Search Results: NaturallyCurly
September is NaturallyCurly’s 15th Anniversary! We’re celebrating 15 years of Curl Power so our resident curly comic Tall N Curly followed one curly’s journey from 1998 until today.
15 Years of NaturallyCurly
Taren Guy and Lexi With The Curls joined NaturallyCurly moderator Evelyn on YouTube last night for a live broadcast of safe straightening tips for natural hair. They talked about their experience using the Motions Straight Finish products on their own beautiful curls, and answered questions from the live comment feed on YouTube!
Here are a few of the key takeaway tips from the broadcast, and if you want to see how Taren and Lexi straighten their natural hair safely, watch the video!
What We Learned
1. How often do you straighten, and how long does your hair stay straight when you straighten it?
Post-big chop Taren hardly ever straightens her hair. This year she has straightened it twice and it lasts about one week in the humid heat of the summer. Lexi generally straightens 5 or 6 times per year, and she’s very good at making it last. Lexi’s hair stays straight for up to two weeks! Towards the end of those two weeks she puts her hair in pin curls or bantu knot outs to make it last even longer. She works out regularly, so a week and a half in she puts her hair up it in a ponytail.
2. What technique do you use to flat iron your hair?
When Taren straightens her hair she blow dries it first, and then divides it into very small sections. She then uses the “chase method” where she combs her hair with a fine toothed comb and chases it with the flat iron. Lexi used a really cool comb for this that had the live feed commenting a mile a minute! This technique will mean that you only have to pass the flat iron over the hair once.
3. How do you prep your hair for straightening?
Both Taren and Lexi blow out their hair with a blow dryer before taking a flat iron to it. Taren also recommends using the products the night before to wash, detangle and apply the leave-in conditioner. Then divide your hair into 5-6 sections by either braiding or twisting each section. Go to sleep with your hair in these sections and when you wake up your hair will be damp or dry, and stretched. This will allow you to skip the blow drying step.
4. What is the reversion process, how do you get your curls back afterwards?
Taren had no heat damage, all of her curls returned. In the past she has always had heat damage where a section of her curls didn’t revert and she would have to trim them, so she was prepared for that to happen this time as well, but all of the curls came right back! Lexi has experienced problems with stylists burning her hair and her curls wouldn’t come back. With the Motions products she didn’t experience any damage, you can see her before and after shots on her blog. The girls didn’t need to deep condition or use any special treatments after straightening their hair, they simply washed as usual and their curls came back on the first try.
5. What temperature was your flat iron?
Lexi had her straightener on 375 degrees, and she only passed through her hair once. You can see her do this in the Live Demo she gave us YouTube video.
Watch the Video
If you’d like to be notified for our next live broadcast on YouTube, be sure you’re following NaturallyCurly on Facebook and Twitter.
NaturallyCurly: Please introduce yourself!
Katie Walker: I am Katie Walker, a 20-year-old mother of a 2-month-old boy and a student planning on earning a nursing degree.
NC: How and when did you start embracing your curls?
KW: When I was younger, my mom always fixed my hair and embraced my curls for me. Then at around age 10 or 11, I got to the point where I only wanted my hair slicked back in a ponytail. In high school, my mother took me to a new hair stylist and I began to embrace my curls because she helped me.
NC: What’s your current routine?
KW: In the mornings I wake up to wash my hair. I shampoo every other day but I always condition. After washing my hair, I use a wide tooth comb to comb out any knots. Then, I apply a mousse and Marc Anthony Strictly Curls Curl Perfecting Serum and part my hair to the right. I use a diffuser to dry my hair for about ten minutes, leaving it a little damp. When I diffuse, I tilt my head upside down to get some volume at the top of my head. I add a bit more serum to frizzy spots after I’m finished diffusing.
NC: What are your favorite hairstyles to wear?
KW: One of my favorite hairstyles to wear is a ponytail to the side of my head. My fiancé really loves it too!
NC: What are your must-have products and tools?
KW: My must-have product is Marc Anthony Strictly Curls Serum and my must-have tool is my wide tooth comb.
NC: What about your hair stylist?
KW: I live in a very small town so I go to local stylists. Chelsey Reynolds had her own shop and was a big inspiration to me. She taught me how to manage and love my curls. I now go to Angie who always does a good job with my curls.
NC: Did you big chop or transition, and for how long? If you’ve always been natural, did you ever have any curly girl insecurities?
KW: I have always been natural and I have always been insecure about the frizziness of my hair.
NC: What is the best thing about being curly?
KW: It is unique. People know me for my curly hair and it gets a lot of attention. I am me because of my hair! I also get recognition for embracing my curls.
NC: How do you think having curly hair has impacted your everyday life?
KW: Curly hair has always had a huge impact on my everyday life. People think it is easy to manage curly hair but honestly it isn’t. I mean, who else can tell if it is about to rain because of what their hair is doing?!
NC: What would you tell others to encourage them to embrace their curls?
