Search Results: NaturallyCurly

By NaturallyCurly · Published January 23, 2012

The “bob” hairstyle — it’s a trend that just never goes out of style. It’s a classic and has been around for more than a century. But a curly classic? You bet! Curly bobs can work for any curl or wave type. It’s a truly universal style.

If you’ve been wanting to try a wavy or curly bob, go for it! But first, arm yourself with some good info, a few visuals and the right stylist. If you’ve had longer locks for a while, or never gone “too” short, be prepared to lose a few inches and gain a whole new look. You may even discover that your hair reacts differently with a brand new cut. Your curls may take on better definition. Your waves may become thicker and even more shiny. Best of all, bob hairstyles are in year-round too.

Talk with Your Stylist

Once you have an idea of what you would like to see, bring it your stylist (one who knows texture, curls and good styling skills”> and discuss the cut.

Remember to keep longer layers when going for this style since shorter layers can make curly bobs difficult to maintain for the first few days or week. Some type 2 and 3 curls and waves can even wear bangs with their bobs. Again, be sure to have visuals of what you are looking for and discuss the “reality” of having bangs with your stylist first.

Maintenance

Once your bob is cut, be sure to maintain the cut by visiting your stylist every 6 to 8 weeks to keep that length. If you want to go longer, allow the bob to grow out a bit , then return to your stylist and be sure to discuss lengths.

At home, though, you will need to follow a few styling steps for the perfect curly bob.

1. Use a good leave-in. Apply the leave-in on damp hair for type 2 and type 3, and to soaking wet hair for type 4.
2. Apply products in layers, gently, by smoothing them onto sections and keeping hair damp to wet (see above”>. If your hair gets dry as you style, keep a water bottle near by so you can wet a section again as you work.
3. Your fingers are a styling tool! Apply your favorite product to your curls, waves or kinks and finger twist sections to create better curl or wave pattern. After you’re done styling, there’s no need to touch your locks any more. Let them air dry or use a diffuser.

A well cut and styled bob makes for great second day hair. Simply use a water bottle to mist curls the next day and finger style again. You won’t need to saturate your locks, an easy misting will suffice. The water will trigger the products applied to your hair to start working all over again.

Accessorize

Curly bob styles can be done casually or dressed up by simply adding a pretty rhinestone bobby pin to the side. Headbands also work great with bobs and show off your locks (and look”> very well.

Final Thoughts

If this is your first bob style, be patient. It may take some time to grow into and get used to, but once you do, you’ll find a world of new looks and curls or waves that you may have never know before!

By NaturallyCurly · Published January 17, 2012

In this day and age, starlets are turning toward a long hair look to pair with their red-carpet dresses. SHE by SO.CAP.USA offers every day women a way to get in on the latest styles with Bondable Extensions for longer lasting style or Clip-In extensions for a more temporary alternative. Plus these guys are 100 percent real human hair (which means they can be treated as such — curled, straightened, styled, etc.”>, available in over 90 colors, three style varieties (straight, curly and wavy”> and suitable for any age, ethnicity or even look (professional to trend driven”>. The salon applied miracle instantly transforms an entire appearance in just seconds and requires very little maintenance. Seriously, what more could you want?

Natural hair extensions are a secret tool in the arsenal of leading celebrity ladies. Jennifer Anniston noted that she utilized extensions several times throughout her career for big events in the recent issue of InStyle and Selena Gomez’s new colored locks have spread like wildfire over the internet. Beyonce and Rihanna have also inspired us with their dedication to extensions, though we would love to see their real hair! Extensions bump up the volume to add luxurious body for ultra movement. Celeb fans of SHE by SO.CAP.USA include Lady Gaga, Britney Spears and more. This may be one hair trend you don’t want to miss the bandwagon on!

Body is Back & Loosely Tousled

Ultra glam and precisely styled, celebs stepped out on the red carpet with loosely tousled locks full of body and effortlessly chic. Madonna sported natural looking waves and Jessica Biel went minimal, opting for low-maintenance chic. Even Reese Witherspoon and Elle McPherson got in on the style with voluminous looks full of body and movement. Every day women can get this look by adding a few lengthening hair extensions from SHE by SO.CAP, towel drying hair and separating it into pieces — or using a curling iron to quicken the effect.

Sleek & Straight

Keep your style chic and simple with luscious long locks like Sofia Vergara, Clair Danes and Heidi Klum. The long, straight-hair look of leading divas is easy to attain by adding lengthening extensions and the help of a smoothing straightening iron and just a little bit of product. These SHE by SO.CAP.USA extensions can add that sexy lengthening factor for any woman out for a night on the town. Plus, you don’t have to damage your curls. Done and done!

Silver is Shiny!

Gray hair is all the rage with young style-centric celebs like Kelly Osborn, who showed up this year at the Golden Globes with a silvery up-do. If you’re hesitant to take the plunge with permanent color, try using gray SHE by SO.CAP.USA extensions to get the look without the commitment.

Bangs & Bobs

Michelle Williams went for a short, styled look, sweeping her pixie bangs off to the side. When it comes to making the plunge back to bangs, it can be petrifying to some women, as they can take months to grow back. Warm up to the style of The “My Week with Marilyn” star with SHE by SO.CAP.USA’s brand new bang extensions that can be added to any look for a fun, flirty addition.

