Search Results: NaturallyCurly

2-Ingredient Hair Growth Juice
2-Ingredient Hair Growth Juice
By NaturallyCurly ·

Trying to speed up your hair growth— check out cucumbers! Technically a fruit, cucumbers give you many benefits from head to toe, inside and out. Juicing them is one of the best ways to benefit from their magical hair growth powers. Below is a simple cucumber juice recipe–just two ingredients. It doesn’t get any easier than this!

Cucumber Juice Recipe

  • 1 Cucumber
  • ½ inch piece of ginger

Cucumbers are ideal for juicing because of the high water content thus giving you a lot juice. Cucumbers are high in silicon, sulphur sodium, phosphorus and calcium, some the nutrients most needed for hair growth. As you may already know sulphur is one of the main ingredients in the popular hair vitamins.

For this very reason, cucumbers are the base for many of my hair growth juicing recipes in my e-guide JuiceMyFro.

How to buy a cucumber

Buy organic produce whenever possible. Doing this will allow you to juice with the skins on, and the skins contains valuable nutrients. If you’re not able to buy organic, then you will need to peel the cucumber. Cucumbers oxidize quickly, so it’s best to consume a cucumber within 20 minutes of cutting or juicing. If you’re juicing them every day, don’t buy more than five days worth at time. Organic cucumbers spoil especially quickly.

Other benefits of cucumbers include strong nails, healthy skin and weight loss.

Other ways to use cucumber

Cut cucumbers and put them on your skin to lighten dark spots and on your eyes to take away puffiness and bags under your eyes. Having problems with constipation, whip up a juice with cucumber; they act as a natural laxative. Juiced with the right veggies, the power of cucumber for hair growth doubles.

Writer CaSaundra Johnson is the author of the 30-day juicing for hair growth e-guide JuiceMyFro.

A (Totally Weird) Natural Way to Fix Gray Hair
By NaturallyCurly ·

For many women, those little gray hair strands seem to creep up out of nowhere.

While color appointments and boxes of color may be one option, next time… try onions! They have actually proven to help increase hair growth and reverse the grays when applied to the scalp. High in sulfur, onion juice helps to regenerate follicles and helps to prevent hair loss as well.

Researchers from Bradford University in the UK, show that the build-up of hydrogen peroxide, in hair, causes grays and hair loss. The natural antioxidant , catalase, is decreased when more hydrogen peroxide enters hair follicles. However, catalase is found in onion juice, and helps to reduce the buildup of hydrogen peroxide.

Onion Juice Recipe

  • It’s best to start with fresh onions (even though you can buy onion juice in the store”>.
  • Peel and cut an onion (white or yellow”> into quarters and put it in the juicer or food processor
  • Strain the mixture for the juice
  • Store the remainder juice in small quantities in the fridge

How to Apply

  1. Test one small area, or water down the mixture with just a small amount of water.
  2. Apply the juice lightly to the scalp daily and lightly massage it in.
  3. Leave the juice on your scalp for 30-45 mins. (And yes, the smell may be quite strong- when it’s time to rinse, use your favorite nourishing shampoo or conditioner to wash it out”>
  4. For best results, wait 4-6 weeks to see results, depending on how much gray you have and the concentration that you use. However, with consistent use you will notice stronger hair follicles and fewer grays.
9 Hair & Beauty Benefits of Chamomile
By NaturallyCurly ·

For centuries, chamomile has been recognized for it’s medicinal and beauty benefits. The chamomile flower has a distinct and strong perfume and almost every part of it’s flower is beneficial to humans. Among its numerous medicinal remedies are aide with intestinal disorders, anxiety, influenza, depression, insomnia, and ulcers. Find out where chamomile falls in place with each remedy.

Juice Detox Recipe for Hair Growth
By NaturallyCurly ·
PHOTO BY

The air we breathe, the skin products we use and the food we eat are just some examples of how toxins enter our body.

Detoxing is the process of ridding your body of unhealthy toxins that we come in contact with during our daily life.

Juicing fruits and vegetables is one of many ways to incorporate a detoxing process into your lifestyle. Juicing to detox does not always mean a “juice fast.” There are two approaches you can take when using juicing to detox: either doing a juicing fast or incorporating juiced veggies and fruits into your daily diet.

