Search Results: NaturallyCurly
When the 2012 edition of the Guinness World Records was announced, one category literally stood above all others.
Aevin Dugas, a native of New Orleans, was crowned the record-setter for the world’s largest Afro, the first time the record has been recorded. Her Afro measures out to a 4-foot, 4-inch circumference and is as big as a disco ball.
Since the announcement, Aevin’s life has turned from working gal to world-traveling speaker, encouraging other women to go for the gold, or at least to go natural!
We caught up with her and got the scoop on how she keeps her curls so healthy, how long she has been growing out, and much, much more!
Patience, Conditioning and Creativity!
How long have you been natural and how did you wear your hair before you did so?
I’ve been natural for 12 years. I wore my hair in relaxed various styles before.
What was your transitioning process like? What spurred the change?
I transitioned for a year—getting my hair braided, rodding, etc. Then, after a year, I was comfortable with my length, so I finally cut the ends off. It was easy once I figured out how to style it, and then I was ready for the big chop.
Many women experience a negative reaction from friends and family when they decide to go natural. What has your experience been like?
I did have a negative reaction from one family member, but other than that everyone loved it! Needless to say, that family member’s spouse ended up going natural too! Haha!
What is your current regimen and what are you go-to products?
My regimen is pretty simple. I shampoo with Suave Clarifying, then follow with Suave Almond and Shea and Garnier Fruictis Triple Nutrition. Then I condition with Aussie Moist, Garnier Fructis Triple nutrition, Pantene Nature Fusion Moisture Balance, Pantene Beautiful Lengths and Dove Intense Moisture. During the week I work out, so I leave the conditioner in and put my hair up into a donut or a French braid. Then by Thursday, if I have plans for the weekend, I’ll rinse the conditioner, shampoo again with the Triple Nutrition and then style.
Believe it or not, I use a lot of over-the-counter products. One of my favorites is Aussie 3 Minute Miracle!!
So many women struggle with the grow-out process: breakage, shrinkage, moisture, and even lack of ideas for hairstyles! How did you handle those issues?
Back then, there weren’t any sites that I knew of to help or offer advice, so I had to be creative. For styles, I would just think of a style and try it, and luckily it would always come out cute! Thank goodness!
What are your go-to hairstyles, and how do you get your signature ‘fro?
My go-to hairstyle is either a donut, French braids or a two-strand twist. As for my afro, in the winter is the best time to wear it! My own personal earmuffs!
I shampoo, condition then put it into two French braids. Let them air dry, then take them loose, add a little moisturizer, then pick them out one at a time. I spray a little water on it to shape it to my liking.
Has your natural hair empowered you or helped you to find yourself in a way that relaxed hair never did?
Actually, it has to a degree! I’ve gotten to a point where any black woman I saw, I was trying to convince her to go natural.
How do people react when you wear your Afro?
They love it, want to touch it and take pictures of it!
As far the touching, there is definitely a natural hair fascination in our culture! What are your thoughts on boundaries when it comes to touching without asking?
I didn’t mind at one time, but recently I had someone pull it. With that being said, I don’t think too many people will be allowed to touch it anytime soon.
On a different note, this is the first year that the Guinness World Records has recorded the world’s largest afro category. Do you think that this is a major marker in the natural hair movement, reinforcing the idea that natural hair is not just a trend, but a lifestyle?
At first I thought it was just a contest. But now that I see how people responded to the record, I think it’s wonderful for the natural hair community! All races were excited about the afro and really showed alot of respect for our natural hair.
What advice would you give women who are just beginning their own natural hair journey?
Patience, deep conditioning and creativity!
Want More?
Check out CurlyNikki’s interview with Aevin from last year, before the Guinness World Records found her!
Final Thoughts
I’d just like to thank everyone who has been so supportive since the Guinness World Record announcement. I truly appreciate all the kind words of encouragement!
As summer winds down and fall temperatures begin to set in, it is about time to address the summer hair damage to your curls with a fall routine that will have your tresses blessing your name as the harsh winter months set in.
This fall, functional protection is the way to go! Ditch the blow fryer because your hair doesn’t have the strength, and toss the tools because you don’t need to lose any of that bulk!
Fall is all about protecting your curls in the most functional way possible—and with the new Monoi line from Carol’s Daughter, we can show you how!
Fall Care for Summer Hair Damage
Depending on your hair texture, you may need to wash your hair and follow this routine either more or less often. Work with your texture to get the best results: Type 2 will need to wash more often, Type 4 less often. Repeat the following process every time you wash your hair.
Recommended Products
- Deep conditioner: Carol’s Daughter Monoi Repairing Hair Mask
- Oil: Carol’s Daughter Macadamia Heat Protection Gloss
- Shampoo: Carol’s Daughter Monoi Repairing Sulfate-Free Shampoo
- Conditioner: Carol’s Daughter Monoi Repairing Conditioner
- Leave-in: Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Leave In Conditioner
- Holding product: Carol’s Daughter Hair Balm
- Apply a deep conditioner or oil to dry hair. Cover with a plastic cap and heat cap it for 15 minutes. Hop in the shower and rinse.
- Thoroughly saturate hair with water and divide into two sides. Cleanse the hair with shampoo, one side at a time, and rinse thoroughly.
- Apply conditioner to both sides in a smoothing motion. Pass your head back under the water for a few seconds to distribute the conditioner better and add slip. Clip hair up and out of the way for the rest of the shower.
- Before you get out, take down the right side of your hair and detangle it, using your fingers, while your hair is under the water stream. Follow up with the left side. If the conditioner is washed away and tangles are left, add more conditioner and repeat. The power of the water stream and the slip of the conditioner should make detangling a breeze.
- Hop out of the shower and blot away moisture with a t-shirt. Apply a leave-in conditioner, oil and product.
Want More?
Browse all Carol’s Daughter curly hair products and see what women like you have to say about the experience.
