Search Results: Sabrina Perkins

By Sabrina Perkins · Published October 10, 2017

Photo Courtesy of Getty Images

Question

Does dry, brittle hair automatically mean protein overload? I recently bought a protein treatment to help with my excessive breakage but I don’t want to use it, if it’s only going to make my hair drier. Is there a difference between having normal dryness and dryness caused by protein overload?

Answer

This is really a two-part question that needs to be addressed, as many may find themselves in similar situations. The need to fix dry, brittle hair is necessary but finding out the cause is essential to getting the right treatment to do the job and prevent further damage. First off, dry and brittle hair can be a sign of several things and not just protein overload. Let’s define protein overload. Protein overload is just as it sounds. Protein overload in our hair is upsetting the delicate balance of moisture and protein.

Hair can be dry and brittle from improper diet, chemical treatments like color or straightening, climate, medical illnesses, or even medication. It is not always just the products we use that can make our hair dry, so it is important to find out the possibilities prior to rectifying the situation. If all of those mentioned above do not pertain to you, then reviewing the ingredients list is a great way to determine if you are getting too much protein. Protein is necessary but on a daily or even weekly occurrence. Our hair can stand a protein treatment monthly or even less, especially if one is not using chemical treatments or excessive styling. Many styling products we love contain protein, so checking to see if you are using gels with hydrolyzed protein or silk protein will allow you to determine if you are overdoing it. Another way to determine if you have protein overload is a simple strand test.

Strand test

Take a wet or dry strand of hair and gently stretch it. If it barely stretches and snaps then you need more moisture and may have too much protein. Too much protein robs the hair of elasticity and elasticity allows us to manipulate our hair without causing breakage because the hair should be able to stretch and not instantly break. If your hair is breaking off easily when manipulated then that may be a sign of protein overload.

Fixing the problem

You may need to put off the protein and concentrate on moisture. Right now your hair is telling you it is dry and needs moisture so use very moisturizing products to cleanse and condition. Use sulfate-free shampoo to combat the dryness and breakage. Deep conditioning should always follow cleansing. Use a moisturizing leave-in conditioner to reinforce the moisture plan and remember to seal your hair and ends (pay close attention to the ends”> to  the dryness and breakage. Steer clear of products with protein to bring up the moisture balance in the hair and implementing methods like the baggy method to increase the moisture quicker. Once you notice a difference, try incorporating and continue using a protein treatment but make sure to not use it more than once a month.

By Sabrina Perkins · Published October 10, 2017

Photo Courtesy of My Natural Sistas

Versatility

Do not be fooled by the name, as they are quite versatile. Depending on the quality of the hair, it can be styled any way. You can get what is considered the traditional crochet braids (cornrows”> or more style-friendly options like the vixen crochet braids. This style consists of four cornrowed sections and leave-outs in the middle and perimeter. The vixen pattern allows for a more realistic natural appearance and style options like ponytails, ninja buns, or simply being able to pull all your hair to the back and not expose your parts.

Vixen crochet braid

You also have the option of what type of hair to rock. Most prefer a texture that is similar to their own. If you want to change your length, color, and density, then crochet braids are a less risky alternative to sew-ins, color treatments, and hair cuts.

Best crochet braids

There are also several techniques that are popping up and some without the need of a latch hook or crochet needle. I’ve even seen one where it was installed with a bobby pin!

Installing Marley Hair Crocket Braids with Bobby Pins

When it comes to this look the sky is the limit on what and how you can wear them, so no worries on being stuck with something boring. The styles only last anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks so you are not stuck with any look too long. This style allows you to get your money’s worth, as it is rather inexpensive.

Inexpensive

Crochet braids are more affordable than sew-ins. Whether you install it yourself or have it installed, the hair and the labor can eat away at your money, especially if you buy good, quality hair to use. With crochet braids you are saving on the hair for sure. You can use human hair for crochet braids, but it is unnecessary, as most cut it out for removal. The style is short-lived, so no need spending a lot of money on hair or installation, as this style is easy to DIY.

Easy installation

The process is super simple. Bulk or braiding hair is attached to your own cornrowed hair using a latch hook without glue or thread. It can take anywhere from 4 to 6 hours to install and if you have ever had box braids installed then you know that is a breath of fresh air. The application process is far quicker than that of a traditional sew-in, box braids, or even twists, and with naturals loving the DIY lifestyle, this is a simple solution for those who do not have the time, energy, or money to get it professionally installed.

Look great this winter gear while protecting your strands

Cooler temps are coming our way and a new season can always mean a new look. I love rocking new styles for my hair during colder months as much as I love adding color in warmer seasons, so it makes perfect sense to rock a hot protective style with your new winter wardrobe. Had short hair over the summer? Rock tons of hair this winter with crochet braids. One of the best reasons to do it during winter is the fact that our ends can experience a brittle beating during winter months. Rubbing against winter coats, hats, scarves, and just the cruel temps all add trouble for strands by causing split ends.  Want to look amazing this winter without a hassle? Just tuck those strands away and rock this inexpensive style hair as big and as bad as you want.

This article was originally published in 2015 and has been updated for clarity.

By Sabrina Perkins · Published October 10, 2017

Photo by Yuri — Getty Iamges

Split ends are caused by a number of reasons including overuse of heat, excessive styling, chemical treatments, lack of sealing those ends and not trimming when its time. They cause our hair to look frizzy and damaged. Now, there are products that temporarily repair your hair, but a trim is the only way to eliminate them. So, what do you do when they continue to come back? That’s what Genny101 wanted to know about in our Curly Q&A.

Question

No matter how many times I cut my hair I always have split ends. How can I stop this?

Answer

Change your hair habits. If you are removing them from the equation and making sure you are cutting them completely off, then you are either prone to them or not changing your hair habits to rid future split ends from occurring. Here are some easy tips on keeping split ends at bay.

Lay off the heat

Direct heat appliances like flat irons or blow-dryers are really bad for hair especially for curly hair. You should be using them sparingly like a few times a year, as constant use can cause make your ends even worse. There are several techniques for straightening and drying hair without heat, so opt for those and limit heat styling to special occasions.

Hydrate and seal

These are crucial to length retention as moisture keeps dryness at bay and sealing keeps that moisture in and protects the hair. When you follow these two steps your ends will have no choice but to get in line and stay moisturized and together.

Make your hair stronger

This is the best way to reduce their occurrence. You can make sure to use products with better ingredients and use protein treatments regularly like monthly. Also just consulting with a salon you trust on products that might work better for your tresses will also be a great asset to ensuring you are getting what you need from them. Another way to get stronger hair is to eat well, stay hydrated (that goes for your hair too”> and reduce stress.

Wash hair only when necessary

You do not have to wash weekly or several times during the week, because excessive shampooing can lead to dryness and you guessed it…more split ends. Use a clarifying shampoo only when needed and opt for a sulfate-free one when you do not have excessive buildup.

Pre-poos

Since shampooing can be pretty rough on the hair, try to pre-poos as they will help to protect the hair from the friction and the surfactants that strip the hair of dirt, sweat, and natural oils your hair actually needs.