Juice fasting, although intimidating for some, is one the most exhilarating ways to see speedy results from detox and eliminate toxins quickly. They generally range anywhere from 1-7 days. Some results from juice fasting include increased energy, better sleeping habits, weight loss and much more. For best results, do these fasts at least 3 times a year. Research via the internet for a juice fasting regime that fits your needs. There are plenty to choose from.

If a juice fast just seems out of the reach at this point, start by incorporating 1-2 juices per day. If consistent you will overtime see results, such as regular bowel movements, increased energy and get this my fellow naturalistas—hair growth!

As with anything consistency is always the key. Three months of regular juicing to see these results. As mentioned before, juicing is great way to speed up hair growth because of all the vitamins and minerals we get from juicing.

In my e-guide Juice My Fro I explain what juicing is and how to use it to aide hair growth. It encompasses a 30 days of juicing recipes tailored for hair growth. Here is a juice recipe from Day 3: Hair Energizer Juice.

Hair Energizer Juice

  • 1 cup of alfalfa sprouts
  • 4 red or romaine lettuce leaves
  • 1 large lemon
  • 1 large carrot
  • 1/2 cucumber

This juice will not only wake up your hair follicles but you as well. It contains cucumber, which is great for hair growth because of its high silicon and sulfur content. Sulfur an essential mineral building block of the human body. It is often referred to as the “beauty mineral” because it necessary for healthy skin, hair, and nails. Also included in this juice are alfalfa sprouts, which are rich in calcium, magnesium, folic acid and tons of other good stuff for the hair. Lettuce is considered an effective remedy for hair loss and is great to add to any juice for healthy hair.

With summer right around the corner, it is the perfect time to implement a juice detox regime in your life and grow your natural hair at the same time! Happy Juicing Your Fro!

For more juice recipes from writer CaSaundra Johnson, check out her e-guide JuiceMyFro.com.

Lisa Price Shares on the Carol’s Daughter Bankruptcy Reports
By NaturallyCurly ·

Amidst reports that Carol’s Daughter had filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy the natural hair community has been discussing the events of this week at length on our Facebook, Twitter and beyond. Lisa Price, Founder of Carol’s Daughter has been an inspiration for so many women in this space and in this letter she shares her feelings surrounding the company’s past, its present and most importantly, its future.

For you,

I know you have read the misleading news that has been circulated around the internet during the past week because I have heard from so many of you. Thank you all for your support and concern.

It is important to set the record straight. Carol’s Daughter is still going strong after twenty-one years and the future has never looked brighter. As part of our increased focus on new retail channels, we have decided to close five of our stores. This was portrayed as if we are having some challenges, but nothing could be further from the truth.

Initially, I felt it was inappropriate to toot my own horn, if you will, in the midst of some of our stores closing and the day-to-day work that must be done to continue to ensure our success. However, in this day and age of information speeding ahead of us and becoming fact before it has been verified, fact checked or vetted I fear that inaccurate perception will become my company’s reality in the minds of those I hold so dear, you. My friends, supporters, cheerleaders, fans and second family.

From the days when some of you rang my doorbell looking for Healthy Hair Butter to the day my website crashed because of my first national TV appearance you have always been there for me and you are who I care about. Because of your dedication over the past twenty-one years, I have been able to do amazing things. The nationwide Target launch this past March is an opportunity that very few companies receive. I am proud of that. I am also proud and blessed to have valuable partners, like HSN, Ulta and Sephora inside JC Penney. These partnerships have enabled me to distribute Carol’s Daughter in over 2,500 stores and on direct TV which is far beyond the reach of my living room in Brooklyn.

I am going to live through this bad headline knowing that our brand is as strong as ever…and right now I have to get back to work.

Love,

Lisa M. Price

Carol’s Daughter

Fake a Pixie with This Updo
By NaturallyCurly ·

We all get the urge to try a pixie every now and then. But if that’s a fleeting fancy for you then you probably want to hold onto your long locks and opt for a temporary fix instead. This twist out updo creates the look of an asymmetrical pixie cut, and when you wash it out you’ve got your lovely long curls back!

