Search Results: Sabrina Perkins
Not all “natural sounding” terms are natural and by the same token, not all “chemical sounding” terms are not natural. For example, water is a chemical. Learning the tricks of the trade for product marketing allows for a more informed consumer. We just want to make sure you are fully informed before buying a product with shopper remorse immediately after wash day. As we delve into foreign sounding ingredients stay open to the idea on trying something new to see if it works. You may just be surprised.
Emollient is a term used in personal care products. They are humectants, lubricants, and occlude, keeping the skin from losing moisture by holding onto water and leaving the skin supple with a protective layer. According to cosmetic chemist Tonya McKay, “An emollient for hair should easily form a smooth, even film on the surface of the hair, should soften the hair, and should not yield an unpleasant sticky or greasy texture.”
What is Beantree?
Beantree is a natural, clear liquid derived from castor and rapeseed. This liquid, low in viscosity, has a light and dry, non-oily feel, which can easily and quickly be absorbed into the skin, including the scalp. Beantree is also known as the chemical ingredient, methylheptyl isostearate, which is an ester of caprylic alcohol and isostearic acid. Beantree is just a brand name for methylheptyl isostearate just as Kleenex is a brand name for facial tissue. This popular emollient was created by ALZO international Inc., which also develops specialty emollients esters, specialty surfactants, and conditioners.
Benefits of Beantree on hair
Beantree or methylheptyl isostearate works at preventing water loss form the hair’s surface so the strands do not dry out. It has a dry feel and often used instead of evaporating silicones. It adds a high gloss, or sheen. It is used in hair products and can be found in color cosmetics, skin care, and bath products. It will condition the scalp and hair while retaining moisture and absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy feel. It has excellent lubricating and emulsifying properties and seems to be a great replacement for silicones. A few brands have found this to be a viable ingredient in several of their products, namely Curls and Blended Beauty, but this may only be the tip of the iceberg for brands giving this non-oily yet moisture grabbing liquid a chance.
Products with Beantree
Question
How to care for my hair in the wilderness? I am going on three-month camping expedition and will only have access to a shower/conditioner about once a month. I obviously don’t need my hair to look nice, but I don’t want to end up having to cut off my hair because of the knots. Any suggestions on something to bring or a habit to get into to keep my hair tame during this time? Thanks!
Answer
Your hair should not get in the way of the lifestyle you want to lead, no matter what you are doing! There are a few items, tips, and techniques that will make for an easier expedition, and since space is probably limited, bringing the right essentials will make for a better trip. So let’s get into some tips that will keep your hair looking great and knot-free with minimal effort or products.
Dry shampoo
Dry shampoo can be a useful tool when you don’t have many opportunities to wash your hair. It will help with the sweat, dirt, and bugs that you may encounter while out becoming one with nature in-between your hair washings.
Read more: Top 15 Dry Shampoos
Double up on the products
Since space will probably be a factor, make sure to find products that can double up on duties, for example a cleanser that can be used on both your body and hair, or a leave-in conditioner that also has the hold of a styler or the slip of a detangler. Shampoo bars can be great for cleansing your body and hair at the same time and they last . A leave-in with amazing slip will be your best friend, as you want to deter knots. Kinky-Curly Knot Today is a great idea as it will give amazing slip and many use it as a styler.
Braids
Keeping your hair in braids will keep the hair out of the way while preventing tangles. French braiding the hair with at least two on either side is good and tucking the ends up will help keep your hair out of the way. A braided updo, ponytail, or twists are all smart options. Since you are camping for such an extended time, bunning, twisting, or braiding your ponytail will prevent further knotting and dry ends.
Read more: Ask Dr. Kari: Effective Protective Styles
Natural oils
Bringing your favorite natural oil (a lighter one of course”> may be a good way to keep hair from getting too dry or just to make your braided hair smoother and stay together. It can be a great sealant when you do wash your hair and condition and with the spirit of doubling up, oils (olive oil”> are great for removing ticks and yes, I am a country girl so I know a few things about ticks.
Keep it covered
Covering your hair with a scarf or a hat is a great option for protecting your hair as well. It will also keep your hair out of the way and out of your face. Baseball caps help with shielding hair from the sun and keeping hair covered and out of the way. This also helps to prevent damage from the extended sun exposure.
Read more: Protect Your Hair from the Sun
Read more: Silicones: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
What are silicones and how do they affect our hair?
Silicones are substances composed of organic and inorganic polymers and “are produced by reacting silicon—one of the earth’s most common elements- with methyl chloride and further reaction with water which removes the chlorine atom,” according to the American Chemistry Council. Silicones are manufactured in several forms namely liquid, solid, and semi-solid, greases, oils, and rubber. They are also hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic. When it comes to silicones on the hair we find that the differences matter greatly. For one, there are three types that can be found in our hair care products.
- Water-soluble (the good”>: These types of silicones dissolve in water and easy to rinse out of hair and without buildup on the scalp and hair.
- Semi-soluble (the bad”>: These types of silicones do not fully dissolve into water but most evaporate from the hair while the rest can be washed out by a shampoo. May cause buildup on the scalp and hair but are still easy to remove.
- Non-water soluble (the ugly”>: Considered the worst of silicones for hair, as they will cause buildup on the scalp and hair and can only be removed by a shampoo with sulfates or a clarifying shampoo.
What is cetearyl methicone?
Cetearyl methicone is a non-water soluble silicone that is a siloxane polymer. It functions as a skin-conditioning agent or emollient. It aids in adding a protective barrier to the hair strands that allows for better slip as well as a protection to the hair for heat applications. Cetearyl methicone aids in protecting the skin. It is known as a barrier ingredient that provides excellent lubricity and spreadability.
