Search Results: Lauren Murray
In a heartfelt moment, Serena Williams, tennis powerhouse and legend and fellow member of the #blackgirlmagic tribe, penned an open letter to her mother on Reddit,following the recent birth of her daughter Alexis Olympia. In her words, she highlighted the strength of her mother as a woman, her sincerest gratitude towards her mother’s presence in her life, and the role she played in helping Serena during some of her roughest times.
Thank you for being the role model I needed to endure all the hardships that I now regard as a challenges–ones that I enjoy. I hope to teach my baby Alexis Olympia the same, and have the same fortitude you have had.” – Serena Williams
You could feel the love and admiration Serena holds towards her mom radiating off of the page, and through her words the legacy she knows she will provide for her own daughter as she grows into motherhood.
As this beautiful ode to motherhood made its rounds in our office, amidst tons of “Let me go call my mom” statements, some of our staff decided to share their thoughts on Serena’s letter. Muva Williams, you put us all in our feelings, and through your deeply personal expression of gratitude, we are sharing a few of our responses to your letter and to the matriarchs of our families.
Alexandra, Content Editor
The sincerity, authenticity & genuine love in this letter is so amazing to witness! I could relate on many levels of growing up thin & tall, looking different from my peers. My mom has always been my #1 fan and biggest supporter, I’m beyond grateful for her unconditional love. Also, it’s such a great reminder to celebrate your body and the power you hold!
Fave line:
“I am proud we were able to show them what some women look like. We don’t all look the same. We are curvy, strong, muscular, tall, small, just to name a few, and all the same: we are women and proud!”
Cristina, Managing Editor
I read this letter and thought… I need to call my mom! She’s the strongest woman in the world, and she’s the reason I’m so strong-willed – she would call it “matigas ang ulo,” which means hard-headed in Filipino. In addition to our stubbornness, we share a birthday (watch out, double Scorpios”>, our compassion for others, and our muscular calves. We both danced ballet into our 20s and we have these big calves that never fit into boots and pants. To me they’re a symbol of strength, and my mom.
Kate, Mother of Two Amazing Daughters & NaturallyCurly’s CEO
As a mother of two young women, one who barely made it to birth let alone adulthood, there is no greater gift than seeing your daughters grow to be a strong, amazing, resilient and articulate females owning all they are, no matter how different, leading the way for others behind them to also stand strong for who they are and what they believe in, leaving the world a better place each day they wake up in it. That letter from Serena is a both a testament to how intelligent and grounded Serena is as well as something that her mother and her own daughter will cherish forever.
Lauren, Content Editor
If I continue to evolve into even half of the woman my mother is, then I know I will have a resiliency like none other, the biggest heart full of love for myself, others, and the world, and a hustle that cannot be matched. Reading this letter made me realize how much I take my mom for granted and don’t tell her I love her enough, but mom if you’re reading this, you’re my favorite girl and I love you deeply. Shout out to all the mamas!
Gerilyn, Senior Copywriter
Conversations about life, the future, family and creating traditions have permeated many conversations I’ve had in recent days. That’s why this love letter, written by Serena Williams to her mother, resonates so deeply with me in this moment. It’s not just that she loves her mother, or that because she is now a mother… it is because she is proud to be her child. She thanks her mother for instilling pride in her mind, body, and soul; just like my mother did when the weight of childhood bullies seemed unshakable. I am 100% here for the diamond-bright love Serena has for her mother and feel inspired to call my mom right now (after the lump in my throat swells down”>.
Devri, Content Editor
*wipes tears away*
So what did you think of Serena’s letter to her mom?
Share your response with us on Facebook, and tell your mom you love her!
As a frequent “non-shampooer” and self admittedly leery of all things DevaCurl (I’ll hit on this later”>, I was definitely apprehensive to try out their Low-Poo Original Shampoo and One Condition Conditioner Line, despite it having won the Naturally Curly Editor’s Choice award in 2016. Over the years, I have created a pretty solid regimen for my hair with a once every two months usage of shampoo and my preferred cleansing agent consisting of Apple Cider Vinegar and a little alkaline water. To remove product buildup, I tend to gravitate towards some no name brand shampoo or a good cleansing conditioner, since I am not shampooing my hair that often.
My apprehension with DevaCurl products stemmed from the facts that they were:
- A little pricey
- Products I thought were geared more towards looser curl patterns
While my thoughts were a bit unfounded, I was definitely biased based on some internal preconceived notions I had. But y’all, after trying this line out, DevaCurl won me over. My hair was thoroughly cleansed by the shampoo without being stripped of moisture, and the conditioner was super hydrating and had good slip without feeling like I needed to use the entire bottle to saturate my curls and get out tangles.
Pre-Use
While my hair is very dense and thick, my individual strands are fine and I often experience single strand knots and tangles when my curls are clumped together. From doing a little bit of research online and reading the product bottle, I found that DevaCurl Low Poo works wonders for “fine hair” and is a preferred gentle cleanser for those that need to remove buildup without using a harsh cleanser.
During Use
I began my usage by saturating my hair with water and proceeding with a 2 tablespoons amount in my palms. LOL this is the funny part y’all, because I was definitely throwing DevaCurl the side-eye as to why my shampoo wasn’t lathering. But it’s a mild lather product! My bad! After smushing it around my hair for a while and letting it sit for about a minute or two, I rinsed it out, and then did the typical shampoo steps (lather, rinse, repeat”>. After two applications, I then went on to the conditioner and used about a tablespoon in each section of my hair. I created 4 sections. I then detangled with the Curlpro Wet Brush, and that’s all she wrote!
Conclusion
Overall, I would give this a 9/10, because who digs perfection? LOL seriously though, for everything it is supposed to do, DevaCurl does it. Mind you, when I used this product I had just gotten done taking down a protective style that left my edges full of buildup, so a deep cleansing was in order. DevaCurl Low-Poo got your girl together, and set up a solid and CLEAN foundation for my conditioner afterwards. I will for sure be using this again.
Peep that after hair though! Glistening curls for days!
Have you tried DevaCurl Low-Poo Shampoo?
Let me know your thoughts in the comments, and shop my new Holy Grail item in SHOPNaturallyCurly!
Known for being a natural detoxing agent, Bentonite Clay is commonly used a skincare product, perfect for those days when you need a serious deep cleanse. In the next installment of the “We Tried It:” series, I gathered some of our Naturally Curly Editors to try out various Bentonite Clay mud masks. Let’s see what they thought!
Alex
I used The Shea Moisture Beauty Hack Bentonite Clay Mask which requires a mixture of water and a pure oil, so I added a couple drops of Josie Maran Argan Oil.
I applied my clay mask to a clean face, and removed my makeup beforehand. When I applied the clay mask it immediately starting drying and after 10 minutes my face began to feel very tight. Afterward, my skin was slightly red but was extremely soft and smooth and I didn’t need to moisturize afterwards. Before I knew it my skin was glowing!