Find a great leave-in conditioner

Leave-in conditioners help to protect the hair from regular wear and tear and well as reviving the hair on that second, third, or longer days. They keep the hair hydrated and elastic so it is less prone to breakage and less likely to begin splitting. They also help with environmental factors like dry weather or the scorching sun.

Don’t put off trims

I know sometimes we do not want trims, but getting trims when necessary combats daily wear and tear on our hair. Trims when needed keep the split ends at bay and will keep them from getting worse as they will if you ignore them. I usually know it is time for my bi-annual trimming when the fairy knots start creeping up. Either put it on your calendar or look for the signs.

By Sabrina Perkins · Published October 10, 2017

Photo by @limitlessbloom

Shrinkage is natural for women with textured hair, and the tighter the curl, the more shrinkage you will experience. Some only have 20% to 30% shrinkage while others can have as much as 75%! Our hair expands when wet and shrinks while drying.

The ability for our hair to shrink back to its normal state after being stretched is a sign that it is healthy, but many women dislike their shrinkage and view it as a problem. One such reader who dislikes her shrinkage wrote in to express this concern, and we wanted to share our tips with everyone.

Question

I have 4c hair. It’s [been growing out for] 11 months. It keeps shrinking. It shrinks so much it looks like a 2-inch hair.

Answer

I totally understand your concern, as I, too, deal with shrinkage. Before I got my hair cut, when I wore my hair in a wash and go and did not fluff or interfere with it, by day three, my bra-strap length hair would shrink to a TWA. Annoying? Yes, but it can be fixed temporarily and without heat.

I do not suggest heat, as even one application of heat can cause heat damage. Highly-textured hair should not be subjected to heat too often, as it can cause not only damage, but dehydration as well.

Our hair may be growing longer, but for some of us the shrinkage increases as our hair grows! I want to reiterate that shrinkage is not a bad thing, but if you prefer to wear your hair stretched, then here are seven super easy ways to do that without damaging your hair.

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1. Banding

Banding is a method of stretching your hair without trying to make it bone straight. Simply divide hair into sections, and place ponytail holders from root to tip on each section. Allow your hair to air-dry, and then remove the bands. If you want even straighter hair, then you can remove the ponytail holders, and wrap your hair with a silk scarf tightly to help straighten the hair. This can cause a lot of tension, which can cause breakage, so do not use this method often.

I use this method to prevent shrinkage on my own hair, but I prefer to use a method with less tension. I simply place my wet hair in a low ponytail in an ouchless barrette and remove the barette when my hair is almost dry. I shake and go, and that keeps my hair from shrinking as much as it normally would.

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2. Bantu-Knot Out

A fun style all by themselves, Bantu knots are a great way to stretch the hair. They can be created on wet or dry hair. Simply section your hair and twist the sections into Bantu knots, then allow them to air-dry completely. When you take them down, you will have a textured look, but with more stretch than your natural texture.

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3. High Ponytail or Bunning

A high ponytail is a great way to stretch your hair without heat, and it also maintains a textured look. Make sure not to fasten the ponytail too tightly, or you will end up with straighter hair at the roots, and a curlier texture on the ends. You can also put your hair in a low ponytail for less tension and a similar effect.

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4. Roller Sets

Roller sets are a popular stretching technique among highly textured natural curlies. The bigger the roller, the more the hair will be stretched, so many use this style to achieve straighter styles. Make sure hair is properly detangled and completely wet before rolling, and if you want straight hair, just wrap your hair up in a satin scarf when it is completely dry. Mousses or setting lotions are the best styling product for this style.

Ready to try out rollers? Different types achieve different looks, so here’s our quick guide to finding the one for you.

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5. Twist-Outs and Braid-Outs

Twist outs and braid outs help stretch the hair, and will still give you that textured look. Another great benefit of these styles is that the hair will be stretched when the style is old, and can be styled into a new look throughout the week. For extra elongation, when you have completed your style, pin your twists to the opposite side of your head. Flat-twist outs give more elongation than regular twist-outs, but all three —flat, regular, and braid-outs — help stretch the hair while keeping a textured look.

Flat twists and twist-outs are not the same; here’s the difference.

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6. Threading

African threading is a heatless stretching method that can also be worn as a protective style in its own right. It originates from Sub-Saharan Africa, where it is called Nywele in Swahili. Typically black thread (or any thread that matches your hair color”> is wrapped around your hair from root to tip, leaving out the end. As you can see above this method can also be used on a TWA.

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7. A combination that works for you

You can use a combination of the techniques above to create the stretching method that works for your hair and your routine, like Miss Tyler Simone did. She stretches her TWA by banding the roots with hair ties and twisting the ends for the back section of her hair, and then twists the front section of her hair. Jemima aka @limitlessbloom used scrunchies on her roots to stretch them out for her twist out. 

Photo by @limitlessbloom

The process of developing your hair care routine is always going to be a matter of finding the techniques, products, and styles that fit best with your lifestyle and your specific hair concerns – and whether you choose to embrace shrinkage or stretch your hair is up to you too!

How do you prevent shrinkage? Or do you just not even worry about it? Share in the comments section below!

This article has been updated based on community feedback.

By Sabrina Perkins · Published October 10, 2017

Photo by AkilinaWinner — Getty Images

Question

Ok so my hair needs a lot of protein or else it gets over moisturized and loses curl. What Shea moisture deep conditioner would u recommend for me (must be one with LOTS of protein”> I need a DC that I can depend on to bring my curls back to their maximum curliness and help them stay healthy. Please help!!! :”>

Answer

So it seems you have figured out the right formula for your curls to pop and that means less moisture and more protein or using protein deep conditioners and stylers on the regular. While I am very happy you have found your Holy Grail regimen, I do want you to not overdo the protein for fear of protein overload. Just watch for your hair to ensure it does not get brittle and maybe not dump protein on your hair daily. SheaMoisture has a great line of deep conditioners that have protein and moisturizers in them that will bring your hair back to life. Let’s do a breakdown of a few of their hair masques (their version of deep conditioners”> and I’ll add some others just in case you are interested.

SheaMoisture Mongongo & Hemp Seed Oils High Porosity Moisture-Seal Masque

This masque for high porosity hair has two types of proteins in it. It has hydrolyzed rice protein and hydrolyzed soy protein. It is designed for dry, unmanageable curls suffering from high porosity that needs strength as well as moisture. This is a relatively new line and may be worth giving a try.

SheaMoisture Yucca & Plantain Anti-Breakage Strengthening Masque 

This popular hair masque also has two proteins: hydrolyzed vegetable protein and hydrolyzed rice protein. This is an intensive masque created to smooth frazzled strands and is about strengthening hair to resist breakage. Hydration is not a major, factor so this may not be the best choice for you.

SheaMoisture Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil Intensive Hydrations Masque

This hydration masque has hydrolyzed rice protein and its primary job is to add the moisture and defrizz hair. I love this masque and it is my staple for deep conditioning. The smell alone makes it a winner.

SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen, Grow & Restore Treatment Masque 

This restorative masque has hydrolyzed vegetable protein and higher on the list of ingredients than all the others mentioned. The primary purpose of this masque is to restore strength and resilience to damaged strands. It is great for color-treated or chemically-processed hair and promotes elasticity. Hydration is not the main focus of this masque.

Alikay Naturals Honey And Sage Deep Conditioner 

This NaturallyCurly 2016 Editor’s Choice winner has silk amino acids (natural proteins”> and focuses on moisturizing weak thirsty hair.

Mop Top Deep Conditioner 

This deep conditioner is protein rich with both soy and wheat proteins. Suggested for occasional use, it is great for dry, frizzy strands in dire need of some protein, and moisture.

Read more: Do You Need a Strong, Medium or Light Protein Treatment? (Find Out Here”>

By Sabrina Perkins · Published November 10, 2016

Grapeseed oil doesn’t get as much love as it should because it is not a trendy as jojoba, coconut, olive, Argan, or even castor oil. However, it is one of the most lightweight oils available. Its ability to condition and seal moisture into the hair is top-notch. Also, grapeseed oil is non-greasy and absorbs easily into the hair, skin and scalp. In cold seasons, grapeseed oil is a great alternative to coconut oil, which can solidify and leave little lumps on the hair due to cooler temperatures (ew, no one wants that“>.

Let us take a look at the reasons you should give grapeseed oil a second glance:

1. It has no odor so you won’t have to worry about layering on perfume to cover it.

2. It is light, so it won’t leave your hair feeling weighed down. This makes this oil great for people with thin hair that is easily weighed down or people who like to layer on many different products.

3. It has antiseptic properties and is a mild astringent which are both help keep the scalp healthy and fight dandruff. Hot oil treatments with grapeseed oil leave hair shiny and fight scalp dryness.

4. It costs less than most other commonly used oils, such as coconut and argan.

5. It contains Vitamin E, a natural antioxidant that helps to heal and build tissues. Vitamin E reduces inflammation, heals the scalp, and promotes healthy hair follicles which, in turn results in healthy hair growth.

6. It is hypoallergenic, which makes it a perfect choice for everyone, including curlies with sensitive scalps.

Now that you know how fabulous grapeseed oil is, here are some of our favorite products that include this liquid gold in their ingredients.

Koils by Nature Hydrating Shealoe Creamy Conditioner

This conditioner is packed with nourishing oils, including grapeseed oil, that locks moisture into strands after use. In addition to being oil rich, this conditioner also contains vegetable shea butter which smooths the strand.

Karen’s Body Beautiful Hair Nectar

This lightweight leave-in conditioner is formulated to moisturize hair and define your curls. It contains two humectants, vegetable glycerine, and panthenol-all of which are sure to provide your hair with moisture for days. Panthenol is also an emollient and moisturiser so your hair will be soft and manageable.

Organix Reviving White Tea Grapeseed Shampoo

Formulated to breathe life back into damaged hair, this shampoo contains Vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps heal the scalp, reduce inflammation and promote healthy hair growth.

Qhemet Biologics Olive & Honey Hydrating Balm

Grapeseed oil is the first ingredient in this styling balm. This means that this is the largest ingredient. It also contains MSM, which is widely said to speed hair growth.

Darcy’s Botanicals Daily Cleansing Conditioner Cream

This product may be used as a rinse out or leave-in conditioner. This makes it a great product to have in your arsenal. Rice bran oil is a key ingredient in this conditioner. This oil is packed with antioxidants and has anti-aging properties among many other benefits for your hair.

And for our DIY lovers out there:

DIY Grapeseed Hot Oil Treatment

Mix 2 4-6 tbsp grapeseed oil and 2 tbsp lavender or rosemary essential oils.

Gently massage the solution into scalp in circular motion.

Wrap head in a warm towel for 30 minutes before shampooing and styling as usual.

Choose wisely: Rosemary essential oil will balance the scalp, promote hair growth, and kill bacteria. Lavender essential oil has anti-inflammatory properties and also fights dandruff while alleviating stress.

With a new year approaching fast, now is a great time to look at your hair goals, where you are now and where you’d like to be in the future. Perhaps adding grapeseed oil can help make that hair future a reality.

By Sabrina Perkins · Published October 11, 2016

Photo Courtesy of Christina Nwabugo

Castor oil

A thick, pale yellow natural oil, castor oil is extracted from the seeds of the castor bean plant. It has antifungal and antibacterial properties and helps stimulate the scalp. It is also a humectant and an excellent sealant for ends that are prone to breakage and splitting. Trial and error should be your guide on using this oil to help with your high porosity strands.

Coconut oil

Coconut oil is a great option for penetrating the hair shaft and sealing in moisture. It comes from the flesh of mature coconuts and has a multitude of health benefits for skin and hair. Great for reducing frizz and fighting dandruff, this oil is can be found in numerous hair products as well as great DIY hair mixes. Coconut oil is one of the first oils someone with damaged hair should try.

Hemp seed oil

Pressed from the seeds of Cannabis sativa, hemp seed oil has more essential fatty acids than any other plant in the world. The gamma-linoleic acid in hemp seed oil conditions hair while contributing to keratin formation to strengthen your strands. This also helps to retain moisture, which is excellent for high porosity hair. The lipids enhance elasticity and add shine. This is also an excellent oil for winter to combat dryness.

Jojoba oil

Jojoba oil is a liquid wax extracted from the nuts of the indigenous American shrub named Simmondsia chinesnsis. Praised and loved for being the closest oil to human sebum, this is a natural conditioner for skin and hair. Golden with a slight nutty smell, jojoba oil is actually great for low or high porosity hair. I love this oil and use it to seal in moisture after applying my leave-in conditioner.

Olive oil

One of the heaviest oils on the list, olive oil is extracted from fat of the fruit on the olive tree. Used in cosmetics, cooking, soaps, medicine, and fuel, olive oil is a penetrative oil with a heavier consistency than many other oils. Rich in fatty acids, this oil helps with dandruff, staving off dryness, and sealing hair like a champ. Give it a try for scalp massages or in DIY hair mixes for your deep conditioners.

What oils do you use for your high porosity hair?

What’s next?

If you don’t know your porosity yet, try one of these tests. 

High porosity hair can be difficult to moisturize, here’s How to Condition High Porosity Hair – And KEEP It Moisturized.

Have you tried one of these products for high porosity hair?  

By Sabrina Perkins · Published October 3, 2016

Photo Courtesy of AskProy

Question

I plan to color my hair however I want to do a protein treatment before. When’s the best time?

I’m going to be coloring my hair with the SheaMoisture dye, however, I wanted to do a protein treatment before so it’s at its strongest before applying color. How long before the coloring should I do a protein treatment?

Answer

I love SheaMoisture Nourishing, Moisture-Rich Hair Color System and have used it often. We love that it is permanent, ammonia-free, and aims to prevent the dryness you can experience with some other coloring systems. I think you are choosing a great coloring system, but decided to chat with a professional on the best way to use a protein treatment when dyeing your hair. 