What You’ll Need:

Directions

  1. Spray Refresher Spray throughout the hair
  2. Section the hair, start by parting it at the crown
  3. Tie the bottom section into a ponytail
  4. Apply Styling Pudding to the top half of hair in sections, comb through with a wide tooth comb.
  5. Two strand twist each section, applying extra Styling Pudding to the ends
  6.  Untwist all of the hair, then pick and fluff
  7. Twist the ponytail up and secure with bobby pins. Pin the rest of the hair to create the shape you like

Watch the Video

This post is sponsored by Carol’s Daughter.

Avoid a Curly Haircut Disaster
By NaturallyCurly ·

scott curly hair

When curly YouTube vlogger Sarah, also known as Waterlily716, announced recently that she got a haircut, the community gasped in unison. We all know the apprehension that a curly girl feels when sitting in the hairstylist’s chair. And that is why it’s so important to find a stylist who is experienced with styling curly hair, and most importantly someone you can trust. Luckily for Sarah she was in the capable hands of DevaCut Trained Stylist Scott Musgrave. If you’re looking for a trustworthy curl friendly services in your area, you’ll want to first have a consultation. Here are Scott’s tips for acing the curly consultation process.  

The consultation is the most essential step to gaining trust with a client. I truly want to know the client’s fears, frustrations, concerns, current routine, and past experiences of working with other stylists and salons. Based off of the client’s experience, I try to identify the source of the frustration whether it is bad-ingredient products that her hair type may not need, styling methods that are not working, or a lack of knowledge. From there I contrast her past experiences with what I do. When visiting a salon I encourage that you keep the following in mind.

 Scott’s Tips

  1. All curlies should have a better understanding of ingredients and products used by the stylist and salon.
  2. Make sure the stylist cuts hair dry and uses little to no tension as he or she styles and care for your hair.
  3. Demand that they do not use any thinning or chunking scissors. You also want to assure that they are not using any method of sliding down the hair with scissors, as this creates a variety of different lengths at the ends, which make it hard to control and manage over time as it grows out with thin wispy ends. 
  4. When seeking help for your hair you need to research the stylists in their area. Check out salon reviews on NaturallyCurly Curl Salons, Yelp, or online forums in the stylist’s community to find well trained stylists that not only have training added to their repertoire of services, but are passionate enough to have 80% or more stylists working on curly hair clients and specialize in it more so than just a menu service.  
  5. No stylist should scrape, slide, or slice hair with scissors or a razor, as it creates a lot of different lengths and thin wispy ends that are very difficult to manage and more so look bad as the hair grows out. You want a style to last 4-6 months and working with a razor makes the style and ends quickly look bad as the hair grows out. 
  6. Sleeping on a satin or breathable silk pillowcase prevents the hair from pulling and losing moisture as it would using a cotton pillowcase.
  7.  Use a t-shirt to scrunch the hair instead of using a towel. This will keep the ends healthy much longer. 
All of these tips also apply to shorter hair.

You can follow Scott Musgrave here:

Facebook, Curly Hair Artistry, and Scott Musgrave Hair 

Watch Waterlily716’s New Short Haircut Video below:

Product Discovery: BB Cream Works for Your Wavy Hair!
By NaturallyCurly ·

BB creams are products that promise a little bit of everything–protection, nourishment and better texture. They are usually associated with skin, but now they’re slowly becoming popular as a hair styler and protectant. They aid in providing a soft hold, vitamins and definition to curls. They can often be more nourishing then gels and leave less build up. They don’t have a “crunch” effect when your hair dries, as some gels and even mousses typically leave behind. Some of the newer BB creams can be a great addition to your hair arsenal, or collection of products. However, you should know how to use them for your wavy or curly hair, first.

Helpful Tips On Using BB Cream For Hair

  1. Use a light moisturizing curl or BB cream as a leave-in when your curls are thirsty. Mix it with a gel that plays well with others for a combination of moisture and curl definition, especially in hot and humid conditions.

  2. Use a little extra BB cream in the fall and winter, when the air is cooler and drier. Try one that has both moisturizing and defining properties so that you don’t have to add gel and be concerned about having limp waves.