Pros
Non-water soluble silicones, like cetearyl methicone, are great for creating a protective barrier around the hair strands and will keep water in while also creating slip to the hair. It will make the hair feel softer and help to keep hair from detangling. They are great at protecting the hair from heat tools directly damaging the hair and causing heat damage.
Read more: Heat Protectants: This Buildup Actually Saves Your Hair
Cons
Cetearyl methicone will create buildup on the scalp and hair when not cleansed off regularly, especially for fine strands. To remove this ingredient from the hair, it must be cleansed with a clarifying shampoo or a shampoo with sulfates, and many curly girls steer clear of sulfates because they are extremely drying to our strands. The coating they impart on the hair gives the impression that one has healthier hair because it makes it softer, removes fizz and friction, but it is only cosmetic or superficial. It only gives the appearance of healthier hair but it does not actually make the hair healthier.
To remove this ingredient from the hair, it must be cleansed with a clarifying shampoo or a shampoo with sulfates
The takeaway
Cetearyl methicone is a non-water soluble water silicones that imparts buildup on the scalp and hair. It makes hair softer or gives it slip, but it merely coats the hair and does not add any health value other than aesthetic. It is a good ingredient in a heat protectant, as it creates a barrier on the hair strands and protects the hair from heat styling tools.
Read: Silicones: Good, Bad, and the Ugly
What are silicones?
Silicones are a family of specialty, high performance materials that are used in thousands of products from sealants to textiles to personal care products. Silicones are substances composed of organic and inorganic polymers created by the application of a specific formula and “silicones are produced by reacting silicon—one of the earth’s most common elements- with methyl chloride and further reaction with water which removes the chlorine atom,” according to the American Chemistry Council.
Silicones and hair
The main objective of a silicone in a product is to seal in or insulate. They create a barrier around the hair strands and are excellent for usage in heat protectants, as they will protect the strands from the high temperatures from heat styling tools like curling wands, irons, blow-dryers, and flat irons. They even create amazing slip in hair products to help with detangling, as the coating it creates makes a slick or softer surface upon the strands.
There are definitely good silicones compared to bad ones and even some in-between when it comes hair care. Some are good or water-soluble and will not build up in the hair and can be washed out just with water. Some are in-between or slightly soluble and do not dissolve but evaporate from the hair and the rest are washed out by the use of shampoo and there is not as much build-up. The worst are the silicones that are non-soluble and may require a stronger shampoo (like s sulfate or clarifying shampoo”> to remove.
What is cetyl dimethicone?
This amber colored liquid is a silicone polymer that functions as a skin-conditioning agent or an emollient. It is intended to give slip or make an application easier while also forming a protective barrier on the skin (or hair”> that slows down water loss and leaves the surface soft and smooth. It is used in antiperspirants, lotions, hair products, makeup, and sunscreens, and generally considered to be safe.
Pros
If the objective is to stave off moisture or frizz, then cetyl dimethicone is an ideal ingredient. Since it coats the hair and can only be removed by sulfates it is an ideal ingredient in a heat protectant and it does create a softer surface upon the hair making it a good ingredient for slip.
Cons
Although considered safe when it comes to our hair, this silicone is considered one of the worst because cetyl dimethicone is a non-water soluble silicone that takes a lot to remove from the hair. They require the help of sulfate shampoos and conditioners to remove the silicone coating from the hair, and if a curly girl is resigned to not using sulfates or retaining moisture then the usage of these types of silicones are not ideal, especially if you co-wash only to cleanse your hair.
The takeaway
Cetyl dimethicone is a non-water soluble that requires sulfates to remove from the hair as it causes buildup. This silicone is also not a good idea for anyone who chooses to co-wash regularly but it is excellent for properly coating the hair especially for heat protectant products. Remember, that shampoo is needed for thorough removal.
Go-to Hairstyle for Short Locs
Who doesn’t love quick, cute, and easy? When you have short locs you may feel your style choices are limited but you have to think outside the box. Short loc wearers can rock updos too, and LaShawnda McNeally quickly shows us her simple go-to hairstyle that she rocks. A few bobby pins and rubber bands or ouchless bands is all that is needed for this flirty and fun short loc updo.
How To Curl Locs with Perm Rods
Perm rods are not just for loose hair. NaturalBeauty0214 shows just how simple the style can be, and she used one loc per perm rod to get an extra curl tight and long-lasting perm rod set.
Loc Faux Hawk
Have short locs but want to rock a faux hawk? It can be done and Miss CC shows us how. With some bobby pins she creates a simple faux loc quickly and effortlessly. If you prefer not to see the regular bobby pins, simply use pretty or sparkly pins to give the style more of a jeweled effect.
Pipe Cleaner Curls
Pipe cleaner curls is a popular styling tool for locs and the great thing about them is that they can be done on all lengths. Curlynugrowth shows from start to finish how she creates this style with only pipe cleaners, a spray bottle of water, and her fingers.
Chic Locs Updo
Having short or medium length locs does not mean you cannot be great! Fake it till you make it and watch how curlynugrowth recreates this regal and quite popular updo with short to medium thick locs. Her shaped nape adds to the beauty of the updo.
Quick and Easy Loc French Braid Updo
I love this video because the in-between stages can be the worst for styling if looking for something different, and DXLYN locs does not disappoint in this unique and regal French braid updo sure to wow. If your hair is medium length or long enough to French braid then you can create this backward braided updo with little to no time.
Bantu Knot Tutorial
Bantu knots are not just for loose hair. Locs look wonderful whether kept in the Bantu knot or taken down. It is a great way to curl the locs without using rollers or flexirods. OnDeck shares her style from beginning to end using spritz and twisting medium sections to create an easy and long lasting style that will be perfect for work or play.