Would you implement this mask into a skincare routine?
This was my first time using a clay mask and I was very impressed with the benefits it offers such as glowing skin, unclogged pores and healing powers to lighten up dark spots. I would definitely implement a claymask in my skin routine once a week.
Nikki
I used the SheaMoisture Sensitive Skin Mud Mask and put it on top of my makeup.
I thought it would do the double duty of removing my makeup and doing what a mask does. The mask said it was for sensitive skin, but it really burned and irritated my skin so I did not keep it on long. It didn’t get a chance to dry. After I rinsed it off, my skin felt kinda dry and I did need to moisturize afterwards, but unfortunately I did not have a moisturizer on hand. I used an argan oil that was in my purse. It says it was for hands, but hey I was desperate.
Would you implement this mask into a skincare routine?
Nope. Not at all. I really like sheet masks.
Cara
I used the Pixi Glow Mud Mask with aloe vera, ginseng and sea salt all up in it. Honorable mentions, it also has hops, rosemary and sage in it. I really do love an herbally product.
I washed my face before applying it, but I still had my eye makeup on. It went on so smoothly. I would say it went on like butter, but then again it wasn’t greasy at all so that’s not really true. It was smooth and homogenous, and very soft. It was very light and never made my skin feel tight. The pores on my nose became so distinct as it was drying, like they were really sucking in all the moisture they could. I knew that it was dry because the color got darker, but not because it felt different on my face. My skin felt soft after I washed the clay off, but it took several minutes to wash it off completely. It didn’t necessarily feel cleaner or exfoliated, but it was nice and fresh. I followed up with toner and night cream (the mask’s instructions were for PM use, so I used it before bed”>.
Would you implement this mask into a skincare routine?
I’ll use this mask maybe once a month now. I like to mix up my masks (face masks and hair deep conditioners alike”> so I’ll rotate it in every now and then. The smell was nice and pleasant, which that more than anything is a deciding factor for me.
Lauren
I used the Alikay Naturals Bentonite Me Baby Clay Mask.
I mixed the clay with a little bit of Apple Cider Vinegar, tea tree oil for extra cleansing, and water so it wouldn’t burn my skin, and I put it on top of my makeup. It starts out in powder form, and then of course when you add liquid, it clumps up. I like to mix mine to be slightly thick and then I apply it to my face with clean fingers. It dried in about 15-20 minutes. When it dried, it became super tight. Like insanely tight! I could literally see all of the pores on me face. Once it was off, my face was super tight, really dry, and about a shade lighter than before I put the mask on. I typically like to follow up with a toner and an oil to moisturize after I use this product. For the toner, I used a Rose Water & Lime face spray that I made at home, and for the moisturizer I used my fave oil, the Josie Maran Argan Oil Collection.
Would you implement this mask into a skincare routine?
I currently have this mask in my routine, and use it 2x a month. I plan on switching to a different clay product though, since it was the subject of a controversial warning by the FDA last year for containing high levels of lead. I don’t see it available in stores anymore.
April
I used Peachy Keen’s Bonne Terre Bentonite Clay mixed with bottled water and Egyptian Magic.
Because mud and clay masks tend to leave me a little dry, I thought the mixture of bee products and oils in Egyptian magic helped make this mask extra moisturizing, and it payed off! I removed my makeup before putting the mask on—and in fact, on my normal spa days, I’d exfoliate gently to make sure none of the mask is being wasted on dead skin. Thinking of it now, that might contribute to the masks being super drying on me…but where there’s a humectant, there’s a way!
It was a REALLY hot day when we got together for this, and the mask was nice and cooling when I started spackling it on. Because I layed it on extra thick, it didn’t get all the way dry on the outside, however, once I felt it tightening, I knew it was time to rinse off. You don’t want your skin being pulled too much after all. Post rinse, my skin felt great! I was very dewy, and my face was refreshed. There’s always room for more moisture though, so despite mixing my go-to moisturizer into the mask, I applied a thin layer of the Albolene I used to remove my makeup to keep everything sealed in. I definitely used less of it than I usually would for any moisturizer after just a facewash though.
Would you implement this mask into a skincare routine?
I could see myself doing this any time I needed extra pampering! My skincare “routine” is actually anything but, and past washing and SPF, I tend to just go with what I feel like. But given the results, this might need to be a weekly thing. It’s definitely making the ‘no makeup challenge’ we have going on much easier to bear.
Leslie
I used the Formula 10.0.6 “Pores be pure” skin-clarifying mud mask with strawberry + yarrow.
Typically, I like to remove my makeup before putting on any masks and then let the mask remove what ever makeup I may have missed. I don’t know that this mask would have removed all of my makeup. It was a lot more gently than I anticipated, so if you have sensitive skin, this would be something to try. The mask was different than those i’ve used before. It dried extremely quickly and kind of blended with my skin, so it was difficult trying to figure out what spots I missed and what spots had enough on. Once it was all dry (which took literal seconds”> it wasn’t hard or difficult to move my face like some masks. The smell was also amazing, and my face felt extremely soft and clean without feeling stripped.
I naturally have dry skin but I didn’t feel the need to moisturize afterward I removed the mask. The only product I used after was my Glossier sunscreen.
Would you implement this mask into a skincare routine?
My skin care routine is already a process, so i’d probably add something like this once every 2 weeks. I’d like to know what everyone else thinks of this product!
Gerilyn
I used the SheaMoisture African Black Soap Clarifying Mud Mask, and put the mask on top of my makeup-free, moisturized face.
My skin felt as if it could not soak up enough of the moisture the mud mask had, so much in fact that the mask seemed to not dry within the 10 minutes it was on. I fanned my face to help the process. Once the mask was dry, it did not feel like a clay mask that hardens and cracks if you burst into laughter all of a sudden. This may have been because I put it on top of my moisturizer. Although I wanted to immediately reach for my face lotion, I waited to see how the mask truly felt. After about 2 minutes of dry time, I ran my fingers over my face. I noticed that my skin felt soft to the touch and was visibly refreshed. Moisturizing is my life! This mud mask was not as drying as others I have used in the past, but I still needed to layer my face in moisture. Although it is for the body, I used a penny-size (or less, depending on the weather”> of SheaMoisture African Black Soap Soothing Body Lotion on my face after rinsing the mud mask off.
Would you implement this mask into a skincare routine?
Although it did not dry very fast, this is the first mud mask I tried and liked. I would probably use it on longer than usual self-care or spa days, but not on a regular basis. For the sake of time, I will stick to my regular gel peel-off masks.
Cristina
I used the PUR Dirty Girl Detoxifying Mudd Masque. I like this masque because I don’t have to mix it with water or ACV, which I find can be messy and tedious to clean up.