Final Thoughts
You don’t have to take our word for it that this routine and those products will nurse your damaged summer locks back to health.
Aveda lead stylist, Antoinette Beenders created long, alluring wavy hairstyles at the Christian Siriano Spring/Summer 2011 Fashion Week show. The hair captured the same energy as the collection’s muse: a smart, flirtatious girl with captivating charm.
“The hair for Christian Siriano this season is playful and looks effortless.” said Beenders. “We’ve updated the loose, beachy waves of the 90s with a more groomed look that’s smart, young and approachable. I was inspired by Christian’s muse for this collection: a charming, smart girl who radiates happiness. The hair is super wearable and reflects her flirty, yet clever nature. It’s fun, fresh and modern — just like the collection.”
How You Can Get the Look
- Dampen hair at the root with Aveda Volumizing Tonic and blow dry with a large round brush to create natural volume. For added lift, use Aveda Control Force Firm Hold Hair Spray as a setting lotion while blow-drying by lightly misting the hair.
- Use a one-and-a-half-inch barrel curling iron to curl one-inch sections of hair away from the face until all hair is curled. Rake with fingers to loosen.
- Flip hair upside down and gently brush curls through using a hair brush.
- Flip hair back up. Create a deep side part and gently smooth out the top of hair using a comb, maintaining volume at the part.
- Spray a makeup brush with Aveda Brilliant Spray-On Shine and stroke the brush over hair from roots to ends to give a healthy shine. Keep style in place and protect against humidity with Aveda Control Force Firm Hold Hair Spray.
Want More?
Browse all Aveda hair products reviews from users just like you, and find your miracle product!
Final Thoughts
Loose beachy waves are perfect and easily attainable wavy hairstyles for 2A to 3B hair types. Always remember, though, to protect hair from excessive heat styling by deep conditioning once a week!
What do YOU do to keep your beach curls healthy?
Autumn is near and trendy women are seeking fashionable new curly hairstyles for fall and winter. Many of the hottest hairstyles are virtually carefree, while others may require some taming. It doesn’t matter what look a woman chooses, Prosilk leads the industry with professional hair care products designed to keep hair in the peak of perfection.
Top autumn and winter hairstyles are featuring angles that frame the face, from sassy bobs and bangs to mid-length hair, to create drama and flair. Retro cuts are making a comeback, along with braids that can be worn singly or in multiples. The styles are already being seen on top celebrities walking the red carpet and models on the runway.
Feather Hair Extensions
A top hair accessory for styles of any length are feather hair extensions, first popularized by Aerosmith singer, songwriter and frontman, Steven Tyler. Celebrities from Jennifer Love Hewitt to Hillary Duff are donning feathers from their favorite salon to create unique looks.
Feather hair extensions can be treated just like regular hair and Prosilk products provide gentle cleaning for the fashionable feathers. Radical hair color changes are also being paired with autumn and winter curly hairstyles to compliment client looks and the seasons.
Get up to date on the newest, hottest fall 2011 hair trends! »
Curly teen hairstyles work for everyone this season! »
Read Cassadie’s entire curly feather extension story. »
Bobs
This season’s short curly hairstyles feature layered bobs of varying lengths. They’re practical and represent an easy care style for busy women on the go. Bobs flatter faces of all shapes, while providing a hairstyle that’s equally appropriate in the office or a glamorous night on the town. Women of all ages are adding bangs to their cuts, from short and chic bobs to luxurious long tresses. They’re cropping up as angled, curvy and rounded styles to compliment a variety of looks.
Retro styles run the gamut and are being sported by top celebrities that include Rihanna and Sara Jessica Parker. The bouffant is back, along with teased creations, big hair and pinup curls.
Ponytails & Braids
Those with longer hair can take advantage of the classic ponytail and braided curly hairstyles. Curly braids styles are versatile, offering women a range of styles, from a single braid down the back, or wrapped on top of the head for a sophisticated look reminiscent of the legendary Audrey Hepburn.
Wild Styles
Wild, bold hair is also making an appearance for locks with attitude. Disconnected layers, spikes, uneven pieces and unruly is the order of the day for those with an adventurous spirit, and you curlies! The style can be combined with soft curls, bangs and retro elements, or paired with a punk look for a unique fashion statement.
Rock bangs this fall! Find out how to get them! »
Get the look: learn how to do a twist out on short natural hair! »
Fall & Winter Curly Hair Trends
- Those looking for new curly hairstyles for autumn and winter have a multitude of selections from which to choose.
- Classic bangs, braids and bouffants are all options and can be combined with sophisticated bobs and bold styles for a unique look. Whether it’s retro and romantic or chic and sophisticated, it’s important to keep these styles looking sleek.
- Prosilk’s professional hair care and styling products are specially designed to protect and preserve hair, allowing women to change their hairstyle as often as they like.
Want More?
Check out what other curlies have said about Prosilk, and find which products are right for you!
What made you decide to become a curl hair stylist?
Back in 1998, after having already done hair for 10 years, my career was at a crossroads, and boredom was starting to set in. Then, through the honest feedback of a frustrated curly haired client of mine, fate stepped in and I was put to the challenge of understanding the needs of not only her curly hair, but all the curls of women who want to wear it natural.
This was no small challenge considering that my own hair is fine and straight, and that fact alone created doubt as if there was any way I could ever possibly be able to understand curls.
This challenge inspired me and made me want to give it my all and learn everything that I could, not only to disprove any doubt, but to be a better hairdresser all around.
I dove head first — pun intended — to the world of curl, and it wasn’t long before I realized that my boredom had all but completely vanished, and in it’s place was a new found love of everything to do with curly hair!
Now, I have to say with a smile that even to this day, 14 years later, I am never bored with the hair that I do and am still every bit as inspired and in awe of all the beauty that is wrapped up in a head of curls.
How important is the climate in your area when it comes to curly hair?
