s sake, but my answer as of writing is “Five days ago”. In my defense, I was hungry, and also HOW do you run out of CILANTRO.
Still though, despite the frustrations, recurring dreams, and the “brown rice noodles” that have WHITE RICE LISTED AS THE SECOND INGREDIENT, I intend to persevere! And there are other ways for me to get my sweet fix, especially in my hair and skin care! There are products loaded with the sugars, juices, and starches that we’re not allowed to consume internally on this challenge, but our curls have no such restrictions!
Go on and give this list a look!
Pretty sweet, right? But what do things on our ‘No’ list actually do for you externally?
Sugar:
As mommy always says, “Sugar is not your friend”. That definitely goes for eating it in excess, but there are actually quite a few ways it helps your hair and skin! For one thing, the same sticky qualities sugary drinks have when you spill can translate into both hold and volume when used in hair products. Similarly, the way wet sugar coats and surrounds everything it lands on means it’s a great help in heat protection! And who can deny the results of a good sugar scrub down when you’re getting all that dry winter skin off in the shower? Exactly.
Honey:
Where do you even begin with honey? It’s a natural antiseptic that can literally last hundreds of years without spoiling, and its humectant properties means that it actively draws moisture into your hair and skin to keep things supple. Throw in its anti-inflammatory and penetrating emollient powers, and you’ve got a bona fide perfect ingredient for all your beauty needs. I’m going to be skipping my me-day masques with honey for the time being (why tempt fate”>, but as long as it’s combined with other less edible ingredients, you’re good to go!
Fruit Juice:
I was actually pretty steamed that we couldn’t have even ‘no sugar added’ fruit juice on this challenge, but let’s face it, the concentration of sugar in all-natural juice is still high, and won’t include those trace things like silica and fiber that you get with the whole fruit. However, because you can’t erase anti-oxidants through pulping, topical applications of fruit juices and extracts can still aid hair growth and skin brightness even if you have to put down the straw for now.
Does that sound good? Of course it does! Head on over to our specially curated Sweet Curl Shop and get your hands on these guilt-free goodies.
And if you’re handling the No Sugar Challenge better than I am, shout out how you’re coping in the comments!
Want to join our No Sugar Challenge? Sign up here (if you dare”>.
Photo courtesy: Simplycyn
There are lots of fun styles worth trying for natural hair. One of the most beloved is the timeless beauty of the afro. While many curlies worry this look might be hard to pull off or damaging to their hair, it is actually pretty easy and, with enough moisture, safe for your kinks and coils. Here are 5 afro tutorials to help you rock your crown boldly.
Curly Afro
For a big, voluminous look sure to make others take notice, this style is a must try. Lots of naturals worry about tangles or knots when trying out an afro look. Find out how to avoid this issue and how to achieve this style with this tutorial.
2. Fluffy and Soft Afro
When you want an afro that plays up the fluffy factor, this is the one to try. This style is perfect for special occasions or simply looking great every day! Best of all, it is really easy to do.
3. Afro Puff
This is definitely a favorite of the top 5 afro hairstyles because it is such a classic look. It is one of the easiest styles to pull off and works well with hair of most lengths. The key is to stretch those curls out to get the puff of your dreams.
4. Defined Afro
With an afro style, some women aren’t fans because they feel they lose definition. The defined afro style solves that problem! This style gives you the volume of an afro but lets you keep your defined curls.
5. Pinned Afro
When you want a look that gives the best of an afro with a more slicked back aspect, this is the look to try. This style is great for date night when you want to play up the fun with a dramatic look.
What’s your favorite afro hairstyle? Let us know in the comments below.
Buildup is something we all deal with at some point in our natural hair journey. Whether it be from too much product or just an accumulation of sweat and dirt from working out, clarifying shampoos are the solution to helping re-balance your scalp and achieving the clean slate your curls truly need to look their best. If you’re more of a DIY naturalista then there’s no need to head to the store for an off-the-shelf solution. You probably already have what you need in your pantry.
When you need a quick fix for your strands, having a few DIY clarifying shampoos ready to go can be a curl saver. Here are some of the easiest recipes for DIY clarifying shampoos you can whip up in a hurry.
Apple Cider Vinegar
This is one of the easiest DIY clarifying shampoos because it uses just one ingredient! Apple cider vinegar naturally deep cleans thanks to its acidic nature. To make this concoction, Naptural85 recommends a mix of three parts apple cider vinegar to one part warm water. Shake vigorously to blend. Apply to the scalp, avoiding the length of your hair as much as possible. Definitely make sure you dilute the vinegar. A lot of curlies will use straight apple cider vinegar, but this can lead to dryness and brittleness, as well as the potential for irritation. The scalp is a delicate area so always dilute strongly acidic components. While apple cider vinegar has been found to be an effective cleanser for the scalp, it does have a drying effect on the strands of the hair so be sure to follow up with a moisturizing conditioner and leave-in.