This time I put it on top of makeup, but most of the time I apply it on a freshly washed face. Once it was dry my face felt ight, and then tighter! I found it hard to smile or move my face once it dried. It took a lot of scrubbing with a towel to get the mask off, so immediately afterward my face was very red and felt a bit irritated from the scrubbing. Once that settled down, my skin and pores felt tight – in a good way! I didn’t moisturize afterwards, but maybe I should have…
Would you implement this mask into a skincare routine?
I do use this masque whenever I remember to, which is probably once every couple of months. Using it today reminded me how good it makes my skin feel and that I should be doing it more often. I do use a daily cleanser that has mud in it (Osea Cleansing Mudd“>, so I use mud twice a day.
Would you try a clay mud mask?
Show us your masks on Style Nook and follow us on Instagram for more NC editor inspo!
As America continues to be shocked by the actions of its people, it’s hard to not become upset in the face of those who are asking our communities to just “Be Kind” as if this act alone would solve all of our racial transgressions. I think not. The United States was not built on fairness or kindness, so what’s the point now?
I found myself searching for an emotional release due to the current calamities in our country, but I didn’t know exactly what kind of space or mental mindset I needed to be in for this release to happen. What I really needed was familial melanated strength, and that’s what I found at AfroPunk 2017.
No words can describe the magic over Brooklyn.
As I write this, to my left I have a group of people playing double dutch, laughing and bonding, embracing each other like long lost cousins from a distant land having seen each other for the first time in 400+ years. To my right, I have a woman draped in Fulani braids, her pink crop top billowing around her, carrying her waves of sage smoke higher into the air as she twirls to the music, cleansing the area of any ill will. Ahead of me, I have a woman climbing a tree, desperate to get a better look at her favorite artist, but also a visual reference of the elevation of people of color rising and reaching higher ground and higher thinking. And not soon after I leave this space, I am welcomed into a dance circle of Afro Drum beats, voguing, and so much #BlackBoyJoy and #BlackGirlMagic that my cheeks hurt from smiling so hard.
My brown body has always been a source of unnecessary and unnegated conflict as my very existence is determined to be a threat to all those who do not look like me. But here I feel safe. I am allowed to take up the space that is rightfully mine, without feeling like I have to shrink into my being or sit by meekly.
Black & Brown people hold so much weight, and we are valuable and important, and necessary to the existence of this Earth.
We are revolutionary.
Performances from SZA put me all in my feelings thinking of failed loves that had no stake in my life, but I’m cuter and finer now so it’s all good. Mother Solange consistently took me to the brink of life altering consciousness, as her artistic performances always do. And Princess Nokia yall! Her energy was unmatched, her faith was astounding, and her self-confidence RADIATED across the stage. She has a newfound fan in me. But while I didn’t get around to see all of my favorites, watching the crowd was the highlight of my experience and the fashion was something out of the dopest cultural fairytale.
Starting in 2005, this was a festival created to celebrate Black people whom were left out of the Punk scenes in America. Afro Punk has since morphed into not just Punk culture, but an entire experience for all of the many facets of Black people. It’s a celebration, and trust, I left it all out there in Commodore Barry Park with not one ounce of regret or expectation to fulfill. A true sensory experience, Afro Punk reaffirmed to me the power that lies in progressive community, what it means to be celebrated, and how impactful people of color are when we stand together as one, under the strength of our ancestors and the Earth, all while praising our existence.
Now if you’ll excuse me, I must get back to whipping my teal colored locs to this Kaytranada song enveloping me right now. I am living my best BLACK life.
What did you think about AfroPunk 2017?
Let us know below, and for more on my Afro Punk journey, check out @WhatsUpLauren_on ig!
You hear a lot of “what did you put in your hair?” and “I love your shoes!” around the NaturallyCurly offices. Personally, I am always finding inspiration in what my colleagues are wearing to the office and on their Instagrams, so we’re starting a new series to share what we’re loving with the rest of our community – beyond our hair!
Who doesn’t love a good off the shoulder maxi dress that is breathable, stylish, a solid color, and has pockets?! Talk about jack of all trades! This dress was the perfect outfit for my day, because it allowed me transition effortlessly from day to night! Without changing up my accessories, I was still able to be fully me in my comfort chic aesthetic, while also being on trend with my tassel earrings.
For this particular hairstyle, I chose to rock an updo, because this Texas heat ain’t no joke! Plus, whenever I’m serving a little shoulder action, I like to highlight the neck. It’s my best feature in my opinion haha. To achieve this style, I slicked my hair upwards using Eco Styler Gel, and then used about 50 million bobby pins to hold it in place (I’m still pulling out bobby pins”>.
The dress and earrings I am wearing are from Haute Dimensions, a black-owned and woman-owned boutique in Houston, TX, and my shoes are from Target, which are on sale right now!
As an evolved shopper over the years, my shopping habits have definitely changed than from when I was younger. If there is a clearance rack, I’m there. Lol Trust, I’m headed straight to the back of the store for the deals, and then making my way to the front to check out the new styles. I find that fashion evolves so much and history repeats itself, so I also look at my grandmother’s and mother’s closet for inspiration. Thrifting has also singlehandedly saved my wardrobe as well! I created a Pinterest board based on my personal aesthetic and how I would like to dress, and then from there I look for those items and similar silhouettes when I’m out thrifting. Always a win.
When I’m out shopping, the first thing I gravitate towards is the pants rack. I LOVE PANTS! Lol I’m such a jeans lady also, so that’s what I’m looking at. To wear this dress was HUGE! I went with this choice because 1. It has pockets, and who doesn’t dig functionality? 2. It’s black, which we know I dig far too much, and 3. It gave me the most comfort, while also being super stylish with the off the shoulder detail. Winning all the way around.
I also tend to be very casual in my dress attire, and will wear minimal accessories. I loved that this outfit allowed me to be a bit dressier in my style evolution, and also the color from the earrings plays along nicely with my skin-tone. I don’t mind dressing up, but I definitely prefer to go for a laid-back casual look that easily be switched from day to night with the addition of a bold lip or a bootie.
How do you dress for your style?
I’d love to know.
Follow Lauren on Instagram for more style inspiration @whatsuplauren_
Photos by Cassandra J. Klepac
Alright y’all. You now have permission to keep your coffee addiction alive, because it can actually help your hair!! Caffeine is a stimulant that increases blood flow to the scalp and aids in the regeneration of hair follicles can help hair grow even longer. Often consumed orally, through coffees, teas, and in pill form, we know caffeine can help wake us up from our drowsy state, increase our mood, and rev us up for the day. But the same benefits can occur to our scalp through the use of coffee as a moisturizer. Caffeine, a byproduct of coffee, works to regenerate the scalp tissue by increasing blood flow and allowing more nutrients to be released into the hair follicles. Coffee grounds can also be used as a scalp exfoliator to help remove dead skin cells and buildup. Just be sure to wash your hair thoroughly, after doing this method. Check out your ingredients list on your products though and see which ones contain caffeine. You might be pleasantly surprised!