Understanding the climate is very important, considering that the measurable rainfall in Believe, WA is recorded at 190 days each year. Now, you might think that this is a good thing, but without an equal element of heat available to balance it out, we tend to see a lot of frustrated women walking around with frizzy hair. I think considering the climate in any area is a big part of understanding why there are “bad hair days” and aids in knowing what curly hair products to recommend in order to help turn those bad hair days around.
You were recently awarded a Regional Curl Expert 2011 from NaturallyCurly. Why do you think you are the “go-to” in your area?
Well, I think that if you do something that you truly believe in, and you love what you are doing, then you are going to be good at it, and it will show in the work that you do. My hope is that because I love sharing this passion and knowledge with my clients, they in turn walk away from a visit with me feeling great about their hair .
What are the biggest mistakes you see with women (or men”> and their curly hair?
Much of the time, I’d say there’s usually just a misunderstanding of what their naturally curly hair needs.
Providing individual curl evaluation with proper product education is a big part of my daily routine. I also see a lot of cuts with layers that are more suited for straight hair styles and shapes that resemble a heavy weighted triangle, or else it’s beautiful curl that has been cut so short it has no other option than to submit itself to looking like a helmet. In any event, the mistakes I see are nothing short of crimes against curl, though, I believe that with a little education, and a lot of love, all curl has potential to be something beautiful.
What are your go-to methods for treating damaged curly hair?
First, I evaluate what the cause of damaged hair may have been and work on helping my client change the way they treat their hair. I tend to preach in the name of moisture and protein balance as well as encourage continual moisture replacement with regular micro trims. I’m also a big fan of wetting and deep conditioning the ends of the hair first while only cleansing the scalp, this technique is for when shampooing is an absolute must, then rinsing and reconditioning again.
I am available at SEVEN Salon in Believe, WA on Tuesdays 10 to 6, Thursday’s 12 to 8 and Friday’s 12 to 8.
NaturallyCurly’s own Taren Guy headed out to the KMS California Mane Event in NYC where the company tossed aside notion of celebrity stylists deciding what’s in, and finally admitted what we all know is true: it’s we naturals who determine curly hair style.
At the dawn of this past weekend’s Fashion Week in NYC, KMS California made it clear that fashion is never just about the wardrobe. Hair is also a critical part to any high fashion item, and to any everyday outfit as well.
Your hairstyle has the ability to transform your look and kick your casual Monday outfit up a notch. From hot mess to hot stuff, your hair is just as important as your heels. But, you already knew that!
For all of you unable to make it to the KMS Mane Event, check out Taren’s video recap, see the transformations and hear form curly hair bloggers just like you!
KMS California Mane Event Recap
Transform your hair, transform your look!
[do action=”youtube-video” videoid=”sOj3Eo2p1oA”]See more Videos at NaturallyCurly’s YouTube Channel
Want more videos? Check out NaturallyCurly’s YouTube Channel!
WASHINGTON — The notorious hair straightening products company, Brazilian Blowout, has received its first official warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA”>, which has stated that the products are ‘adulterated’ and misbranded. The company has until Sept. 12 to comply with the FDA’s directives, otherwise the products could be taken off U.S. shelves and further injunctions could be filed against the company. The FDA is asking Brazilian Blowout to reduce the level of formaldehyde from its products and change its misleading labels and advertising, which state that the products are formaldehyde-free.
The FDA conducted their own sample analysis of the product, and found dangerously high levels of the liquid form of formaldehyde, ranging from 8.7-10.4 percent. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA”> requires an occupational hazard alert at levels higher than 0.1 percent. Formaldehyde, commonly found in a number of “Brazilian style” keratin-based hair straighteners, is extremely dangerous and a known carcinogen. The FDA reports that salon workers and consumers have already reported a number of injuries to the FDA, including eye disorders, nervous system disorders, respiratory tract problems, chest pain, vomiting and rash.
Michael Roosevelt, acting director in the FDA’s Office of Compliance states in the letter to the company, “Brazilian Blowout is an adulterated cosmetic because it bears or contains a deleterious substance that may render it injurious to users under the conditions of use prescribed in your labeling.” He continues, “Brazilian Blowout contains the liquid form of formaldehyde, methylene glycol; however, the product label declares that the product contains ‘No Formaldehyde’ or is ‘Formaldehyde Free.’ This declaration renders your product misbranded because it is a false and misleading statement.”
Since the beginning of the controversy almost one year ago, the National Healthy Nail and Beauty Salon Alliance (Alliance”> has called on the FDA to take swift action with a national recall.
“We thank the FDA for issuing this highly anticipated warning. Stylists need to know about the dangers of using this toxic product on a day to day basis,” said Women’s Voices for the Earth’s executive director Erin Switalski, on behalf of the Alliance.
“Brazilian Blowout can no longer lie to the public about their contents and continue to claim their product to be safe. Brazilian Blowout has until Sept. 12 to make this right, or else the FDA can and should serve an injunction against the company for willfully endangering public safety,” said Miriam Yeung, executive director of the National Asian Pacific American Women’s Forum.
Brazilian Blowout and similar products have been banned in Australia, Canada, Ireland, France and Germany, U.S. OSHA has issued a national hazard alert, and the cosmetics industry’s own safety review board came out with an opinion critiquing the safety of hair straighteners using formaldehyde. This year the National Academy of Sciences (NAS”> released its long-awaited report on formaldehyde, confirming the EPA’s determination that formaldehyde causes cancer in humans. Yet, manufacturers have done little to address these concerns.
“If consumers have been wondering why they’ve still been able to get Brazilian Blowouts despite so much troubling news, the answer is because our regulatory system is broken,” says Anuja Mendiratta, a representative of the California Healthy Nail Salon Collaborative. “Laws that are supposed to protect consumers and workers simply aren’t enough. Even when a product has clearly been shown to poison people, the FDA has little authority to take immediate meaningful action in the case of cosmetics.”
