Search Results: Sabrina Perkins
1. Wash and go as my year-round style
I am the wash and go queen year-round. I rarely break from this style, as it works for my lazy curly girl mentality. I am not a hair styling fiend and prefer a wash and go. Despite living in a state with all four seasons (sometimes all in the same week!”>, I can manage to nix protective styling and opt for a simpler style for me. No colds, no phenomena, dry hair, or breakage. I might wear a puff or a ponytail occasionally, but despite the style I still manipulate as little as possible and maintain length.
2. Wash day routine
My wash day is less of a hassle than for some as my tangles are pretty minimal. I do this by staving off tangles with twice-yearly trims and finger detangling, as combs and brushes seem to yank more than help me. I also enlist the help of three cleansers: As I Am Naturally Coconut CoWash, SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strength, Growth, and Restore Shampoo, or Trader Joe’s Tea Tree Tingle Shampoo. I make sure to deep condition 99% of the time and enlist the help of tea or coffee rinses to help with shedding and hair growth. My conditioner + elixir cocktail is next followed by my gel. I don’t do tea rinses frequently, but I do consistent protein treatments once a month.
3. Conditioner + elixir
You wanna know why my hair does not suffer from the dryness of Colorado like many other woman with curly or coily hair? I make sure to add an elixir to my conditioner to help keep the moisture in my strands without my hair feeling or looking greasy. SheaMoisture Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil with my SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Restorative Elixir (just a few pumps”> is the ultimate cocktail to prime my hair before I apply Kinky-Curly Curling Custard (gel”> and air-dry. No matter the season or temperature I am moisturized, frizz-free, and curltastic and this seems to be the reason why.
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4. Me listening to my hair
I go by what my hair tells me. My coils give me cues on what it needs and what’s working or not working. The only difference in product changes for any particular season would be me adding glycerin to my spray bottle concoction during winter. My hair thrives off of glycerin during winter months. It gives my hair that added moisture that winter can steal from my coils. I am not stuck on what would be best for this particular season and more about what my hair needs regardless of the season. I’ll try something if my hair is giving me cues it wants and that really helps when I’m traveling to a different climate. What works for me may not work for someone else and I am reminded of that since my daughter and sister (both natural”> have different routines and use different products while we all live in Colorado. Trial and error guides me and my advice to anyone is to allow it to guide you too.
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Question
My ends are breaking from protective styling, any suggestions on what I need to do?
Answer
Protective styling is a great tool for length retention, but there are some rules that many often forget to follow. Never keep them in longer than required, make sure the style is not too tight, keep hair cleansed, conditioned and moisturized, and give hair a break in between protective styling installations. Breakage at the ends is caused by failure to trim the damage. If you couple that with protective styling, you end up with making the matter worse. Here are some tips on keeping your ends in tiptop shape when you protective style.
Get trims when needed
If you are having breakage to your ends it sounds like they may need to be trimmed. Many in the natural hair world believe that trims are not necessary components of healthy hair care but that just isn’t true. When you wear your hair in a protective style, your hair must be in good shape prior to implementing the style. If your ends are in bad shape prior to installing your protective style with extensions, they may be in worse shape after removal. Always examine your ends before a protective style and after to see if your ends are in dry, brittle, or splitting.
Keep hair (ends”> moisturized
Hair has to be taken care of when in a protective style. Your ends may be tucked away or in braids, but they still need to be cared for. If you find your ends are suffering the most when protective styling, then pay more attention to ensure they are being properly cleansed, conditioned, and moisturized. You may be just concentrating on the roots and neglecting the other parts of your hair and that can cause for dryness, buildup, and possibly damage to the middle and ends of your hair.
Try a different style
If the breakage continues, then that style just may not be for you. I have a friend who can rock any and every tight protective style and never lose an ounce of hair while others will lose edges with even one installation of microbraids. There are plenty of protective styles from box braids to wigs to crown braids. Find a style that allows you to get access to your ends so you can cleanse, condition, and moisturize properly.
Giving hair a break in between protective styles
Protective styles can be hard on hair, as they can be too tight, in too long, or hair can get neglected in those styles. For those reasons one should take breaks in between protective styles, but even if you did everything right, you still need to give your hair a break before reinstalling another protective style. Your hair needs a deep conditioning treatment after the style and a break, especially if it was in a protective style over three weeks.
Our scalps are made of thick skin that contains sebaceous glands, and if not cared for there are numerous scalp conditions that can affect our hair growth. There are habits and practices that we do to our hair and scalp without ever thinking about the impact it may have on the root of our growth and hair health. Here are 5 of the most common mistakes we make that can damage our scalp.