Yes, hair should be healthy prior to adding color, but using a protein treatment after is a better option. Hairstylist Vernon Francois, famous for being Lupita Nyong’o’s stylist, explains “my recommendation is to color your hair first and then follow with a protein treatment a week or two later. The color will absorb better by your hair if applied before the protein treatment. I would avoid doing both of these things on the same day.” Vernon adds, “I’d also suggest, if you’re covering grey hair, that it’s better to opt for a color that’s a couple of shades darker than the finished look that you want. This is because your color is likely to get a touch lighter after the protein treatment.”

Before considering permanent color, make sure your hair is healthy. This means cleansing and deep conditioning regularly. You want a good foundation. If your hair is excessively dry or breaking off, then you should postpone the color and focus on maintaining the healthy hair that is growing out and trim the damage, because color will only worsen your hair’s current state.

As our hairstylist expert suggests, use the protein treatment a week or two after you apply your color and enjoy your new color. Don’t forget to share a pic here on StyleNook.

What’s next?

Find the right protein treatment for your hair’s needs, with our Must-See Guide to Protein Treatments.

By Sabrina Perkins · Published September 30, 2016

Photo Courtesy of sandrine boulanger — Getty Images

Question

Can coconut soap replace the shampoo (without sulfates”>?

Hi! I’m 3b type and high porosity. Actually I’m using coconut soap for washing days (also I use a non-silicone conditioner”>. I’d like to know if this soap removes the product accumulation like a normal shampoo or a shampoo without sulfates, I’m afraid to be mistreating my scalp.

Thanks for answering :”>

Answer

Yes, coconut soap will cleanse your hair. There are several types of cleansers that will effectively and gently cleanse your hair like clays, cleansing conditioners, and shampoo bars. Clarifying shampoo is still necessary for removing product buildup, chlorine, or hard water on an as-needed basis, but for regular cleansing consider exploring gentler options.

What is coconut soap?

Coconut soap or coconut oil soap is created with coconut oil or milk and lye or a natural citric acid. The lye aids in saponification of fats and oils and completely disappears from soap when cured completely. You can either create your own coconut soap or try popular commercial ones like Nubian Heritage Coconut & Papaya Soap.

Many DIY shampoos or shampoo bars have coconut oil/milk

You are not going to go wrong with using some form of coconut to wash your hair. Many curly girls have ditched regular shampoos for those formulated with more oils to keep moisture in the hair. Coconut oil has antioxidant, antibacterial and antifungal properties, and seals in moisture. OBIA Naturals Coconut Shea Shampoo Bar is a great shampoo bar to consider.

Check the ingredients

Looking at the ingredients will definitely help you be a more informed shopper. If your hair is happy with a particular brand or product, then worry less about what others may be using. There are several factors as to why a product may work for you and not someone else like climate, curl pattern, porosity, age, and health.

Remember, your scalp and hair will let you know if what you are using is not effective. If you see or feel a film on your hair despite washing and rinsing thoroughly on wash day, your cleanser may not be doing a great job. Don’t forget your hair may simply need a good washing with a clarifying shampoo. Also, if your scalp is irritated, flaking, or itchy, then you will need to determine whether it is buildup, drying products, or a dry scalp. A good scalp exfoliation will always help and you can check these tips for a healthier scalp if problems occur: 4 Easy Ways to Get a Healthier Scalp Today.

By Sabrina Perkins · Published September 30, 2016

Photo Courtesy of Kiitanaxo

Basic pattern

Cornrows are great for starting out, especially if installing your own crochet braids. TheChicNatural has one of the best videos on installing crochet braids using Marley hair for beginners.

Beehive pattern

The beehive is ideal for wanting a flat surface. This pattern is great for braids, twists, and ponytail styles. This is the ideal style if wanting bangs. The beehive pattern is just as quick to install as the basic or u-part pattern. ChimereNicole creates curly hair with bangs using Sensational Jamaican Bounce hair.

Watch Freedom Styles create a beehive pattern in the middle while the front, back, and sides are braided towards the crown, so hair is easily concealed while in a ponytail style.

U-Part / Crossover pattern

This pattern is very similar to the traditional cornrow pattern. For multiple parts, straight cornrows and then crossing the braids in the middle over one another gives you this option. This is exactly the same method as sew-ins for allowing a more natural looking leave-out. Kiitanaxo shares a beautiful install of crochet braids using this pattern with Jamaican Bounce hair from the beauty supply store. The end result is full, bouncy hair that can have several parts.

Micro pattern / Micro method

As you would imagine, the micro method uses much smaller cornrows. These types of braids allow for better straight styles. Small strands of hair are crocheted into your own braided hair, making this method more tedious than traditional crochet braids, but the look is flawless and ideal for straighter styles. Freedom Styles shows a close up into the crochet process and how well it looks when completed.

Not just for straight styles, this is also great for micro locs or faux sister locs like ColouredBeautiful created. She gives a thorough breakdown on how she feels about it and the best ways to install but they look absolutely heavenly and ideal with the micro method.

Vixen pattern

This four section version of the beehive allows for a myriad of styling options from ponytails to styles with side parts. The most versatile of all crochet braiding patterns and growing in popularity as a result, this style gives an option for leave-out. This is the most difficult of braiding patterns but it provides so much versatility. Beautycanbraid shares the detailed install and finished look to the vixen pattern with the option of a leave-out.

Zigzag pattern

The zigzag is starts off like the traditional cornrows down the front. The middle has a zigzag or a horizontal pattern for layering and those popular half up, half down styles. Watch TheBrilliantBeauty create a zigzag pattern with an invisible part to install Marley hair for volume.

By Sabrina Perkins · Published September 28, 2016

Photo Courtesy of Freddie Harrel

Sew-ins

A sew-in involves sewing a weft of synthetic or human hair onto small, tightly woven braids (cornrows”> against the scalp. It is are an alternative to glue or using clip-ins and lasts longer. This protective style is an alternative to rocking your own hair. Lately, more women having been moving away from this technique, but before making a decision, you should weigh your options.

Pros

• These styles last longer than other extensions, as the hair is sewn into the cornrow.
• They look more natural than other extensions and you can wear a leave out near the front and crown for better blending.
• All hair is braided away and protected.
• Less manipulation on your natural hair, which aids in keeping hair healthier and adds to length retention.
• This is an easier way to transition from relaxed to natural without having to work with two different textures.
• Styling versatility is the biggest pro as you can rock any style, color, and texture you see fit without damaging your own hair.
• If using human hair, hair can be reusable.

Cons

• If left in too long, hair can lock and become damaged. They should never be left in longer than recommended, as bacteria can grow on the scalp if neglected.
• They are horribly expensive, especially if using human hair.
• Traction alopecia is a huge problem many women who constantly wear hair extensions too long, too tight, or too often experience.
• The leave out can become damaged if manipulated too often, especially with heat tools.

Clip-ins

Clip-ins are a quicker and often a cheaper alternative to sew-in extensions. Clip-ins are wefts of hair attached to clips that safely attach to the hair’s root. They can add fullness to your own hair or create a full look with your own hair safely braided away.

Pros

• Clip-ins is a quick way to add fullness or length to your own hair.
• Clip-ins are much less expensive than sew-ins.
• They are easy to install in the morning and remove at night.
• Easier to wash, condition, and color without worry of damaging your own hair and scalp.
• No heat or tools required for install.