The National Healthy Nail and Beauty Salon Alliance has demanded that the FDA immediately recall Brazilian Blowout and similar products. However, the FDA can only issue a “voluntary recall,” meaning that the government cannot mandate the removal of dangerous products from the market. These lax regulations are under scrutiny, and are being rectified in the Safe Cosmetics Act of 2011, which is currently being debated in Congress. The new law would set safety standards for chemicals used in personal care and salon products before they reach the marketplace, and phase out toxic ingredients such as formaldehyde found in the Brazilian Blowout.
Want More?
Years ago, NaturallyCurly’s own co-founder tried the Brazilian Blowout and shared her story with you!
Final Thoughts
With all the coverage, even here on NaturallyCurly, concerning the Brazilian Blowout, what do you think? Would you do it? Do you think they will respond to the FDA? Do you think women will still request the process? Let us know what you would do!
Vickie Milazzo, author of the Wall Street Journal bestseller “Inside Every Woman: Using the 10 Strengths You Didn’t Know You Had to Get the Career and Life You Want Now,” offers ten self-renewal strategies every woman can use to replenish her physical energy on a regular basis.
Vickie was recognized as the Most Innovative Small Business by Pitney Bowes’s Priority magazine and received Susan G. Komen’s Hope Award for Ambassadorship. Author, educator, and nationally acclaimed speaker, this multimillionaire entrepreneur shares her vast experience with thousands of women.
Renew Your Physical Energy – This Weekend!- Gas up! Give your body the fuel it needs without being fanatical. Boost your energy and immune system with vitamins, antioxidants, green tea, and ground flaxseed with natural Greek yogurt. And since refined carbs and sugars deplete energy, replace them with fruits and vegetables. Eat small amounts every three or four hours, and guard against skipping breakfast or lunch. Your body will compensate, and you’ll lose steam later in the day. Another big mistake women make is avoiding fat altogether. Healthy fats such as omega-3s are essential for physical energy and a strong immune system.
- Move it. Find a type of exercise that sparks your fire, because you need to enjoy what you’re doing in order to keep doing it! Create a plan that includes variety. Start with aerobics, such as walking, jogging, or biking, and add weight training three times a week to increase lean body mass and boost metabolism. You might also try working out with a trainer. It’s mental of course, but most women are apt to crank out a few more reps or run a few minutes longer when a buff guy named Jerome is watching!
Don’t ignore your body’s wants and needs. Sleep is essential!- Sleep it off. Eight hours every night is essential for daily self-renewal. When you’re sleep deprived, you’ll notice a big difference in your physical condition, mental attitude, and ability to cope with stress. Sleep research has shown that with fewer than eight hours of sleep you are working at increased levels of cognitive deficits. Fewer than six hours of sleep and you’re considered DUI — driving under the influence. So if you want to avoid energy imbalances, skip that late-night TV show and regulate your sleep schedule!
- Clean up. We all have nutritional vices, but when you’re addicted to strong coffee, for example, you don’t quit cold turkey. In this instance, first replace one scoop of regular coffee in your coffee pot with decaf, then two scoops, and so on. Eventually, you might even start drinking green or white tea so that your energy doesn’t start to sag later in the day. This method of gradual change can be applied to all sorts of unhealthy food and drink.
- Rub it out. A weekly massage is great for self-renewal. If that’s not realistic for you, start with once a month. You can manage cost by getting discounts at a massage school or by trading massages with a friend. Think of it as maintenance, not a luxury! Your muscles will certainly thank you.
- Indulge. Treat your body like the temple it is. Carve out a time when you can pamper yourself with a facial, pedicure, or soak in the tub. Even if it means skipping a TV show, you’ll find the extra time spent on yourself well worth the investment.
- Breathe. Breathe consciously at least once an hour. Expand your lungs. Practice diaphragmatic breathing, consciously taking that diaphragmatic breath all the way into your lower back. Oxygen is energy.
- Shed your skin. Your skin is your body’s largest organ, and it is responsible for much of your body’s elimination and detoxification. Give yourself a dry brush massage before showering. In minutes you’ll feel wonderful. Start at your toes and work upward, brushing in small circles. Make sure your diet is also rich in healthy foods for your skin.
- Just say no. Avoid depending on drugs to quickly fix what ails you. Drugs (and herbal remedies”> have side effects and often divert you from making changes toward healthy living habits. Before getting on the drug bandwagon, seek healthier, safer alternatives. Better yet, be your own doctor and prescribe a healthy, no-drug lifestyle for yourself.
- Aim for attainable fitness. Having a healthy, energetic, and trim body at 50 is a perfectly realistic goal. However, looking like a hot 20-year-old in those low-riders won’t happen, and aiming for the latter goal will rob you of the enjoyment of your healthy body.
Want more?
Check out more of Vickie Milazzo’s weekend self-renewal tips.
Final Thoughts
Committing to physical self-renewal this weekend will set you on the right path for next week — for you, your friends and your co-workers. Positive energy encourages others, so get to it!
Soon enough, your curly pre-teen will be stepping off the bus, asking if she can borrow your tools, and then begin to straighten her hair. Or, maybe she already has tried to do just that due to some new peer pressure from friends or schoolmates. If either of these is the case, and you want your child to stay naturally curly, choose the path of least resistance.
Middle school years can be even more challenging than those of high school. Why? Children, pre-teen children, are usually exposed to a little more independence in school at this age. They are given some space to grow, not to mention there are some major chemical and physical growth changes during these years, too!
Some kids will go wild with their newfound space, while others will take baby steps to test the waters. Most of all, kids want to see what they are capable of doing with the challenges offered to them on a daily basis.
Straightening her hair may be just one of these challenges. Your child may be bothered by some girls who stare at TVs and glossy magazines portraying straight-haired models, and will want to fit in. Forget homework, they’re looking at the slickest, straightest ‘do Angelina Jolie is rocking.