  3. Make sure the BB cream mixes well with gels or work well by itself. Before covering your whole head and ending up with a crunchy flakey mess, test a smaller section of your hair with the cream and your choice of gel to be sure they work well together. To use a curl cream by itself, look for one that says it defines curls or enhances curls. Sometime curl creams like this are called gel-creams.

Next Page: Which ones should I try?

blonde wavy hair

Which ones should I try?

Here are some great brands that have BB creams especially made for hair.

How to Apply BB Cream to Hair

Applying your cream is simple and much like the way in which you apply a gel. After your shower, section your hair into 3 to 5 sections. On wet hair, apply the amount directed of the product to each section. Working the creme from the root to the end of the hair. You may want to also leave a little extra on the ends of your hair for some extra protection from climate elements and split ends.

Once you’ve applied the cream, allow your hair to dry only 50-60%. Allow the product to work its magic. If you want to experiment by adding gel, this works well also. Do so after your next wash day to figure out how the BB cream works alone, first.

Would you use a BB cream on your hair? Why or why not? Tell us on Facebook. 

A Simple Lavender Spritz for Softer Hair
By NaturallyCurly ·

lavender oil

It’s early in the morning. The alarm goes off and you need to get out the door, FAST. You just noticed your hair isn’t bouncy and pretty like you’d want it to be. Of course, there’s always the coveted “bed-head” look. Maybe not so coveted for work, though.

Any of these scenarios are common for you curly girls? There’s a quick, soothing fix…lavender mist. Not only is a lavender mist easy to make, it’s beautiful fragrance and carries medicinal properties can do wonders for your mind and your hair!

Lavender promotes a hair growth; it’s amazing for your scalp. Its anti-inflammatory properties ease dandruff issues, too. Lavender has been known to bring about a more tranquil state of mind and lessen anxiety. A good scalp massage with a few drops of this oil can do wonders for a stressful day.

Ok, so what if you don’t wake up with bouncy, happy curls? No fear! Your mister bottle and clips should be near!

What You’ll Need

  • Water bottle
  • Lavender oil (you may get this at a health food store”>
  • Distilled water
  • Duckbill clips

Directions

  1. Using a water bottle, add 5-8 drops of lavendar oil to 1 liter of distilled water and shake well.
  2. Gently spritz your curls so they are damp.
  3. Using duckbill clips, twist your hair into 4 sections.
  4. Squeeze each section so that the oil penetrates.
  5. While you apply make-up or just have your morning coffee, allow the clips to work their magic for 5-10 minutes.
  6. Remove the clips and allow your new waves and curls to look radiant!

If you have less time, you can make smaller bottles of the spray to carry with you–one for your bag, car, office, etc. Instead of clips, you can twist curls with your fingers after apply the spray. Making a lavender mist for your pillow or room is another great way to incorporate this relaxing scent into your routine.

lavender diy bottle

Pillow Spray

What You’ll Need

  • 8 Ounces of distilled water
  • 15 Drops of lavender oil
  • 10 Drops of chamomile oil (shake well”>

You can decorate the spray bottles you make your mixtures in and give them as gifts too. Get creative with some glitter, markers and paper punches for tags and decorations for your mister bottles!

Want more? Check out these easy DIY hair recipes:

PHOTO Hippie Health Coach
The Animal Product That Can Change Your Hair Overnight
By NaturallyCurly ·

Silk worms are not the most beautiful of animals, but what they produce can make a difference in the way you look overnight – literally.

Silk amino acids are the small proteins that bind the tiny fibers in silk and are used to prevent dehydration –a key element for hair and beauty products. Though they are natural, silk amino acids are animal products (as in, they do come from animals–the silk worm”>. The proteins from silk amino acids are also water soluble , which makes silk an easy component, and a healthy one, for most hair and beauty products.

Overnight Sensation

Women with curly hair agree that they notice little to no breakage when they use a silk pillowcase at night. Silk pillowcases help to retain the much needed moisture in your hair. Curly and coily hair tends to be very dry, so they need as much moisture as they can get. These pillowcase will also help if you have problems with tangles and knots.