1. Not cleansing properly
Not properly cleaning your hair or your scalp is the best way to damage it. Keeping it clean goes further than just cleansing with a co-wash or a regular shampoo. Clarifying shampoos remove all the products that build up in the hair and scalp along with the sweat and dirt. Clogged pores are not just bad for hair, they are also bad for our scalps. Any time you add a product to your hair and scalp it must be removed fully. If not, airflow does not get to the scalp and the pores can become clogged, causing irritation, rashes, and even scalp acne. No one is saying to clarify every wash day, but if you are using ingredients that cause build up, a clarifying shampoo is needed at least once a month.
2. Bleaching hair
When we bleach our hair we know the risks it poses on those strands by making them weaker, as the cuticle is raised in the process. Yet we do not often think about what it is doing to our scalp. Hair bleach can cause burns to your scalp.
Hair bleach can cause burns to your scalp.When using hair bleach you should discontinue or let the stylist know if you experience any discomfort. These can cause chemical burns quite similar to the burns some suffer from relaxers (mentioned below”> and those burns can cause damage to your scalp and hair follicles, which can result in hair loss. If hair was in bad condition prior to the bleaching service, it can also cause hair breakage at the scalp as well.
3. Scratching
Yes, scratching is detrimental to your hair and scalp’s health. While we are not talking about an occasional scratch here or there, continuous scratching is something you should steer clear of. According to Medical News Today, “Studies have shown that with only 90 minutes of continuous scratching by the fingernails, it is possible to remove all of the cuticular scale, a protective covering on individual hairs, off of a hair shaft. This loss leaves the hair shaft weakened and permanently damaged, making it easily susceptible to breakage and hair loss.” Scratching that dandruff is bad and the best way to fix the problem is to shampoo or if you prefer a natural remedy, try one of these natural dandruff treatments.
4. Chemical burns from relaxers or hair straighteners
Anyone who has ever relaxed their hair knows about chemical burns. These occur when the caustic chemicals in relaxers or hair straighteners make contact with the scalp and cause blisters, scalp burns, or what it is also known as cosmetic alopecia. Hair relaxers or chemical hair straighteners contain lye (some are no-lye relaxers which is mostly just guanidine hydroxide”>, which are harsh and can damage not only the hair but also the scalp and cause discomfort during the process.
5. Braids, weaves and sew-ins
Recent studies from the University of Connecticut have shown black women are more prone to hair loss due to braids, weaves, and relaxers and all three can also damage the scalp as a result. Braids and weaves may contribute to scarring of the scalp and hair loss along with bacterial infections. Painful scalp issues can surface from allergic reactions to the glues used in some weaves.
No one here believes straight hair is more professional and we certainly do not buy into the idea that you have to cover your hair with a wig to be suitable for the workplace. If you are looking for something new that won’t compromise your personal style, your job, or the health of your hair, here are some tutorials to check out.
MissT1806 has lovely hair and knows how to rock it professionally and playfully. She’s sharing 4 amazingly simple styles that are perfect for work and only require minimal time and effort. The first look is all about tucking, rolling, and pinning. If you can do all of those then you can rock this style. Hair must be longer than a TWA, and even if you cannot create a bun or puff at the end, this can altered by simply tucking and pinning all the way around. That first look is great for stretched hair that needs more longevity, as you may not be ready for wash day.
The second style is a toned down version of the beloved frohawk. If you can twist and pin then you can create this style and give less hawk and more banded beauty. We love the pompadour and we love the bun, so when you put them together you get a work elegant style sure to protect. Even if you are not working with medium or longer lengths, add the aid of a ponytail or a donut to give the illusion of a bun in the back and you have a working style for days. The traditional bun is always work ready and MissT1806 shares her version, which is parted down the middle (halfway”> with slicked edges and a big low bun straight to the back. This look can be altered for a side bud or even a high bun and still be work-friendly worthy.
If you are rocking braids as a protective style this summer and worried about them being “work-friendly,” worry no more as we share a video on how to enjoy your braids and still look professional. The key is hair being out of your face for braids to give off the professional look. Faceovermatter shares 12 gorgeous styles to fabulously rock your box braids or even twists for that matter. She has them long, which afford her the ability to create several looks. From high buns to twisted braided headband, she comes up with several styles perfect for the boardroom to the classroom.
I cannot forget my TWA or short-haired lovelies. I actually have two videos for you. Now, with shorter hair you always have the option of just rocking it naturally or placing a modest headband. If you want to jazz it up but still keep it professional I’ve got some options for you.