Baking Soda
This is another great one-ingredient clarifying shampoo for when you want a quick fix for residue and buildup. Baking soda naturally breaks up residue to help your scalp get back in balance. For this shampoo, simply mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with 1 ½ cups of water. Be careful to measure correctly or you will end up with something either too grainy or too watery. It should have a liquid consistency that is easy to spread onto the scalp. Another great thing about baking soda is that you can add it to your existing shampoo for an added boost of intense cleaning. Baking soda has a high pH of 9, which can effectively cleanses the hair but can be harsh. In order to normalize your pH level after using baking soda, follow up with a diluted apple cider vinegar rinse.
Rosemary Rinse
Another great clarifying solution can be found in dried herbs of rosemary. It is naturally detoxing for the scalp without being overly harsh. To create this recipe, simply boil the desired amount of dried rosemary herbs, strain to remove the larger pieces and allow it to cool before applying.
Of course, with any clarifying shampoo, whether at home or a store-bought product, make sure you follow up with a good dose of hydration. You want a clean scalp, but you also want your moisture! Use your typical conditioner after a cleansing shampoo, followed by a leave-in conditioner to get the best results for your curls.
Have you tried any of these diys? Let us know in the comments.
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It’s no surprise that the foods we eat play a big role in the health and appearance of our curls.
And yes, that means even the most time crunched and picky curlistas need to suck it up, step up to the plate, and eat their veggies in order to have their hair live its best life…unless of course they’ve got access to power juice recipies and a good sturdy juicer. How else can you get the benefits your hair needs without disrupting your diet or schedule? With DIY juices, it’s just a blend and slurp away from the comforts of your own kitchen! And we’ve got two great power juices for hair health that will ensure you get the nutrients you need for gorgeous, healthy strands on deck just for you!
One word of caution before we start, curlies—it’s important to note that these juices should not be the only source of nutrition in your diet.
In fact, Philip Kingsley’s salons, following the teachings of the man who coined the phrase “bad hair day” reports, “Your hair cells, as well as the cells throughout your body, need a balance of proteins, complex carbohydrates, iron, vitamins and minerals to function at their best.” Take that advice to heart, and don’t guilt yourself about the need to feed, post-holiday meal bloating notwithstanding.
Sailing the High C’s
This power juice is a real life saver as far as your curls are concerned since it’s packed with nutrients your hair needs to stay healthy that not all of your other food has. We’re getting down to garden basics with nothing but cucumber and carrot. Cucumbers are loaded with things like potassium, silica, sulfur, and manganese that can help keep hair strong, promote growth, and give your skin a boost, too! Carrots are packed with beta-carotene which is what the body needs to create and absorb vitamin A. With enough vitamin A, you get a healthy scalp and strong hair!To make this concoction, you can either make equal parts carrot to cucumber in the juicer or you can tailor it to taste. If you like it milder and sweeter, use more cucumber than carrot. If you prefer to be more bold and rich, add more carrot! What’s up, curl doc…
Gaia’s Greens
There is no denying that leafy greens have tons of health and beauty benefits. Now you can make your salad even more portable! Kale and spinach are the two leading sources of necessary nutrients in the green food group. Rich in vitamins A, B, C, E, and K, as well as iron and calcium, these leafy powerhouses can give your hair a boost by helping to regulate the production of oils, encourage scalp circulation, and help with hair loss. They’re also both loaded with iron which has a host of health benefits including improving circulation for youthful skin, and encouraging hair growth by ensuring the scalp has plenty of blood flow. To make this drink, you can choose to use either spinach or kale as your base or use a mix of both to get the full benefits. Simply juice about a half a cup of spinach, 3-4 leaves of kale, and a half an apple for added sweetness without too many added calories. If you like it a little sweeter, feel free to add more apple to the mix. They keep the doctors away after all.
Are you new to juicing?
These power juice recipies might seem a little daunting at first glance, but you really can’t beat some good vegetable based hydration. Plus, as you get more advanced with your home blending, you can feel free to throw in variants on these more basic formulas with additions like mint leaves, ginger, garlic, and pineapple! Just be sure to check your fruit based ingredients for any added sugar if you’re getting them packaged or frozen. You want your juice to be good AND good for you after all!
Do you have any favorite juice recipies, curlies? Share your wisdom in the comments! And be sure to stay tuned as our editors take on a sugarless challenge in the new year to test its effects on their own curls and coils!
We all have our Holy Grails as Curlies, Coilies, and Wavies.
But if you’re an animal lover, you care about the way your hair care products are made and tested, and shop cruelty free exclusively! Fortunately, that doesn’t have to mean too much extra effort scouring stores on your part. Try these top products on for size!