Silk contains 18 essential and non-essential amino acids, and amino acids are the true “building blocks” of the human body. They help to build and repair tissue, form antibodies to combat bacteria and help carry oxygen through the body, which naturally “repairs itself” between the hours of 10pm-2am. So sleeping in silk PJs may not be a bad idea, as it may help your skin breathe and repair itself as you sleep.

Protects Against Elements

You don’t have to limit yourself to silk in the bedroom, silk can continue to work for you during the day in the form of scarves. Regardless of your sense of style, you are sure to find a pattern, color and length that can work for you. Use scarves to tie your hair up at night and secure with some metal clips, wear one to work, or protect your hair from the elements when you’re outdoors. 

Strengthens & Seals

There are a number of products which coin their name on silk alone–Biosilk and Silk Elements are only two. However, a number of hair and beauty care products boast about containing silk as their key ingredient. Whenever silk amino acids are applied to hair, the proteins bind to the natural keratin in the hair and help to strengthen the hair and protect against moisture loss. The silk also assists in repairing damaged hair as well.

Combats Wrinkles

Products containing silk for face and skin, such as Avon’s Skin So Soft Signature Silk actually has antioxidant effects that can help combat wrinkles. The silk in beauty products helps to provide necessary moisture to skin and leave skin smooth and soft.

Next: 3 Ways to Tie a Scarf

Flat Twist Tutorial With Hanna LaShay
By NaturallyCurly ·

We love working with inspiring young women, and miss Hanna LaShay is no exception! The girl can sing, act, model and she can do a mean flat twist! Just look at those perfect parts. We also love working with brands whose ingredients we can get behind and we know for a fact that our community loves them too – that’s right we’re talking about SheaMoisture. Hanna’s mom is a salon owner so she was first introduced to the brand by her mom. This is how she flat twists her hair as a protective style when she’s on the go or for going to school.

What You’ll Need

Directions

  1. After shampooing, part your hair with a rattail comb to section your hair
  2. Take a small amount of Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Style Milk and apply it evenly to the first section of your hair
  3. Use a small amount of Coconut & Hibiscus Curling Gel Souffle to lay down the edges (for a cleaner look”>
  4. Detangle that section with a wide tooth comb
  5. Flat twist that section by grabbing two strands of hair and twist one over the other, continue to do this adding a little bit more hair to the twist each time (watch the video to see what we mean”>
  6. Once you twist all the way to the nape of your neck, continue with a regular two strand twist to the ends of your hair
  7. Repeat steps 1-6 for each section

Hanna typically creates 8 or 9 flat twists, this will vary based on how big or small you want your curls to be. When you’re ready to take your flat twists out (Hanna leaves her in for a week”> you simply untwist them as you would a normal two strand twist. Hanna likes this style because it’s quick and easy, she can do them on the go and her hair won’t be as time consuming for her busy weeks.

Watch the Video

If you’d like to see more of Hanna, check out her Deep Treatment Routine which we filmed on a Sunday afternoon. You can also subscribe to her YouTube IAmHannaLaShay or follow her on Instagram.

MORE: Watch Hanna’s Deep Treatment Routine

This post is sponsored by SheaMoisture.

3 DIY Herbal Hair Tonics for Spring
By NaturallyCurly ·

spring herbs

It’s that in-between season that we all love–not sure if it’s getting warmer, may still be cold, it may rain or snow… And our bodies and hair respond to those changes.

Along with the uncertainty of weather can come a lack-of-luster for our locks.

Luckily, here are some easy, all-natural, do-it-yourself potions that you can create in no time, and bring back the natural shine and bounce to your hair.

Next page: Tonic to Solve Dullness

parsley and rosemary1. Parsley & Rosemary Tonic

Solves: Dullness

What You’ll Need

  • 2 tablespoons crushed parsley seeds (found at health food stores”>
  • 1/2 cup chopped rosemary
  • Water

Directions

  1. Bring 2-3 cups of water to a boil.
  2. Add the crushed parsley and chopped rosemary.
  3. Allow to steep for 20 mins.
  4. Cool and strain the mixture.
  5. Pour the liquid over your hair in the shower or sink.
  6. Wrap your head with a warm towel for 45 minutes to an hour.
  7. Do not rinse– allow your hair to dry naturally.