1. Shea Moisture Tahitian Noni & Monoi Hair & Scalp Weekly Therapy
Encouraging hair growth and scalp stimulation, this weekly treatment by Shea Moisture contains caffeine as a direct ingredient in its product list. This wonder product also works to smooth strands, repair damage, and discourage frizz in the hair strands by coating your curls, waves, and coils with a myriad of herbs, keratin, and peptides.
2. Curl Junkie Coffee – Coco Curl Creme
Listing caffeine as one of the first ingredients and even in its name, this product works to moisture the strands while also being able to be used as a styling product. Check this one out for a little bit of a hold, but not necessarily wanting a gel.
3. Carol’s Daughter Lisa’s Hair Elixir 7-in-1 Complete Conditioner
This product literally is magic in a bottle, as it works to condition and moisturizes your hair 7 different ways!!!
4. Shea Moisture Dragon’s Blood & Coffee Cherry Volume & Lifting Spray
Alright Wavies, If you are looking for a boost in your hair volume, try out this line! It is known for lifting the roots and adding height to hair.
5. naturally smitten Hydrating Hair Custard
My favorite product on this list hands down due to the texture and consistency! Whenever I am looking for a bomb twist out, this hair custard is the way to go.
So how do you coffee?
What do you think about the use of caffeine as a scalp stimulant and moisturizer?
We want to hear your thoughts! Share your feedback with us on Facebook!
You hear a lot of “what did you put in your hair?” and “I love your shoes!” around the NaturallyCurly offices. Personally, I am always finding inspiration in what my colleagues are wearing to the office and on their Instagrams, so we’re starting a new series to share what we’re loving with the rest of our community – beyond our hair!
As someone who is a lover of all things neutral, I feel like my best self in a crisp white shirt and a solid pair of mom jeans. When mom jeans aren’t available, I lean to my second fave, the denim skirt. I found this skirt at Goodwill in Houston, and snatched it up immediately! As a plus size woman, sometimes it can be hard to find good denim that skims over your curves while also making you look fashion forward. And don’t get me started on wearing white! This is a new development for me. As I continue on in my style evolution, I find comfort in choosing styles and shapes that complement my body, make me feel powerful, and also have a minimal palette because then I know it will match everything. This is the perfect office outfit for me because it was quick to throw on, it features a mule (which I LOVE”>, and my glasses are the only color pop I need. :”>
My shirt is from Old Navy. My skirt is thrifted. My glasses are from Zenni Optical, and my shoes are from Ross. My earrings are really special to me because they are by a black-owned and woman owned-business in Houston called Tribe & Sol.
By far my signature color is dark black, light black, soft black, etc. Ha! It’s honestly just black. Colorful clothing really overwhelms me, and it would take forever for me to find something to wear, so I chose to go the “uniform” route and focus on only buying black clothing. When I am not in black, I tend to wear a lot of whites, denim, taupe, and grays. It makes the getting dressed process really easy in the morning when I am pressed for time.
Right now, my closet is going through a transition, as I am dressing for stylish comfort. I don’t own many dresses, but I have pants for days. I would consider myself to be a maximalist, as once I find something that works, I am rocking with it and never letting go and will buy several pieces that resemble each other. I also really enjoy thrifted fashion, because it allows me to take modern styles and try to find the thrift version of it, leaving me to become more creative in my clothing options.
In 5ish words, my style would be described as “That Cool Aunt, Easy, No-Frill, Streamlined, & Efficient”.
With my style being so streamlined right now, I do actually find a lot of inspiration and have been looking at ideas from plus size style blogger Gabi Fresh. Ya’ll, I am obsessed with her!! She dresses so perfectly for her body type, knows how to kill every outfit in various colors, and just designed her own line of plus size clothing with fellow blogger Nicolete Mason, called Premme! Hey Gabi & Nicolete, if you have any extra clothes, holla at ya girl!
How do you dress for your style?
I’d love to know.
Follow Lauren on Instagram for more style inspiration @whatsuplauren_
Photos by Cassandra J. Klepac
Melissa Chanel, curl influencer, blogger, and Cantu’s National Beauty Ambassador recently sat down with me for a few of her favorite tips on how to make your back to school curl care easier. Cantu is one of our featured brands at Texture on the Runway 2017, powered by Sally Beauty. You can find Cantu’s products at Sally Beauty, our exclusive retailer sponsor for Texture on the Runway. As we gear up for back to school season, Melissa and I discussed dads and ponytails, college and hair stylists, how to style your hair for the school year, and a peek into what you can carry in your bag to preserve your style!
Hi, Everyone! I am Melissa Chanel, Cantu’s National Beauty Ambassador and I’ve been natural for 9 years! I started my natural hair journey when I was in school. As I was attending college, my stylist at the time was like “Hey Melissa, I can get your hair straight without putting a relaxer in it” and that’s how it started. And after graduating college, I didn’t have this stylist to go to anymore, because she was in a different state. So, then it was like ok, let’s see how my natural hair pattern is. Cantu was the first product I used because it was in my local store. Ever since then, I never looked back. I started a blog sharing tips and tricks with my followers about natural hair, and I’ve done everything from cutting it off, to coloring it, to letting it grow back, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
L: So recently, Cantu has come out with a line of products for the whole family?
M: Yes, we want everyone to know that Cantu is for the whole family. We have a kid’s collection, we have women’s, and we have a new men’s collection launching. We try to be a one stop shop for the mom who is looking for something for her, her husband, and her child.
As we prepare for back to school season, her top tips included detangling, moisturizing, protecting your strands, and reviving your hair.
1. Detangling
Detangling the hair and using a curl cream on the strands in order to make the styling process a tad bit easier was Melissa’s first tip. For dads who are possibly styling their child’s hair, Melissa offers these words of wisdom:
“A detangler is going to save your life! Detangling [before washing will make wash-day] 100% easier. Cantu has an amazing Care For Kids Conditioning Detangler. It detangles hair and helps with making and it actually won a NaturallyCurly award in 2015. I know some adults prefer the kid one to the adult one, so detangle hair before you wash it. This will help the wash day be smoother.”
2. Moisturize
Moisturizing the strands to ensure healthy hair is all the ways at the top of our curl list. Melissa’s take on moisturizing curly hair involves utilizing the Care For Kids Curl Cream as your styler.
“Get a good curl cream. Ponytails will be the easiest style you can do or two pigtails. Use the curling cream after you condition as it helps define and defeats the frizz. So, the curl cream will be your next best friend. Use it after the detangler, define the curls, and help hair get into a ponytail or 2 pigtails. For little boys, try the Care For Kids Styling Custard, because you want a product with a little bit of hold. I would use a detangler (if necessary”>, a curl cream, and then the styling custard.”