Final Thoughts

Do you use hair extensions to get a quick, easy and temporary new look without causing any damage to your waves, curls and kinks?

By NaturallyCurly · Published January 13, 2012

Inspired by a one-of-a-kind bald Barbie doll created for a four-year-old girl who had suffered chemotherapy hair loss, a new Facebook group has emerged showcasing more than 40,000 “likes” for “Beautiful and Bald Barbie! Let’s see if we can get it made.”

Genesis Reyes, the child for whom the original bald Barbie doll was created, reportedly told her parents that she did not feel like a princess without her hair. A friend of the family asked a close friend who happened to be the CEO of Mattel to create a one-of-a-kind doll for Genesis.

Jane Bingham, one of the creators of the Facebook group, told MailOnline: “When I read the article about Mattel making a one of a kind bald Barbie for Genesis, I though how wonderful that would be, with so many other children dealing with hair-loss from chemo, alopecia or trichotillomania. I thought we could raise awareness for these conditions. Raise awareness that children get cancer too. It would be a win all around.”

So ladies, help the group out and let’s get to keeping up our mantra and spreading it to all girls everywhere: You are not your hair!

By NaturallyCurly · Published January 12, 2012

There are 2 days and 10 hours until  the Red Carpet Arrivals begin for this year’s 69th Annual Golden Globe Awards — not that we’re counting. To get your prepared for the big night, we got Wella Professionals to give us their tips and tricks for red carpet perfection.

Wella’s team of celebrity stylists will be tweeting LIVE during the red carpet arrivals to get tips, tricks and commentary on their favorite Golden Globe hairstyles through Wella’s Twitter (@WellaHairUSA”> and Facebook pages starting at 5pm EST! In the meantime, Wella Celebrity Stylist Andy LeCompte and Wella Colorist Aura Friedman have forecasted the hot Hollywood hair looks this Sunday night.

Effortless Elegance

Be poised and perpetually glamourous without even trying!

Wella Professionals Celebrity Stylist Andy LeCompte says, “I think that we will see a peak in fluid textures that suggest effortless elegance — very healthy and sleek hair that shows a lot of movement. This style will be popular with soft and light tones with a warm glow that emphasizes healthy, shiny hair representative of the Wella Trend Vision look aptly named, “Grace.” (GRACE pictured above.”>

Andy LeCompte has been no stranger to Golden Globes hairstyles. Since 2007 Andy has been styling the top stars including Penelope Cruz, Jennifer Lopez, Fergie and Megan Fox for the event. His favorite go-to tools include large hair pins, curling irons and straightening irons which allow him to play with hair texture.

To dramatically enhance shine, use Wella Professionals Enrich Moisturizing Shampoo and Conditioner to replenish moisture and volume for dry or damaged hair and finish your look with an overall spritz of Wella Professionals Shimmer Delight. Maximize this look with a hair color in a soft shade with warm undertones that will best compliment your skin tone.

Statement-Making Tones

Intense hues and statement making silhouettes

To the contrary, we can also expect to see daring, modern styles made possible by the evolution of hair tools and color. “We can look forward to the soft introduction of this very bold hair color trend at the Golden Globes this year,” says Wella Professionals Color Ambassador Aura Friedman. “Inspired by the Trend Vision look, ‘Roxy,’ this is an attention grabbing style where color plays an integral role. We will see a shift to cool red tones and bursts of violet – statement-making colors with an edge of sophistication.” (ROXY pictured right.”>

“A perfect color should complement the person who’s wearing it… but also suit their personality and lifestyle.” says Aura. “It should enhance, but not overpower.” To keep vibrant hues looking their best, Aura suggests you avoid shampooing too much and use a color-safe shampoo and conditioner like Wella’s Brilliance Line. If your hair is very dull, she also recommends getting a clear gloss to add instant vibrancy and seals the cuticle of your hair for added shine.

As for the style, this look does not shy away from shape or definition – tight curls and gravity-defying shapes can be expected. With such “atypical” styles being created with styling tools, it’s very important to prepare your hair with a heat protectant spray while styling, such as Wella Professionals Thermal Image Heat Protectant Spray. You’ll need to finish the look with a strong-hold hairspray, such as Wella Professionals Stay Firm Finishing Spray.

By NaturallyCurly · Published January 12, 2012

Its official, Katy Perry and Russell Brand are splitting. Okay, we aren’t the first to report it, but given Brand’s natural locks, we did have a bit invested in the relationship. We aren’t particularly concerned with their split in general. I mean, it is Hollywood where marriages come and go like child actors. Here’s what is worrying us though, and what may need to have you worrying too: divorce can cause hair loss.

Higher levels of stress, typically induced by divorce amongst other things, cause hair loss. Usually, this is a temporary situation in which your hair follicles go into their resting phase early, causing hair loss and thinning. The best way to rid yourself of the problem is to treat the stress itself. Once levels of stress are back to normal, your hair loss issues should disappear as well.