KW: Just say to be you! I know of so many girls who refuse to embrace their curly locks just because straight hair is the popular thing. There are few of us natural curly girls, so dare to be unique and use what God gave you!
NC: Tell us about your current and upcoming projects.
KW: Well I just had a baby (Grady”>, so I am focusing a lot of time on him and I am getting ready to go back to school in a few weeks. I’m also trying to lose the baby weight…wish me luck!
Hair Growth Oils
NaturallyCurly user kwillsmom uses this lovely blend of oils to seal moisture, promote growth, oil and cool the scalp. I love it! The tea tree and especially the peppermint oils leave her scalp with a cool tingle.
What You’ll Need:
- EVOO
- White grape seed
- sweet almond
- peppermint
- tea tree oils
Directions:
- Combine all ingredients
- After you rinse out your conditioner, finger part your hair
- Spritz oil over your entire head in sections
- Massage your scalp
This is how kwillsmom uses the oil after every wash, her hair has shown healthy growth since using her concoction!
Have you tried this recipe before? Let us know if it worked for you.For more curly mixology recipes, or to share your own favorite at-home treatments, go to our Recipes section.
NaturallyCurly: Please introduce yourself!
Chelsea March: My name is Chelsea March. I was born and raised in Southern New Jersey. I moved to New York City when I was 18 years old to pursue an education in fashion at the Fashion Institute of Technology.
NC: How and when did you start embracing your curls?
CM: There was always a routine involving my hair; I had to go to the hair salon to get my hair permed and then braided up starting when I was about five or six years old. The day at the salon was just what it sounds like: I would literally spend the entire day in the salon chair and it was an extremely uncomfortable process. When I started college in a New York City, I began to see many women embracing their natural hair. It was the first time I had ever seen natural hair in my life because where I came from everyone, and I mean everyone, permed their hair. Towards the end of my sophomore year, a friend of mine who had been natural for a few years inspired me to go natural. She looked so effortlessly beautiful. She did not shudder at the sight of rain or wind in fear that it would ruin her hair. I decided to let my roots just grow out. After a few months of letting my natural roots grow out I went to a friend who was a hairstylist and asked her to cut my hair as short as possible. She was continually asking me, “Are you sure you want to cut off your hair?” I affirmed yes. When she spun my chair around she did not cut it as short as I wanted it so the next morning, I got scissors out and took the job into my own hands, and on the morning of December 12, 2011, I became natural. That was the morning I feel like I truly became myself.NC: What’s your current routine?
CM: I only use 100% all natural products on my hair. I believe that it’s the best way to keep your hair as healthy as possible. I wash my hair once a week with Terressentials Hair Wash. I moisturize with SheaMoisture Deep Treatment Masque and seal it with Naptural85’s Hair and Body Oil.
NC: So from start to finish, on a curly day, what’s your process?
CM: I try to keep it pretty simple. I spritz my hair with a little bit of water, apply about a quarter-sized amount of SheaMoisture Deep Treatment Masque to my hair starting with my ends and spreading that around my hair. Then I seal it with my natural oil mixture.
NC: What are your favorite hairstyles to wear?
CM: I really love embracing my natural afro…you will usually see my with my hair out in its natural, wild ‘fro or up in a ponytail with a vintage inspired victory roll for my bangs.
NC: What are your must-have products and tools?
CM: My fingertips are my favorite tools to use. I do not use any heat on my hair at all. Since I only use 100% products I like to make many of my hair products if I cannot find what I need in stores.
NC: What do you do at nighttime for your hair?
CM: At night I lightly mist my hair with water and moisturize with shea butter. I have a silk pillowcase that I sleep on to prevent breakage.NC: What reaction did you get when you decided to go natural?
CM: Some members of my family were very unsure of my recent hair transformation; I was said be Afrocentric because I was the only one in our family to go natural. After a while, they realized that it was not just a phase, it was something I was committed to, and they began to embrace my decision. My friends loved the change particularly because they had never seen a real Afro before and loved getting to touch it.NC: Did you big chop or transition, and for how long?
CM: I transitioned for about five months and then decided to just big chop the rest of it off.
NC: What is the best thing about being curly?
CM: The best thing about being curly is the freedom to not have to worry about your hair. I also feel like I am myself more so now than ever before.NC: What would you tell others to encourage them to embrace their curls?
CM: Just go for it and embrace your curls! Times are changing and beautiful, big, curly hair is desired by all and is quickly being accepted by society more and more.NC: Tell us about your current and upcoming projects.
CM: I am about to entire my senior year of college, so I am preparing myself for what this year has to bring in terms of my education. I also recently modeled for a company that I truly admire and support, STATE Bags. They are an amazing company that is about giving back first. I love their slogan, “Give Back Pack.” It fits perfectly…for every STATE backpack purchased, STATE hand-delivers a backpack to an American student in need. I am also working part-time for Warby Parker and with New York Fashion Week right around the corner, there will be a lot of PR and social media projects to come!