3. Protect
Once we have our style set, we have to know how to protect it at night. I am a huge fan of the satin pillow case myself, as my satin bonnet falls off consistently. Melissa suggests to “use a satin pillowcase or a satin bonnet, and also have a water bottle with just water. The next morning, mist [your child’s] curls to rejuvenate and revitalize and bring their hair back to life.”
4. Revive
Lastly, after a rough day at school, not to mention recess, your child’s hair is sure to sweat out! Melissa and I discussed her preferred methods of style revival and how she keeps her curls looking fresh. One of her favorite product lines features Apple Cider Vinegar, and it specifically works to provide relief at your roots and control oils. “Cantu has a line of products that are about refreshing your style. The refresh collection consists of a Root Rinse, a Root Release, and a Dry Co-Wash, with this line being perfect for college students that are protective styling. Our hair produces so much oil, so revival is important to keep hair full and shiny.”
For children, she recommends sticking with the kid’s based line and then transitioning to adult products once they hit the age of 13.
Her last words of advice for parents of curly kids, and curly women and men in college:
M: “When I first started [working in the hair industry], I would tell young people that when you find something that works, stick to it. You don’t have to be a huge product hoarder that tries 50 million products. If you find something that works, use it. Also, get trims regularly. Don’t be afraid to cut your hair. Healthy hair is good hair, so you want to make sure you’re trimming, deep conditioning and if you find a product that works, stick with it.”
One thing to keep in your backpack is the Curl Come Back Spray, as it revives hairstyles that may have fallen throughout the day. I, personally, am a fan of carrying around a spray bottle of water and hair milk whenever I am worried about my style falling. “This spray redefines, moisturizes, and restores the curls.”
Thank you so much to Melissa for speaking with me, and I am looking forward to seeing Cantu Beauty at Texture on the Runway 2017!
For more from Melissa, you can follow her @melissachanel and at her site melissachanel.com, and for more on Cantu’s new lines look for them at Sally Beauty.
What do you think about these back to school tips? Share your thoughts with us on Facebook!
Sponsored by Cantu.
Pekela Riley won “Hairstylist of the Year” at the Curlbox Awards in Las Vegas, an event that recognizes vanguards within the beauty industry during the Cosmoprof Beauty Trade Show.
Over the past year Pekela has been a key hairstylist for numerous national hair care brand campaigns and activations including Loreal, Mizani, Revlon Creme of Nature, and Curlbox. To date, Pekela’s work has also been featured in numerous popular print and digital magazines including Essence, People, Ebony, Sophisticates Black Hair, Hype Hair, and NaturallyCurly.com. Her salon in Florida is called Salon PK.
Recently, I had the chance to speak with her for an in-depth convo about her presence in the natural hair community and her CurlBox 2017 Stylist of the Year win!
How did you feel when you won the Curlbox “Hairstylist of the Year” Award?
I was really excited! I felt moved and a sense of honor to be recognized in a room with so many other power players and industry leaders pushing the needle of excellence in the beauty industry. It was an amazing assembly of black excellence and #BlackGirlMagic that I was extremely proud to be a part of – the event was all about us! I felt the love, excitement, and honor – especially due to the fact that the award I won was based on votes cast amongst my peers and market base. I didn’t know that I won until I heard my name announced – so of course, you know I was grateful and lit lol!
What does this award mean to you?
It means a lot because I felt like it was given by people who earned the right to validate it because they are engulfed within servicing our community and continuously strive for excellence. Curlbox has that direct communication with the real consumer and woman – who voted for this award. To me, it was the equivalent of a “people’s choice” award.
What things stand out in your career and in this past year that put you in a position to win this award?
I’ve been blessed to work with fabulous companies and people that showcase texture, like Revlon, Creme of Nature, Loreal and Mizani. I’ve also had the pleasure of being highlighted and featured amongst many publications and bloggers, becoming a more valuable thread in the natural hair dialogue.
In addition, I’ve been able to curate a constant stream of accessible imagery from Salon PK because we create it all day. All of which is a testament to hard work and dedication.
What is unique about your skillset as a hairstylist?
The range of my skill set! Whether it’s long hair or short hair – natural, relaxed, or extensions, 2B to 4C, or a variety of cuts and colors across the spectrum, my clients and hair brands I work for feel confident they can achieve an array of imagery options with me as the key stylist.
How do you continue to be a trendsetter within the beauty industry?
I organize my inspirations and make sure I’m naturally inspired to move the needle within my industry. When I truly tap into that natural passion place of styling and beautifying people, I can consistently operate in a zone where I’m inspired and motivated to be at the top of my game, by achieving looks that allow my client to feel and look the way they want, to be at the top of theirs. I also keep in mind that I’m a service provider, so I go above and beyond to humbly operate in a space of service.
Congratulations to you Pekela!!
If you’d like to visit Pekela at her salon, Salon PK is located in Jacksonville, Florida. You can book an appointment by calling 904-636-0787 or emailing CustomerCare@salonpk.com.
To see her styles, follow her @salonpk!
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I am a person of the people. All of my friends know that I will shower them with compliments all day long, and when they thrive, I thrive.I love seeing others put on, and I will rep you all day long… Until it came time to recognize me, and I just couldn’t do it.
It felt almost egotistical in a way to be nice to myself, and I just couldn’t seem to recognize the magic within.I am my own worst critic by far. Over the past 2 years of my life between stressful relationships, career transitions, and overall growing into my womanhood, I began to feel extremely detached from myself and whom I was perceived to be.
1.
When I first started writing for NaturallyCurly, it was because I was deeply inspired by the women whose articles I had read, whom I presumed to have amazing confidence to share their stories. Over time and many many articles later, I learned that real confidence comes from being vulnerable with your being, putting your work and your story out there in hopes that it can heal someone else while also healing yourself, and just living day by day and being your best self.
2.
Y’all, I don’t take selfies for anything. I am always the person behind the lens capturing someone else in their best light. But what if I flipped the role? Should I start saying yes to selfies? Well, I was dared by my NC team to start taking Selfies for Self-Love as a way to
1. Break me out of my selfie shell and
2. Develop a consistent practice of speaking better to Lauren.
To be honest, I was super fretful of this challenge and didn’t know how it would turn out.
3.
I will say these selfies are a collection of bad camera angles, no makeup days, in-the-moment clicks, definitely filters, and taken over a 2-week timeframe because some days you just really don’t feel like being cute for the gram. They are me in my rawest form though, and I feel beautiful in each and every one of them.
4.
During my selfie experience, I really harnessed my power as a Body-Positive warrior and embraced every bit of glitter that makes me me. Some of my selfies are with friends, and some are just my face, but here I am: aware and visible to the world, but also loving myself and embracing my melanin, hair, size, and personality. I might not be the finest or the prettiest (these things are so subjective anyways”>, but I am beautiful in the best of ways, radiating from within, and I will continue to be a champion of all that is self-love and my “Laurenisms.” I invite you to enjoy my naked moments with me and hope you are inspired to embark on your own selfie journey.