SheaMoisture’s Mongongo & Hemp Seed Oils High Porosity Moisture-Seal Shampoo
This product is great for hair that is low moisture or especially dry and damaged. It is ultra-moisturizing and won’t strip your strands. Best of all, it seals your cuticles to lock moisture in even after you’ve rinsed!
DevaCurl No-Poo Decadence Zero Lather Ultra Moisturizing Milk Cleanser
When your curls need cleansing with an added moisture element, this is a great cruelty-free option for curls. It gently cleanses while offering the hydration found in nutrients like quinoa protein, grapeseed oil, and more for hair that’s soft and silky, no bubbles needed!
Dominican Magic Nourishing Shampoo
For a cruelty-free clean your curls will love, this shampoo is all magic, and no tricks! It’s made with powerful avocado oil to strengthen while cleansing and every curly’s favorite succulent, aloe vera to add moisture and shine to strands.
Oyin Handmade Honey Hemp Conditioner
Handmade with natural elements known to restore moisture to hair, including that most elusive ingredient—love, this silky product offers the humectant properties of honey, hemp oil, aloe vera gel, and more. And not only can you use this as a traditional rinse-out conditioner, it also pulls double-duty as a leave in!
Curl Junkie Curl Rehab Moisturizing Hair Treatment – Strawberry Ice Cream
This fun and fruity hair conditioner smells like a summery strawberry treat, and that’s not even the best thing about it! Curl Junkie’s rehabilitative treatment is packed with heavy moisturizing properties like healing oils and butters, but unlike its namesake, it manages not to be too sticky or too heavy.
Mixed Chicks Deep Conditioner
A popular choice for curlies, this product is great for adding moisture, but it also tackles other tough issues like post-wash tangles, and unusual dullness. Shine and softness in one? We’re down.
DevaCurl Heaven in Hair Intense Moisture Treatment
With extracts of rosemary and cocoa butter, this moisturizer is great for adding hydration to hair in a cruelty-free way that includes real stimulating herbal power. Best of all, it’s truly a product for ALL curl types! Not that that means you have to share or anything…
As I Am Coil Defining Jelly
When you want a cruelty-free option perfect for working with coils, this is the one! It has a gentle formula that won’t leave flakes—perfectly formulated for Wash n’ Gos, and guaranteed to put your coils in high-definition!
Camille Rose Naturals Almond Jai Twisting Butter
This is a great thick product for twisting styles, packed with natural moisturizers like pumpkin and sesame seed extracts, green tea extracts, and more! When you need more hold than a leave in, but less hold than a gel, this deliciously nutty butter is your happy medium!
Jane Carter Solution Nourish & Shine
Do you want a finishing product with shine AND substance? Jane Carter has you covered with natural ingredients like shea butter, mango butter, and grapefruit. It isn’t greasy and or heavy so your curls won’t be weighed down and it is silicone free so you get shine without buildup!
When it comes to hair care you can feel good about, cruelty free products are the best way to go. And NaturallyCurly has an entire curated shop for those of you considering your vegan and fur-buddy loving friends and family this holiday season…hint hint!
Curlies have a love/hate relationship with heat, and no one knows that better than us.
On one hand, excessive heat styling can damage curl patterns and break your hair off entirely! On the other hand, heated deep conditioning can open your hair to absorbing nutrients, emollients, and other growth and elasticity enhancing properties.
And much like there are rules to using heated styling tools properly, there are rules to using heated deep conditioning as well! Even if curly hair care is more art than science, you can have too little or too much of a good thing. Rookie mistakes can pile up in the long run even with something as innocuous-seeming as conditioning! The most common mistakes include:
Not wetting your hair
Even the lowest porosity curls need moisture! But somehow, heated deep conditioning treatments became expected to be sufficient in providing this moisture themselves. Your hair does still need that H2O, both to help with pre-application slip, and to allow the humectants in your deep conditioner to actually have water to draw from and seal in. Your hair doesn’t need to be freshly dripping, but if you’re not sprayed down at the very least, you’re doing your ‘do a disservice!
Getting the timing wrong
Curly hair care takes a while. It’s just the nature of the game! But it is very much possible to compromise your curls both by rushing and by taking your time. Rushing a heated deep conditioning will get your curls only slightly conditioned, and you run the risk of styling, braiding, and wearing your hair as if it’s been protected when it very much hasn’t been. On the other side of the coin, you don’t exactly want to fall asleep under your dryer. Heat damage can still occur if you’re binge-watching your favorite show and your conditioner’s been on for four straight hours. Make sure you’re watching the clock!
Get your hair, not your scalp.