If your child begins to ask for hair straightening tips, be prepared and don’t put up a big fight. Remember, the path of least resistance is going to take you the farthest.
Talk Like Adults. After All, She is One
Don’t let the conversation turn in to an argument. Talk logically, and let her make her own, rational, choices.- Think back to when your child was just 5 or 6 years old and you said, “Don’t open the frig,” or “Don’t use this by yourself,” or, “don’t (insert absolutely anything here”>.” All it takes is the word “don’t,” and they will do the opposite of what you say.
- Sit down with your daughter before you pull out the absolute, “No way!” Ask her why she wants to do this, where learned about it, why she thinks straightening is a good choice. She’s getting older, smarter and more curious. Have an older, smarter, more curious conversation with her.
- Let her know that, like a lot of things at this point in her life, straightening can be considered an “experiment.” Tell her about the pros and cons, and help her list them out. Maybe she wants to grow her curls out some more? Maybe a new curly haircut would show off her curls a little better? Does she want to try out some new headbands or fancy clips? Show her photos or websites of famous actresses and models—all sporting their curly locks. Find quotes from icons she may look up to who talk about beauty and making good decisions. Then, allow her to make her decision.
- If she gives you some good reasons or you simply just feel like allowing her to try straightening, then do so, with some help. It may be hard to be mom and hair stylist at the same time, but it could be fun for both of you to try on a new role!
- Remind your pre-teen that she should protect her hair whenever she uses heat. Help her choose the right heat protection products for her natural hair. You can play the role of “teacher” too by showing your child what happens to hair when it has too much heat, or heat damage. That’s right, pull out those pre-big chop photos!
The Curly Pre-Teen Experiment!
“I get so many compliments when I straighten my hair,” says Alexis, a 13-year-old middle school student. Alexis has just started learning about straightening her perfect curly locks. Her mom is not happy.
“I don’t know why she needs to do this. I tell her how beautiful she is with the curls she has and how just about everyone on the planet would kill for her curls.” says Alexis’ mom.
This interaction is a pretty common pattern between pre-teen curly girls and moms, everywhere. So, as part of an experiment, some of Alexis’ peers, teachers and instructors told her that her straight hair was “different,” instead of pretty. They used the terms “pretty,” “cute,” and “beautiful” for descriptions of her appearance and her clothing, but to her straight hair, only “different.” They commented on her “different look,” and how did Alexis respond?
“I like when people say I’m pretty, but they said I looked ‘different,’ and I thought it really wasn’t worth all of the time I spent straightening my hair just to hear that.” said Alexis.
Since then, Alexis has done a lot less straightening and spent a lot more time on other things she actually enjoys doing, like dance class and yoga.
Want More?
Natural hair and confidence can go hand in hand, and often they do! Women who wear their natural strands have a better sense of self. Find out how you can test your natural hair confidence, and then get more!
Final Thoughts
Everyone loves a compliment, whether you’re a preteen or adult. But if your child can get past the compliments, which are really only words, and rely on her own decision-making ability and build her confidence, rest assured that straightening her curls may not be on the top of her priority list.
It’s a tough one, but it can be done.
Dear Ouidad:
My hair is very fine and always fuzzes which blurs the curl definition. I also live in Florida, a high humidity area. When I try to weigh it down to elongate the curl it either frizzes, or if the air is drier, it doesn’t have enough resilience and loses all its spring. Any suggestions?
Dear Frizzy in Florida:
The most important thing to understand about your hair when living in a high humidity climate is to make sure that your hair is fully hydrated so that it doesn’t react to humidity. Just like a sponge in water, your dry hair will expand. If you put a wet sponge in water, it won’t react, so, in order to eliminate frizzy hair in high humidity, you need to be diligent about doing a Deep Treatment every two weeks.
I recommend a regular regimen of my Clear & Gentle Shampoo, Balancing Rinse Essential Daily Conditioner and Climate Control Heat and Humidity Gel. My Clear & Gentle Shampoo is blended with essential wheat protein to restore hair’s natural body and shine. Follow this with a lightweight daily conditioner. Daily conditioning leaves hair silky soft, manageable, and tangle-free without weighing it down.
After shampooing and conditioning, style hair by using my “Rake and Shake” technique to evenly distribute your styling product throughout your curls. For high humidity areas like Florida try Climate Control, the ultimate no-frizz solution for your curls, which controls frizzy hair in any weather. It works with the humidity so hair stays flyaway and frizz free.
To live a passionate life, you must attend to all of your needs, not just one or two. Energy in one area powers energy in another, and so on and so forth. Here are six strategies for self-renewal taken from the book, “Wicked Success Is Inside Every Woman” by Vickie Milazzo you can try this weekend.
Milazzo is also the author of the Wall Street Journal bestseller “Inside Every Woman: Using the 10 Strengths You Didn’t Know You Had to Get the Career and Life You Want Now.” She is recognized as a trusted mentor and dynamic role model by tens of thousands of women, a distinction that led to her national recognition as the Stevie Awards’ Mentor of the Year.
So, if you’re feeling down this weekend, or this past week has left your tired and run-down, then find your fresh start here and now.
Start Renewing Your Life
First, take some time for yourself, and then conquer the world!- Set renewal goals. You are just as important as your career and family, so plan your self-renewal as you would a work project or family vacation. Milazzo includes in her renewal goals everything from maintaining a daily fitness regimen to destinations she’d like to travel to. Regularly assess and update your own renewal plan.
- Start small and do one thing at a time. Enjoy five minutes of quiet, then ten. Add one vegetable a day, then eat two. Turn off the television for one hour, then two. Eliminate one fast-food trip a week, then eliminate two. Cut out one trip a day to the office candy bowl, then two, then three, and you’ll lose seven pounds a year. It takes 60 days to turn your lifestyle change into a habit. Get started.