The first one is by Jaelah O’Neil, and it is a popular one because it is cute, professional, and perfect for any occasion. It is a puff on short hair and if you thought you could not create one, then check her out because she has a beautiful puff that even the shortest of short hair can rock.
This style is for curlies with a longer hair than TWA and who can flat twist to create a beautiful and elegant halo braid perfect for protecting your ends.
No matter what style you choose to rock to work, know that curly, coily and wavy hair will always be professional as much as it is beautiful.
Question
Is it healthy to get braids right after silk press? I have 3C type of hair and I just got a silk press. Should I get braids a week later?
Answer
Glad to hear you are inquiring about what to do with your hair before deciding to do it. A lot of what we do with or to our hair requires real thought before moving forward. That does not mean you cannot do anything with your strands; it just means it helps to treat our hair with “kid gloves.”
How to care for hair after a silk press
Direct heat is hard on our curly strands, and even if you do not experience heat damage, direct heat is drying to curly hair. For those reasons it is important that we do not aggravate breakage after direct heat applications. Follow this regimen to care for your hair after a silk press.
1. Cleanse with a clarifying shampoo
Cleansing with a gentle clarifying shampoo after you have finished using direct heat like a flat iron or blow-dryer is necessary because of the heat protectants and other products you have used on your hair. Most heat protectants use silicones, which cause buildup on the hair, and while they are essential for protecting the hair, they must be removed using sulfates. We love curly favorites Kinky-Curly Come Clean and Elucence Volume Clarifying Shampoo. For drugstore options try VO5 Herbal Escapes Clarifying Shampoo or Suave Naturals Daily Clarifying Shampoo.
2. Deep condition (use heat too!”>
This should be a wash day staple, but if it is not then it most definitely must be done after a silk press or use of direct heat. Use a deep moisturizing conditioner and adding heat also helps the nutrients and moisturizers fully penetrate the hair shaft and bring hydration back to the strands. Deep conditioners are heavier than regular conditioners and help to strengthen hair and restore hydration after damaging direct heat. If you need a deep conditioner for your product arsenal, try curly community favorites SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Deep Treatment Masque or EDEN BodyWorks Coconut Shea All Natural Hair Masque, or drugstore options Aussie Moist Deeeep 3 Minute Miracle Moisture Treatment and Neutrogena Triple Moisture Daily Deep Conditioner. To achieve the benefits of heat, you can either microwave your deep conditioner before applying it to your hair, or when your hair is saturated in your deep conditioner you can place a shower cap or a warming Hair Therapy Wrap over your hair for 15-30 minutes, then rinse.
3. Give hair a two week break
We need to give curly hair a break from heat for a few reasons. Using a lot of sulfates can be hard on our delicate strands, so taking a break from using heat protectants means taking a break from sulfates. Another reason for the break is the fact that you just restored your hair with a moisturizing deep conditioner. This is not the time to deplete it again. Giving your hair at least two weeks is a great way to allow hair to build back its hydration. Hair needs a break in between heat sessions just like added hair.
You want hair as strong and as healthy as possible before placing hair in braids, so giving it two weeks, a serious deep conditioning, and a clarifying cleansing is a great way to prep hair for your braids, or any hairstyle you plan to wear your curls in.
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Question
How can I dry my hair quickly without a blow dryer? My hair takes around 8 hrs. to air dry when I plop it after styling. When I try blow-drying it with a diffuser it becomes really frizzy and stale. What can I do to make it dry faster?
Answer
Air-drying is optimal but it can take a long time to complete, especially if you have thick or dense curls. There are some tricks that actually work on cutting down your drying time and manage to do so without causing frizz.
Gently squeeze, shake, or wring your hair in the shower
You can do this prior to adding leave-in or after to get out as much water as possible prior to getting your hair towel. Dripping wet hair is going to take the longest amount of time to dry so losing some of that excess means a quicker dry time. Just be sure not to disturb your curl pattern as your wring and squeeze, as this will lead to frizz.
Focus on the roots
It takes the roots a lot longer to dry than the ends so when plopping or using a hair drying towel make sure to blot the roots several times to speed up the drying time. Again, take care to avoid breaking up your curls as you do this.
Use a hair towel (I love the Hair RePear”>
Towels specifically created for curly hair or hair drying actually works well at speeding up the air drying time. I was using cotton tees for years until I picked up the Hair RePear and I fell instantly in love. First off, it’s super big so I can create a cute bun in the front and rock that until I feel like taking it off. Secondly, it is super soft and thirdly it works better and faster than drying my hair with a cotton tee. Towels created for hair drying use technology to whisk away (without frizzing”> water and product without getting mildew, smelly or crusty from product.