While there are some products that work double time, especially in the oils family like Darshana, most deep conditioners aren’t meant to be used on skin. Don’t forget—that’s exactly what your scalp is! Your scalp needs to stay healthy and clog-free in order to grow healthy hair, and loading it down with unnecessary conditioning products may throw off the balance of your hair’s natural oils. Rule of thumb is to apply a conditioner about one finger’s width away from your scalp, and move from that point to the ends of your hair, not the other way around. You can always moisturize the skin directly when you’re farther along in your wash day.
Keep the heat LOW!
Think that the dryer hood/bonnet, shower cap, and deep conditioner layered over your curls means you could…or SHOULD pump up the heat? Think again, curlfriend. Imagine it like this—if you put a gloved hand in a pot of boiling water for a minute, will you be less burned than if you touched the hot stove for a second? The answer is no (trust us”>, so keep the deep heat on the low!
Deep conditioning is our friend, curlies, but now that you know what NOT to do, you and your hair will be better prepared! Settle in with your deep conditioner of choice, and get things heated up the healthy way.
Who has terrible nail polish upkeep and wears twist outs on a near constant basis?
This gyal.
They’re cute, they’re easy, they’re fun, and I don’t have to do anything more than detangle and twist to get them right, now that I have the BEST HAIR MILKS EVER in my product arsenal. But although my products have varied over the years, to be honest, I don’t experiment very much with different hairstyles. It’s largely because I don’t ummmmmmm… DO drying my hair with a blow dryer anymore.
I think the last time I tried a blowout on a lark, despite my hair feeling GREAT post wash, I ended up with an unsustainable poof, and some unfortunate dryness. But once I got my hands on the Lottabody Texturizing Setting Lotion, I was ready to try the dryer again.
Intangibles
Their Instagram is fiiiiiiiiiirrrrrrrrrrrreeeeeeeeee. I need every company, regardless of industry, to see how EASY it is to get people excited by showcasing diversity even in just a FEW aspects, in this case, skin tone and hair type. And anything that inspires the cute reposts that their products do, has to get extra points there.
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Packaging
The first time I grabbed a bottle of this from NC’s “Try me” shelf, it spilled all over my bedroom because the flip cap had opened in my bag. I will say right off the bat, the way you’re meant to use this product is fairly incompatible with the bottle it comes in—in fact, I’d rather have this as a spray. We’re dealing with straight up liquid here, not a cream or lotion-y texture, and as clumsy as I am, this packaging is too conducive to user-error, to say nothing of making sure it got on my hair evenly. But since I’ve got fairly absorbent hair, and lots of it, erring on the side of saturation was a risk I went ahead and took.
Usage
You know I didn’t go into using heat on my hair without some extra prep considering everything I’ve learned. I spritzed up with my spray bottle, moisturized with my, and you’re gonna get really sick of hearing about this product with me, Avocado Hair Milk, and followed up on heat protection with some L’anza Keratin Healing Treatment. Once the preliminaries were done, I finger-combed the Lottabody lotion through and rolled up with my Bouncy Curls Rollers.
Once I was all set, I got under the HairFlair Hood and settled in, but since natural hair care takes a while, I did end up sleeping with my set in to get started the next day. No reason to waste a perfectly good look on just nighttime chores, right?
End Results
Y’all. This stuff delivered. I was promised shine, I got it. I was promised flake-free combability, I got it. I was promised hold, and to my GREAT surprise…I got it!
I was promised shine, I got it. I was promised flake-free combability, I got it. I was promised hold, and to my GREAT surprise…I got it!
I also transported myself back to 2007, and mirror selfies, but the mirror’s clean and that counts for something. Right?
I put this through the patented April ‘Running errands all day’ test, and although the weather was nice and crisp for once, nothing moved. The shine and hold stayed all day, and bear in mind, not only was I sweating and carrying things, I was trying on shirts. This lotion has some staying power…even if I didn’t quite get my ends rolled properly.
Final Verdict
I’m a big big BIG packaging nerd, and the counterintuitive bottling on this really threw me! However. Not only does this stuff not come at a super-premium price, it actually works, so I’m willing to be a little more forgiving and decant what I have into a dedicated spray bottle as needed. That’s definitely the difference between an A+ and an A- though, so I’d encourage the brand to reconsider!
I’m spending the rest of today shaking my heat-stretched curls around, but I’m never too busy for feedback!
Has anyone out there used this to different results? Let us know in the comments, and if you get any good pictures out of your experiments, don’t dare be too afraid to tag @naturallycurly and let us know!
It’s spook season, curlies!
iStock/4×6/Maxiphoto
And unless I’m reading the calendar wrong (stranger things have happened”> it’s high time you got in gear if you’re not already set for Halloween! Don’t stress though, we’ve got you. The Coconut Restore styling and finishing products can help get you to the next level of transformation quickly, healthfully, and conveniently–no flat iron Here are some low-prep, high-impact looks you can do to keep in costume dress code as you’re out and about with your ghoulfriends this All Hallows Eve.