Cons

• There are limited textures available.
• Clips-ins with afro-textured hair are more expensive than straight or looser textures.
• They can cause breakage if not removed properly.
• The clips can be hard to place inconspicuously without causing a lumpy texture along the roots.

Box braids and twists

Braids or twists are individual plaits or twists divided by small parts. Box braids, Senegalese twists, micro braids, or ropes twists are just a few popular options. Usually created on synthetic hair, this style is a cheaper alternative and the choices are endless.

Pros

• The style can last 6-8 weeks
• They are great protective styles, especially when transitioning to natural hair.
• You can wear buns, updos, and other styles for versatility.
• The accessibility to the scalp helps to keep it clean.
• Redoing the perimeter provides little maintenance.
• You only need to secure with a satin bonnet at night.

Cons

• This is another style that can cause traction alopecia if the hair is installed too tight or worn too often.
• Many are allergic to the coating on synthetic hair, causing scalp inflammation.
• Buildup can accumulate quickly if the hair is neglected or washed improperly.
• Install is tedious and long.
• While the hair may be cheap, the install can be very expensive.

Crochet braids

Just as it sounds, crochet braids are hair extensions crocheted into your own cornrowed hair with a latch hook tool. They are not new, but using this technique to install afro-textured hair is.

Pros

• Installation is quicker than a sew-in and more secure than clip-ins.
• The installation is cheaper and much easier to do yourself.
• Great for protective styling with less tension.
• The variety of hair for crochet braids is endless! You can wear box braids, faux locs, Senegalese twists, and any style that’s is available, ready to crochet into your braids.

Cons

• You may have limited updo styles without exposing the cornrows.
• Your sections may be limited if you want to change your parts.
• Your scalp can breed mildew if you do not ensure your hair is completely dry at the roots after washing your hair.

What are your favorite extensions for your natural hair?

By Sabrina Perkins · Published September 27, 2016

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A photo posted by CURLS – Organic Hair Products (@frizzfreecurls”> on Sep 8, 2016 at 5:49am PDT

Curl Junkie

“For the most definition, we recommend applying gel to wet hair and smoothing through. Then, you gently blot with a towel. If your hair is dry, then you should add a leave-in before the gel. The texture of the leave-in is not as important as how well it spreads through the hair and the moisture it provides/how much you need (like our Smoothing Lotion or Curl Assurance Aloe Fix–big differences in texture but both distribute well”>. The main causes of white residue are chemical reactions (the ingredients in the leave-in don’t mix well with the gel”> and/or the product was not distributed well enough and/or the gel does not adhere strongly enough to the hair (the curlier your hair, the more likely this can happen”>.” -Andrea, Curl Junkie

Curl Sistas

Joy Adaeze Okere, co-founder of Curl Sistas Hair hair extensions, even gave us some tips on using hair gel on their extensions. Many women are leery about using hair products on hair extension, but here are tips from Curl Sistas. 

“For a flexible hold, I love using Eco Style Professional Styling Gel with Olive Oil mixed in with a leave-in conditioner and then applied to hair. The leave-in conditioner keeps the gel from flaking. This combo works great on our Curl Sistas Hair. For my edges, my favorite gel to use is CURLS Blueberry Bliss, applied with a toothbrush and then tie down with a scarf. Lays those babies nice and flat!”

Curls

“Botanical gels are great for creating long lasting, frizz free curls,” according to Curls CEO, Mahisha Dellinger. “Our Blueberry Bliss Curl Control Jelly & our Goddess Curls are great options, both are available at Target.” Mahisha adds, “I recommend using a liquid moisturizer on freshly shampooed/conditioned hair, before applying the gel. The key to avoiding white residue/balls is to use either a gel or a cream styler at one time…not both.”

As I Am Naturally

“It is better to apply gel on wet hair.” According to As I Am Naturally Director of Education, Alana Snowden. “Water is a natural hydrant and it helps break down gel and support curl definition when the hair is drying. Characteristically, damp hair has dry spots and naturally curly hair loses some of its definition at this point. There is not enough hydration in the hair, which can cause the hair to look frizzy and dry.”

When it comes to needing a moisturizer being added to gel, Snowden suggests their line of moisturizers. “As I Am has great moisturizers that can be used with gel. So Much Moisture is a glycerin-rich formula enhanced with natural botanical extracts, providing deep hydration and incredible softness. It works well with As I Am Smoothing Gel.”

Using a liquid or cream leave-in conditioner is a matter of preference and As I Am has two cream based leave-in conditioners:

• As I Am Detangling Conditioner is rich in consistency and helps to detangle hair after cleansing.
• As I Am Leave-In Conditioner is a great foundation for natural styling. It contains strengthening agents plus natural ingredients that promote hair growth. 

What causes white residue?

• Applying too much product in the hair can cause it
• Products lines, like As I Am, work synergistically. Using products outside of a line to react in a negative way.
• Know the product you are working with. As I Am Smoothing Gel is designed to provide moisture, shine, and hold to the hair. It also rinses easily when cleansed and won’t harden, dry, or roughen hair.

Curly Hair Solutions

“Our Curl Keeper Gel must be applied on wet hair. It can be used in conjunction with other Curl Keeper products including the Curl Keeper Leave in Conditioner. The need for a moisturizer really depends on your curl type, whether your hair is prone to dryness, the time of year, and where you live will 100% affect your hair. Taking those external factors into consideration–you know your hair–so add a moisturizer if you need it.

Liquid versus cream moisturizer will depend on how fine or coarse your hair is. If your hair is fine, then a liquid moisturizer might be best, so it won’t weigh your hair down. Coarser, thicker hair would most likely benefit from a cream moisturizer, as it’s thicker, but keep in mind the more hair you have, the more you may have to use. 

Our products do not leave a white residue, as they are without silicones, oils, and grease.” -Elisabetta Denton, Marketing and Communications Manager at Curly Hair Solutions

Briogeo

Oftentimes white reside is caused by mixing two different products (i.e. cocktailing”> that don’t play nice with each other. Products that are heavy in oils often don’t mix well with water-based products, so small white coagulations may occur. As a rule of thumb, I recommend mixing the two products in your hand and if you notice clumping, it’s a good sign that mixing both products in your hair may result in small white clumps.

So there you have it. Tips from the brands themselves on how to cocktails and apply their hair gels to your curls, coils, and waves without fuss.

What other product applications do you want to learn from the experts? 

By Sabrina Perkins · Published September 23, 2016

PHOTO BY @NAPTURAL85

Naptural85 created a hair butter very similar to her shea butter hair sealant she uses for wash and go’s, twist-outs, and various other styles, but this magical hair butter mix does not incorporate shea butter or coconut oil. This DIY mango cupuaçu butter hair cream has a full range of nutrients and vitamins that hair needs to combat dryness. Here is a list of all the ingredients and what makes them perfect for your and scalp.

Mango butter

Mango butter is extracted from the kernels of the mangos. Often used for soap making, skin care, and hair care, this sweet smelling butter is very similar to shea butter and cocoa butter. This soft butter is made of fatty acids and will help moisturize your strands while promoting cell regeneration of your scalp. It’s rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and E, contributing to a healthy scalp.