Try a hooded dryer
A hooded dryer is using indirect heat and will not disturb the hair, especially if you use a low setting. They help dry the roots in 10-15 minutes. You can buy rolling hooded dryers that you see in the salon, but if you prefer not to make the investment or don’t have the space, we like the Curlformers SoftHood because it’s a small fabric hood that attaches to the end of your hair dryer and works much the same way. It’s smaller, folds into a small pouch, and is much cheaper!
Sit in the sun / Blast the heat in your car
This may sound silly but it really does work. One of my friends will blast the heat on the way to work in her car. This cuts down on her air-drying time. Being out in the sun is another way to speed up the drying process without adding the direct heat of a blow dryer.
Blot with with paper towels
They work like a charm, and many curlies swear by them! I use them whenever I remove my Hair RePear too early or if I feel water and product dripping on my neck. They are gentle and do not leave behind lent. Just blot, not scrunch, to soak up the excess water easily.
These tips will help to reduce frizz and dry your hair a lot quicker than without doing them. I’m sure you will be shaving off at least 25% of your drying time by incorporating just a couple of these tips.
What are your favorite air drying quick tips?
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Donate to a homeless or women’s shelter
We often remember to donate our old clothing, appliances and furniture, but hair care and body products are also important. These products are always in need and many shelters will take them gently used. Just look at one of your local shelters and ask, but I am more than sure you will have no problems donating them. Don’t feel like you are giving them bad products but rather see it as a chance for it to work for someone else. Remember, just because it did not work for you does not mean someone else will not fall in love with it. You are doing a great service to someone in need.
Swap at hair event
Hair events have exploded over the last few years. Depending on your city, state, or region, many are held monthly and even weekly. I have yet to hear of an event that did not host a product swap. Now, most of them prefer gently used or new products and the rules are usually pretty clear. Some even have sanitized stations for the gently used items. This is a great way to not only unload some items that got barely used but to pick up something that you might want to try. Some curly girls even host their own swap parties regularly so you can unload what you no longer need or want.
Sell them
This may be harder to do with used items but if you have something brand new with the packaging still intact and not rancid, then opt for this choice. eBay and Craig’s List are big marketplaces for this.
Return it to the store
If all else fails, try to return it. Many stores accept returns, like Whole Foods Market, but here are a few tips to keep in mind. You should always keep your receipt and the original packaging just in case. This makes for returning it easier and increase the likelihood of the store accepting it. Also, don’t tarry. If it really is not working for you, then your best bet is to take it back as soon as possible with your receipt, the packaging, and even the store bag if you kept it.
What do you do with products that don’t work for you?
Finger Waves
Yes, finger waves are back and with a true updated vengeance. While many remember them from the fabulous roaring 20’s with flapper dresses and buttoned pumps, others remember how Hip Hop stars like Missy Elliot made them the style to have during the 90s.
The new-yet-old look is revamped by a softness in the waves which is opposite of the freeze-dried look of the 90s. Another refreshing feature is adding color. While splashes of color could be seen on some finger waves of the past, the finger waves of today have the entire head colored like Ciara’s finger waves at the MET Gala.
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From short to long hair, finger waves are a favorite among the celebs and everyday curlies alike. The greatest feature is you and your personal style. There are no steadfast rules and the more creative the better. Here are two videos showing just how easily it is to create this fun style on our curly hair whether short, long, coily, or wavy.
The Pompadour
The pompadour has resurfaced a few times from its original beginning as a hairstyle named after Madame de Pompadour. It was primarily a woman’s hairstyle until it gained a renewed interest during the 50s from rock stars like Elvis Presley, Little Richard, and James Dean. It was quite symbolic of the times with its edgy style and was loved by the whole “greaser” look in the 50s and 60s.
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Recently, she has jazzed it up with long braids in the back, faux hawks, and pompadour bangs. While the style is seen on the red carpet quite often by Teyonah Parris or Alicia Keys just to name a few, it is a favorite among the curly girls, so if you want in check out the video below on how to create this style. While the video shares it being created on straightened natural hair, hair can be in naturally curly, coily and wavy state for a more textured and unique look too.