If you’re a Type 2, try:
Horse
iStock/Kondakov
Ignore the neigh-sayers, you don’t HAVE to go halves on a classic two-person costume if you don’t want to! Try this on for size, check out our sweet Coco-Faux Hawk tutorial, for type 3s, and modify it for your looser waves by using just the ultra-smoothing Curl Control Leave-in Conditioner and a good brush to sleek your hair into the banana clips. If you want extra flair, grab hold of a ponytail extension that matches from any beauty store and clip it to the nape of your neck. Actually grab two–nothing completes the look like a good swishy tail! Experience says you actually can use it to shoo flies whether you’re romping about gathering candy or cocktails!
Snag an oh-so-in harness from Amazon or Claire’s to be your bridle, and saddle up for a great night!
Greaser Gal
iStock/Sanjeri
One of the easiest and quickest costumes there is as long as you have a leather jacket, white tee, and jeans! But that’s no excuse to get sloppy—if you’ve ever watched ‘Grease’, or met a Rockabilly type in person, one thing they capital D DO NOT mess with is that perfectly crisp coif. To help you get that sweet slick pompadour, reach for the Styling and Setting Gelee, use a light touch for the bulk of your hair before setting over a roller (or an old-fashioned Coke can”>, and go a little heavier on the sides to really slick it up. Once you’ve got everything in place, and protected from any overly drying elements, keep it there with your favorite spray, and a good switchblade comb if you have one on hand. Which you should.
Protip: If you don’t feel like getting those sharp ’50s brows with a tweezer, but still want to show your dedication to the holiday, primer, foundation, and a darker eye pencil than you’d normally use can all help with minimal effort! You’ll be Pink Lady approved in no time.
Our Type 3s can take a look at:
Mermaid
iStock/SerrNovik
What do we know for sure about mermaids/Mami Watas/sirens for certain? They’ve all got some sweet hair. It doesn’t matter if it’s long or short, that seaweed and hapless sailor diet is WORKING. Want to get that same shine on dry land for your costume though? Rub some of the Whipped Coconut Oil through your hair to really pump up that wet look before you find a nice starfish clip or some pearl pins to throw into your beach curls. You’ll find the beeswax in the mixture keeps things on your hair where they’re needed, rather than rolling down your face as you swim the night away.
You should still have time to get some of those uber fashionable scale leggings shipped, or barring that, get your Netflix binge on while you make a scale pattern on some bottoms you already have! Just imagine drawing the letter U over and over again, and you’ll be done in no time! And as an easy curl-friendly icebreaker? Tell everyone that your hair type is…3 SEA.
Lion
iStock/Paul Daniel Florea
Big hair, don’t care? Let everyone see and hear you roar with an all tawny ensemble, a good set of filed ‘claws’ and some ears! It’s just as easy as your standard kitty costume, but you get extra edge, courtesy of the king of the jungle. Sure it’s boy lions that have manes mostly, but if anyone gives you lip, make like Scar and toss them off of something. And to make sure you don’t dry out those locks with your hair blown out to the heavens, palm a bit of the Curl Control Leave In Conditioner through your strands to make sure your mane is maintained. This is going to give you the hydration you don’t want to lose, and keep away the frizz you never wanted to gain!
Type 4s can go “4”…
Now this is where me and my fellow coilies tend to falter–how can we pull a costume-worthy transformation out of our ‘fros when we don’t feel like putting them under wigs, straightening them out, or being relegated to ’70s icons only?
I say…don’t! Why feel pressured to change what doesn’t need changing? Of course Halloween is about switching up your look to avoid being spirited away…so maybe think about:
Vampire
iStock/izusek
This is the one time of year that the ‘Every foundation makes me look ashy’ issue works in our favor! Put the Fenty aside for one night, and powder up like one of the undead, making sure to get under your eyes with dark shadow! You’ll want to pull out the stops with your accessories: being alive for centuries means vampires accrue some serious wealth! Get that same impeccable aristocratic luxury in your coils with the Whipped Coconut Oil! And since you just want to look ashy without actually being ashy–rub a little of the whipped goodness on any exposed skin before going over it with your kiss-of-death compact powder! You’ll go “batty” for the way it glows you up from strands to soles.
Decora Style:
iStock/Davor Lavincic
Any fashion geeks in the house? You might be familiar with the Japanese sub-cultural street style called Decora that helps you practice non-discrimination against your many many many hair accessories by having you basically wear every single one you have at once. This cutesy, bubblegum-on-acid look will let you take all your pastels, neons, stickers, and your inner child turned up to 11 as you quite literally brighten everyone’s night!
If you want to look even more like a hi-def cartoon character, try a braid out or Bantu knot out with a little of the Styling and Setting Gelee mixed into your normal hair moisturizer beforehand! Not does this gel give a lot of payoff for a small amount, it also provides the moisturization and protection of the coconut oil it contains! That means there’ll be a lot less shed after you remove the pounds of barrettes and cute clips from your ‘do when you’re done.