Curly girls know that your hair is only part of the equation. Once you’ve mastered moisturized, defined curls in the morning, you still need to style the rest of your look! Just as every curl is unique, our body shape and personal styles are just as diverse. Trust us, we know the struggle of getting dressed in the morning.
Luckily, Stitch Fix helped NaturallyCurly team members Nikki, Jamie and Cristina with personalized styling tips for their unique curl patterns. Stitch Fix is an online personal styling service. They get your style and size preferences, then send a package of stylish goodies to try on at home. Each item comes with styling tips on how to dress it up or down. Pay for what you like and send back what you don’t–free shipping both ways!
Find out how you can complement your curls with these nine easy fashion tips for curly hair.
Curly Fashion Tips
Big Hair, Big Style
Do not be afraid of volume and prints. Go for big prints to match big hair.
Nikki’s hair is full of volume and texture, so this long and playful printed dress is the perfect match for her. The long column dress is the perfect contrast to her big, textured hair. And the fun statement necklace spices up Nikki’s neckline for an ultra-glamorous appeal.
Doesn’t Nikki totally remind you of Style Pantry in this look?
Step Out of Your Comfort Zone
When Nikki wears her Type 3C hair in a wash n go it’s big, fun and voluminous. Normally Nikki tones down her accessories because she doesn’t want to overdo it. But Stitch Fix prides itself on taking you a little out of your comfort zone – that’s part of the fun! And Nikki ended up loving the results.
On Nikki:Necklace: 41 Hawthorn, Two Strand Bubble Necklace
Elongate Your Figure
This dress was specifically selected to show off Nikki’s hourglass figure. It elongates her features and creates a statuesque silhouette. Maxi dresses are a cool way to stay stylish in the summer, plus the V-neck cut gives Nikki’s neck room to breathe. It can get hot under that hair!
On Nikki:Dress: Tart, Martine Floral Print Maxi Dress
Keep it Classic
Jamie loves to wear her hair half up with a twist or braid to keep her hair away from her face. Her curl pattern is Type 3A, but on this day she was playing with options and wore it in a looser wavy style.
To complement Jamie’s classic hairstyle, Stitch Fix chose an adorable striped fit and flare dress for its movement and classic shape. They chose to keep the accessories simple so as not to overpower her ‘do!
Arm Candy
We all fell in love with these bangles in the office. They’re the perfect arm candy to doll up your look. We especially love that they look like they were mix and match, but they actually come as a set! That makes it easy to get dressed in the morning.
On Jamie:Bangles: 41 Hawthorn, Mixed Bangle Set
Move with the Waves
Wavy textures have so much movement. Play up those waves with shapes and cuts that move, like Jamie’s Fit and Flare dress. And it perfectly matches her classic and feminine personal style!
On Jamie:Dress: Angie, Ingrid Striped Tank Dress
Go Retro
Stitch Fix wanted to choose pieces that would show off Cristina’s new pixie cut , so they chose a retro look. The round, pave burst earrings mirror the pattern on her dress, but don’t distract from the rest of the outfit. Cristina’s short waves and her cat eye diy sunglasses fit the retro look and feel.
Frame for Frame
Stitch Fix asked for all of Cristina’s measurements and then chose a piece that would suit her body shape. The classic, tailored dress fits Cristina’s petite frame beautifully because of its proportions and cut. If you have a similar shape to Cristina, look for dresses in this shape and silhouette.
On Cristina:Dress: C. Luca Lorelei Lace Top Dress
Ready for the Close Up
To complete the finished look, Stitch Fix added an elegant pair of pave burst earrings to draw the eye back up to her framed face and cropped 2C curls.
Remember to draw the attention back to you and your lovely hair. This means selecting accessories that complement your do’ and turn heads at the same time.
On Cristina:Earrings: 41 Hawthorn, Pave Burst Flower Stud
1. Q: How much does the average person’s hair grow each month?
Some people will grow a little more; some a little less. Factors such as heredity, nutrition, underlying health, medications, as well as follicle damage from hair-processing or styling, can all affect the rate of growth of an individual’s hair.
Average hair growth is about a half-inch per month.
2. Q: What are some of the things that can inhibit hair growth?
Factors that may inhibit hair growth or contribute to hair thinning and hair loss are many and varied, including: poor nutrition, stress, hormonal imbalances (including menopause, which is associated with increased dihydrotestosterone (DHT”>, the main cause of hair loss in both men and women”>, side effects of some medications or medical procedures (e.g., gastric bypass, chemo/radiation treatment”>, thyroid imbalances, immune dysfunction, and damage from hair-processing chemicals or styling practices.
3. Q: Can you actually do things to speed up hair growth?
The main thing you can do to encourage faster, stronger hair growth is to eat a healthy and balanced whole-foods diet, and ensure that you stay hydrated. Consume plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables along with adequate high-quality protein, healthy fats and oils, and liberal amounts of water and herbal tea or green tea. At the same time, minimize refined and processed foods and excess sugar, which promote inflammation in the body (including the hair follicles”>.