Cocoa butter

Extracted from the cocoa bean, this hard butter is hugely popular around the world for personal care and even some pharmaceuticals. This butter is great for moisturizing hair, high in vitamin E, and has those wonderful anti-aging properties. This is why many women keep it on hand to soften, moisturize, and fade hyperpigmentation.

Cupuaçu butter

This beloved soft butter comes from a super fruit in South America. Belonging to the cocoa family, cupuacu butter will nourish the hair and scalp for softness and elasticity.

Kokum butter

Derived from the Garcinia tree, this naturally white butter is easier to apply when first blended. A natural emollient with extravagant healing properties, kokum butter nourishes and against dryness. Kokum butter is a non-clogging butter that assists in cell oxidization while conditioning and strengthening the hair follicle for healthy hair growth.

Castor oil

A pale, yellow oil derived from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant, this oil has been around for many years and widely used for medicinal and cosmetic purposes. Castor oil is full of omega-6 fatty acids that help increase blood circulation to the scalp for increased hair growth and functions as a humectant.

Avocado oil

An oil from one of the world’s healthiest foods, avocado oil is a lightweight natural oil that is excellent for moisturizing dry, dull strands. Easily absorbs into the hair and scalp, avocado oil contains several vitamins and nutrients. It can be used as a sealant, hot oil treatment, and detangler. One of the few natural oils that penetrate the hair strands, it also stimulates blood flow, which helps in promoting hair growth.

Aloe vera gel

Aloe vera gel comes from the aloe plant leaf. The clear, jelly-like substance is a humectant that makes for a superb moisturizer for parched strands.

Jojoba oil

Extracted from Simmondsia chinensis, this is really a liquid wax ester. Jojoba oil closely resembles our natural sebum and acts as a natural skin and scalp conditioner. The clear golden liquid helps with elasticity.

Sweet almond oil

Popular in the Southeast Asia and in the Mediterranean regions, sweet almond oil is different from bitter almond oil and is exclusively from edible almonds. Excellent for skin and hair care, this valuable oil is full of vitamin E, monounsaturated fatty acids, proteins, potassium, zinc, antioxidants, and magnesium. A great oil for reducing breakage.

Vitamin E oil

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble nutrient found in many foods that acts as an antioxidant and boosts the body’s immune system. Vitamin E is great for promoting strong, healthy hair.

Argan oil

A lightweight beauty wonder oil, argan oil is produced from an argan nut coming from the argan tree native to Southwestern Morocco. A go-to beauty elixir from head-to-toe, argan oil is full of antioxidants, fatty acids, minerals, and vitamins. An excellent oil for softening, moisturizing, increasing elasticity, and healing damaged strands.

Rosehip seed oil

Rosehips seed oil is an amazing natural oil that has a light amber color that soaks into skin, scalp, and hair without leaving a greasy residue. A powerhouse oil that has antioxidants and promotes cell rejuvenation for the scalp.

Olive oil

A heavy, natural conditioning oil that is pressed from ripe olives used in cooking, medicines, hair, and beauty products. Used for thousands of years in hair care, olive oil is an emollient with anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. Another natural oil that penetrates the hair follicle, olive oil is excellent at conditioning and sealing moisture in the hair.

Watch

Read more: 7 Butters for Your Softest Hair

Will you be trying this DIY butter?

By Sabrina Perkins · Published September 20, 2016

Photo Courtesy of SimplyCyn

Michael Sparks, renowned celebrity hairstylist of Cie Sparks Salon, says, “No, you can maintain healthy, textured hair with proper care, products, and minimal heat styling. Using a deep conditioner like Evo The Great Hydrator in place of your conditioner ensures you keep your hair long and healthy. Thin, fine hair is usually prone to breakage because it isn’t as strong as thick, coarse hair. Not to mention the everyday heat styling can damage the hair more. Using the proper shampoo and conditioner, like Oribe Gold Lust Shampoo & Conditioner, will allow you to help counteract the damage from heat styling and the environment, as this shampoo and conditioner is geared to help restore damaged hair. Creating the perfect foundation before styling your hair by using Oribe Royal Blowout is an easy way to prevent damage from heat.”

We also asked internationally acclaimed hairstylist, Vernon Francois, for his opinion if hair breakage is inevitable for textured hair: “In my experience the answer is yes, because it tends to be dry. Decreasing breakage comes down to choosing the right products, applying them in the right way, drying, and styling your hair with the right tools and knowledge. Your diet also plays an important part in helping to reduce breakage. Textured hair craves ingredients that are hydrating and nourishing, which is one of the main focuses of my collection. Try to avoid heat drying and styling if you can. Also, a traditional cotton bath towel can pull and stretch the hair, stripping out moisture, which is not good at all. A much better option is to carefully squeeze and pat your hair dry with an old cotton t-shirt or a microfiber towel. It’s far more caring for your hair and really helps to reduce breakage.”

When we asked which textures are more prone to breakage, Francois says kinky hair: ”When hair has kinks—not a coil or a curl—it can be the most fragile, because it tends to lack the most moisture of all hair types. Co-washing can be done very frequently, up to twice a day for intense hydration and conditioning if needed.”

Cosmetic chemist Ron Robinson of BeautyStat.com confirms that, “Textured hair tends to be drier, which makes it more prone to breakage. Combine that with the fact that many women with textured hair use heat styling tools or chemical processing that exacerbate this problem.” He adds, “the curlier, coilier, kinkier the hair, the more prone to breakage.”

How to decrease damage

Robinson does give some tips on how to decrease the damage.

• Limit use of heat-styling tools
• Don’t over-brush your hair
• Don’t wear tight ponytails
• Don’t style hair while wet
• Limit use of chemical processing

Final thoughts

The experts have spoken. While breakage is inevitable, it can be limited. Yes, highly textured hair is more prone to breakage, but there are tools and methods to lower the chances and still maintain healthy, long hair. Eat right, use moisturizing products, reduce manipulation, and limit stressful (tight”> hairstyles and heat.

By Sabrina Perkins · Published September 20, 2016

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A photo posted by Green Beauty (@greenbeautychannel”> on Sep 19, 2016 at 7:38am PDT

All protein treatments are not created equal, as some are potent while others are mild. Oftentimes proteins in treatments and conditioners will include hydrolyzed wheat protein, hydrolyzed silk protein, hydrolyzed soy protein, hydrolyzed milk protein, hydrolyzed keratin protein, and hydrolyzed collagen protein. Stronger protein treatments have higher concentrations of proteins, which when used too often can make your hair dry, brittle, and straw like. These proteins are intended to strengthen the hair’s cuticle layer by filling in chips along the shaft. They are not intended to condition and soften the hair. If you are looking for strictly protein, we’ve got you covered.

Greek yogurt

Greek yogurt has taken dairy lovers and health enthusiasts by storm. Greek yogurt has double the protein of regular yogurt and people love to eat if for the taste too. While you can find Greek yogurt in tons of hair recipes from masks to conditioners, those recipes are using the goodness of Greek yogurt for the power punch in protein and nutrients and not for conditioning.