3 Quick Loc Styles
Who doesn’t love a big, slouchy hat to rock while we still deal with winter? Prettipoison27 share three easy styles that enlist the help of her big slouchy hat. Need a quick style to run out the house quick but still look cute? These three are it and they work great for medium to long locs.
The Braid Bun
For long loc wearers who love buns but want a jazzier way to rock one, then give Franchesca super simple braided bun a try. All that is needed is a tie for the ponytail and a few pins to secure the braided bun once it’s completed. This style pairs quite well with a scarf to hide those edges if they are not looking all that great and with a colorful scarf you can make this style absolutely stunning.
Three Lazy Loc Styles
We had to share some lazy loc styles, and if you have medium to long locs then these three styles are everything! Locsoflove shares three stylish locs styles that will have others thinking you spent some serious time on these effortless styles.
Beachy, Wavy, Flexi Rod Curls
Locsoflove is back with a beachy look. Yes, locs can rock any style and that includes the beachy, wavy look so popular right now. Flexirods are all that are needed to create this fun, sexy, and flirty style. The end result is stunning! Her hair is full, wavy, and the curls held quite well.
Question
Does using a bonnet dryer qualify as using direct heat on hair? I’ve set myself up on an 8 month no heat/chemical challenge, which has kept me away from my coveted diffuser. I plan my wash schedule around the amount of time I think it will take my hair to fully dry so I can wear it out for a few days. One section of my hair takes longer to dry than the rest of it so I’ve resorted to using my Andis bonnet, that I usually use for deep conditioning, to dry my hair. Just to be clear I put it to use when my hair is about 90% dry. I do this in fear of it causing heat damage. So my question is when using a bonnet dryer is it considered direct heat? Or is it indirect since it’s more so an inflated heated space?
Answer
What is direct heat?
Direct heat is heat styling tools that directly touch or are in close proximity to the strands like a flat iron, hot comb, blow-dryer (without a diffuser attachment”>, curling iron, curling wand, and hot rollers. These tools have a greater chance of causing heat damage. Using these tools on low heat with a heat protectant decreases the potential for heat damage.
What is indirect heat?
Indirect heat is using tools to create a style or dry the hair without coming into direct contact with the heat, making your strands less vulnerable to heat damage. Excellent examples of indirect heat for hair would be the hooded dryers, the soft bonnet dryers, or hair steaming as they may be closer to your head but they still do not directly touch the hair strands. A lot of curly girls will use dryers for roller sets or deep conditioning but they are also great for using at the end of air drying your hair to ensure all strands are completely dry. Even though they are indirect sources of heat, you should still use the lowest setting possible to adequately dry the hair as it is still a heat source.
Which is better?
Indirect heat is better because it has a lower chance of causing heat damage and it is quite useful for deep conditioning and speeding up the drying time. Direct heat should be used sparingly and always with a heat protectant formulated with silicones, as they help create a barrier between your strands and the heat styling tool. Heat can be a positive part of curly hair maintenance as long as you use it wisely and know the differences of direct and indirect heat sources.
Read more: Heat Protectants: This Buildup Actually Saves Your Hair
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Desert Essence
Founded in 1978, Desert Essence was centered on a simple concept: “beauty is natural, and nature is beautiful.” Desert Essence can be found in Health Food Stores like Natural Grocers, Sprouts, and Whole Foods Markets aligning themselves with the natural and organic mindset of those successful chains. With the foundation of any and every product being the ingredients, Desert Essence believes in using only high quality natural ingredients for an all-over healthy beauty experience. They carry baby, bath & body, dental, hair care and skin care products and make sure to source their ingredients responsibly. None of their products contain artificial color or fragrances and are created to work in harmony with the body.
Aubrey Organics
Aubrey Organics was originally founded by Aubrey Hampton, an organic chemist in 1967. Like many organic skin care lines, they started out with a few products but have blossomed into a massive personal care company with over 200 products and distribution in over 4,500 retail outlets across the country. Despite their size, Aubrey Organics takes the artisanal approach with tiny batches of no more than 50 gallons. They are then shipped directly to local distributors with no warehousing, minimizing the time between production and application by the consumer. They maintain an unflinching commitment to all–natural ingredients which are certified organic and use no artificial ingredients or fragrances. Although not a hypoallergenic line, they do include labeling of allergens on their products; they also have a Vegecol collection, which contains no allergens. Freshness, authenticity, and natural are important to this line and the health food stores that carry them.
Nature’s Gate
Founded in 1972, Nature’s Gate was inspired by the eco-conscious consumer while being influenced by Mother Nature. Two brothers from Venice Beach, CA were determined to create a shampoo containing only the freshest and cleanest ingredients on earth. Inspired by natural rainwater, they used it as their primary ingredient before adding therapeutic herbs to create the Rainwater Herbal Shampoo. They now carry a vast array of holistic line of beauty products for babies, oral, body and hair care and pride themselves on honesty and integrity. Their products can be found in Sprouts, Vitamin Cottages, Whole Food Markets, and Natural Grocers around the country. This line is dedicated to bringing environmentally-friendly and cruelty-free botanical products containing all natural herbs and pH balanced formulas.
What brands do you love from your local health food store?
Opuntia tuna may sound unfamiliar but prickly pear cactus (what it known as”> is the best-known and best-loved cactus around. With its luscious fruit that can be made into jellies, teas, candies, and wine, prickly pear cactus represents about a dozen species found in arid and semi-arid regions of the world. They have flat, fleshy pads that favor large leaves with sharp spines. Used by the American Indians to treat burns, it has a long history in traditional Mexican folk medicine for treating diabetes but has also be linked to treating lipid disorders, inflammations, and even ulcers.