Feeling inspired yet?
Curlies, you know we want to see pics! Make sure to tag @naturallycurly and @coconutrestore if you got your nightlife with any of these ideas! This Halloween, never forget to do you…BOO.
This article is sponsored by Coconut Restore.
The answer is in the science!
Natural, textured, and curly hair care product descriptions tend to employ generalized language to imply beneficial results. Across the board, these products do exactly as they say: Moisture boosting botanicals will nourish your hair, causing a silky smooth finish and shine! Even though this common promise is plastered onto a large percentage of the products in your curly cabinet, how can you know which of them is a true moisturizer, hydration treatment, or both? It really it a matter of science and understanding what to look.
In this article, we will explore the key differences between hydrating products and moisturizing products so that you can make more informed product purchasing decisions for your crown.
Moisture: It is exactly how it sounds.
Moisturizers are formulated to smooth your hair cuticle to achieve a softer texture. Moisturizers achieve this by forming a barrier on the hair fiber. This barrier is made up of emollients, or hydrophobic oils that act as anti-humectants or sealers. The beauty of moisturizers are that they work overtime to attract water to your hair. Moisturizers that I recommend for dry curls can be found in stores and online:
- Aunt Jackie’s Soft All Over Multi-Purpose Oil (it smells so good!”>
- Bee Mine Luscious Balanced Cream Moisturizer – Coconut Cream
- Alikay Naturals Essential 17 Hair Growth Oil
Hydration: It too is exactly how it sounds.
Hydrating formulations are designed to increase the moisture content in hair strands. This is achieved through the use of humectants, the ingredients that withdraw moisture from the air to retain it for your hair. You will know them by their most common presentations: oil and grease. Among the more well-known humectants in the product ingredients listings is glycerin, a powerful hydrator that pulls water into the deepest layers of hair and skin.
I know… glycerin is not necessarily the hero for all us curlies, but it is in highly effective products on the market and I want to ensure you know that it will be everpresent.
But if you are not a fan of glycerin, I recommend these hydrating products for your curls that a glycerin-free:
- Camille Rose Naturals Coconut Water Style Setter
- Mielle Organics Babassu Oil & Mint Deep Conditioner
- Creme of Nature Straight from Eden Natural Oil-Infused Hydrating Conditioner
NOTE: As with any new product or ingredient, you absolutely must conduct a pre-application allergy test!
BONUS VIDEO FOR YOU:
This video was created by natural hair care tips educator Protective Princess! She is amazing, so follow her YouTube page for more informative videos like the one she created.
Do you know the difference between the hydrating and moisturizing products in your Holy Grail regimen?
Tell me what works for you in the comments section below!
As ever, stay curly!
You know what’s great? Staying inside. Even when I’m outside, I do my best to stay inside.
It’s me and my parasol against the world.
However…I do like doing dramatic, weird stuff with my makeup.
And I can’t bother anyone with my fledgling brush skills if I’m just cooped up in my room all the time. So when word came that NaturallyCurly was coming to Afropunk 2017, my reaction was a mixture of excited screaming and nervous screaming. Excited because I didn’t know what to expect. Nervous because…I didn’t know what to expect!
I’m the kind of chick that practically has to charter a bus for every trip in order to have everything I need, but surprises are unavoidable until the day we step out of this life. And at Afropunk, there were surprises aplenty!
Here’s what caught me off guard—for better and for worse!
Inspiration overload
Who comes to a gathering of artists and creatives to NOT be in awe of what people can do with when thoughts spring forth into the world? “Not I,” said the April.
But what I didn’t expect was that I’d be more drawn to the subversively soft looks on display! I was super feeling the hyper feminine motifs like flowers, velvet, and pearls combined with Afro-centrism, far out body adornment, and…well…some sexiness. A lot of sexiness actually. I wasn’t ready.
These four fine femmes really got me feeling the ways traditionally lady-like staples could be incorporated into looks that I could really feel on myself! Check out their Afropunk presence, and their IG presences!
Pink velvet = feminine. Gold reproductive organs = informed.
(Also, she’s holding the sticker of a pretty great band…”>
Pearl cabochons though? HOW HAVE I NEVER DONE THIS? I see the light!
Antique florals…but in a headwrap! Way to make it your own!
That’s some good stuff right there, now I have to get myself to a Jo’Anns Fabrics…
The babies!