Gelatin

Gelatin is a colorless, odorless, translucent, and tasteless water-soluble protein made from collagen. Largely composed of amino acids, glycine and proline, gelatin is an irreversible hydrolyzed form of collagen. It is perfect for adding protein to strengthen your hair and nails, but it has no conditioning qualities. Just like with Greek yogurt, when you see it in conditioners or in DIY hair recipes, it is being used for its protein power only.

ApHogee Two-Step Protein Treatment 

This treatment is a popular two-step system formulated with magnesium and modified proteins that fuse into hair with the application of diffused heat. It is highly recommended for those experiencing high levels of breakage. Ingredients include water, hydrolyzed collagen, citric acid, magnesium sulfate, imidazolidinone, and panthenol.

REAL Protein Treatment 

Another growing favorite, this REAL Protein treatment is pure hydrolyzed wheat protein. It is intended to be mixed with a conditioner before applying to color-treated, bleached, relaxed, and medium to high porosity hair. REAL protein treatment will coat, patch, and penetrate your hair’s damaged cuticle layers while strengthening and nourishing from the inside out.

Watch

ApHogee Keratin 2 Minute Reconstructor

This powerful one-step protein treatment is a concentrated blend of keratin amino acids, botanical oils, and vitamins that work to restore hair’s strength, softness, and resilience. Recommenced for bleached, relaxed or chlorine-damaged hair, this product rebuilds damaged strands. Formulated with water, cetearyl alcohol, polysorbate 60 (emulsifier”>, behenamidopropylamine behenatem stearolkonium chloride, cetrimonium chloride, and cocodimonium Hydrolyzed Hair Keratin.

Protein treatments are intended to make your hair less porous. Both too much and too little protein cause dryness. Too much protein will not allow moisture to penetrate and too little will make it difficult for your hair to retain moisture.  Balance is key. Still confused? Here more about what ingredients to look for, who needs proteins, and top recommendations by our contributing trichologist.

• Does Natural Hair Need Proteins?
• 6 Proteins that Must Be Hydrolyzed…If You Want Them to Work
• The Must-See Guide to the Best Protein Treatment for Your Hair
• Do You Over-Moisturize Your Hair? Understanding Hygral Fatigue

By Sabrina Perkins · Published September 19, 2016

Knowing what tools you need for your hair is vital to ensuring you keep curly strands healthy, manageable, and happy. Our curls need more than just heavy sealers, satin-line beanies and curl wands for holiday parties. There is a plethora of curly girl tools that every curl girl needs in her stash.

Wide tooth combs

Wide tooth combs are a given on a curly girl’s tool list, but did you know about the array of combs available for every hair type? Yes even the rat tail comb serves a purpose. We love our fingers for parting and detangling but we still need combs in our routines from the shower to the style.

NaturallyCurly Shower Comb

The shower comb was the first comb I bought when I became natural. It is easy to use, has the convenient hook to hang in your shower and excellent for detangling and combing through product when washing or conditioning my hair.

OUIDAD Double Detangler Comb

Another favorite of mine would be the double detangling comb by Ouidad. Ergonomically designed to glide through curls without ripping or tugging, the double row of teeth help with eliminating knots while detangling in the shower.

CONAIR Double Wavy Comb

Another double sided comb but has the power of waves. Great for thick, textured hair for removing knots and tangles and the wavy design allows it to glide effortlessly through your hair.

Afro Pick

Not just for Afros from yesteryear, this inexpensive tools is still a popular item for Afros of all shapes and sizes. The Afro pick gives the curly Fro the volume many curly girls crave. Check out how BronzeBeauty goes from flat to fab with only two minutes and an Afro pick.

Rat-Tail Comb

Inexpensive and easy to find, the rat-tail comb is a great tool to keep on hand for parting the perfect part or for laying down those stubborn baby hairs. Just remember it is not meant for combing our curly tresses!

Clips

Hair clips have several uses for curly girls from creating volume to sectioning hair when creating a style.

Sectioning clips

There are several types of sectioning clips from duckbill, to plastic to even crock designed. All are for sectioning large amounts of hair when coloring, cutting, washing, and styling. They come in every color and size you can imagine and should be kept on hand at all times.

Metal hair clips

Metal hair clips are great for adding volume and height to curly hair roots. As curly hair grows longer, the weight often leaves the roots flat and to combat it, metal hair clips applied to wet or damp hair”> will give roots back their life. Duckbill clips can be used to add volume to curly hair roots and the video below shows several ways to use them.

Brushes

Denman Brush

The Denman brush is a favorite wet or dry detangling brush among highly textured curlies from 3C-4C. It is even a favorite for styling as it helps creating clearly defined curls. There are several styles of Denman brushes with the Denman D3 Brush being a favorite. This medium styling brush has seven rows of nylon pins with an anti-static rubber pad that is easy to grip and control when styling. Some curlies have found the brush was too dense with its seven rows of pins, so it can be modified by removing every other row of bristles to cut down on snagging. Iknowlee has a quick video on how to modify your Denman brush easily.

Horse Brush

This one may seem an odd choice but this horse brush has increased in popularity for working brilliantly at brushing wet or dry curly hair. These brushes were created to remove tangles from horse manes but curly women are swearing by them for preventing hair pulling or breaking as the brush moves with the hair instead of against it. It does so with its seven to nine flexible comb rows that bend out and snap back. These brushes are super cheap and I even have one and found it worked effectively and without ripping my hair out.

Tangle Teezer

When this unique brush came on the scene, curly girls went wild over how effortlessly it removed tangles and knots in wet or dry hair. Created with patented teeth formation that bend and flex throughout the hair, this brush is great for distributing conditioning treatments as well as tangle removal.

Diffusers

Hair diffusers are another essential tool for curly hair. They are a blow dryer attachments that minimize frizz while giving a boost to curls that may lay flat due to hair’s weight. Unless using a blow dryer to help straighten hair, a diffuser should always be used when drying curly hair and there are several different types to choose from.  Any curl diffuser will work but there are some really unique ones that are worth taking a look at.

Hot Sock Ultralight Diffuser

This soft flexible diffuser is was designed to prevent heat damage while controlling frizz. It has a unique design and gives over all diffusion to your curls and super small so it can be taken anywhere right in your luggage or purse.

DevaCurl DevaFuser

A popular diffuser that literally looks like a hand, the DevaCurl DevaFuser is an innovative tool that delivers 360-degree airflow to your strands while helping to enhance your natural curls and coils.

Tiffany Darlyn shares a great video on how to use a diffuser along with how she applies her leave-in and styler prior to diffusing her hair.

Hair Drying Tools

Even if you choose to air-dry your hair, one has to stop hair from dripping. A hair towel is necessary for plopping hair without causing frizz or disturbing the curl pattern. Using a regular bath towel is a serious no-no so check out some popular towels great for drying curly hair without roughing it up.

Old cotton t-shirt

We all have one and they are excellent at plopping or just drying curly hair. I used one forever until I fell in love with another towel (mentioned next”> and you cannot go wrong with an old tee for absorbing just the right amount of moisture without ruffling the hair’s cuticle and causing frizz.