4. Q: What are some ingredients that can stimulate hair growth and how do they work?
Important hair-healthy nutrients that help stimulate hair growth include silica and sulfur; vitamins A, C, and biotin; minerals including iodine, zinc, and selenium; antioxidants; amino acids; essential fatty acids; and herbs which support healthy circulation, such as Bu Gu Zhi (Psoralea corylifolia”>. These key nutrients and many others are included in Hair Essentials, an all-natural dietary supplement for revitalizing follicles and stimulating healthy hair growth.
- Silica is the most abundant mineral on earth, so it’s no surprise that nature’s ‘beauty mineral’ is also important for hair growth. Silica is renowned for its ability to strengthen hair and improve texture and sheen. Two of nature’s richest botanical sources of silica are Bamboo and Horsetail.
- Sulfur is another element that is particularly beneficial for encouraging strong, luscious locks. Sulfur imparts structural integrity to the hair shaft and helps maintain hair shaft diameter and density of hair growth. The sulfur-rich amino acids cysteine and methionine, as well as foods from the Brassica family (broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, kale, collards”> and onions and garlic, are excellent sources of this important element.
- B vitamin biotin is important for ensuring proper cell division within the matrix of the hair follicle, one of the most rapidly dividing areas of the body. A deficiency of this B vitamin, though rare, is associated with alopecia (hair loss”> and poor quality growth of new hair, including slower growth and thinner hair. Biotin also improves the metabolism of scalp oil (sebum”>, making the scalp a healthier environment for hair to grow in. Too much or too little oil on the scalp can impede or inhibit hair growth and also encourage infections and inflammation of the follicles.
5. Q: Breakage can be a huge issue for curly girls. Can these ingredients also strengthen the hair?
Absolutely! By nourishing the follicles from within with vital hair-healthy nutrients, the hair that is produced is stronger and more resilient. This helps reduce susceptibility to breakage from damage caused by physical stress (such as hairstyling or blowdrying”> or chemical stress from coloring, straightening, perming or other processes.
Writer Paulina Nelega is a registered clinical herbalist for Hair Essentials and has been assisting individuals facing hair loss for nearly two decades. This post is sponsored by Hair Essentials, a breakthrough proprietary blend of more than 20 herbs, vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, amino acids and other nutrients. It can be purchased online or by calling 800-536-9353.
This weekend we attended Texture Revolution: The Science event in Dallas, hosted by Naturally Divine Beauty. Audrey Davis-Sivasothy, author of the must-read book The Science of Black Hair, taught us about the hair growth equation, split ends, protein sensitivity, and of course, moisture! One of our favorite curlfriends CharyJay talked about coming out of her shell on YouTube. Stylist Karen Wilson showed us simple, new hairstyles to try at home. Betty Murray taught us about nutrition and eating for optimal hair growth. And one brave audience member even big chopped on stage!
Watch the Video
We put together this recap video to show you what our day was like!
NaturallyCurly: Please introduce yourself!
Korrie Kelley: My name is Korrie Kelley! I am a happy wife to my husband of 13 years (and my childhood sweetheart!”> and I am having the time of my life raising our two handsome, fun and energetic sons.
NC: How and when did you start embracing your curls?
KK: I’ve been natural for two years and two months…it’s the best decision that I’ve made concerning my hair. My husband had been begging me for ten years to go natural. It was a real struggle because I started getting relaxers when I was ten years old and I couldn’t remember what my natural hair looked like! I started transitioning from my relaxer to my natural hair and I loved what I was seeing. Beautiful curls!NC: What’s your current routine?
KK: My current routine mainly consists of wash-and-gos. I love them because I am a busy wife and mother…I don’t have time for a super elaborate routine! I do a wash-and-go every 3 or 4 days.
NC: So from start to finish, on a curly day, what’s your process?
KK: I co-wash every 3 or 4 days with Tresemmé Naturals Conditioner for moisture, finger detangle in the shower and quickly rinse my hair with cool water, leaving some of the conditioner in my hair. When I get out of the shower, my hair is dripping wet. I use an old t-shirt to gently scrunch the bottom of my hair. Then I section my hair and work my SheaMoisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie, followed by Kinky-Curly Curling Custard. Pretty simple.I also deep condition with coconut oil every two weeks and shampoo about once a month with either Kinky-Curly Come Clean or Tresemmé Naturals Shampoo.
NC: What are your favorite hairstyles to wear?
KK: I’m still learning about all the different ways to style my hair…my favorites are my wash-and-go wear out and up-dos. I also love to wear scarf headbands with pops of color!
NC: What are your must-have products and tools?
KK: My fingers and conditioner!NC: What do you do at nighttime for your hair?
KK: At nighttime, I pull my hair to the very top of my head with a satin scrunchie–this technique is known as “The Pineapple.” Then I cover my hair with a satin cap and I sleep on a satin pillowcase.
NC: What about your hair stylist?