Then again, hair loss can also be caused by what we like to call hand-in-head syndrome in which you can’t get your hands out of your hair. Constant manipulation of hair follicles can cause hair loss, and when you are stressed, you have a higher tendency to run your hands through your hair more often. Depending on how long your increased stress levels last, this can easily become a habit that will be difficult to break – and hair loss will not be temporary.

As curlies, we know that touching our hair often is a big no-no, but at the same time, all the deep conditioning, moisturizing and detangling we do require us to get our hands in there. So for us, stress induced hand-in-head syndrome is not something to be taken lightly!

We would hate to see a natural haired celebrity man start to lose tresses a bit too early, and we would hate for it to happen to you too! So for the love of everything that is natural (including you!”>, get those hands out of your hair and get them busy on something else – like making homemade hair mask recipes with peppermint, which helps to boost energy levels and happiness. Done and done!

By NaturallyCurly · Published January 11, 2012

We aren’t laughing, Sony.

On the heels of “Stuff White Girls Say…to Black Girls,” by YouTube comedian Francesca Ramsey, which stirred both anger and hilarity as the video went viral, Sony Music has been ordered to pay $1.2 million for a song about natural hair they released in 1997 by Brazilian singer and comedian Tiririca  under the assertion that it is racist.

The song, titled “Look at Her Hair (Veja os Cabelos Dela”>,” compares natural hair to “a scouring pad for pots and pans” and says that it “smells worse than a skunk.”

Ten non-governmental organizations in Brazil, which fight against racism, brought the lawsuit forward. According to the Huffington Post, Humberto Adami, defense attorney of the NGOs, argued that natural haired women were offended, ridiculed and felt violated by the lyrics in the song.

The lawsuit is the largest monetary punishment for racism in Brazil and, according to Adami, the damages will be paid to the Diffused Rights Fund of the Ministry of Justice.

As for Sony Music, a representative stated that the lyrics were not intended to offend anyone and that the song was alluding to Tiririca’s wife. In addition, Sony called upon language differentiations saying that the language used in the song applies to both black and white women in Brazil, whereas in the English it seems to only refer to one race.

As for us, we aren’t so sure that is true. In fact, one lyric in the song states, “This black woman stinks,” which in English or Portuguese seems to be talking about just one race. Besides, if this song was really for his wife, why aren’t we including an “ex” in front of that marital status?

No matter what culture you come from, I’m pretty sure this song is offensive – merely for the fact that it exists at all!

Take a look at the lyrics for yourself:

Veja veja veja veja veja os cabelos dela (4x”>

(Look look look look look at her hair (4x”>

Parece bom-bril*, de ariá panela

(It looks like a scouring pad for pots and pans”>

Parece bom-bril, de ariá panela

(It looks like a scouring pad for pots and pans”>

Quando ela passa, me chama atenção

(When she goes by, she catches my attention”>

Mas os seus cabelos, não tem jeito não

(But her hair just isn’t right”>

A sua catinga quase me desmaiou

(Her stench almost made me faint”>

Olha eu não aguento, é grande o seu fedor

(Look, I can’t take it, her smell is so bad”>

Veja veja veja veja veja os cabelos dela

(Look look look look look at her hair”>

Parece bom-bril, de ariá panela (2x”>

(It looks like a scouring pad for pots and pans”> (2x”>

Eu já mandei, ela se lavar

(I told her to take a bath”>

Mas ela teimo, e não quis me escutar

(But she’s stubborn and doesn’t listen to me”>

Essa nega fede, fede de lascar

(This black woman stinks, she stinks horribly”>

Bicha fedorenta, fede mais que gambá

(Stinking beast, smells worse than a skunk”>

Final Thoughts

Sound off, curlies: do you think the lawsuit is justified, or do you think it is a hinderance of freedom of speech? Arguments are going both ways down in Brazil.

By NaturallyCurly · Published January 9, 2012

It is a question that plagues society from the smallest town middle schools to Hollywood and beyond: what does the perfect woman look like? Now, we aren’t endorsing that this is a valid question, certainly beauty is judged by the beholder for things much, much deeper than looks will ever be able to reach. Nonetheless, every year, some website or publication somewhere releases a photo of that year’s most beautiful woman – 2010 was Rihanna, no? We’re still waiting on the official word for 2011.

Well, beginning us off on the most beautiful foot, British website Feelunique.com asked its readers which features from which celebrities they would combine to make the perfect woman. Turns out, Angelina Jolie’s lips still hold massive merit. Rounding out the other categories, the perfect woman has Keira Knightley’s cheekbones, Megan Fox’s eyebrows, Gwyneth Paltrow’s chin, Cheryl Cole’s eyes and Kate Middleton’s hair.

None of this comes as anything super surprising, especially that the new Duchess of Cambridge made the top list for one of her attributes. I’m surprised Pippa’s bridesmaid dress wasn’t the clothing item of choice for the perfect woman considering how long that made national headlines. What is surprising though is that Feelunqiue.com users said that the reason Kate’s hair won best in show was for its natural wave.

Wait, so the perfect woman has texture? Albeit, it isn’t much – this was a study performed in Britain mind you – but I can’t help but smile a bit. Out with the long, straight-as-a-board strands and in with natural color and natural texture is what this “study” says to me.