- Banish all excuses. Milazzo knows a woman who works 70 hours a week, and her excuse for not getting away for a weekend is that she’s too spent when the weekend comes. Yet, a relaxing weekend away is probably the perfect rejuvenation prescription for her! Self-renewal often takes a little time and effort, but a wicked career and success are nothing without a renewed spirit.
- Accept wherever you are in your life now, and start there. Know that you can always start fresh. Wherever you are in life, there was “before” and there is “now.” Maybe you haven’t exercised in three years or thirty. Start now — and forget before.
- Take a day off from discipline. French fries in place of one serving of broccoli won’t kill you, but unrelenting discipline will make you wish you were dead. Indulge yourself every once in awhile — and pass the ketchup!
- Create female fusion. Have you ever gotten together with female friends, relatives, or colleagues and come away spinning with energy, motivation and ideas? That’s the power of female fusion. When women bond over a shared interest, task, or goal, they create sparks of insight and brilliance that they could never have generated alone. When you are connected to other women who complement, understand, and care about you, you will feel nurtured, empowered, inspired, and fired up! All facets of your vitality will feel supercharged.
Want more?
Check out more of Milizzao’s weekend self-renewal tips for the busy woman on the go.
Final thoughts
Let us know what revives you? Is it a quiet bath, a good curly cut or new shoes? Tell us about it!
In just a few weeks, you can start looking forward to seeing your little ones coming home from a long school day. They’ll be busy playing with new friends, learning new skills, running in the playground, and, unfortunately, coming home with a few knots and snarls in their curls. Some of your kids may even be coming off the bus with some puffy ‘dos, something you did not send them to school with.
When it comes to kids, tangled hair is just a fact of life. Luckily, with the right tools and know-how, these tangled situations can be easily avoided and repaired.
Tackling Tangled Hair
They look nice now, but recess is only an hour away!Always have a detangling product on hand for your little curly ones. There are lots of them out there, so it’s important to find something that nourishes your child’s hair as it repairs. Some leave-in conditioners can also be used as detangling products.
Have a wide-toothed comb at home so you can get the knots and tangles out. Detangling combs help control knots and snarls, with a lot less tears. It’s a good idea to keep one in your tub as part of your child’s nighttime hair cleaning routine, too.
Our Favorite Leave-Ins for Kiddos
- You can detangle hair wet or dry, but be sure you dampen the hair with the detangling product before you attempt detangling dry curls. If your child arrives home from school or a play date with tangles and knots, use the detangling product and some gentle motions of the wide-toothed comb to get the knots out while the hair is dry. Don’t wait until it’s bath time to work out the knots, they may only get worse as the afternoon and evening progress.
- If your child want to help, stand in front of a mirror and show her how you’re helping care for her curls. Kids love to exercise their independence, so why not teach them the tricks of the trade, too?
- Make preventing tangled hair part of your nighttime routine once you’ve dealt with emergency tangles and knots. Shampoo hair by working hands through the curls, and avoid building up a big lather. Use your fingers like a comb to shampoo and condition, then use a wide-toothed comb to distribute the conditioning product through her hair.
- Use a leave-in for thicker curls to help avoid knots and tangled hair. Leave-in conditioners such as Kinky Curly Tiny Twists or Blended Cutie Soft Curls and Swirls can be a key step in keeping little curls looking their best and may help avoid the possible “poof” effect too.
- For little curls with less bulk or finer strands, a light leave-in, or even a combo of water and some conditioner, can be helpful in avoiding tangled, frizzy curls.
- Tell your little ones not to run their fingers through their hair too much either – and hope they’ll actually listen! Let them know that fingers in the hair could lead to more combing sessions and extra bath times, both of which lead to less play time – it’s true!
- For kids more prone to tangled hair, you may want to put your child’s curls in a loose pony tail, or even braid them at night. If your child is active during the day, and still gets lots of tangles, braids and pony tails can be good for those times, as well.
Expert Question & Answer Session
Can’t figure out how to keep her braids in? Need more detangling tips? Cozy Friedman has your answers.
Final thoughts
Show your child how to make a quick ponytail, or even a braid, so they can be a part of the process, too. Remember, you’re teaching them the skills they’ll greatly appreciate one day, and how to love and care for their natural hair.
Oh, and if you find the miracle secret to keeping their hands out of their hair, please share!
This August, fans of the popular natural hair radio show, Nappturalite Radio, can receive information direct from the experts of Design Essentials.
Callers will get customized solutions to their most pressing natural hair questions as, each Sunday, a featured member of the Design Essentials Education team will appear as a guest of the show.
Hot topics curlies will love include secrets for achieving healthy natural hair, thermal straightening, back-to-school styling ideas and achieving the best curl definition for different textures. These top Design Essentials stylists and educators will also share their inside secrets, such as product recommendations from the Design Essentials Natural line, styling tips and techniques to achieve your most stylish and healthiest hair, as well as how to partner with your stylists to meet your hair goals and desires.
“No matter how much information is out there, women who are natural and transitioning still soak up every chance they can to ask questions,” says Tracey Gibson, Director of Marketing for McBride Research Laboratory, creator of Design Essentials. “The popularity of shows, like Nappturalite Radio, prove that every woman on her natural hair journey continues to need support, and we’re happy to lend our expertise to answer the questions that remain on achieving healthy, gorgeous, natural hair.”
Topics & Show Dates
- Aug. 7: Easy Tips for Keeping Hair Healthy with Deshonica Green
- Aug. 14: How to Achieve Healthy, Thermally Straightened Natural Hair
- Aug. 21: Back to School Natural Styles for Kids & Tips for Transitioning
- Aug. 28: Curl Definition: The Best Ways to Achieve Your Texture’s best Curls with Francesca Adams
The Nappturalite Radio Show launched in February 2010. In just one month of being on the air, the show attracted an audience of over 1,000 listeners from the all over the world, including the US, Canada and the UK. Currently, the show has an audience of over 30,000 listeners.