KK: I trim my own hair about every six months. My hair colorist is Jamie Ainsworth at K Salon and Spa…she is awesome! She is Caucasian but her dream hair is an afro! She was very influential in my decision to go natural.
NC: What reaction did you get when you decided to go natural?
KK: It shocked some around me at first, but grew very quickly on them. Everywhere I go people approach me and tell me how much they love my hair. I’ve gotten so much attention that my older son asked if I was the only lady in Mississippi with natural hair!
NC: Did you big chop or transition, and for how long?
KK: I transitioned using flexirods on the relaxed ends and I trimmed my hair every few months. I did that for about sixteen months, then trimmed the remaining straight pieces and did my first wash-and-go. I loved it!
NC: What is the best thing about being curly?
KK: I feel free being curly! I feel like myself. I also love being able to experiment with color without worrying about my hair breaking off and falling out because of the double processing.
NC: What would you tell others to encourage them to embrace their curls?
KK: Go for it! Be patient and to give their hair lots of love. It’s not about whether or not you have “good” hair. We all have good hair! Everyone is different and that is what I love.
NC: Tell us about your current and upcoming projects.
KK: My husband and I have always lived in Mississippi and for the first time, we are moving to another state! We’re really excited to be headed to South Carolina, in the Charleston area. Taking a leap of faith and seeing what God will do is exciting.
I started juicing vegetables this year initially to lose the last 5 pounds of baby weight. About one month into juicing, my husband started to complain about having to shave every day.
While listening to him mumble under his breathe, “I don’t why I’m having to shave so much…never had to shave this much before…” I had an aha moment—it was the juice!
I had just done the big chop three months prior to my juicing and had some phenomenal hair growth as well. Friends and family were commenting on how fast my hair was growing, but I had just attributed to the fact that I had stopped perming my hair.
My research hat went on and I started investigating juicing and hair growth! I came to find out that my favorite go to juice included two vegetables that were known for evoking hair growth—cucumbers and carrots!
Hair Growth Tonic
This is the very first juice in the 30-day plan, for the morning of Day 1, Week 1.
- 1 cucumber
- 1 cup of alfalfa sprouts
- 1 cup of spinach
- 1 lemon
- 1 large carrot or two medium carrots
- 2 apples
- 2 stalks of celery
- 1 inch piece of ginger
This juice is my go to hair amplifying juice. It serves as an energizing drink in the morning and has so much good stuff for your hair in it that it’s ridiculous! Many people, who are coffee drinkers, find that over time they can replace their coffee for green juice as their morning pick-up.
This juice 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. It also includes alfalfa sprouts. Alfalfa is a legume rich in calcium, magnesium, potassium, folic acid, zinc, silicon, vitamins A, B complex, C, E and K and other nutrients that are important for your hair. The spinach is a vital vegetable in this recipe because it is rich in Vitamin A and Vitamin C, which the body uses to produce oils in the scalp.
If these vitamin levels are up, hair is sure to grow quickly. Celery is a hair growth stimulator. It thickens the mane and can reduce hair loss. Carrots are a great source of vitamin A, which aids general scalp health and will help thicken up your mane. This veggie is also high in beta-carotene. Your body transforms beta-carotene into vitamin A. This process not only helps keeps the hair you already have healthy but promotes hair growth. Carrots are a great source of vitamin A, which aids general scalp health and will help thicken up your mane. This veggie is also high in beta-carotene. Your body transforms beta-carotene into vitamin A. This process not only helps keeps the hair you already have healthy but promotes hair growth.I have several friends transitioning and shared with them my secret. Then I thought why not share with as many naturalistas as I can. Hence the creation of JuiceMyFro!
JuiceMyFro
JuiceMyFro is my e-guide that explains what juicing is and shows you how to use juicing aide in your hair growth. The guide includes a 30-day hair growth juicing plan with recipes and weekly shopping lists.
I have a confession to make though, although I wrote JuiceMyFro to help my natural sistas grow their hair faster, I also had another ulterior motive—to introduce green juicing to black women. Let’s face it, we will try anything for our hair!
You will be surprised by how enjoyable the juices actually are. Some side effects to green juicing include weight loss, increased energy, and glowing skin! What have you got to lose! Join the community. Happy Juicing Your Fro!
Deep Conditioner for Summer
NaturallyCurly member Curly-Kinky shared her recipe for her hydrating coconut milk and honey deep conditioner. She says the coconut milk is rich moisturizer that hydrates, conditions and defrizzes your curls.
Avocado is natural source of protein, ideal in the summer when swimming and chlorine has been robbing your hair of protein. The olive oil provides protection, because hydrophobic oil acts as a barrier to chlorine and salt water. And lastly the honey conditions and adds a sheen to your curls.
What You’ll Need:
- 1 can pure coconut milk
- 1 ripe avocado
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp pure honey
Directions:
- Add all ingredients to blender
- Mix at high speed until it reaches a smoothie consistency
- Section hair into 4 segments
- Apply generously and evenly to hair, from root to ends concentrating on ends
Curly-Kinky says you can store your smoothie in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. You can warm up your hair smoothie in the microwave before your next application.