On another note, the combination woman actually looks a lot like Kim Kardashian, who did not make the list at all (again, survey performed in the UK”>. Love or hate Kim, she definitely proves that outer-beauty is only skin deep – even if she does look like the UK’s version of the perfect woman.

Back across the pond and stateside, I say let’s stick to Rihanna.

By NaturallyCurly · Published January 4, 2012

All right ladies, so in response to all of the “Stuff [insert gender, race, etc. here] say” videos on YouTube, one vlogger, Chesca Leigh, took on the “Stuff White Girls Say…To Black Girls” subject. Like many of our posts before, this girl covers all the natural hair touching fascination, compliments and other “comments” natural hair women often hear.

Here’s the sound off though — what do you think of the post? Many women are hopping on Twitter and even spreading around one Thought Catalog article saying that the video isn’t offensive in and of itself, but that anyone who relates to it is.

As with all these “Stuff Whoever Says” videos, this one is intended to be a parody. While we can’t speak on any of the other scenarios in the video, we do know that as far as hair curiosity goes, most of us agree that “ hair touching” and receiving comments is truly innocent curiosity and even a chance for education. Of course, as always, you tell us!

Side note: This Chesca chick is AWESOME! Check out the rest of her videos and enjoy yourself a good laugh. With all that resolution keeping you have on your plate, you deserve it.

Stuff White Girls Say…

…to Black Girls

By NaturallyCurly · Published December 29, 2011

White Sands Hair Products’ interest in orchids for hair treatments was inspired from findings showing the flower’s mysterious capacity for immortality, beauty, and its versatility to adjust to different environments with vibrant color. Orchid cell membranes contain a longevity molecule allowing for this eternal quality. In short, as the plant cells age, they  continue to act as if they were brand new.

These unmatched features pushed Fernando Salas, the creator of White Sands, to ply chemists with questions concerning how orchid extracts could affect hair moisture and shine on various hair types (dry, oily, frizzy and curly”>, and if it could improve hair color retention.

After multiple tests, an orchid extract was found to provide the hair with the ability to hold moisture and control frizz which, in turn, gives the hair a high shine and the capacity to hold the desired hairstyle all day long.

Further testing of orchid extracts led to the idea of an oil. This new product, called White Sands Orchid Oil, was infusing hair with many of the same characteristics as the orchid flower.

Orchid Oil Test Results

Moisture Balance

Orchid oil provides moisture balance for hair that has become delicate from chemical treatments, thermal stress and daily UV and UVB exposure. It also brings the hair into a moisture balanced state by storing moisture at a consistent level and using it only when the hair and scalp need moisture. Tests also showed that even in high humidity areas, the oil would not allow an overabundance of moisture to weigh the hair down and make it frizzy.

Brilliance and Shine

Orchid oil fills in the cracks and imperfections in each hair strand giving a high shine and making hair brilliant. When the hair strands are in perfect moisture balance, it closes the cuticle layer and keeps the hair from frizzing, thus giving hair incredible shine.

Light Weight/No Residue

Orchid oil is very light weight and does not weigh the hair down. Unlike most other oils and shine products, it does not affect the hair’s ability to perform when styling. Because the orchid oil is not greasy and leaves no residue, the hair has the ability to hold a style with desired volume and texture.

Coarse and Curly Hair

Coarse and curly hair is the ideal candidate for the orchid oil due to its drier state. During testing, White Sands noticed that when they applied the orchid oil to coarse curly hair, it balanced the moisture and had consistency in texture for defined curls, making the hair soft and shiny. The orchid oil eliminates frizz and works in conjunction with other styling products to enhance texture and repel moisture, while enhancing vibrant color.

Final Thoughts

Would you use orchid oil to help define and moisturize your curls?

By NaturallyCurly · Published December 28, 2011

In a bind and need a quick holiday hair style for that last minute party? Celebrity hairstylist David Babaii lends his quick and easy style how to’s that will have everyone taking notice of your holiday glamour.

Additional Information about this Tip

1. Begin by applying Couture Colour Pequi Oil to dry hair and create a quick up-do by combing hair back into a low or upper nape ponytail and fasten. Take various size strands, looping, twisting or braiding them into and around the base like David did for Nicole Kidman. Secure with bobby pins. Spray with a flexible hold hair spray to keep in place. Add a decorative pin to finish this party look.

2. Have a busy day ahead? Secure all of your hair into a messy ponytail. The tighter you fasten and twist the ponytail, the more waves you will achieve. Then spritz it with IT&LY HAIRFASHION’s Pure Texture: this will serve as your first style of the day. This versatile style can work for either work or running errands. For the evening, undo the ponytail and you will have instant waves and texture like David created for Olivia Wilde. Flip your head down spritz with IT&LY HAIRFASHION’s Pure Hair Eco Hairspray and then flip back to create volume. For added texture spritz additional Pure Hair Eco. You can also twist one or both sides up and away from the face or add a decorative headband to finish the style.

3. Want a quick illusion like David did below for Scarlett Johansson? Begin by rolling your long tresses under and secure with pins creating a short “faux bob” look. Add headband or decorative pins for extra oomph. For a dramatic look sweep your hair over to one side and cup under for another quick change. Finish with White Sands Infinity Hairspray for a long lasting, flexible hold with shine. Everyone will think you cut your hair!