Next page: Tonic to Solve Dandruff

nettle hair tonic2. Nettle Hair Tonic

Solves: Dandruff

What You’ll Need

  • A handful of fresh nettle leaves or 5 tablespoons of dried nettle (found at health food stores”>
  • A few drops of your favorite essential oil
  • A bottle or glass jar to store the liquid

Directions

  1. Bring the water to a boil.
  2. Place the nettle (fresh or dried”> in the water.
  3. Simmer for 10 minutes.
  4. Add a few drops of your selected oil.
  5. Allow the mixture to cool and steep for 20 mins.
  6. Once cool, strain the liquid.
  7. Pour over your hair in the shower.
  8. Comb or massage through your hair and let it sit for 10 minutes.
  9. Rinse your hair thoroughly.

Next page: Tonic to Solve Dryness

clary sage3. Aloe Juice & Clary Sage

Solves: Dryness

What You’ll Need

  • 4 tablespoons aloe juice (from local health or grocery store”>

  • 6 to 8 drops clary sage essential oil

  • 1 teaspoon water

Directions

  1. Mix ingredients into a small bottle and shake well.

  2. Apply to your hair in your shower and comb through evenly.

  3. Allow the mixture to sit in your hair for 10-15 minutes.

  4. Rinse thoroughly and air dry.

Watch: DIY Whipped Shea Butter for Skin + Hair

Our Editors Secretly Wish We Had Straight Hair, Here’s Why
By NaturallyCurly ·

They always say “the truth will set you free.” So it’s about time the NaturallyCurly team tells you how we really feel about curly hair.

Our deepest, darkest straight hair desires – revealed! 

Priscilla “I wish my hair was straight again, so I could spend my days worrying about whether or not the weather would ruin my thin and limp hair look (which I achieved by spending hours blow drying and flat-ironing it”>.”

Michelle “I wish I had straight hair because I really miss spending an hour every morning blowing my hair out, putting in hot rollers, plastering it with hair spray and then walking outside into the Austin humidity to see how long it takes for it to return to its natural state.”

Cristina “I wish I had straight hair so that I could curl my straight hair with a curling wand to create wavy hair, not unlike the wavy hair I already have.”

Amanda “I wish my hair was straight because clearly it is easier to manage. I thought the Indian in my family would help but I guess my hair is too nappy. How in the world will I get a job and what man will want me?”

Susonnah “I wish I had straight hair because then I could try all the amazing products made for people with straight hair! Hair spray, dry shampoo, flat irons, I want it all. And I really need some sulfates in my life.”

Jamie “I wish I had straight hair because my favorite part of my day is waking up extra early before work to make sure every strand is in place and kink free.”

Nikki “I wish I had straight hair so people would like me but never ask to touch my hair. If I had straight hair I could have been prom queen. Plus all the guys LOVE women with straight hair. It’s the best thing out there. I mean, think about it… every princess real or fiction has long straight hair. A girl can dream.”

Lori “I wish I had straight hair because as you know the saying goes, ‘people with straight hair have more fun.'”

Devri “I wish I had straight hair so I could obnoxiously swish my ponytail back and forth whenever I walk.”

Clare “I wish I had straight hair because it’s hands down the best way to wear your hair. It has so much body and character that curls cannot compete with. I feel like I stand out the most when my hair is board straight.”

Evelyn “Ah, I miss the feeling of pulling the few strands of hair I had left into a ponytail. Sure, I had relaxer burns, BUT I HAD A PONYTAIL THAT SWAYED IN THE WIND. I miss those days. This whole thriving natural hair thing? Overrated if you ask me.”

*April Fool’s! Of course we don’t wish we had straight hair.

Tia Mowry Needs Our Frizz Help, We Got You Boo
By NaturallyCurly ·

PHOTO: TIADMOWRY ON INSTAGRAM

We already loved Tia and Tamera, but following their journeys back to natural hair has elevated them to bestie status. Or at least, we like to believe that we’re besties. So when Tia Instagrammed that she was having a bad hair day we felt like she was personally asking us for hair advice.

Here you go, personalized frizz tips just for you Tia!

Your Dark Roots Are Showing! 7 Ways to Hide Them
By NaturallyCurly ·
When your dark roots grow in, it can feel like everyone can see your shortcomings. And they probably can.