Feel free to substitute the your favorite natural oil for the olive oil. Play with the amounts depending on your hair, for example you can add more oil for any extra moisture needed, or another tablespoon of honey if you need more shine.
One of our readers who tried this out said it is a “great mix for low porosity curls like; heaps of moisture without lots of oil and just enough protein to treat my curls to a lovely natural restructure.”
Have you tried this recipe before? Let us know if it worked for you.For more curly mixology recipes, or to share your own favorite at-home treatments, go to our Recipes section.
Pros & Cons of Curly Hair
The product:
Save Your Do Gymwraps & Restorative Hair Serum
The claim:
The Gymwrap’s “Edge Control Technology” is meant to wick away moisture from your hair, allowing heat to escape and keeping your hair dry from sweat.
The test:
We’re always on the lookout for ways to stay healthy whether it’s our fitness or our curls. In this case, it’s both! NaturallyCurly Editors Nikki, Cristina and Evelyn tried out the gymwraps and the hair serum. Watch the video to see how the Gymwraps held up to a run in Austin’s 100 degree weather, and if Evelyn approves of Argan oil for her natural hair.
Watch the Video
We love getting to know our curly community every day, so we thought it’s only fitting that you to get to know our NaturallyCurly team too!
Introducing Susonnah Gonzalez, our bright and savvy SEO Strategist. Susonnah has been creating videos and articles for NaturallyCurly from way back, so you may already recognize her!
- You’re getting married soon, congratulations! Where are you going on your honeymoon? Susonnah: We’re going to Honolulu for our honeymoon! Hoping to sit on the beach all day, drink mai-tais and maybe try my hand at surfing.
- Packing any hair products? Susonnah: I will definitely be packing lots of leave-in conditioner and cleansing conditioner. My favorites are Paul Mitchell’s Leave-In Conditioner for curls and the L’Oreal EverCurl Cleansing Conditioner. I expect to be swimming every day so I’ll need the moisture.
- Your all-time Holy. Grail. Product. Susonnah: It may sound silly, but I can’t live without my DevaCurl microfiber towel. I notice a complete difference in the amount of frizz when I don’t use it.
- A project you’re working on right now Susonnah: My biggest project right now is my wedding, which is honestly like a second job. Once that’s done I hope to either start a blog or get back to writing stories.
- Favorite Austin spot Susonnah: I love Mt. Bonnel. I’ve spent a lot of time there and it’s where my fiance proposed. It’s one of the best views in Austin.
- Where do you go for wedding inspiration? Susonnah: When I need some wedding inspiration I go to OffbeatBride.com. It’s awesome! Tons of ideas for unique brides who want to do something different. When that doesn’t do it I take to good ol’ Pinterest.
- Favorite book Susonnah: My favorite book changes frequently. Right now, it’s Fight Club. It altered the way I think and its a great psychological thriller. And by the way, it’s so much better than the movie.
- Favorite snack Susonnah: I love popcorn…it’s my weakness. I can’t watch a movie and not eat it.
- Beauty/hair product you’d recommend to your friends Susonnah: I recommend The Oil by AG. I’ve been using it here at work and I love it. It smells awesome and it gets rid of my frizz. Yay for argan oil!
- Favorite part of working at NaturallyCurly Susonnah: I love the culture and feeling of community here at TextureMedia. Massages, snacks, movie days and happy hours is what makes working here fun. But there’s also this great sense of team work here that’s very addictive. When we’re all working towards the same goal it’s easy to feel connected and important to the company!
Suave Argan Oil Review
Do you usually use oil in your natural hair routine?
Evelyn: I usually use olive oil or coconut oil as a pre-poo treatment to soften & detangle my hair before cleansing. I also use a little to take down my twists or bantu knots. Oils are also great for doing blow outs.
How did you use the Suave Professionals Moroccan Infusion Moroccan Argan Styling Oil in your hair?
Evelyn: To take down twists or bantu knots in the morning, I use about 2-3 pumps of the Suave Moroccan Argan Oil. After emulsifying it in my hands, I run it down the length of each section.
Any tips or advice for other people considering trying out this product?
Do you usually use oil in your natural hair routine?
Clare: I mostly use oils to add shine and softness to my wavy hair. I tend to like light oils that won’t weigh down my Type 2A hair.
How did you use the Suave Professionals Moroccan Infusion Moroccan Argan Styling Oil in your hair?
Clare: I like to use this oil as a finisher and applied it to my damp hair after getting out of the shower. If my hair is dry and in need of some shine, I rub the oil between my hands and then scrunch it through the ends of my hair as I’m doing here.
How did your hair feel after using it?
Clare: It improved the look and feel of my hair especially the ends, since my hair is in dire need of a haircut. In this picture I flipped my hair forward to make sure I evenly distributed the product through my ends.