By NaturallyCurly · Published December 23, 2011

Looking for a few last minute gifts for curly, wavy and kinky-haired friends? There are so many great products to choose from, and some make it even easier to give stocking stuffer sizes to test out!

Friends may have suffered from bad curly hair days or seasonal changes. These products can not only be a kind gift, but quite helpful for dried out hair or frizzy locks.

Type 2 (Waves”>

Wavy-haired gals often have issues with volume, something curlier textures can’t imagine being a problem! So to help her out and make the most of her waves, toss these holiday gifts her way and she’ll thank you throughout 2012!

1. Duckbill Clips: a box of duckbill clips is a great way to help her achieve height at her crown and not have the dreaded triangle head.
2. Curlisto Bio Gel Mousse: Mousse is a great option for wavies as heavier products will weigh their hair down and straighten it out. Using a mousse that acts like a gel without the weight, like Curlisto Bio Gel Mousse, is perfect for type 2 sisters.
3. MOP Leave-in Conditioner: All textured gals need extra moisture than our straight-haired friends. Help out your wavy friend with a light leave-in like MOP Leave-in Conditioner.
4. Elucence Moisture Benefits Shampoo: Of all textured hair types, wavies are the most likely to need to shampoo at least once a week. Because shampoo can be so drying, Elucence Moisture Benefits Shampoo can help her get rid of product buildup and greasy roots without stripping her waves of needed hydration.
5. Curl Junkie Argan & Olive Oil Daily Hair Conditioner: Because wavies don’t need as much extra oil in their hair, given that their waves aren’t as difficult for their natural oils to run down, a simple oil-based conditioner is all they need to seal in moisture and hydration. Try Curl Junkie Argan & Olive Oil Hair Conditioner — she’ll thank you for it!

Type 3 (Curls”>

Type 3 curls are tighter and thicker than wavy hair, but not as coiled or dry as kinkier textures. Finding the perfect balance between heavy and light products, oil and lack thereof, and deep conditioning treatments versus time saving mechanisms is a curly girls dream! This holiday season, help it come true!

1. DevaCurl Mist-er Right: Curlies are masters at second day hair and a good refresher mist for day two, three or four is essential to keep her curls looking their best! Try DevaCurl Mist-er Right and she won’t be steered wrong.
2. Curl Junkie Coffee-Coco Creme: Because curly hair tends to be thicker and tighter, it can hold heavier products without worry. Heavy products offer a massive amount of hydration and sealing, which will keep frizz at bad and have her hair out shining Times Square. Try something like Curl Junkie Coffee-Coco Creme for a great smell, too!
3. Curly Hair Solutions Curl Keeper: Acting like a film of shiny plastic wrap over your outdoor furniture during a rainstorm, Curly Hair Solutions Curl Keeper doesn’t let outside moisture get close to her curls! Use this for no frizz, no worries and heck, no umbrella if you so desire!
4. Jessicurl Awe Inspiraling Spray: After a frizz free agent, your curly friend will need a little bit of hold for those ringlets. Be sure that she gets the best curly hair day from your gift with Jessicurl Awe Inspiraling Spray, which is specifically created just for her type 3 curls!
5. Curl Junkie Curl Rehab Treatment: Curlies need to deep condition at least once a week, but those treatments can get expensive and take up tons of time. Gift her Curl Junkie Rehab Treatment and she can take down her deep conditioning to once every other week, and because you footed the bill, she’ll save moola!

Type 4 (Kinks”>

Kinky coils are can be both thick and thin, but they are always tightly wound and can even come in a zigzag pattern. Help our your kinky haired friend with products that encourage multiple day wear and co-washing habits!

1. Miss Jessie’s Products: You would be hard pressed to find a brand that was as all-encompassing for kinky-haired ladies. Plus, the bottles come in trail sizes so you can push them right down into a stocking – or a cute little gift bag. Miss Jessie’s products are full of nutrients, oils and moisture — which kinky hair definitely needs to look its best! Try Curly Pudding, Curly Meringue or Curly Buttercreme for winter weather hair.
2. Curl Junkie Hibiscus Banana Deep Fix Moisturizing Conditioner: Type 4 coils need lots of moisture, and most kink-haired ladies deep condition at least twice a week. Spice up her regimen with Curl Junkie Hibiscus Banana Deep Fix Moisturizing Conditioner to keep her locks shiny and hydrated!
3. Gleau Nourishing Oil Blend: Because kinky coils are tightly curled, natural oils form the scalp have a hard time hydrating the hair. So give your coily friend the gift of Gleau Nourishing Oil Blend and she will forever be loyal!

Gifts for All Curl Types

Don’t forget these all-encompassing gifts for all curl types, be they wavy, curly or kinky!

• Wide tooth comb
• Satin pillow cases
• Clips and combs
• Hair glove or drying cloths/towels
• Homemade recipes for a friend (there are some great ones on NaturallyCurly.com and CurlyNikki.com — type them up and make a recipe book or box!”>

By NaturallyCurly · Published December 23, 2011

While there are many products out there for your friends with wavy and curly hair, there are a number of inspirational gifts you can come up with by adding a little creativity and some handcrafted elements.