I’m not a parent. I love kids, but I’m good with just being a weird Auntie. I could never inflict living with me on an innocent child, that’s just cruel. I say all that to drive home the point that I’m sure there’s a perspective I don’t quite have on why anyone would bring their child to Afropunk, but it was a shock nonetheless. I’m not saying there was any illegal activity going on, but I will say that I needed to stretch both hands in front of my face to get out of the haze over the Gold Stage safely, okay. Artists and performers were there in all their uncensored glory, both lyrical and physical, the crowds were huge and tightly packed, the food was priced befitting a seller’s market, and um…there were bag size restrictions and a strict no re-entry policy. Yet I saw strollers, little bitty afro-puffed youths, and even a tiny pale bean in one of those Bjorn carriers with giant noise cancellers on its still soft wee head. Definitely didn’t see them coming, but hey, it’s not up to me to judge. Their family’s there for them, and they’re our future! I just hope the future has a cure for early-onset tinnitus…
Cultural Appropriation
Don’t start, it’s actually not even what you think.
I gotta take a hard stance on something here—cultural appropriation of other cultures perpetrated by black people, especially of other POC is straight up odious. It’s no easy thing to stop the prejudices we hold towards each other, and it’s going to be a lot of large and small acts over time to get us all out from under the systems we have to fight against. But that’s no call to just do as you please with others’ regalia. When I see a gathering of black people celebrating our rich culture, what we’re doing today and what we’ll be doing in the future, our art, our activism, et cetera? I expect that ish to just be OUR culture. Seeing a black man in a Plains style war bonnet replica made me cringe hard enough to leave bruises, and there’s good reason. When we get up for festivals it’s about black excellence. Black creativity. Not theft. Not style plagiarism. Not appropriation. And if that gentleman happens to be reading—dude…c’mon now. Course correct, please.
Find this dude and take a good hard look at yourself.
Disclaimer, of course black Native Americans exist. Interracial mingling is a thing. A great thing when there’s love and respect there. But considering the strict circumstances under which these headdresses are bestowed, do y’all really think someone was wearing it with the appropriate reverence in a crowd of sweaty hundreds to see Solange?
Yeah, me either. Don’t do that mess.
The Punk to Soul Ratio
I’ve read the think pieces. Afropunk isn’t punk rock anymore, it’s lost its way, etc. And I got it before? But being there really drove home the point. I WAS pleasantly surprised by the skating and hardcore act I saw at the Pink Stage (was too busy with waiting in line to eat, eating, being trapped, and accidentally napping against a fence to visit properly”>, as well as the great looks I saw bleeding into the Red and Gold areas. But I still really, REALLY didn’t expect the differences to be so…much. I kinda figured that maybe more punks weren’t weird in the ‘acceptable way’ so they weren’t making all the HuffPo slideshows with the brighter, cooler, more art-museum afro-fashion. And to be 100% real, there isn’t a punk dress code by definition. It’s just that when you see sequined jumpsuits or kaftans made out of leather strips, you have a fairly good idea of which stages those folks are gonna gravitate towards, and it’s not the one where all the kids are moshing it out.
As someone that was and still is into subcultures that aren’t mainstream, I don’t buy the whole ‘To be black IS to be punk’ line one bit. It’s not to say that to be black in many places doesn’t include an amount of scorn and other-ation from the mild to the deadly. But if you look me in the face and say that a dude in combat boots, black grease paint, and repurposed bike chains doesn’t get the double-take at MINIMUM from the mainstream black community of all origins…you’re lying. So while we’re in this hypothetical world, at least point me in the direction of that dude to make up for the deceit, he sounds great and we should hang out.
Bonus: Packrat Payoffs!
“Luck favors the prepared”
It’s a statement I live and breathe by! I don’t do improvising very well, and as such, as I’ve said, I tend to take a lot of extra stuff with me. I’m actually proud of myself however—I kept everything down to 2 carryons, laptop included, and one suitcase for the weekend. Still though, I was the only one of the NaturallyCurly crew to have to check a bag. Welp.
This time though? It paid off! Did my curlfriends need some glitter? Check with the sparkles and spirit gum. Some blister bandages? Yo. Extra belt? I had it! As for myself, jamming my fan and parasol into my teensy backpack proved, as always, to be indispensable outdoors.
Did I use most of my non-TSA approved beauty products, both soaps, and so on? …no. But did many of the seemingly superfluous things I had come in handy? They sure did! Besides, I need to work my upper body anyway. Heave-ho!
So what did I get out of all of this?
A lot of good stuff actually. I won’t lie, there were times I got pretty fussy because ‘Waaah, my feet hurt, waaaah, there’s too many people and I have to potty, waaaaah, I can’t hold a third hollowed out fruit full of fruit juice in it because I only have two hands’, and so forth. Festivals aren’t for the weak! I did skim the lineup, but I know if I had checked everyone out properly and was looking forward to some acts in particular, I’d have probably gotten through a little better. As it was, I kind of approached this like going to a mall that was supporting black creatives that just happened to have musical acts present. But seeing the outfits, hearing Little Simz for the first time, eating the best street corn I’ve ever had after a lifetime of living in TEXAS—all that was time well spent. As for my body, well. Maybe it’s time for me to review another bath bomb…
What did you think, curlies? Did I pass by any of you there? You know who to say hey to next year now, but go ahead and tell us how you rocked out!