Any tips or advice for other people considering trying out this product?
Clare: If you have wavy hair like me, just focus this product on your ends. Definitely don’t apply this anywhere near your roots. Experiment with the amount your hair likes, but if you have Type 2A waves like me I would start with just one pump to begin with.
Do you usually use oil in your natural hair routine?
Nikki: I like to add olive oil as my deep conditioner, I’ve also used Moroccan oil before but it can get expensive. Suave Moroccan Argan Oil is a great alternative to the pricier products.
How did you use the Suave Professionals Moroccan Infusion Moroccan Argan Styling Oil in your hair?
How did your hair feel after using it?
Nikki: It smelled great, and looked shinier for sure. As you can see in this picture I didn’t run my fingers through my hair because that would break up my curls. Rather, I just smooth my hands over my hair with a little bit of oil on them.
Any tips or advice for other people considering trying out this product?
Nikki: Everyone’s hair is unique, so it’s hard to give advice about what someone else’s hair might like. But if you have thick, coarse hair that’s a mix between Type 3B and 3C like mine, I recommend smoothing it over the length of your hair for some added shine.
NaturallyCurly: Please introduce yourself!
Elsie Loyola: My name is Elsie Loyola, but everyone calls me Elsita. I’m thirty four and from Puerto Rico, where it’s humid 24/7…day and night!
I’m an aesthetician–a makeup artist–and a dog lover. I’m also the middle child in my family, and the only one with big, thick curly hair. I got my texture from my dad’s side of the family.
NC: How and when did you start embracing your curls?
EL: I hated my curly hair when I was younger. I got relaxers and perms through all of my childhood but my hair still looked like a mess. In my twenties, I saw an episode of “What Not to Wear” which featured an African American woman with short, thick natural hair. I thought, “How’s he going to straighten her hair?” The stylist, Nick Arrojo, didn’t blow dry her hair straight…instead he used a leave-in conditioner and hair gel, sectioned her hair and finger twisted it. Her hair, once frizzy and dry, was now beautiful and full of smooth ringlets! I washed my hair and tried the technique. I was immediately hooked!
NC: What’s your current routine?EL: I recently learned about the “Curly Girl Handbook,” Devachan Hair Salon, and Lorraine Massie. Now my whole routine has changed. I stick to thick, creamy conditioners and I used curl custards and puddings. I co-wash once a week and style my hair in two-strand twists. I also shampoo once a month to remove any buildup.
NC: So from start to finish, on a curly day, what’s your process?
EL: I start with a mango/banana/coconut/olive oil pre-shampoo mask, which I leave in my hair for about an hour. Then I co-wash with conditioner, Pantene Co-Wash Cleansing Conditioner, or a sulfate-free shampoo. Next, I use Tresemmé Split Remedy Conditioner or an olive oil hair mask and leave the product for ten minutes before rinsing with cold water. I rinse with my head upside down so the product runs through the entirety of my hair.
After showering, I don’t towel dry…I squeeze excess water out with my hands. Then I spray my curls with a mix of water and setting lotion, section my hair and use more leave-in conditioner. Finally, I use a final hair oil or thick curl custard and do two-strand twists. I usually leave my hair twisted for a day or two. Once I unravel them, my hair can last up to a week!
NC: What are your favorite hairstyles to wear?
EL: I love wearing my hair loose and free. I only put my curls in a ponytail if I’m planning to wash them the next day. If I feel that my hair is too poofy in the front, I’ll put it in a barrette or a half-ponytail.
NC: What are your must-have products and tools?
EL: I have so many favorites! VO5 Conditioner, Tresemmé for co-washing or Pantene Naturals Co-Wash, Beyond the Zone Noodle Head or Super Sexy Texturize & Distort…the list goes on! I tend to gravitate towards products for African American hair…they work better for my hair.
NC: What do you do at nighttime for your hair?
EL: If my hair looks dry, I’ll moisturize with hair oil or leave-in conditioner and wear a silk scarf. Otherwise, I just sleep on it…it always looks nice the next day.
NC: What reaction did you get when you decided to go natural?
EL: Everyone loves my natural hair. It suits my personality and my lifestyle. I’m not the type of girl who enjoys spending time, energy and money on blow drying my hair. Now, my hair is super low maintenance and I get compliments on it every time I go out! People think that it’s a wig or a weave…they even ask to touch it! I worked at a girls summer camp last month and the girls loved to touch and style my hair. They would beg their moms for “Miss Elsie’s curls.” I styled their hair the same way that I style mine and they were so happy.
NC: Did you big chop or transition, and for how long?
EL: It took me almost six years to get back to my natural texture after the last relaxer. I just trimmed my hair every month or two.
NC: What is the best thing about being curly?
EL: For several seasons, straight hair was on trend. Now everyone wants curly hair! And if you have naturally curly hair, you’re lucky because 90% of the work is already done…you just have to tweak a few things to really bring out your curls. I also think curly hair is the perfect texture if you’re active and like to play sports or work out.