However, there a few ways to take care of this age-old issue, and they aren’t too tricky to pull off!

Other than adding color, there may not be a way for women with curly or wavy hair to completely hide all dark roots, but these tricks will tide you over until your next color session.

Hide Your Roots

Tip of the Day: Cocoa Butter 4 Ways
By NaturallyCurly ·

Why Cocoa?

Cocoa trees, it’s believed, first grew in South America, and today, cocoa trees can be found throughout the world. Like wine, cocoa varies on taste depending on where it comes from , therefore, you may just notice different flavors in certain favorite chocolates from time to time. And, take the time to appreciate that delicious cup of cocoa or chocolate bar because it takes about 300 to 600 cocoa beans to make just two pounds of chocolate!

So what about cocoa and curls? Cocoa butter is the substance that is obtained from cocoa beans, it’s a by-product of chocolate – and curlies know that cocoa butter is a must for cold weather, frizz and soft skin too!

What will you use cocoa butter for?

Deep Treatment

Use it as a deep conditioning treatment once or twice a week, depending on your hair type. You’ll notice how much softer and easier to manage your hair will become. Cocoa butter won’t weigh your hair down and it will help to moisturize your hair and scalp.

Cocoa Pre-Poo

You can also use it as a pre-shampoo conditioning treatment.

Try it! Put some cocoa butter (found online or in health food stores”> in a cup and melt it in your microwave until it’s a liquid. Apply the oil/liquid to your hair for about 15-20 minutes then shampoo.

Frizz Fighter

You can use cocoa butter as a pomade to help style your hair and keep frizz away as well. Just rub a small amount of cocoa butter in your palms, and smooth over your hair. You can mix a bit of coconut oil or an essential oil with it to give it a scent as well.

Color Gloss

For brunettes who want to add some sheen and a tint of color depth to their hair, a cocoa hair mask may be something to try out too:

Mix a cup of pure aloe gel, 1/2 cup of pure cocoa powder and 1/4 cup of honey, 1 tablespoon of favorite conditioner (I like Suave Coconut“>.  Mix the ingredients in a bowl and you’re left with a great smelling chocolate treatment for brunettes.

Tip of the Day: Detangle With Aloe Vera
By NaturallyCurly ·

If you haven’t tried using natural ingredients on your hair, you may be missing out.

Aloe Vera has been used for centuries as a health and beauty aide and has proven, to curls and fragile hair, to be a real BFF.

Here are two easy recipes that you can make at home in either  small, or larger batches, depending on your hair’s needs (and length”>. If you make extra you can even store it in your fridge for later.

Moisturizing Detangler Spray

You can add or remove ingredients to suit your hair’s needs.

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup distilled water
  • 1/2 cup aloe vera juice
  • 1/2 tsp silk amino acids (binds keratin and strengthens”>
  • 1 tsp panthenol (vit B5″>  (moisturizer”>
  • 1 tsp vegetable glycerin (humectant”>
  • 1 tsp guar gum (emulsifier, adds slip”>
  • 7 drops rosemary oil (stimulates hair folicles”>
  • 7 drops lemongrass oil (anti bacterial and adds fragrance”>

Directions

  1. Add all items into a blender and mix well for 3-5 minutes.
  2. Empty into a jar to be stored in the fridge.
  3. Apply to hair as needed and notice the shine and definition of your curls!

Leave-In  Aloe Treat

Ingredients

  • 3 oz aloe vera juice
  • 2 oz coconut oil
  • 5 oz distilled water
  • 8 oz light CG conditioner (Suave, Deva, etc.”>

Directions

  1. Mix all ingredients in a mister/spray bottle and apply to damp or wet hair.
  2. Allow the product to air dry for best results.

This conditioning treatment will give your curls definition and bounce.

Visit our Facebook page and show us your hair after your aloe vera experience.

 

Best of the Best Curly Hair Products of 2013
By NaturallyCurly ·

Thousands of NaturallyCurly community members have taken the time to share their favorite products, tools and necessities for curly, coily and wavy hair. We have compiled the votes and are excited to announce 2013’s list of holy grail, must-have items that every curly girl should try out.