High school is a transition period for most of us.
Not just for your hair either.
Generally, classes get more challenging, social interactions are more self-directed, puberty does its… various horrifying painful things, and so on. All the preparations you’ve been making to keep moving up in class start to share focus with a real ramping up in preparations to be an independent adult.
And nothing says “being an adult” like fussing over money!
Good kitty.
Yeah, ideally you want to make sure you know how to keep as much as possible on hand in case of emergency. Whether you have a job, an allowance, several scholarships that you’re applying for, or all three, you’ll still want to cut corners wherever you can in case of things like FAFSA clerical errors or a surprise networking gala. Yes, really.
So as you’re learning to manage money and the rest of your life for the rest of your life, what are a few essentials you need to make sure you have? Start with:
Bobby Pin Boxes
First off, maybe get one with a lid…
We all lose our pins and scrunchies. I as a fully grown adult have bought extra packs, only to do a quarterly deep clean and find all the extras I was missing. Sometimes even whole, unopened packs of both. It’s um…kind of embarrassing. I’m sure I had a good reason for keeping some in my formal shoes, but for the life of me I don’t remember it. In any case, you’ll want to get a hold of multiple little jars or boxes to put your most easily lost accessories in every room that you can. Keep a box in the bedroom by your nightstand or mirror, put one in your backpack for PE, and stash another in a bathroom drawer if you don’t have the counter space. The important thing here is that you keep the box in the same place every time and that that place is right next to where you take your pins off and put them back on again. Keep putting them away as you go, and make your collection rounds regularly if you tend to take your hair down right when you flop on the couch. It’s well worth the money you’ll save buying them up and the time you’ll save hunting them down.!
A Metal Water Bottle
Hair. Needs. Hydration. That means inside AND out. If you aren’t keeping up with your water intake, you’re missing out on staying healthy, your skin will suffer, and hey you know what your scalp is? Skin. No, technically not ALL of your problems can be solved with upping your water consumption (sometimes you need tea”>, but unless you’re doing some idiot young person silly YouTube chug challenge, it never hurts. But it doesn’t have to hurt you financially. Take the time to find a bottle with a wide mouth for easy filling and adding ice. And rather than get one with a rubber spill-proof lining or leaky sports top, opt for one that has a screw top that goes into the bottle rather than outside. It’ll be one less thing to have to remove, sanitize, and replace if you get a bit forgetful and things get stale in there. Happens to all of us. You can find these guys for a decent price in the ‘impulse buy’ section of any Ross or Ross type store, but if your school has a clear-containers only policy, get a good hard plastic that doesn’t “squish” when you squeeze it. The books you’ll have right next to it aren’t cheap, and they aren’t light either…I found out the hard way.
A Mini Blender
Fancy glass not included…or necessary.
Drinking your fruits and veggies is a great way to get your nutrients in FAST. Compare trying to eat a salad during passing period to taking a quick swig of some homemade goodness on your way across school. Depending on where you live in proximity to a grocery store, making your own blends is actually incredibly quick, cheap, and easy. Handful of leafy greens + cup of pre-cut frozen fruit = nourishment that will keep your hair, skin, nails, and expanding brain in their best working condition for less cash than ready-made bottles and a lot less sugar. You can get a decent one for $20 these days, but for those on an even tighter budget, I can guarantee your local second hand shops will have at least one at all times from people that give their fad diets up.
Protips on these guys: Clean out the rubber liner every time. Your pulp is going to get under there and start decomposing/drying out in layers, and you’ll ruin the spill-proofness with all the buildup.
Mini Spatulas
“Part of being an adult is “We got food at the house”-ing yourself” – Jackie Brown
It’s funny because it’s true. And it’s the same for hair products. Once you find your holy grail stuff, it’s going to be worth its weight in gold—almost literally when you consider the cost of growth products to get back any hair you might have lost with some missteps on your journey. So you need to get in those jars and get every last drop before you move on to the next. The same silicone spatulas that get all the cake batter out of the bowl come in easily purchased mini-sizes that can get into every corner of your jar and make sure you’re getting your money’s worth. To be fair, the few cents you save each time might not seem like much, but even pennies add up. It’s a solid investment, and from what I’ve found, they’re often sold in packs of two…which means one extra one for getting the very last of the peanut butter (or your smoothies”>!
So. Ready to start saving?
It’s never too early to learn the best habits you can for holding on to some of your income. Go forth, curl, and conquer with Auntie April’s blessing.
Got any extra hair-care saving hacks to pass down to the youth of today? You know where the comment section is—and contributing is 100% free!