1. A Whole Hair Journal Kit

Your friends may be trying new ideas and techniques. They like certain looks and colors. Why not create a kit with a journal made just for them?

Find a plain journal and decorate the cover with a special photo or hand drawn picture or painting. Inside, include cut outs of pics they like, links to try out and encouraging curly quotes for inspiration. Know your friends’ style and find photos that define their type 2 waves, type 3 curls or type 4 kinks. Pinterest, NaturallyCurly, Etsy and even Facebook are great sites to search for ideas, pics, and more!

Attach a pretty ribbon and tie a pen to the end so one is always available. Insert a pouch or pocket where they can store cut out articles, ads and other odds and ends. Don’t forget to sign the cover or leave a note of inspiration inside too!

2. Make it in a Mug

3. Get Knifty

If you know how to knit or crochet, you can make hats, caps and headbands for your friends. Loose fitting crocheted caps and hats are great for girls with curls! They help keep hair softer and frizz-free during the cold, winter months.

For type 2 waves, knitted headbands (adjustable”> are great gifts. Embellish them with floral elements or other fun stitches. For type 3 curls, loose fitting caps are a great choice. For type 4 kinks, knit hats and berets are fun and practical too.

If knitting and crocheting aren’t your skill-set, try your hand with a hot glue gun, some headbands and fabric flowers. Create a set of pretty headbands and/or barets, even a matching pin! Use flowers from a local craft shop or something vintage from your attic. Find ribbon and fabric to work with and layer into your masterpieces. Your friends will be thrilled to wear your artwork year-round!

4. Curly Hair Vision Board

Use a piece of thin chipboard, wood or corkboard. Paint or decorate the board with patterns, words or just a few pretty colors. Find photos of your friend with different stages of hairstyles. Pin them to the board (or use decorative tacks, clothespins, etc.”>

Make room for your friends to post future photos of themself and other photos they like and can see themselves trying out. A vision board can be a great place for inspiration. You may want to write or paint on  a few encouraging words as well.

5. Curly Hair Recipe Book

Final Thoughts

What fun homemade gifts are you making for your curly haired friends this year? Give us the deets and you might find yourself featured on NaturallyCurly.com!

By NaturallyCurly · Published December 19, 2011

We’re outraged to see a story like the following exist in 2011. It is ridiculous and racist to the extreme. We were going to do a write up for everyone and give our views on the topic as well, but have decided that the original CNN story says it all.

Go on, gawk in disbelief. You aren’t alone.

Article Courtesy of CNN

CNN — The Ohio Civil Rights Commission in Columbus will revisit next month a case it has already determined probably represents unlawful interference with housing rights on the basis of race.

The case was brought by Michael Gunn, a white man who had unrestricted access to the pool area for himself and his guests during the nearly two years he lived in a duplex in Cincinnati, he told CNN in a telephone interview.

Gunn said he and his girlfriend, who is also white, lived upstairs; their 31-year-old landlord lived downstairs. “It’s a very nice neighborhood, racially mixed,” said Gunn, a software engineer.

But it turned not-so-nice last Memorial Day, when he invited his 10-year-old biracial daughter to visit and swim in the pool, he said.

“Complainant states that the owner, Jamie Hein, accused his daughter of making the pool ‘cloudy’ because she used chemicals in her hair,” the commission said in its summary. “Days later, the owner posted a sign on the gate to the pool which read, ‘Public Swimming Pool, White Only.’”

Hein, who did not respond to a call from CNN, told the commission that she had received the sign from a friend and posted it in early May, the summary says. Several people interviewed by the commission staff confirmed that they had seen the sign, it added.

Gunn said he was “outraged” and made arrangements to find another place to live as soon as he could.

“We were extremely upset and moved out on June 21, 2011, in order to not expose my daughter to the sign and the humiliation of the message,” Gunn wrote in his complaint.

He said he never confronted Hein about the matter, but has no doubt that the sign was intended for his daughter. “She’s the only black person that I’ve ever known to swim in the pool,” he said.

Gunn said he sought to keep his daughter from finding out about it. “As white people, it’s kind of embarrassing,” he said.

But his ex-wife told their daughter, who became “quite upset,” said Gunn, who added that they live in a “nicer, more diverse” neighborhood now. “She can use the pool any time she wants, and there’s plenty of black kids that swim in the pool with her, too, and they’re not clouding it up.”

The commission’s initial investigation concluded that the posting of the sign “restricts the social contact between Caucasians and African Americans as well as reinforcing discrimination actions that are aimed at oppressing all ‘people of color.’”

But Hein has asked the commissioners to reconsider their original finding. The case, which was to have been heard Friday, was rescheduled for January 12 after Hein’s lawyer failed to show up, Gunn said.

“The one thing I hope to get out of this is that it wakes people up to realize that there are still people out there that feel this way,” Gunn said.

Final Thoughts

Let it loose, ladies! Do your hair products make pools cloudy? Is that a valid excuse? Are you as shocked and angry as us, and as Mr. Gunn and his family? Spill!

By NaturallyCurly · Published December 16, 2011

We’ve have all been there before — ready to try a new style or product  for our hair, then it fails. It’s so bad you can’t even recall why in the world you would have tried it in the first place!