Widely distributed, they can be found from California to Florida to Europe to the West Indies. This commercial crop in Latin America, North Africa, Mexico, the Middle East, and the Mediterranean countries are popular. You can often find the leaves or pad of the cactus (nopales”> in boiled or grilled vegetable dishes in Mexican cuisine.
Benefits of prickly pear
This plant is edible and a good source of important minerals like calcium, iron, manganese, magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus, along with antioxidants are plentiful in this superfood like ascorbic acid, carotenoids, and flavonoids. The prickly pear seed oil contains linoleic acid and zinc and is extracted either by cold-pressing the seeds or by chemical extraction.
Read more: Oleic and Linoleic Acid: The Reason You Love Oils So Much
Why is prickly pear seed oil great for our hair?
They are not calling this a superfood for nothing. This cactus oil is extremely high in essential fatty acids, Omega-6 and Omega-9 and with that natural antioxidant vitamin E which is excellent against fighting free radicals. Prickly pear has amino acids, which naturally stimulate collagen production to promote faster cell turnover. Collagen helps to not only keep skin firm and fresh, but also protects it from the sun, wind and environmental pollutants and that goes for your scalp and strands too. Amino acids also keep the skin, scalp and hair hydrated and promotes a healthy pH balance.
Read more: You Need These Fatty Acids for Healthy Hair
With double the fatty acids and proteins of argan oil, this oil will add high gloss and soften your strands. If there are deficiencies in one’s diet then the massive amounts of nutrients in this fruit are great supplements to help keep your body and hair healthy and in turn that may prevent hair loss. Several brands are harnessing the goodness of this plant by adding it to their conditioners and restorative oils. Here are a few below but always know that consuming these amazing fruits, plants, and nuts we mention is always the ideal way to benefit from them.
Products with prickly pear
- Christophe Robin Regenerating Mask with Rare Prickly Pear Seed Oil
- Christophe Robin Intense Regenerating Balm With Rare Prickly Pear Oil
- Christophe Robin Regenerating Plant Oil with Rare Prickly Pear Seed Oil
- Ouidad Moisture Lock™ Leave-In Conditioner
- Desert Essence Jojoba Conditioner Strengthening with Keratin and Prickly Pear
Tiger nuts are also called chufa nuts and have a nutty taste similar to coconuts. This milky, nutty tasting tuber is plentiful in Nigeria and can also be found in the Spanish drink horchata. This ancient super-food is extremely high in fiber, iron, potassium, and vitamins C and E. As a matter of fact, tiger nuts have as much iron as red meat, as much potassium as coconut water. They are allergen free, gluten free, dairy free, and chocked full of resistant starch, which is a type of fiber that is pre-biotic.
What is chufa (tiger nut”> milk?
This translucent liquid extracted from the tuber of Cyperus esculentus has no reported allergies, perfect for dairy-intolerant individuals and for nut or seed allergy sufferers. It is a creamy beverage with a sweet, toasty flavor that is perfect alone or added to coffee or tea. Many love them for smoothies too.
What are the benefits of chufa milk for hair?
Chufa milk consists of amino acids, flavonoids, minerals, sugars, and vitamins B, C and E, which come together and provide antioxidants and moisturizing properties to not only skin but also hair. Chufa milk’s primary benefits to hair are protection and moisture. With its solid source of magnesium, chufa milk helps women suffering from a magnesium deficiency, which can contribute to scalp hair loss. Chufa milk helps to fortify hair and protect it against UV rays while making it softer.
We are seeing more products on the market utilizing the benefits of chufa milk and not just because what it can do for hair but also because it is great for persons allergic to nuts or seeds. Here are a few products that are formulated with chufa milk.
Products with Tiger Nut Milk
- DevaCurl Decadence® No-Poo Zero Lather Ultra Moisturizing Milk Cleanser
- DevaCurl One Condition Ultra Moisturizing Milk Conditioner
- Devacurl SuperCream Coconut Curl Styler
- Beauty and Pin-Ups LUXE Leave-In Spray On Revitalizing Conditioner
Want to make your own Chufa or Tiger nut milk? Here’s a simple video show you how.
How to Make Tiger Nut Milk
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What is a hair primer?
A hair primer or prep is just like a face, lash, or eye shadow primer. They actually prep your hair for heat styling, protecting it against environmental factors, dryness, and even damage. Some find primers unnecessary but once you try one you instantly see the benefit and need for it. They create an even base surface for hair products and tools. They create a weightless, humidity-resistant shield between the strands and whatever you apply or that comes in contact with your hair. They allow the style to last longer, frizz to be at bay and stave off damage during styling.
Who can use a hair primer?
There is a hair primer out there for everyone because some give more shine while others may aid in detangling. There are actually quite a few primers out there from sprays to creams. Once I investigated I was able to find out just how great these products are for every hair type. Aveda has three primers:
For Type 3’s and Type 4’s to keep curls shapely and frizz free, Aveda suggest combining the Be Curly Curl Enhancer and Smooth Infusion Style-prep Smoother through your hair. The Smooth Infusion Style-prep Smoother creates a smooth, soft, frizz-free style that lasts all day and Be Curly Curl Enhancer intensifies curls, tames frizz, and heightens shine. They advise applying the combination to damp hair, pulling through to highlight strands, and suggest using a diffuser to help lock in any curls as well.