Hair Repear

This towel was specifically created for curly hair and actually cuts down on hair’s drying time. Soft, big, and using technology to whisk away water without frizzing curly hair, this towel is absorbent, lightweight, and gentle to your tresses. I love this towel and so does my daughter as she stole mine and I had to buy another one.

Microfiber towels

There are several types of microfiber towels that gently dry curly hair without disturbing the curl or causing frizz. From the Curls Like Us Cloths to the DevaCurl DevaTowel Anti-Frizz Microfiber Towel, it should be quite easy to find one that gives you just want you want in size and drying time. These towels use a smooth microfiber texture that is ideal for keeping curls frizz-free and non-disturbed.

Hair Drying Gloves

Made up of microfiber, these gloves (created by several brands”> help speed up drying time and allow you to use your hands to keep complete control of touching and squeezing.

Heat Caps

Heat caps are great for boosting moisture in deep conditioning treatments and even drying hair. While the hooded dryer is still a favorite, at-home hair care is becoming more comfortable and many find the bulky, heavy hooded dryer a nuisance. Heat caps allow you to move around as much as you want or even lie down as you either dry your hair or deep condition. I love the microwavable deep conditioning heat cap from Hair Therapy Wrap but many love soft hooded dryers like the Curlformers Deluxe SoftHood Hair Dryer Attachment that works with your blow dryer.

Satin Pillowcases / Scarves / Bonnets

Having a satin pillowcase, satin scarf or a satin bonnet (or all three”> is crucial to nighttime curly hair protection. Simply sleeping on a cotton pillowcase is not an option for curly girls as they whisk away our hair’s much needed moisture and can even cause breakage from the friction when sleeping. If you listen to nothing else on this list of tools to have, make sure to take heed to this point as your nighttime routine is vital to moisturized, healthy curls, waves, and coils.

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A photo posted by Sham Charles (@shamiamglam”> on Jul 18, 2016 at 1:06pm PDT

Headbands / Wraps

Headbands and wraps are a popular way for curly girls to just push back their hair or used to hold back hair in a puff or ponytail. Our curls are not always cooperating and a great way to get them acting right is a headband or wrap.  As we enter fall they are a viable option for protecting hair from the cooler temps while still looking stylish.

Hair Ties

There are several types of hair ties and they come in every color on the color wheel. We love them because they keep our hair in place, out our of our faces and off our neck in a pinch. They also travel well because we can wear them on our wrists.

What’s your Holy Grail hair tool? Share below!

Do you have fine hair? Read our fine-haired writer Rochelle’s must-have tools for fine hair. 

Like what you see? For more articles like this, sign up for our newsletter!

For more curly inspiration, follow us on Instagram @NaturallyCurly. 

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By Sabrina Perkins · Updated September 8, 2016

For some wavy-curly girls, flatness is not ideal. Many of us want volume and more curl uniformity.

One of the biggest problems some of us face is hair that will not look uniform on our head when the roots refuse to curl. Often it is from the weight of the hair, especially if your hair grows down instead of out. One reader with Type 2 wavy curls asks the NC community for help.

Question

“Help! My once big, beautiful curls are becoming flat. What is the problem?”

Last year, I started to actually use product and diffuse my curly hair. Over the past year, my hair seems to be falling flat and losing its curl above the ears. Recently I [used] a cleansing shampoo and it made my hair curly again. The next time I tried it though, my hair was flat one again. I need help! I normally use mousse and a spray in my hair.

Answer

If your hair is thick and long, those characteristics can account for the weight of your hair (thus, falling flat”>. Sometimes, our hair needs a quick reminder on how it is supposed to curl and not just where it wants to. Here’s how to fix that.

1. Squish and scrunch your curls.

While most curlies use the squish to condish technique for removing excess water from hair or for removing the gel cast once hair dries, scrunching also encourages hair to have defined curls. Gently squeeze your hair upward from the ends towards the roots. Scrunching hair is a curly girl’s best friend to combat limpness.

If possible, hold your head upside down over while you scrunch in a styling product, as this will fully distribute the product and increase texture formation at the roots. Use a diffuser attachment to accelerate your drying process without whisking away too much moisture or promoting a frizz halo.

2. Clip and style your curls.

Add volume and height by clipping the roots of your curls to your roots with metal duckbill clips or bobby pins, like wavy-curly YouTube creator JustCurly:

Scrunch medium-hold stylers into your curls for a light, lasting hold. A fan favorite for years has been Mop Top Medium Hold Anti-Frizz Gel or SoCozy Medium Hold Styling Gel.

3. Consider getting a haircut.

If all else fails, a Devacut (Foundation cut”> is an option. This may help relieve some of the weight of your curls and give you better volume. Enlist in a professional with plenty of experience–visit our salon finder database stylists and reviews.

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By Sabrina Perkins · Published September 2, 2016

What is the curly afro?

The curly afro is a curl defined ‘fro, plain and simple. There is less teasing and structure to the curly ‘fro and less detangling too. With a traditional afro there is more manipulation to get the volume with the tight curls and coils and that often turns into a detangling nightmare when it’s time for wash day. The curly ‘fro is like a less defined twist-out or a volumized wash and go. There are several ways to achieve this style, either on freshly washed hair or old hair and we discuss both below.

Freshly washed hair

It is possible to achieve a sexy curly ‘fro on freshly washed hair and even keep the style for a few days. ZANJOO MOAM show us how she created a massive curly ‘fro on freshly washed hair in a two-part video series. The first video is sharing how she placed her hair in chunky twists and allowed them to dry overnight. The second video shows how she turns a chunky twist-out into a voluminous curly ‘fro easily with her fingers and an afro pick. She is not teasing her hair, but rather brushing through it with an afro pick to create fullness without removing the curl definition.

Pt. 1

Pt. 2

Old hair

Everyone does not want to create a ‘fro on freshly washed hair. For curly hair with more movement, a ‘fro may not be ideal or even possible on freshly washed, defined hair. I fall into this category and share my super simple method.

Sabrina’s curly ‘fro

My curly ‘fro is pretty simple. For me, third-day hair gives me the best texture for my curly ‘fro. On the third day of an excellent wash and go, my hair has lost some definition and shrinks tighter to my head. I simply take my dry hair and apply Oyin Hair Dew Daily Hair Quenching Lotion or another moisturizer all over my head concentrating on the ends to ensure they are frizz free and soft. I find a moisturizer gives my hair more than enough moisture while not making it too wet, causing the strands to fall or go limp. I scrunch it in all over, so there is minimal frizz and dryness before shaking and fluffing to desired fullness. I learned a long time ago that a ‘fro does not have to be a perfect circle. Mine looks better with a headband, but the finished effect is sheer frotastic curls!

If you have already lost your definition and want get it back, NaturallyGG shares her easy Bantu-knot out on stretched hair. It is simple, sets overnight, and can spruce up old hair that isn’t quite ready for wash day. I love her tips on achieving a more layered look or even faux bangs with the power of bobby pins.

How do you achieve a gorgeous curly fro?