5.
I was having a real good eyebrow day here! LOL
6.
I invite all of the NaturallyCurly readers who are feeling some type of way about themselves, to try out selfies for self-love for 5 days. See how it makes you feel afterward. What did you learn? What did you gain?
7.
8. My Favorite Selfie of Them All – Some of the NaturallyCurly Team!!
How do you feel about selfies for self-love? How are you practicing body-positivity?
Over the next few weeks, some of our contributors will be sharing their experiences with the body posi movement. Check out Facebook for their stories, and share yours!
Let’s break the internet with our selfies!
The summer solstice occurred yesterday, which means astrologically the wheel of the year has turned. This portion of the year is significant to honoring the light covering the earth, embracing our inner light, and recognizing the cyclical nature of the seasons and life itself.
2017 is also a one year numerically, meaning it is the beginning of a new cycle, symbolizing starting anew.
I started 2017 in bed, conducting a tarot reading, determined to make 2017 my year of saying yes to relaxation and recognizing my higher self. Last year was a hot mess, but Nah, 2017 would be different. It would be my personal year, my year of honoring my relationship with me, developing my self-care practice, and most importantly loving Lauren in all ways. Elevated in my thoughts of how I envisioned the year to look in front of me, I just knew that every day would be filled with positivity and rejoicing, as I felt closure on the previous cycle of my life, and fully welcomed this new time. How often though do we get a little overconfident about something, and then become completely blindsided when our expectations aren’t met, or we feel disappointed if something doesn’t pan out quite how we planned? Right?! This was the beginning of my 2017. Yes, I accomplished a ton, but home girl’s self-care was lacking majorly.
So, I am taking a pause, and recharging. Earlier in the year, I came up with these Zen Commandments as a way to establish my self-care for 2017, but I have found that I need them now more than ever. I share these with you in hopes that you find some of the light I have found, and that it jump starts your cycle of self-love. We all deserve this, so let’s reclaim our light and rock the remainder of the year.
Detoxification & Letting Go
It’s time to let go. Scream, shout, Dance it out! Do whatever you have to do. Give away those incentive pants. Throw out those expired hair products. Repurpose your vibes, and recognize what it is you want to offer to yourself and to the world. Feel all of your being, and cultivate it.
I enjoy detoxifying through my senses. So, whether that be taking a physical bath and imagining the warm water wrapped around me like a tight hug or doing a juice cleanse while I physically try to imagine the tastes of what I am drinking, detoxification is so necessary for my mental and emotional health. I also practice detoxification on a daily, with trying to reframe my mind during times of high-stress. It’s so easy to go down the rabbit hole of negative self-thoughts when you are having a stressful day. But what if during those times of high-stress, we said something nice to ourselves? Detox your brain and thoughts with a quick “I’m a work in progress, and That’s Ok”, and continue on with your day.
Feel Everything
How has 2017 been for you so far? Have you felt joy, pain, sorrow, happiness, zealousness, anything? Have you allowed yourself to feel at all? Do you have something that you have been meaning to clean house on, but you just can’t seem to bring yourself to follow through with it?
Once we allow ourselves to actually feel then we are becoming whole within our truest selves. One of my favorite blogs, The AstroTwins, discusses the importance of recognizing our shadow selves, honoring our not so lovely traits, and learning to work with them, because after all, it is a huge part of our being. I have learned that I am a huge crier when I am frustrated, angry, and or just burnt out. In the past, I would push these emotions away and not deal with them head-on, because I thought it made me feel weak. By allowing myself to feel though (and several months of therapy and self-care”>, I can now say with confidence that I have been embracing my shadow side about 45% more (still a work in progress y’all”>, and I am honoring ALL of the traits that make me unique.
Recognizing Your Magic
Look. We are all magical in our own way. We all have glitter in our veins, and we are all bright lights who have something to contribute to the world. Your contribution doesn’t have to be small, and it doesn’t have to be large. Your physical presence and your being holding space in the universe is enough a contribution in itself. So, say yes to staying conscious and say yes to being ALIVE. You are killing it every single day, even when you don’t think you are. Your light is worthy, and you are everything you have ever needed. As Shonda Rhimes would say. “Stand in the Sun, and Dance it out!”. Love yourself for making it halfway through 2017, and embrace yourself for moving on to the next half. We got this!
How are you resetting for 2017? What self-care methods are you engaging in?
Share your thoughts with us on Facebook!
For more on my journey, follow me at @whtsuplauren
From spray bottles that add moisture to shower caps to protect against it, there are so many tools a curly needs to stay on top of her hair. When it comes to a curling irons though, knowing how to clean your curling tools is very important. Curling irons can easily pick up dirt from regular handling. They are also notorious for taking on a thick, disgusting coating of buildup from hair products, ranging from hairspray to heat protectant. But have you ever considered cleaning your curling iron? Oftentimes, we forget this task, mainly because we don’t know how. Here are 8 tips though that you can use on to clean your curling iron and keep your curls in check!
1. Turn it off!
There are some that say it is easier to clean a curling iron when it is still a little on the warm side, due to the products being able to melt off. You run the risk of painful burns with this method though. Let’s avoid this altogether, and just turn off our irons when we are cleaning them. Cleaning a cold curling iron with the right tools mentioned above will definitely get the job done without heat thrown in the mix.
2. Never submerge the curling iron in liquid
You could potentially mess up the electrical components by submerging your iron in water or a cleaning solution. It is better to take your paper towel and apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol to the paper towel, and then rub down the entirety of the curling iron, paying special attention to any plates, heating elements, or areas with excessive buildup. Skip the water, and use the following cleanser instead.
3. Use rubbing alcohol
It is common to hear that you can use an all-purpose cleaner, but these can be a little too abrasive for the surface of your curling iron. It is also incredibly hard to get all of the cleaner off and you may end up with it in your hair; and Girl, who wants that to happen? Rubbing alcohol is great solution for cleaning because it evaporates on its own and won’t leave behind a strong smell.
4. If the iron isn’t that dirty…
Stop here. The rubbing alcohol in Step 1 may be enough to properly clean it. If you are working with a lot of product buildup though, it may be best to obtain a commercial cleaning solution from your nearest professional beauty supply store or use tools to remove the buildup.
5. Use a toothbrush and a paper towel
A paper towel will be needed to clean the larger parts such as the handle, but a toothbrush is really useful for getting into the nooks and crannies of your iron. Toothbrushes are also strong enough to remove caked on product without scratching the surface of the iron.
6. Make a baking soda paste
To tackle tough buildup, combine a mixture of baking soda and enough water to create a paste in a small bowl. Using the toothbrush and the mixture, scrub the areas with the most buildup until it comes off.
7. Wipe it down
Next use a wet paper towel with just water to wipe away any rubbing alcohol or baking soda mixture left behind, along with the buildup.