Bumble & Bumble has three primers:
According to the Bumble & Bumble expert, “(Hairdressers Invisible Oil Primer”> is a UV and heat protectant pre-styler that prepares hair for styling. (It’s”> best for dry, coarse, or brittle hair. It can be used on wet or dry hair before heat styling and even works to detangle. Hairdressers Invisible Oil Primer can be used on all hair types and textures. The line focuses mostly on adding hydration to coarse, dry, and/or thick hair.
The BB Prep Primer is best for those who have finer hair. It brings out the hairs natural texture and helps with lift. For dry, coarser strands the BB Tonic Lotion has soothing agents in their styling aids. BB does say that all of their primer products are meant to enhance the styling aids performance.
Is hair primer similar to a leave-in conditioner or moisturizer?
This product is intended to be used alone or under styling products, but it is applied after your cleansing and conditioning process, including your leave-in conditioner. Also this product is most effective in styles that fail or fall rather quickly like blow-outs or curling wand styles. This is a barrier product working like a heat protectant, so it is different from a leave-in conditioner and the moisturizer, as it has multiple functions. It is also great for usage prior to every styling session.
With further investigating it appears there are several primers that will be great for all hair types and some may need to be in conjunction with other products to give optimal smoothness, combat frizz, or add shine.
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InstagramHave you tried a hair primer?
1. They care for their scalp
Healthy hair does not grow out of an unhealthy scalp. Abusing the scalp by scratching, digging pins into it, and ignoring scalp irritations is the best way to harm not only the scalp but also your hair. Scalps can incur buildup just as much as hair can, so using a scalp exfoliant or a clarifying shampoo from time to time will not only remove buildup from the hair but also the scalp and ensure it is cleaned thoroughly. Remember, an unhealthy scalp can lead to thin and broken hair or a scalp ailment that can inhibit optimal hair growth.
2. They eat a healthy diet
We love taking vitamins and dumping every oil on our hair, but the best way to get them into your bodies is through consumption. Protein is the building block of hair but the best way to get it into the hair follicle is through the scalp and from inside by eating it. Half the battle for beautiful hair is won by what you put into your body. A diet rich in proteins, fatty acids, iron and zinc will help to stimulate hair follicles for optimal growth and beauty.
3. They deep condition after every wash
Curly girls love conditioners and the ones with healthy hair never skimp on them especially the deep conditioning after every wash. Women who deep condition regularly have hair that is not only healthier but also more manageable, less prone to breakage, frizz and retain length better. Some things are just worth the extra effort.
4. They avoid heat styles as much as possible
Using heat tools regularly is the quickest way to damaging your hair. Honestly, just limit your usage of heat. The more heat you use, the greater the risk for heat damage, which is not only irreversible but also unhealthy. Do not rely on the flat iron or blow-dryer for styling too often and remember there are plenty of ways to achieve heatless curls like with Curlformers and roller sets.
5. When they do use heat, they use a heat protectant
When healthy-haired women do use heat they make sure to use a heat protectant every time. No skimping on that because heat protectants surround the hair strands and keeps the heat tool from damaging the hair. Silicones are great heat protectants so finding one formulated with silicones is a great way to ensure your heat style will not damage your strands.
Read more: Heat Protectants: This Buildup Actually Protects Your Hair
6. They have a solid nighttime routine
Not everyone’s nighttime routine is the same. Some prefer a satin bonnet while others pineapple and sleep on a silk pillowcase. I prefer my trusty Loc Soc and a satin pillowcase, but the premise is the same: protecting your hair at night. That can mean retwisting, rewetting, or just tying your hair in a silk scarf but make sure you have some nighttime routine that not only keeps hair protected but easier to style the next day for second, third, or even fourth day hair.
7. They protect their hair from the sun, pool play, and clothes
They protect their hair from wetting prior to getting in the pool and keep their ends away from brushing up against your clothing. Healthy hair must be protected to stay healthy, and that goes double for your ends, which are the oldest and the most fragile.
8. They shampoo less
Less is more when it comes to shampooing or cleansing curly hair. We need those natural oils and moisture, and shampoo rids the hair of buildup, toxins, dead skin cells, and oils. Washing once a week or even less is more than enough for cleansing your hair and we all know that our hair does not need that old-fashion notion of being squeaky clean.
How do you maintain healthy hair?
Climate will greatly affect your products
My hair responds differently in a dry climate in comparison to a humid one, so when I travel I have to pack my hair care products accordingly. I wasted many a trip looking like a frizzy mop or a dusty rag before I realized the difference. In humid climates I have to use ingredients that respond well to humidity, such as thicker products to combat the frizz. Lesson learned.
You can wear a wash and go
I always envied women who could just wash and go. I would avoid water and use grease. I hated grease and hated the chemical bondage I found myself locked into. I also loved curls and knew how ridiculous it was to get a relaxer, come out with bone straight hair, and then roll set my hair for curls. Now, I have naturally coily hair and love it. I hate that I had to wait until I was 35 to find that out, but I have no idea what my hair looked like when I was a child so I had no clue what to expect.
Read more: Top 10 Wash and Go Tutorials for Type 4 Hair
Ingredients do matter
Before going natural I never looked at the back of a product. It never occurred to me to not solely believe the marketing claims on the front of the packaging. Some brands will highlight coconut oil or “all natural” on the front but when you look at the label you see that those desired ingredients are actually at the bottom of the ingredients list. I now know to turn the bottle around and I am a better consumer as a result.
I now know to turn the bottle around and I am a better consumer as a result.
My hair prefers natural oils, butters, and plant-based ingredients. Once I figured out what was in products I was able to narrow down what made my hair look and feel better, which spilled over into my other personal care products.
Your salon connection will not be the same
I tried to continue being connected at the hip to a hair salon once I became natural and it was a waste of money and time. I do go to the salon for cuts and color but I can handle everything else quite well myself. When going natural everything changes, from the products you use to the salon you choose and how often you visit.