The Bob
Another vintage hairstyle that continues to makes cyclical rounds is the bob. This simple, yet elegant style was symbolic of independence for women during the beginning of the 20the century. When women are often thought to wear long hair to showcase their femininity, the bob has a long history for John of Arc to Cleopatra to today as a sexy, strong style for the woman with style. The bob and curls go hand in hand although many would assume this is a look for straight hair. On the contrary, as curls give the look a breath of fresh air that allow for styles to take on an even better shape, we are seeing more curly bobs that have bangs.
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The new love for curls has created a new look for the bob and the stars at the forefront for this style are Rihanna, Kerry Washington, and Halle Berry just to name a few.
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With such a versatile style it is easy to rock on curly hair that requires little to not much work. If one is in need for uniform waves or curls the video, below shows how to create a style with Bantu knots for an overnight heatless style. If hair is too long tuck and pin the longer parts to give a full bob effect.
French twist
Another easy and favorite style that refuses to leave is the chic French twist. Popular during the Victorian period, this was a romantic style perfect for parties and special occasions. Mostly created on longer hair, this style looks amazing on waves, curls, or coils to help give volume and add character. It became popular again during the 50s, 60s, and 70s. This style will continue to thrive because it is practical, easy, and a go-to updo for special occasions.
Stars like Salma Hayek and Demi Lovato add flair to the renewed French twist with braids and elegant messiness. Today’s take on the old style allows for loose bangs and a touch of elegance that no longer require the style be limited to neither length nor stiffness, as softness and intricate styling is the focus. Check out the video below that shows how to create a messy French twist on shorter strands with bangs.
Question
How do I preserve curls so they’ll last? So, I like to curl my hair by pin curling or by a curling wand and I want my curls to last a week or two without having to redo them.
Answer
For many curly girls, preserving curls is right up there with fighting frizz. Some just don’t want to refresh their hair nightly. I get it. The practice is not for every curly girl so we’ve got some tips that should help you.
Start with wash day
I find I get much better definition that lasts longer if my wash day routine is on point! Using moisturizing products from shampoos to conditioners to stylers allows for less frizz and more definition that lasts. Also, I treat my wash day like a styling day by completely styling my hair with gel and then crunching out the gel cast when dry. This allows for ideal curl definition and requires I only refresh with water or a leave-in and fluff. You can do the same with pin curls on wash day and use pin curls on the sections that have fallen flat or frizzy at night.
Opt for every other day or every few days
No one wants to redo their hair nightly. I know, I know. You do not want to be bothered but what if you did it every other night? If your hair is lasting a few days but you cannot get it to make the week then on night 3 or 4 just re twist, braid, or put it into pin curls to make it last longer. While, you will not get a full week without aid, this is a great way to up your moisture by redoing and applying a moisturizing leave-in to help your hair along, without completely washing and styling it. Our hair needs moisture and even if you are getting a full week out of your hair, you should be adding some moisture to it to keep it pliable, healthy, and looking stunning.
Try braiding or twisting
Sometimes we want that premium definition that lasts for beyond one or two days. That’s when braiding or twisting may need to come into play. Simply add some leave-in on old hair (or start out on wash day”> and divide hair into smaller sections. The smaller the better, and either twist or braid each section before wrapping into a Bantu knot. Leave in overnight or until completely dry and take down without sectioning too much as you do not want to disturb the curl. Not only will you have great definition but it will last for more than one day if placed in pineapple or in a bonnet at night. If you do not want to do a lot of restyling, then simply put in bigger Bantu knots if the smaller ones are too tedious at night.
Added hair protective styles
For styles that last even longer you may want to try some long-lasting protective styles like crochet braids or Senegalese twists. These styles will last weeks or even a few months and can be easily installed and by yourself if you choose. These styles are fun and keep your hair protected as long as you do not neglect them under the hair. They would be perfect for summer too.
While not everyone is a confrontational diva such as myself, the desire to change one’s aesthetics should never be an option to conform to an outdated and narrow perception of beauty and acceptability. There is something very wrong with sending a child home because her hair is “unkempt” or “does not meet dress guidelines.” It is just as bad as hearing from one’s boss that our fabulous fro is “unprofessional” for the workplace. Either scenario is disheartening and needs to stop, so if you find yourself in the unpleasant space of having someone tell you your hair is unprofessional, you can easily respond with one of these:
Why is it not professional? Why is my hair being discussed?
Make them explain why your hair is unprofessional. No need to go any further than this until you get them to define what professional hair looks or why your hair isn’t meeting their standards of professional hair. This is an uncomfortable subject and the person will more than likely stumble explaining why it is not but they need to do so if they are going to personally attack your hair. Make them sweat and explain.