8. Thoroughly dry your curling iron
You never want to use a wet curling iron because it is a serious safety hazard! Always make sure your curling iron is thoroughly dry after a cleaning, before use. I would even go so far as to say, after drying it with a towel, let air dry to give any small water droplets a chance to evaporate.
So the next time you need to clean your curling iron, try out these tips. Cleaning your curling iron can be a breeze; it’s just about knowing the right methods to keep your tools lasting for a long time and your curls looking right!Know of any other ways to clean your curling tools? We want to know!
Share your thoughts with us in the comments, and head on over to the NaturallyCurly Facebook to see what we’re talking about right now.
So long are the days of the thin brow, as Microblading continues to take the beauty industry by full force. The highly sought out sister to cosmetic tattooing, Microblading is a less invasive yet slightly more permanent alternative to achieving fuller and thicker brows. Over a few sessions, brows are shaped, ink is deposited into the skin through tiny scratches, and your brows are at maximum Solange status with minimal effort outside of your appointment for up to 18 months. I had the chance to speak with Maggie, Master Technician & Owner of MPressive Faces in Houston, TX where she shared her story with me on how she became involved in the beauty industry and what sets her salon apart from the competition. MPressive Faces is her beauty baby and specializes in permanent makeup application and 3D Microblading techniques. At MPressive, brows are the focus and Maggie and her team of brow gurus are killing the game.
Tell us a little bit about your background. How did you come up with the idea for MPressive Faces?
“The original plan when I first began Microblading was to just do it for fun and as a hobby. Just something to do in the summer as I am much more known as a Professional Golf Instructor. Once I saw the demand for it, I started to market myself HARD. News stations caught wind of my service and they all jumped to do stories on my service. A little publicity never hurt anyone, right? Which in turn worked out for me as I was booked 2 months out after my first week of working.”
What motivated you to work in the beauty industry, especially with something that is such a new trend?
“I have always wanted to do something in the beauty world. Whether is was a service or a product, I knew I wanted to do something. I’ve always been into cosmetics, beauty, and makeup. At the time, I felt like I wanted to do something that helped women (and men”>. I suffered myself from thin brows. I knew that if this could help me, then I could help a lot of individuals with this service as well.”
Can you microblade your hairline lol?
“No you can not microblade a hairline, however, there are other micropigmentation techniques out there that can give the illusion of a fuller hairline. (Which we do offer”>.”
How long does Microblading last after the session is over?
“Typically about 8-18 months. However, do keep in mind the actual longevity of microblading will be determined by how well the client cares for their brows while they are healing, their skin type, and how active they are. (Sun, sweat, beach etc.”>”
How does a typical Microblading procedure go and how long is one session? How often are touch-ups needed?
“The procedure is usually a 2 hour block time. The first 20-30 minutes is pre-numbing the area, then we spend about 30 minutes getting a precise and accurate measurement of the brows so that they are more sisterly, then the rest of the time is the actual microblading. We do use more numbing during the procedure to make it as comfortable as possible. You also get one free touch up as part of your service because you are expected to lose some pigment during the initial healing phase. But after that, typically an annual touch up is all that’s needed to maintain brows.”
If someone has a low pain tolerance, how can they ease the pain of the procedure?
“We use several numbing agents before and during the procedure so it is virtually painless. Just think, scratches. Haha Yes, we numb you for scratches.”
Has anyone with sensitive skin ever had an allergic reaction to microblading before? What are the risk factors for someone that does have sensitive skin?
“There are not many risk factors associated with Microblading as it’s merely a less invasive form of tattooing. The only allergy issues you may run into is the iodine solution or latex gloves. However, we use another prep solution if the client is allergic and we use non latex gloves.”
So what is the aftercare process like after a session?
“The aftercare process is no different from that of a tattoo. No touching as they are open cuts, no direct water, and ample amount of ointment will suffice for the aftercare.”
Are there any microblading alternatives for a beauty guru on a tight budget?
“At MPressive Faces we do have different Brow Technicians that charge different prices depending on your level of comfort when it comes to experience. We have our Brow Techs and Master Brow Tech. So if you are looking for a technician that charges less, then our Brow Techs would be the go to. However, if that is still out of your budget, then you may want to stick to the pencil or powder.”
I know it has to be pretty impactful to have this procedure done. What has been your most memorable reaction from a client after a session so far?
“I have had all types of clients who have different medical issues that caused them to lose their eyebrows. Some have lost their eyebrows due to cancer and chemotherapy/radiation, alopecia, and trichotillomania (stress disorder where an individual pulls out their own hair”>. Some have not seen there face with brows in years. So to give them back that sense of self and give them brows is very fulfilling and rewarding in itself. There have been moments where tissue has been passed around and hugs that lasted longer than 3 minutes.”
Where do you see beauty trends going in the future?
“I think the beautiful full brow will always be in style. Unlike the super thin 80’s-90’s brow that came and went. A lot of women are paying for it now. These days, as long as you have brows, wifi, and good credit, YOU’RE GOOD!”
Current song you’re vibing to at the moment?
“At this very moment, Focus x H.E.R.”
Favorite beauty habit you have?
“Super quirky, but I don’t think there is a better beauty habit than drinking plenty and I mean PLENTY of water.”
Want to know more about Maggie & MPressive Faces? Check her out @MPressiveFaces & @ShePlaysGolf.
For more interviews like this, sign up for our Naturally Curly newsletter!
From hot comb chats to transitioning stories, talks about hair have and will always be defining moments in the lives of African American women.
Hair Tales: Regina King from MADFREEtv on Vimeo.
Hair Tales: Tasha Smith from MADFREEtv on Vimeo.
Hair Tales: Mara Brock Akil from MADFREEtv on Vimeo.
Have a hair story you remember from your childhood? Let us know in the comments!
Peep the rest of the Hair Tales video from Michaela angela Davis’s channel on MADFREEtv.
Women deserve to be celebrated fearlessly and complimented often, and in a time where loving your fellow woman as a peer and as a completely admirable human being, we are continuing to create positivity around our womanhood. Compliments from other women can be among the most genuine and most memorable experiences in our lives, and then intention behind these compliments make them stick that much more. So hold your girl gang real close, tell them you love them, and share these 20 words of affirmation with your babes to remind them and yourself just how much women matter and just how much the world needs our magic. #NaturallyCurlyCelebratesWomanhood
- “I am proud of you, I value you, I support you and I love you.
- “You have good energy/Your aura is so bright/Your vibe is so dope.
- “I’m glad to have you in my life.”
- “You make me laugh. You are so witty.”
- “You’re such an inspiration.”
- “You make me want to be better at XYZ…”
- “I love your hair. Your curls are so beautiful.”
- “I appreciate your optimism. You have a positive spirit.”
- “You have an unsurmountable work ethic.”
