Search Results: Lauren Murray
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.
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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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As natural hair continues to have higher visibility in the media, the question that arises is this: Is natural hair now being shed in a positive or negative light?
” src=”https://diana-cdn.naturallycurly.com/Articles/Hi_pjimage-49.jpg”>Are our kinks, curls, locs, and twist-outs becoming a fad, or is the world wholeheartedly embracing everything that is being a natural self-identified woman or man?
Hairstyles that emphasize an individual’s natural curl pattern have grown exponentially within the past couple of years with celebrities, models and influencers comfortably rocking their natural hair in public and in the eye of the camera lens.
We read blogs that have become huge financial industries through the natural hair community in their own right, as well as companies that have completely shifted their products from being once only tailored to women with relaxers to being all about embracing curls, and so on. One could even say it is fun being a person with natural hair now–it takes nothing to Google search a description about your hair followed by thousands of images matching your search. This opens doors to further education, inspiration, and motivation of natural hair that is available to your fingertips. Being a curly in 2016 is all about embracing who you are at your core, manifesting what you were born with, and celebrating your uniqueness.
On the flip side of the spectrum, we have the cherry pickers of the natural hair community who can accept one style or texture while tearing down another.
Just recently, a law was passed by the Supreme Court stating that it is perfectly legal to deny employment to someone with locs, thus allowing discrimination in the workplace to be a viable consequence of choosing to embrace one’s hair texture fully and profoundly. There have also been countless news stories about little girls in school who have been sent to detention for ‘breaking school dress code policies’ by simply wearing their natural ‘fros out. With this negativity against styles that clearly show the kinks and the texture of natural hair, it is almost safe to say that natural hair is only cool if you have a hair type that is 3c or below.
How can we as a community embrace the looser curl, while simultaneously tearing down our fellow natural counterparts who so valiantly wear their hair in different styles?
As cultural appropriation continues to rear its uninformed and insensitive head in the media through ‘boxer braids’ or ‘mini buns’ tutorial videos, we also see celebrities embracing their natural hair textures, but very few who have the confidence to rock their tight curls that historically and unfairly have been called “nappy”. For instance, Leslie Jones in all of her boss Ghostbusters glory, despite being constantly ridiculed for her looks. She chooses to be a queen in her own right, celebrating the existence of who she is, all the while rocking a mean TWA on the red carpet. We also have Lupita Nyong’o, who continuously amazes with her natural hairstyles that we could only dream of obtaining.
So the question remains, is natural hair becoming mainstream?
For complete aesthetic purposes I would say yes, and I would say this yes in a disappointed tone. But if you want the real answer, then no. Natural hair, despite its wins over the years, still has a long way to go before it is fully accepted. In order for this to happen, as a diverse group of people, we need to let go of our idealized fantasies of what should be deemed acceptable and what should not. We must also accept the beliefs, intricacies, differences–the beauty of what is natural hair and everything that comes with it.
Natural hair is not a spectacle and it is not a distraction. It is not degradation and it is not dirty. It is the way my hair grows out of my head, and it should be accepted as such, not just when it is convenient for the world to stand behind.
Follow Lauren on Instagram for more curly and self-love inspiration @leauxren
Read why we should all consider doing Saunya’s Heart Detox.