In many situations your hair is not the problem but rather what it stands for and for many that means our brown and blackness. Some would prefer we assimilate with straighteners like perms or simply wearing natural hair straight. Hey, this is a heavy subject but a real one, and while our country is dealing with real racial tensions, the ideals of what is beautiful is being reconstructed to involve more than European standards and some just want no parts of it. While the person is not likely to dive into what may be their motives for personally attacking your hair, they must address why they feel the need to call your hair unprofessional.
I am not going to alter my hair for fear of damage
If you prefer to appeal to their care for people in general then you can opt for this response. While one must not have to explain why straightening or perming one’s hair may be damaging to our tresses, some find this way of responding as a way to work around the problem. This may or may not work, as I am sure they can share others who either do it or wear wigs, but if you feel there is no real malice, then try this approach.
Why is the hair I was born with unacceptable?
You are letting them explain why your natural self is not acceptable and honesty, no one wants to say that. Putting this in this context forces that person to address their own shortcoming or the shortcoming of the business, school, or just their own opinion. If they are accepting of hair others are born with, then by all means they need to do that with yours.
That is your opinion and I have mine.
Take back your power that the individual is trying to take away from you. No one has that right so by making them understand that this is their opinion and an opinion only, you are letting them know you have one as well and are entitled to it. While we cannot make others love our beautiful hair, we can make them understand we are not here for them nor their limited way of seeing the world. Look, no one has the time, energy, or the concern to make everyone love our hair, so putting them into opinion status and one you do not agree with will shut down the conversation and hopefully keep them from bringing it up again.
I do not appreciate your remarks and please keep them to yourself
While, I would say this to a supervisor, not everyone is comfortable with that but if a stranger, family member, friend, or even significant other feels the need to address your hair as unprofessional, then reply back in this manner to let them know they not only crossed a line but to not cross it again. You do not have to allow others to make you feel bad about your choices including how you choose to wear your hair. Never feel you have to change yourself because someone else feels you do. They have a problem, honey, not you.
You do everything at once
I often try and do everything at once and that can cause me to dread the entire process. I try and pre-poo, cleanse, condition, and style within a few hours and make for a longer than normal day that is dedicated to my hair. I’ve since decided to break it up by pre-pooing overnight or deep condition overnight (pre-poo in the beginning and deep conditioning at the end”> to relieve myself from feeling the entire day must be subject to my hair. I allow my sleep time to take on some of the work.
Your wash day is the wrong day
For me, Sunday is my desired day for wash day because theoretically it seems like the best day, but in reality it is a horrible day because this is always a family day for me. I work from home Monday through Friday so it would make more sense for me to wash my hair during the week but I have conditioned myself to do it on Sunday, which is super busy and family time. When I finally realized I was being counterproductive by doing it on Sunday I switched it up to Monday or Tuesday and the anxiety dwindled significantly.
Pick a night or morning where you have the least obligations and do it then. By making the effort to pick a day that fits into your schedule (no matter what others do”>, you maximize your chances of sticking to it and not putting it off.
Read more: How Often Should You Wash Your Hair?
You’re doing too much
I cannot believe I am saying this but when you just don’t have the time, energy, or wherewithal to do your lengthy wash day routine, you do not have to complete every single step. Skip your deep conditioning or full-fledge detangling just to get your hair clean and keep it moving. If you just need to get down to the basics without the frills then cleanse, get out the big tangles, and use regular conditioner to be done. Just remember to catch up on the deep conditioning and full detangling when you do have time. I allow myself that luxury a few times a year (deep conditioning freak over here”> and that helps with those times I just can’t bear to wash my hair but make sure to get it in anyway.
It’s boring
If your wash day is on the weekend or a week night, then all you want to do is relax and enjoy your break from work. To make wash day more enjoyable, watch a movie or catch up on your shows on Netflix or HULU while you detangle or deep condition, so you are taking your mind off of the task. We are all so busy that most of us watch our shows in sessions anyway, so make better use of it. You will find wash day is less of a hassle.
You forget how good clean hair feels
Each and every single solitary time I am finished with wash day I am overjoyed at my hair. It is clean, shiny and it feels amazing. I often decide to take selfies and just touch it more than usual as clean hair is the best. No product buildup, no frizz, and no tangles.
Have you got any tips for getting out of putting off wash day?
Question
Is Hemp oil good for my hair?
Answer
Yes! Hemp seed oil is a remarkable oil that is nearly identical to our own lipids. It can penetrate cells and nourish dry skin. This is a powerhouse plant that contains 80% essential fatty acids, vitamin D, and anti-inflammatory properties. Hemp seed oil is anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and has skin regenerative properties. Hemp seed oil strengthens the hair’s structure, conditions, and improves hair’s elasticity while softening each strand.