Nappturalite Radio has featured many well-known experts and celebrities in the natural hair community, including Grammy-award winning singer, Chrisette Michele, “Nappily Ever After” author, Trisha R. Thomas, R&B singer, Dwele., and speaker/author from “The Secret”, Lisa Nichols.
For a chance to have your natural hair dilemmas solved, head over to Nappturalite’s blog talk radio.
Design Essential guests will be in the studio every Sunday in August.
Have Your Questions Already Been Answered?
Check out our Q&A section and see if your hair dilemmas have already been addressed by experts like Ouidad!
Final thoughts
Design Essentials Salon System was launched in 1990 by McBride Research Laboratory, Inc., which provides direct distribution of premium, quality hair care solutions engineered to infuse hair with a natural balance of organic ingredients, vitamins and proteins that promote healthy and manageable hair. Today, MRL offers more than 40 premium beautification products through e-commerce and direct-to-hair salons network of independent, exclusive distributors in the United States, Caribbean and the United Kingdom.
So, you want to straighten your hair every so often to give yourself some “options?” That’s fine, but keep in mind that straightening your tresses every day to rid your hair of curls, ringlets and waves can do damage.
In the long run, excessive heat styling can damage your hair, your scalp and even your self-confidence.
Sure, there are some tools and products out there boasting their ability to straighten the kinks without the damage, but have you really tried to accept your naturally curly hair? The truth is, it doesn’t have to be a lot of work, and allowing your natural locks to show themselves can actually help you find yourself and increase your self-confidence.
Take the quiz below and find out where you stand on your natural hair confidence. Love your body, your mind and your hair, we always say.
Quick Quiz
1. Someone comments on your naturally curly hair and you say:
a. “Oh, thanks!” knowing it’s not true.
b. “Thanks,” and walk away quickly fixing and primping.
c. “Thanks! I love them too!”
2. Do you search online and in magazines for every photo of a better style for your curls and waves?
a. True
b. False
Best Answers
Answer #1: C
Let’s think back on just how many times someone has commented on how beautiful your hair is or how they would love to have naturally curly hair like yours. Now, let’s think back on how many times have you simply just let the comment go, thinking it’s not true.
Truth is, for many of us, not accepting the compliment has occurred way too many times. Those comments, though, are things to be proud of and are not to be shrugged off so quickly.
Answer #2: Trick Question!
Either way, a little research is always good. However, you do not need to be online every hour on the hour searching for the newest style that might be the curl miracle you’ve been waiting for. Embrace your curls and waves as they are now, and work with them to help boost vivacity.
The Two-Week Trial
If you’re ready to embrace what you have, or even if you’re on the fence, try a two-week trial. After all, it’s just two weeks—what harm can be done? Think of this as a two-week diet for your hair, and try products that will not damage your strands.
Begin by looking at labels. Try to avoid products that have lots of “cones,” for example dimethicone. The more of these you see, the worse off your hair will be.
For curly or kinky hair, try shea butter or coconut-infused leave-ins and styling products. For wavy hair, try using less product or lighter versions as heavy products can weight your hair down and reduce curl. A good choice is Curl Junkie’s Lite Coco Curl Crème.
If it’s been awhile since you’ve gone curly, you may want to get a new cut, or at least a trim to nurse your hair back to health. Find a stylist who knows curls and texture. Ask him or her questions about how your naturally curly hair can better frame your face and fit your lifestyle.
Next, it is time to get started! Begin on a day when you can wash and style your hair naturally. This means no straightening irons!
You may want to experiment with products for a few days, from old to new. Just make sure that your old products aren’t expired.
Style your hair with a diffuser or simply let it dry on its own. You may want to use a satin pillowcase if you’re planning on going to bed with some damp curls and waves. A satin pillowcase can help protect curl formation and prevent frizz.
Two Weeks Later
Take a look at the calendar. Has it been more than two weeks? Maybe you can extend your two-week trial to three? Sounds like transitioning may be your next step!
If, however, you’re finding the two-week trial a bit of a struggle, don’t give up! Work with different products and give yourself a chance to adjust to your naturally curly hair. Most importantly, don’t be so hard on yourself. Your curls and waves most likely look a lot better than you’re giving them credit for—allow the look to get to know you better.
After your two weeks are up, evaluate how you did. Were you too hard on yourself and your hair? Did you really give it a full two weeks? Did you listen to others and their comments? Was it really that hard?
You may want to take some time to think about how your trial went and just how much better you feel about your hair, and yourself.
Once you’re at your natural best, be sure to become aware of the comments you may start to receive. Don’t be so quick to brush them off. Embrace the kind words and take a moment to notice just how good your locks really look!
There are a number of destination cruises that can take you to some truly amazing and culturally influenced sites. Cruises range in length from as little as a week to as long as two months. However, no matter where you plan on sailing or how long you plan on being out at sea, your curls are along for the ride and you need to prepare them well.
A combination of fresh sea air, sun, recycled shower water, chlorinated pools and ocean dives can give your curls and waves a bit of a shock. It’s best to board the ship prepared with the tools and curly hair care strategies you need to keep your hair looking great.
Stay Natural
A cruise is a great time to highlight the beauty of your natural curls and waves. Fighting them while cruising may cost you a lot of time and money. While there are salons on board, these services usually start at $50 and quickly add up, all for a simple blow out.
You may be tempted to try something different for the formal evenings, but keep in mind that a blowout will only last as long as you stay inside. On the decks, not only will you be face to face with fresh sea air and mist, but you’ll also be combating some pretty heavy winds.
Pack Smart
Ships will often offer you small bottles of toiletries, much like many hotels. However, depending on the length of your cruise and the amount of product you use, you may need more than what they offer. Unlike flying, you’re not bound to restricted sizes and amounts of products you can bring on a cruise ship, so feel free to bring along your big bottles of gel, conditioner and mousse.Make the most of your curls and waves by stepping aboard with the right curly hair care products, including a gentle cleansing shampoo, a good leave-in moisturizer, conditioner and a few other favorite styling products.