Read more: This Writer Says The Natural Hair Movement “Killed” the Black Salon
It takes time
It took time for me to find the right products and regimen. I make sure to tell newly naturals this all the time so they can ride it out much better than I did.
Learning about my natural hair allowed me to become a smarter and more informed consumer. I became an expert on Sabrina’s coils and an expert on finding out what is in products. Yes, hindsight is all-knowing but trial and error makes the journey worthwhile.
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What do you wish you knew before returning natural?
Benefits of sea kelp
Sea kelp is in a plethora of vitamins, macronutrients, and minerals. It contains 46 minerals, 16 amino acids, and 11 vitamins. Iodine, iron, potassium, phosphorus, and salt are the most prominent minerals, while niacin and vitamin A are the lead vitamins. Because of its high iodine content, sea kelp is essential in regulating thyroid hormones but also perfect for persons suffering from a deficiency in iodine. It is excellent for hydration and improves metabolism and increases energy. It is an alkaline food and great for maintaining an acid base balance in the body and can even protect against radiation poisoning.
Benefits of sea kelp for hair
From cleansing to toning, moisturizing to repairing, sea kelp is a winner on all fronts for hair and scalp. If someone is deficient in minerals or vitamins due to illness, hormones, or diet, then sea kelp is excellent in adding those nutrients to the body as a supplement. Whenever there is a deficiency in the body of a vitamin or mineral, hair is the first to go. For instance, a zinc deficiency may cause thinning hair. Actually, a deficiency in iron or potassium can also cause thinning hair or hair loss, so sea kelp being rich in iodine, potassium, and iron is an ideal fix. The iodine in sea kelp is not just great for regulating the thyroid, it is also great for treating dandruff.
Several of the minerals in sea kelp along with iodine will promote a healthier scalp and stronger hair. Sea kelp has been added to shampoos, conditioner, and hair treatments for strengthening and nourishing hair and scalp. Our hair and scalp need proper hydration and sea kelp will hydrate both and improve dry hair. The best way to get all the nutrients and vitamins of sea kelp is through consumption, and a diet rich in vitamins, proteins, and minerals will yield a healthier body and in turn a healthier scalp and hair. There are sea kelp supplements and there are several hair care brands that add it to their formulas for easier use if consumption is not the way you choose to use sea kelp.
Products with Sea Kelp
- Kinky-Curly Come Clean Moisturizing Shampoo
- Jason Smoothing Sea Kelp Shampoo
- Jason Smoothing Sea Kelp Natural Conditioner
- SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Restorative Conditioner
- Original Moxie Lux Locks Styling & Shine
Sea Kelp + Clay Hair Mask
For the DIYers in the group here’s a hair mask just for you.
- 3 Tbsp. powered seaweed (sea kelp”>
- 3 Tbsp. Rhassoul clay
- 10 drops lemongrass essential oil
Mix all the ingredients together in a bowl and add enough water to create a paste. Spread through wet hair and let sit for 45 min. Rinse thoroughly and style as usual.
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How do you find the right stylist? Do your research. Many of us have already been through or know someone else who has had a horrible haircut from a stylist not trained in styling curly hair. In order to avoid similar experiences, do a little digging to find that right person so you and your stylist are on the same page and trust one another. Watch for these six signs that will let you know you are definitely with the right person.
They insist on a consultation
We all have different coils, curls, and waves and a consultation is a must to ensure they see your hair texture and density and discuss expectations. A consultation allows the two of you to meet so you can tell them what you want and for you to see if they are the right fit for you and your hair. It allows you to see their shop, the products they use, and get to know them before services are rendered. Communication is important for a pleasant experience so do not opt out of a consultation.
They know your language
Believe me, if they do not know how to care for textured hair, you will find out as soon as you ask the first question. They should be well-trained and experienced in textured hair and what it needs, ask the right questions, and discuss the products that will be used on your hair. With the rise in textured hair, many stylists may feel the urgency to work on textured-haired clients, but if they are not trained in textured hair then you do not want to be their curly girl guinea pig. Find an experienced stylist you can trust, and one way to build that trust is to speak to them and see if they know the terms, ingredients and common concerns of curly girls.
They have been curly trained
Many stylists are being extensively trained in all forms of textured hair from waves to coils like at the Deva Inspired Salons or Ouidad Certified Salon just to name a couple. These curly trained stylists are taught how to care for hair types from Type 2 to Type 4 and every coil in-between for styles, cuts, coloring, and more. They are not the only professionals that are experts on textured hair but they have gone through rigorous training to learn how curly hair grows, hangs, and thrives. Don’t hesitate to ask if they have received professional training with caring for textured hair.
They have a solid reputation as a natural or textured hair stylist
Recommendations are a great way to determine if your chosen stylist is worth his or her salt. Word of mouth is golden as well as reviews and sites that share a list of qualified stylists for curly hair at Curl Salons. Peruse them prior to selecting a stylist to see if you like their services. More salons are appointment only, especially for textured hair, so try to gather as much information as possible before your consultation. Check to see if they have a social media presence and look at reviews online.
If they charge the same for curly or textured hair as straight hair
If a stylist chooses to charge more for textured hair, then there is a good chance she does not work on it often. It may take her longer or it may seem like a burden, so do not patron someone who sees your texture as a burden.
Now, no one says you have to solely go to a stylist who works only on natural or textured hair, do your research on them to see just how many textured hair clients they have and how often they work on textured hair. You want someone who embraces your hair and does not see it as a challenge or charge you more.