Hemp seed oil internally
Taking hemp seed oil internally is a great way to help your hair and can be done so by taking supplements. It lessens hair shedding and stimulates hair growth. You can find supplements or you can create your own by buying empty gel capsules and filling them with the oil before ingesting (always consult your doctor before adding supplements to your regimen”>. You can also add the seeds or a few drops of oil to your smoothie.
Hemp seed oil externally
Whether using a few drops with your favorite conditioner for a moisturizing and softening cocktail or blended into a hair recipe, hemp seed oil is an asset to any hair care concoction. It is also excellent for eczema or dryness. The market is seeing a surge in products adding hemp seed oil to their formulas but many opt for DIY recipes to harness the benefits of hemp seed oil.
Hemp & argan hair treatment
- 2 parts hemp seed oil like Nutiva hemp oil (pictured”>
- 1 part argan oil
- Few drops of rosemary oil
- Dark bottle
Fill the oils in the dark bottle mixing slightly before adding a few drops of rosemary essential oil or 5 to 10 drops for every ¼ cup of oil blend. On clean hair apply to scalp. Gently massage into scalp using fingertips in a circular motion and carry down to your strands.
Hemp deed dry oil serum
- 1 ½ oz. hemp seed oil
- 1 ½ oz. jojoba oil
- 1 oz. coconut oil (or EEVO”>
- ¼ tsp. silk peptide powder
- 5-10 drops favorite fragrance essential oil (optional”>
- 4 oz. dark bottle
Mix oils in the bottle and store in a cool place although it is highly recommended to refrigerate your mixture. The concoction can be used as a pre-poo, sealant, or a hair revitalizer.
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Hair grows in cycles
You will be interested to know that we are born with all the hair follicles we will ever have and that’s around 5 million. 100,000 follicles are on our scalp. Men grow hair faster than women. The only part of our bodies that grow faster than hair is bone marrow, but our hair grows on average about 6 in. per year depending on the person’s genetics, age, and health.
There is the anagen phase that is active and growing and can last anywhere from 2-6 years. The second phase is the catagen phase or transitional phase that lasts about 2-3 weeks and growth has stopped. The last phase is the telogen phase or resting phase where the follicle remains dormant anywhere from 1-4 months and eventually falls out. The process starts all over again and we lose around 50-100 hairs a day.
Does body hair grow as the same rate as the hair on our head?
Body hair and the hair on our head do go through the same process. The difference is cycles are less intense. They last only a month or so and that’s why hair body does not grow very long as the hairs on our head. The hair on our arms, legs, armpits, and pubic areas grow around 30-45 days in comparison to 2-6 years for the hair on our heads. So, while hair on our bodies outside of our heads go through the same cycle, their lengths are vastly different and the reason they at a relatively shorter length.
Why body hair has a shorter cycle
Researchers are not exactly certain why body hair growth has a shorter cycle but the general consensus is that hair gets its instructions from stem cells, which activate the hair growth. Despite that theory every person’s hair is different and the texture, color, or density is determined by genetics which influence follicle shape. As we grow older our hairs will grow with less melanin, appear gray, and those follicles stop growing hair, hence why older persons suffer from thinning hair or balding.
So, if you ever wondered why body hair stops at a shorter length it is because it has shorter growth cycle. For many of us that is good to know, because while we hunger for longer strands from our scalp, no one wants to have to shave their entire body or wants body hair that is long enough to braid or style.
Question
Any bun hairstyles for curly hair that doesn’t stretch your curls out?
Hello there!! So I recently found out I have curls (long story short: I’m sixteen, always used a brush, only curly head in my family”> and I wear a hijab, a headscarf, so that means I nearly always have my hair in some sort of bun. The problem is though, that my curls get stretched out when put in a bun for a long period of time, and my hair is already in a fragile state as is (with my curl routine being new and all”> and frizzes really easily. Any idea of a curly bun that doesn’t stretch my hair out? Thanks for any help, in advance!!! <3
Answer
Welcome curly girl! Glad to have you and we most certainly can help you as you embrace your curly strands. We’ve got a simple style that will fix all your woes and keep your strands from feeling stretched. A messy bun! A messy bun is the ideal bun style that won’t stretch your hair to the point of disturbing your curls. The best part of a messy bun is that it can be placed anywhere and it looks better the messier it is. It also only requires you know how to place hair in a ponytail and secure with bobby pins (read: doesn’t get any easier”>. In addition to opting for a looser bun, there are a few more ways to care for your hair in its fragile state.