Fear not, you’re not alone. Some things are worth testing out, while others, simply are not. Here are a few bad habits to steer clear of for wavy locks.

Less Mistakes, More Waves!

1. Put down the flat iron! Wavy hair can change in texture with enough heat damage. The wave pattern can be altered by using too much heat too often. Instead of the flat iron, allow your waves to dry  naturally. If you’re in a hurry, use a hair diffuser and dry 3/4 of your hair. Don’t touch it too much either, which can cause frizz.
2. “I’m letting it grow!” Longer lengths do look great for wavy hair. However, not getting a trim every 6-8 weeks can keep your hair from looking and feeling its best. Fewer trims can also slow down the growth and lengthening process. It’s best to book 1-2 appointments with your stylist so you stay on schedule with your hair’s health.
3. Go sulfate free! There are more and more shampoos out there with no sulfates and it’s best for wavy hair to make use of them. Sulfates can dry your hair out, something you want to avoid. Healthy hair does best with little to no sulfates. Depending on the density of your hair, you may not need to wash your waves every day, either. You can alternate by co-washing, just using conditioner on “shampoo-free” days.
4. Condition and deep condition! To get the most from your wavy pattern, and keep fly aways and frizz to a bare minimum, be sure to deep condition your hair once a week. Use a conditioner in the shower as well. For dry-weather conditions, it’s also advised to use a spray-in leave-in conditioner for your wavy hair as well. Conditioning helps maintain healthy, well moisturized hair which will prevent the fly away strands as well as frizz.
5. Keep it light. There are lots of styling products out there, but wavies need products that won’t weigh down their hair. Keep to mousses, or lightweight gels that can help enhance your wavy pattern. While your hair is wet, use long, duckbill clips at the top and sides of your head to help “lift” your locks a bit.

Final Thoughts

If you are still sleeping on a cotton pillow case, get with the program! Sleeping on satin pillowcases will help to protect your curls and help you maintain second, even third day hair! Cotton pillow cases are for novices, and not something you should have to live with!

By NaturallyCurly · Published December 14, 2011

We were all a bit disappointed back in 2009 when Mattel released their version of the multi-ethnic dolls. The African-American designer stated that she wanted the black dolls “to be an example to real girls.”

Unfortunately, the African-American community wasn’t totally on board with her statement, claiming that the dolls themselves were “just another example of how American loves to see African-Americans: as white as possible.”

Of the six dolls released in 2009, only one of them had natural hair, while all the rest had straight strands.

“Of course many black women do have hair like this,” says About-face.com. “But most don’t grow it that way naturally! There are six different dolls – why not six different kinds of hair?”

Since then, no largely distributed African-American Barbie doll has yet to rock multiple natural styles. Instead, the community just made their own!

Using pipe cleaners, boiling water and an overnight setting, many natural hair mothers have been transforming their daughter’s straight haired barbies into textured tressed beauties. CurlyNikki even tried it out with fabulous results!

This Christmas, noticing the lack of natural hair dolls, an African-American natural hair group in Georgia is transforming straight haired dolls into transitioned ones and gifting them to kids in Columbus’ Booker T. Washington Apartments.

According to Theroot.com, Candace McBride, a member of the African-American group coordinating the gift giving, said that it is hard to find dolls with brown eyes, let alone hair that will remind black girls of their own. So she found an online tutorial and made the dolls herself!

“We wanted to show the girls that basically, it’s OK the way God made you,” said member Jennifer Henderson.

As for us, we LOVE this! And we think it would be an even better, larger project to take the dolls to these girls and show them how to transform the dolls’ hair, make a story out of it, and teach them that they should be whoever they are – natural hair or straight!

By NaturallyCurly · Published December 13, 2011

Digital perms have been popular in Japan and Korea for years and can give you a permanent “just curled with the curling iron” look.

Kate Middleton’s luscious locks and to-die-for good looks only enhance her real-life fairy tale dream come true. And while her wedding dress may be out of your price range, you can dish out some cash for her soft, bouncy waves.

The princess’s look can be created with a digital perm. A digital perm is a massive move away from the perms of the 80s and uses temperature regulated hot rods to form the loose curl pattern.

This particular type of perm has been popular in Japan and Korea for years. Now, thanks to UK royalty, the loose lock look is jumping the big pond and swimming right up to Plymouth!

For those of us with super tight curls and kinks already, the digital perm isn’t something we may want to consider. Because the rods are hot, they must be kept away from the scalp in order to avoid burning it. Thus, only the ends of your hair receive the treatment leaving the top portion in the natural texture. A super tight to super loose curl pattern isn’t necessarily something we would recommend!

However, for those of your with type 2 waves that can often be unpredictable in their curl pattern, ranging from semi straight one day to almost perfect ringlets the next (if only you could bottle that day’s routine!”>, the treatment can be a wavy miracle. The overall look will be one that you can create by using a curling iron, but you won’t have to use one!

The digital perm will set your hair in to semi-permanent waves that will last up to six months! But beware: finer haired ladies may want to avoid the treatment since it has a tendency to fry thinner, less coarse strands.