Our hair is not a challenge but a delight and you want the stylist you pick to feel the same way. Do a little research and consult with them to determine if the fit is right. The tips above will not steer you wrong and may just find you the perfect person for all your curly hair needs.
To hear what the stylists think, check out the discussion below with celebrity stylist Felicia Leatherwood and Anthony Dickey.
Looking for a stylist?
If you’re searching for a stylist in your area, use our Salon Finder to enter your location or zip code and find a listing of curly hair stylists and reviews from our community.
The oil comes from the seeds, which are harvested from green, star-shaped pods. There is a long production time but can produce as long as 75 years. The pods are inedible unlike the seeds but once the seeds are harvested from the pods they are cold-pressed to release the sacha inchi oil. The pulp is used for bread, feed, flour, or soap but the oil is of high quality and extremely nutritious.
What is the composition of sacha inchi oil?
This little known exotic oil is unique because it is the most unsaturated known vegetable with an unsaturated fatty acid content of 93.69%. Sacha inchi oil also has the lowest content of saturated fatty acids in the world with 6.39%. Almost 90% of the oil is essential fatty acids with 48% Omega-3 (alpha-linolenic acid”>, 33% Omega-6 (linoleic acid”>, and 9% non-essential Omega-9. The seeds are rich in proteins, vitamins, and fiber and are easily digested. With a similar flavor to olive oil, it is loved by vegans and vegetarians with its high composition of omega-3s. Sacha inchi seeds and oil sits in the beloved group with chia seeds, flaxseeds, and microalgae as vegan omega-3s as super foods.
Read more: Oleic and Linoleic Acid: Why You Love Oils So Much
The uses of sacha inchi oil
Omega-3s are extremely beneficial for skin and hair. It helps to regulate oil production, helping to lock in needed moisture. By locking in moisture it helps in keeping the scalp and hair conditioned and relieves irritated or scaly scalps from eczema and/or psoriasis. The oil is light in nature, making it absorb easily and quickly into the skin. This makes it exceptional in facial serums, creams, lotions, and hair and body butters. It also has a remarkably long shelf life of 18 months and with the natural tocopherol and strong antioxidants properties, sacha inchi oil helps to lengthen the life as well. This newly loved oil for hair care is great for sensitive skin, a natural emollient, superb for acne and blemished skin, and ideal for brittle hair and dry scalp.
Products with sacha inchi oil
Sacha inchi oil can be found online and local health food stores and is great by itself in scalp massages and oil blends. It can be found in some hair products that have added this super oil to their formulations.
- Harnn Oriental Herbs Concentrated Conditioner
- Harnn Oriental Herbs Anti-dandruff and Hair Revitalize Shampoo
- All-natural, Organic, Elixir Oil with Moringa and Sacha Inchi
- SheaMoisture Sacha Inchi Rescue + Repair Clarifying Shampoo
- SheaMoisture Sacha Inchi Oil Rescue + Repair Co-wash
- SheaMoisture Sacha Inchi Oil Curl Defining Smoothie
Have you tried this up and coming hair and beauty oil?
Besides being a tasty fruit, dates have amazing health benefits and are full of nutritional value with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. While being high in sugar, they are also high in calcium, sulfur, iron, potassium, phosphorous, manganese, copper, and even oil. Date seeds contain major nutrients like potassium, magnesium, calcium, and phosphorous, but they also are loaded with essential fatty acids beneficial for our bodies. The dates have oil, but the seeds what have an even bigger content. According to Science Direct, date oil is extracted from the seeds and has an impressive composition of vitamins, nutrients, and essential fatty acids, including 50.10% oleic, 19.23% linoleic, and 10.24% lauric, 9.83% palmitic, and 7.51% stearic fatty acids.
Read more: Oleic and Linoleic Acid: The Reasons You Love Oils So Much
Why is this oil so great for hair?
Date seed oil is plentiful with fatty acids but has over 50% of its fatty acid content from oleic acid. Oleic acid is one of the reasons curly girls love natural oils so much. Oleic acid is an Omega-9 fatty acid that controls water loss in hair strands and makes them look and feel softer and more pliable. The second most prevalent fatty acid is linoleic acid and this is also another oil we love and for good reason. Linoleic is an Omega-6 fatty acid that our bodies need but cannot create and it stimulates hair growth while helping to maintain a healthy scalp. It also controls water loss so moisture is kept right where it belongs…in the hair strands. Lauric acid is third in abundance in this oil and with its antimicrobial, antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties it creates a healthier scalp that is free from irritants like dandruff or other scalp aliments. It also promotes an environment for hair growth because it binds with hair proteins and prevents hair loss.
Read more: You Need These Fatty Acids for Healthy Hair
Date seed oil is packed with nutrients, which nourish the hair follicles and keep hair at optimal growth and maintenance. This makes for stronger strands and a healthier scalp. This oil is wonderful for hair and scalp massages and you get one-stop shop with its ability to maintain a healthy scalp while strengthening the hair. It can be used by itself or in conjunction with other oils, and if wanting to buy some you may have better luck looking for it just as date oil. While finding products with date seed oil or date oil may be challenging, simply eating dates is another great way to harness their amazing abilities to keep your hair and scalp healthy and strong.
Read more: 4 Acids that are Great for Your Hair
Products with date seed oil
For DIY hair treatments many of our ingredients are found right in the kitchen pantry.
I know most of us have them just lurking around waiting to be in a stir fry or a salad, and while it may seem a little unorthodox, it can be something new to try and fun.
Beer +ACV Hair Rinse
Most of us have a couple of beers stashed in the fridge, and most curly girls always keep some apple cider vinegar (ACV”> around for either household cleaning or in their hair so snag the beer and the ACV for this hair softening, detangling rinse.