NC: What would you tell others to encourage them to embrace their curls?
EL: Lose the blow dryers and flat irons! Try wearing your hair natural, even if it is just for one day. You will look younger and you will receive tons of compliments. You will also love how low maintenance curly hair can be. Educate yourself (I recommend watching YouTube videos”> on how to care for and style your curls, get the right products and use techniques that work for your hair type. Wear your curls proudly!
NC: Tell us about your current and upcoming projects.
EL: I’m planning to make a Facebook account dedicated to curly hair—how to style it and the best products for each hair type and texture. It will have lots of pictures and tutorials.
NaturallyCurly member purplegirl shared her recipe for this light, herb infused essential oil.
What You’ll Need:
- jojoba oil
- fresh rosemary
- fresh sage
- horsetail herb
Directions:
- Put 8 oz of jojoba oil in a glass jar
- Add the herbs to the oil and seal the jar tightly
- Place the jar on a window sill for 2 weeks
For more curly mixology recipes, or to share your own favorite at-home treatments, go to our Recipes section.
NaturallyCurly: Please introduce yourself!
Doug Ratner: My name is Doug Ratner. I’m the lead singer/guitarist for my band Doug Ratner & The Watchmen; we’re a country fried rock ‘n’ roll band from Springfield, MA. We’ve had some major independent success and I’m trying to revitalize rock ‘n’ roll for the 21st century because it’s lying dormant right now! I’m also a huge animal lover…I have two german shepherds named Oggy and Trudy.
NC: How and when did you start embracing your curls?
DR: In late 2009, I started growing my hair out for good after my sister helped me put it in a pony for the first time. I’m a rock ‘n’ roller, so my image is directly related to who I am as an artist. My long, curly hair is a reflection of who I am as an artist…wild, untamed and passionate!NC: From start to finish, on a curly day, what’s your process?
DR: I let genetics do most of the work (I’m Jewish”> along with a healthy diet of organic meat and fish, vegetables, berries, and lots of avocados and coconut oil! I only wash my hair about 2-3 times a week, usually with Dr. Bronner’s Magic Soap. I also try to get 20 minutes of direct sunlight whenever possible and when I do wash my hair, I like to let it dry in the sun. I don’t use any artificial products on my skin or hair because I try to limit my body’s exposure to unwanted toxins/chemicals. Our skin is the largest organ in the body, and ensuring healthy skin is part of having healthy hair! What you put into your body directly impacts how you look and feel! And of course, adequate hydration is a must.
NC: What are your favorite hairstyles to wear?
DR: I keep my hair in a ponytail if it’s really hot out, but I like it down and wild! Sometimes I put a bandana around it to keep the curls out of my face and when it was in its growing stages, I used a headband to keep it back.
NC: What are your must-have products and tools?
DR: Dr. Bronner’s is great because I can bring it on the road to wash my hair, wash my body and brush my teeth. Other than that, my must-haves are sunshine, water, healthy food and a healthy mind.
NC: What about your hair stylists?
DR: I have a stylist in my hometown who cuts my hair. She’s always trying to get me to try new products, but I never do.
NC: What do you do at nighttime for your hair? DR: Sleep! Healthy sleep patterns are so important for a healthy immune system, which affects our bodies and therefore our appearance. I also sleep with my hair down, not in a ponytail. I like to let it breathe and restore itself while I do the same.NC: What reaction did you get when you decided to go natural?
DR: I get a lot of looks and stares from people…and usually a lot of compliments from girls!
NC: What is the best thing about being curly?
DR: It’s a form of self-expression and it’s another way to let people know about my music and passion! And my heroes (Roger Daltrey, Eddie Vedder, Slash, to name a few”> all have long curly hair. When I’m up on stage I feel empowered in a way, like I’m paying homage to them.NC: How do you think having curly hair impacts your life?
DR: I don’t want to say that it makes me unique because with or without my hair, I believe that I’m a unique individual. But it does make me very recognizable and it adds to the branding of my band and my look. A lot of people remember me because of my hair on stage and they’ll recognize me in a restaurant or even walking down the street. Fans will tell me that they noticed me crossing the road because they recognized my hair. It’s really cool! In our upcoming album, I write about my long hair in some of the songs.
NC: What would you tell others to encourage them to embrace their curls?
DR: If it’s who you are, embrace it 100% and never worry about other people’s negative opinions. Deep down, people are yearning for a way to express themselves and find happiness, and that takes truth and honesty. By letting your hair grow out and be curly, you’re making a statement and expressing yourself in the most natural way.
NC: Tell us about your current and upcoming projects.
DR: We’re finishing up our third album—it will be released in the middle of August. We also start shooting our music video soon…for the same song that talks about my hair! Then we’re going on tour through the Midwest and the South from August 15th-25th. Lots of awesome stuff coming up.
Want to check out Doug’s band? You can find Doug Ratner & The Watchmen on their website, Facebook, or Twitter.