- “You are incredibly wise, and I appreciate your knowledge.”
Photo Courtesy of CreateHer - “You are fearless in your endeavors.”
- “You matter.”
- “Your aesthetic is everything! What a look!”
- “I admire your confidence and body positivity.”
- “I really admire how you stand by your ideals and beliefs.”
- “You are incredibly encouraging.”
- “You are talented, and the world deserves your work.”
- “You’re an amazing mother/partner/friend/lover.”
- “Your skin is perfection!”
- “You are unapologetic in your being and your fierceness is inspiring.”
What are your favorite compliments to hear?
Feet, what do I need you for when I have wings to fly?
It is also ok not to be everyone’s cup of tea, because you are not a woman that only exists for the appeasement of others.
Selva Beat is an environmental lifestyle print and digital magazine based in Austin, Texas with an intention of changing the face of environmentalism through education and the promotion of equal representation simultaneously.
Editor in chief Magdalena Antuna is a creative director and eco-conscious make-up maven who has made it her personal mission to put environmentalism in a framework of creativity that makes being an environmentally woke woman accessible to everyone, regardless of race or background.
“When I was a kid, I did not think I could become an environmentalist because most of the women were not women of color,” says Magdalena, “so it is exciting for me now as a person who is ‘calling the shots’ to be able to make choices, like the models we choose and the people we feature to represent the diversity that I never got to see as a teenager and a young woman.”
So–why palm oil? What’s the problem?
Palm oil is an issue right now for a number of reasons. From deforestation coupled with animal endangerment, land grabs, displacement of indigenous people, pollution from mostly illegal slash and burn clearing of land and the fight for labor rights, the harvesting of palm oil is growing at a rapid rate.
Since it can only be sourced 10 degrees above or below the equator, the stretch of land from which the oil is being extracted is a limited, bio-rich patch. As an incredibly high yielding oil, it can be used in almost anything–additionally, it can be named over 200 ways, with one familiar label including Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, making it cheap to produce but incredibly dangerous for the eco-system in the long run.
By taking the legwork out of locating palm oil-free and vegan products, Selva Beat continues to make waves.
Issues are sold all over the United States, allowing its readers to have a unique experience every time with a diverse group of contributors focused on creating pieces that tell their own stories of how being environmentally friendly has changed them. Selva Beat’s online aesthetic is quite captivating also, with their use of off-the-wall color palettes, truly making their product and magazine something to rave over.
Palm oil-free makeup
Over the next week, we will be sharing my sit-down with Magdalena as we discuss beauty routines, hair products, and skincare products for those wishing to partake in the palm-oil free lifestyle. And with the holidays right around the corner, Mag suggests some top beauty products right now that will make perfect gifts for your friends and loved ones.
Eye Shadow: Shiro Cosmetics
Shiro Cosmetics is known for their products being incredibly versatile, affordable, and bright. Many of their eyeshadows can be dupes for MAC products, so yes, you can save the world while not forgetting entirely about your beloved big name makeup brands. Their eyeshadows can also be mixed with lip gloss to create various shades. Best part: you get two items for the price of one. Note that not all of Shiro’s eyeshadows are confirmed to be palm-oil free, only the ones without magnesium stearate.
Lips: Axiology
For lips, Axiology is the way to go. Smooth, silky, and moisturizing, it does it all. Coming in a vast array of colors, this lipstick brand is for the natural who wants to start a gradual palm oil-free lifestyle. The Enlighten shade is a perfect periwinkle for the fall.
Face: Root
For face products such as bronzers and foundations, Root is the way to go. Often times in the vegan and palm oil-free industries, foundation colors are geared towards lighter shades, essentially erasing representation for darker toned women to be environmentalists. Root solves a portion of this problem by offering over 41 different shades of mineral foundation for cool, warm, and neutral skin tones. Note that not all of Root’s products are palm oil-free but they are working on it. Look for the symbol on individual products or send them a quick email to double check.
For more information on where to find these products and for an extended list of beauty products that are palm oil-free and/or vegan, Check out Selva Beat.com, and stay tuned next week for an in-depth look at palm-oil free products for your skin!
Follow Selva Beat on Twitter @SelvaBeatMag, Facebook, and Instagram @SelvaBeat
BIGCHOPHAIR, a natural hair extensions company, is based out of Garden City, New York and has been saving scalps and protecting edges all over the hair community. As a small, black-owned business which is also female led, owner Melissa Etienne has admirably changed the game with her brand of extensions. Available in wefts, lace closures, bulk, u-part wigs, clip-ins and full wigs, Etienne offers five different hair type options so that they can be as close to a customer’s real texture as possible.
I’ve always had passion for hair.
I wanted to become a hairdresser and have my own hair salon. I always did hair for my friends and family, but once I started doing hair for people I didn’t know, I realized that I liked to do what I wanted to do to people’s hair and not what they wanted me to do! I learned quickly that being a bossy hair dresser wasn’t going to work and that instead, I should go be a boss.
There are goals that I’ve set for BIGCHOPHAIR and they still haven’t been reached so until those milestones are met, I’m still waiting for the pinch myself moment.
My biggest obstacle, which I am still trying to overcome, is opening a location. At the moment, BIGCHOPHAIR is online. I offer a local pick-up in Long Island, but I do not have an actual location. I’ve been in business for four years now; at least once a week, I talk of opening a storefront. I do see it in our future but the time isn’t right just yet.
It’s very hard to separate myself from my work.
So, I force myself to practice self-care by dropping my son to school every morning.
I have the option to do bus service but I choose not to because dropping him off allows me to head straight to the gym after. That morning workout really sets me up for a wonderful and productive day.
I love supporting black-owned businesses.
As a business owner myself, and knowing how much work and dedication goes into it, makes me feel so vulnerable to other black owned businesses. I purchase things even if I do not need to. The most recent purchases I made were with Juvia’s Place, Rue 107, and I’m heading over to The Wrap Life’s website as soon as I’m done with this interview.
My advice to other black women entrepreneurs:
Reach out to other female entrepreneurs and have open dialogue with them about your goals and strategies. Let them do the same with you. Maybe you are going through something someone else already went through so they can offer you advice. Do not struggle alone, you must have an outlet.
3 quirky facts about Melissa:
- Favorite protective style: Clip-ins and wigs are great because you can take them off and care for your own hair.
- Song you are vibing to right now? Beyonce’s Hold Up–that’s my jam!
- Quirkiest habit you have on wash days? I leave conditioner in for about 15 to 20 minutes and while I do that, I put a face mask on–so I am conditioning my face and hair at the same time!
Keep up with Melissa and BIGCHOPHAIR
Follow BIGCHOPHAIR on Instagram
Follow BIGCHOPHAIR on Snapchat @BIGCHOPHAIR
Like BIGCHOPHAIR on Facebook
Visit BIGCHOPHAIR.com and use the code CURLY for 20% off your next order
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