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup beer
Mix the two together and wash hair as usual. Pour over cleansed hair and massage into strands. Leave on for 5-10 min. before rinsing with warm water. Style as usual.
Sabrina’s Super Simple Coffee Hair Rinse
- 1-2 cups freshly brewed (but cooled”> coffee
After cleansing hair pour cooled coffee over your head. Apply deep conditioner to strands (as you normally would after cleansing hair”> liberally and allow mixture to sit under a plastic or heat cap for 30 min. Rinse and style as usual. You can also just cleanse and condition hair and pour the coffee over your head and keep in for 15 to 30 min. before rinsing and styling as usual too.
Brown Sugar + Oatmeal Exfoliating Scalp Scrub
Scalp scrubs are increasing in popularity but most scrubs are pricey especially when you see how cheap it is to create one yourself. The holidays have just passed so most of us still have some brown sugar and even oatmeal in the kitchen to create this super simple scalp scrub.
- 2 Tbsp. brown sugar
- 2 Tbsp. finely ground oatmeal
- 2 Tbsp. favorite conditioner
Mix ingredients well in a bowl and wash hair as usual. Scoop a small amount into the palm of your hand and work your mixture into your scalp using circular motions. Once completed rinse well and style as usual. No need to cleanse again.
DIY Dandruff Scalp Scrub
- 2 Tbsp. sea salt
- 1-2 Tbsp. lemon juice
- 1-2 Tbsp. olive oil
Mix ingredients in a small bowl well before applying to dry, unwashed hair. Massage well into scalp with circular motions for several minutes. Rinse well, shampoo, and style as usual.
Pumpkin & Honey Hair Mask
Pumpkin is rich in vitamins A, C, and potassium and honey is a natural humectant. Together they are perfect for a moisturizing hair mask. I know some of us have some cans of pumpkin lying around after the holiday and we keep honey on deck to sweeten our tea.
- ¼ cup canned pumpkin puree or raw pumpkin
- 1-2 Tbsp. honey
Mix ingredients in a bowl well before applying to cleansed hair and scalp. Apply well before covering with a plastic cap and allow to sit for 15 to 20 min. Rinse with water before styling as usual and this is even great for a face mask too.
DIY Banana Beauty Hair Mask
The only mask with this many ingredients but stellar and most of us have all of these right in our kitchen pantry. Heal, strengthen, and promote a healthy scalp with this great hair mask.
- 1 to 2 overripe bananas
- 1 tsp. coconut oil
- 1 tsp. olive oil
- 1 tsp. honey
- Blender
Blend banana until smooth before adding honey, coconut, and olive oils to the blender and blend again. Slather mask into cleansed hair and allow to sit for 5-10 min. Rinse well with warm water making sure to remove all of the hair mask and style as usual.
Do you have a favorite DIY pantry hair treatment?
Question
Is there a good & cheaper substitution for DevaCurl hairspray? I love it but $25/can is too much! The hold is just enough so I can re-do my hair another day or 2 without washing it and I actually like the smell and ingredients (for hairspray anyway”>. I don’t want something that is going to cement my hair but I do want some hold. I also prefer to stay on the more natural side ingredient-wise. Thanks!
Answer
Yes, there are less expensive alternatives to your favorite DevaCurl Flexible-Hold Hairspray but they may not work as well. There’s a reason DevaCurl was voted the community’s favorite salon brand in 2014 and it won our wavy Editors’ Choice award for favorite hairspray in 2015. While there are other options on the market, there are not many designed especially for curly girls, and when you find a need that is not being adequately met, prices tend to be higher.
What is hair spray?
Hair spray is a solution of polymers in a volatile solvent that when sprayed deposits a stiff layer of the polymer on the hair after the solvent evaporates. Their job is to keep your hair in place. There are light, medium, heavy to extra heavy hold variations but then there are even ones specifically for curly, color-treated, or persons wanting sun protection. Hair sprays have gotten a bad rap because of the aerosol cans and their ozone-depleting chemicals (chlorofluorocarbons”> that have been eliminated since the 1970’s. Later it became a federal regulation with the Clean Air Act and the EPA restricting the use of CFC’s for non-consumer products. Now most consumer aerosol products are made using propellants like hydrocarbons and compressed gasses like nitrous oxide that do not deplete the ozone layer, according to Scientific American.
Do curly girls use hair spray?
There are numerous types of hair sprays now for hold, shine, or volume but there are even some for protection against the sun, while aerosol hair sprays are better for adding the finishing hold on a straight or blow out style non-aerosol sprays are better for locking in the shape and texture for curly hair. Price does matter according to Kathleen Firth, stylist and owner of Paul Mitchell Focus Salon Raika Studio in Manhattan told Women’s Health. You get what you pay for and cheaper brands may leave behind a residue, not hold up as well, and may not necessarily be infused with those natural ingredients you love so much with DevaCurl Flexible-Hold Hairspray.
Popular inexpensive hairsprays for curly hair
- Sexy Hair Curly Sexy 24/7 Curling Hair Spray
- TRESemme Curl Care Curl Locking Styling Spray
- John Frieda Frizz Ease Go Curlier Spray
You may decide to just stick with your favorite (even opting for the smaller $10 size”> but you can always give one of the above brands a try and see if they give you what you want at a price you can afford. Invest in a great clarifying shampoo if you do choose a less expensive brand that may leave the residue you are trying to avoid to make washdays go smoother.
[prodmod]NaturallyCurly reader BrittanyMaria posted her photo on StyleNook and shared that she used DevaCurl’s Flexible Hold Hairspray to help her achieve this look. If you’d like to post your own curly selfie to StyleNook, share it here.