Be sure to pack your products well to ensure that they don’t leak. Tape the tops of your bottles and double-bag them. Remember that most cruises have blow dryers on board, so you don’t need to bring your own. However, be sure not to use heat styling too often. A cruise is a great time to take advantage of letting your hair air dry.
Don’t forget that you’ll probably be dressing up a bit on your cruise too. Most cruises have a few select formal evenings for dinners as well as after-dinner martini bars, dancing and other nightlife events. For these occasions, you should plan to pack a few glamorous hair accessories to change up your daytime look. Rhinestone clips, hairpins, headbands and beaded ponytail elastics are small, easy to pack and offer a simple day to night change
Recommended Products:
You may find that you’ll need to shower more than once a day. Cruise activities such as workout classes, pools, rock walls and sun bathing can add up to a lot of sweat and sunscreen. You certainly don’t want to go into an elegant dinner smelling like that afternoon. Therefore, plan on bringing a favorite body wash as well as lots of lotion.
You may choose to not wash your hair with every shower, especially if you have thicker curls, so consider bringing along a good curl reviver spray.
Even if you don’t shampoo often, you might still want to bring shampoo with you anyway. The salty air, recycled shower water and chlorinated pools will leave you with more build-up than usual forcing you to adjust your curly hair care routine.
For evening looks or days in port, you may want to make use of an anti humectant pomade to help hold your curls and waves in place and frizz free. If your hair is thicker and can handle heavier pomades, try shea butter.
Cruises are a great time for relaxing and getting away, so give your whole mind and body a true rest, including your curls and waves. Simply sit back and enjoy the paradise of a “floating island.”
One of the benefits of having wavy and curly hair is that you don’t have to wash it too often. If you miss a day, it’s okay. Your curls and waves can literally bounce back without a lot of work.
Regardless of how often you wash your hair, this simple revitalizing process can be used for any type of wavy or curly hair. It’s especially good for going from work to a dinner party or special event after a long day. It’s also a wonderful process for styling your curls before you go to bed.
The Basics
Gel + H2O: that’s all you need to revitalize your natural wavy or curly hair. It’s best to have a spray bottle for your water. One that mists is ideal so that you can cover more area on your hair.
Select the right gel for curly hair. It doesn’t have to be costly, and there are some good drug-store buys that are easy to find and won’t hurt your wallet. A few favorite gels for curlies and waves are: La Looks Curl Gel, Biotera Gel (Biotera Glaze is great for finer hair or waves”>, Kinky Curly Custard, La Bella Sports Gel, and Ecostyler gels.
And You’re Off!
Start by sectioning your hair into smaller sections (depending on your length you may have up to 4 or 5 sections”>. Clip each section and apply water with your water spray bottle to the first section, enough to dampen it.
Then, use a quarter to half-dollar size of gel on your section, applying it evenly throughout the section. Sometimes it’s easiest to coat your hands with the gel for each section.
Be sure not to rub your scalp or pull on any parts of your hair as you apply. Gently repeat on each section of hair then blot each section with a damp towel.
Added Features
You may want to finger-curl some sections as you work the gel through. Simply take a part of the section of hair you’ve worked the gel and water into and twist it around one or two fingers, depending on how wide you want the curl to form. You may want to do some random curls and allow others to form more naturally. You can also twist the smaller sections into loops and clip them down to form curls as well.
The When and Where
This process is perfect for the evening or the morning as long as you allow ample drying time. It’s best to allow revitalized curls and waves to air-dry. If you have limited time, use a diffuser and gently allow the curls to dry.
Going from work to a dinner party? The above process may take a bit more time than you have to get from your office to an evening party. You can use a simpler and quicker process by again, having your water on hand and a small tube of gel.
It’s always a great idea to keep some gel at work, or even in your car for those occasional hair date disasters. Instead of creating sections, mist your hair lightly with some water. If you don’t have a water bottle handy, simply use your hands. It’s not necessary to make your hair too wet.
- Coat your hands with gel and work it through your hair. Going from ends to roots may “plump” up your wavy and curly hair a bit more and help style your hair at the same time.
- Apply more gel as needed until you have finished. Use your hands to twist and coax any curls or waves back into place.
- Hairpins If you are headed to a special evening out, be sure to have a few glitzy hairpins with you too. Add them to your revitalized curls and waves for a more elegant or “party-going” look.
Final thoughts
It just takes a few minutes and some inexpensive tools to make second-day hair look sensational!
It’s safe to say that your hair conditioner probably contains wax, which begs the question, what is a wax? In conditioners, it’s basically a fatty alcohol like cetyl alcohol or cetearyl alcohol that, once mixed with liquids, thickens a product, allows oils and water to stay mixed and adds softness to hair and skin. Without these ingredients, your conditioner would separate.
This isn’t your typical paraffin wax which is made from petroleum. The waxes found in your hair conditioner most likely come from plants. These waxes don’t bond to the hair like quaternary cationic conditioners do (i.e. cetrimonium bromide, behehtrimonium methosulfate”>. As a result, they are usually easier to remove and less likely to cause build-up. Bottom line, don’t worry about these wax-like ingredients in your hair conditioner. After all, you’ve been using them already. In fact, conditioners with “emulsifying waxes” and less quaternary cationic conditioners can be a person’s best friend.
If you want your hair to be attractive to potential partners (or even licensed ones”>, or you just want heads to turn, start on the inside. People are attracted to self-confident, comfortable people. The sexiest curly hairstyles are not ones you adopt to impress others or to look like somebody you admire – it’s one you design to fit yourself.
Knowing your face shape and personal style can go along way to creating your own unique and confident look. Oval, round and heart shaped faces benefit from longer hairstyles that are layered, but not too top-heavy. Rectangular, round, triangular, diamond and square faced faces benefit most from shorter curly hair styles that frame the face.