Be sure to find a good salon with GREAT reviews before you head in and subject your hair to the chemicals and heat. Many a girl looking for more texture has had her hair fried because of salon with less experience. Most of the better digital perm salons are Japanese and Korean salons. If you have a Japanese or Korean area in your city, head over and start asking around. Chances are you’ll run into women who have had the treatment done themselves and can point you in the right direction. This is not a time you don’t want to ask around!

Final Thoughts

Use the Salon Finder and find a curl hair salon in your area that will show you how to make the best of your curls without chemically damaging it.

By NaturallyCurly · Published December 12, 2011

Brittany Delaware

Dove Hair’s new “Make Friends with Your Hair” commercial will premiere tonight, Monday Dec. 12, at 8:30 p.m. ET, showcasing a “real” woman who’s hair will have been made-over by Dove products rather than a model.

To win the spot in the commercial, contestants were required to submit a video and share their issues with their “dry, unpredictable hair.” Three finalists were chosen from the group, and then America voted on which of the three contestants needed the most help.

No surprise, the winner was a curly (as were two of the three finalists”>., 23 of Teleford, PA, sported an afro style in her finalist video, singing about how dry and unmanageable her hair is, how long it takes her to straight it, and how embarrassed she is of it. To us, it looks like the afro of a lot of our dreams — but to each her own.

In the advertisement airing tonight, viewers will get to see how Dove Nourishing Oil Care transforms Brittany’s type 4 curls from “dry, rough and frizzy” to “soft, smooth and shiny.” We’re assuming that means they are straightening it. Insert sad face here.

For those of you out there wanting to make friends with your hair, or for Mandy from WN, the other curly finalist, here are some tips to help you make friends with your hair — curls and all!

Brittany’s Dove transformation to soft, smooth and silky – straight. We called it. What do you think?

1. For dry curls: Oil is your best friend here, ladies. Rose oil, Moroccan oil, coconut oil, you name it will all do wonders for your dry curls. Here’s what’s up: because your hair is curly, the natural oils from your head that would otherwise coat straighter strands has trouble making it down your curls. No big deal — just add oil! Simply apply a bit to your hands and rub through your hair. Continue this process daily, unless you notice that your hair is getting too greasy, and your cry curls will quickly turn soft and hydrated.
2. For frizzy curls: Frizz is often a by-product of dryness. Avoid the frizz by making sure that your hair is properly hydrated. The curlier your hair, the less you should shampoo and the MORE you should condition. Co-washing is a great option for curlies. Simply wash your hair with a water-soluble conditioner (i.e. one that doesn’t contain silicones”>. By avoiding shampoo and only using conditioner, you aren’t stripping your hair of natural oils, and you are filling in the holes (curly hair is extremely porous”> with moisture. Now you hair won’t frizz up in search for hydration! Also, apply a deep conditioning treatment once a week to help seal in moisture and keep the frizz at bay.
3. For shiny curls: Shiny curls are healthy curls, plain and simple. When you properly moisturize by co-washing, deep conditioning and sealing with oil, you hair will shine like your over zealous neighbor’s christmas lights. Also, be sure that you are aware of what you are putting in your hair. Avoid silicones and opt for more all-natural products that are water-soluble so that co-washing can work it’s magic without having to beat out any over-processed chemicals.

Final Thoughts

We’ll be tuning in this evening to catch the commercial, if only to see how Dove Nourishing Oil Care works and what it can do for both curls and straight strands. After all, we know oil is a miracle product for curls, so here’s to hoping Dove knows it, too!

By NaturallyCurly · Published December 12, 2011

Want to test out a new look this season, without actually diving all the way in? No problem! Wavies can create faux bobs whenever they want, and this one worn by Hilary Swank on the red carpet is the perfect holiday hair style for any party, whether you’re trying to impress the boss or the boyfriend!

MORE: Curly Holiday Updos or Kinky Holiday Updos

Wavy Faux Bob Updo to Impress

A faux bob shouldn’t take long to do, but be sure you have a curling iron, heat protectant, bobby pins and hairspray on hand before you begin.

It is also helpful to start on a just washed head of hair. Be sure to set your curls best you can before you begin by co-washing in the shower and using duck bill clips during the drying process.

1. Start at the ends of your hair, sectioning your waves off into three or four sections. Your waves will help to decide the amount of hair in section. Be sure not to disturb the curl pattern.
2. Pull hair up to your desired length, somewhere around the nap of the neck. Be sure to be holding the hair by the middle of the hair shaft. Then, bobby pin the ends underneath the fold. You may need to use 5 or more bobby pins for each section in order to make sure there are no inconsistencies in the hair from the back, aka blank areas.
3. Once all hair had been folded and pinned up, either pull a couple front sections out, or simply use the pieces that were too short to pull back. Using a curling iron, wrap a face framing wave around the barrel and hold for 5 seconds. Release and mold into place with your finger, then hairspray it to help it keep its hold.
4. When finished, spray your hair with a firm holding hairspray and be sure that the bobby pins feel secure. Remember that the most secure use of a bobby pin is in the X formation. Shake you head a bit and if nothing falls out, or feels like it is going to fall out, then you are good to go!

Overall, this holiday hair style shouldn’t take you more than 15 minutes. Just be sure that you apply a heat protector to your face framing waves before you put a curling iron to them! And there you have it, a faux bob that just might result in a full on bob come the New Year!