Give your hair a break from the tension
Don’t forget to give your hair a break when you can so when not wearing your Hijab remember to take your hair down to get a break from the tension of the bun.
Try protein for strength
Also, if you hair is fragile it may need a protein treatment from time to time. A couple of our favorite protein treatments are the ApHogee Two-Step Protein Treatment and Briogeo Don’t Despair, Repair, or you could work a protein rich product into your regular routine. Here’s a full guide to figuring out which protein product is right for you.
Avoid the brush
I would also recommend laying off that brush as curly hair is more fragile than straight hair. Using a brush will increase the amount of breakage you experience. If possible use your fingers instead as they are the gentlest tool you have at your disposal. If you don’t like detangling with your fingers, then try using a wide tooth comb in the shower when your hair is drenched in conditioner, this will give you maximum slip and prevent a lot of the breakage you would get with dry hair.
Move the bun
Don’t forget to move that bun around so you are not adding tension to the same side over and over again, because even though it is less tight than a traditional bun, if you are wearing it for long periods of time tension is still occurring although there is less of it.
Protect your bun
Use ouchless ponytail holders (they are super cheap”> so you are not pulling out even more hair than is necessary. While scrunchies are not the most stylish (although they have had a brief resurgence thanks to the 90’s trends”> they are great at protecting your hair from the rub and tug of a ponytail holder. Many curlies use silk scrunchies, which you can find on eBay, to pineapple their hair. You can also bobby pin your curls to cover up the scrunchie if you don’t like the way it looks.
Find curlies with your hair type
Since you are the only curly in the house, it may be helpful to find out what your curl pattern is so that you can search for other curlies with your curl pattern online. According to our recent poll many of the curlies in our community favor our Texture Typing℠ system, and we have a helpful guide for finding your curl pattern here. Knowing this can help with figuring out what products and styles work best for other people with your curl pattern.
How to do a messy bun
Twirlerica shows how to create an easy messy bun without using a ton of tension. This style will not stretch your curls or cause further damage to your fragile strands. While Twirlerica naturally has “kinda straight, kinda wavy hair” as she describes it, she started out this style with curled hair and in our experience this style will definitely work for naturally curly hair (without the added effort of curling it first”>.
The reason we love this bun is does not follow the traditional formula of doing a high ponytail and then twisting the hair over and over and wrapping it around itself – this action stretches the curls which you are trying to avoid. Instead, this version helps keep the curls in tact.
Since every curly girl loves options, here is a second bun style from NaturallyCurly contributor Curly Penny, whose bun again avoids the typical twisting motion. Step one in her tutorial is to tie the hair into a very tight high ponytail, but as you have shared that you are dealing with fragile hair we would recommend you try not to go too tight.
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Question
My curls are not nice the day I wash them! I always shower at night and the day after. My hair is so stiff and fragile, I can’t style it, and my hair looks a lot better on the second or third day… I have type 3a/3b type hair. I already use sulfate and silicone free shampoo and conditioner and sometimes I don’t use shampoo. I’ve been struggling with this for year and I really want my hair to look good consistently and not have to wait 1-2 days to feel good about it. Please help!!
Answer
With your curl type you are doing well with the sulfate free products on wash day but remember clarifying or using a shampoo with sulfates may be needed occasionally for buildup. You didn’t really describe how your hair was better on days 2 or 3 but I used to hate my hair on wash day too because it was limp. It never acted right nor looked good so I completely understand what you mean by this. Are you wetting your hair in the shower day and night? I ask because if you are not then maybe the steam alone is rejuvenating your curls for better second and third day hair. If you are rewetting it then your after-wash day routine may be what your hair needs so there may be a need for some tweaking on wash day to mirror more of what you are using afterward. Either way it seems your hair needs more moisture and tweaking on wash day. Here are some tips.
Make sure your wash day is solid
That just means you are cleansing, conditioning, and styling like a champ. That’s where I was lacking. Since I was so used to just concentrating on the washing of my hair on wash day, I neglected to see how that process affected the rest of my styles until the next wash day. The wash day is the foundation that your hairstyles thereafter must grow upon. I began to pay more attention to deep condition and applied styler correctly so that all my coils were gaining the benefit of my gel. That led to better second and third day hair and in turn I had much better styled hair on the first day. I allowed my hair to fully dry or dry 90% of the way before touching and treated my hair like I was doing more than washing but styling it too. If styling is just as important as washing then you will apply the right styler and the right amount so that it builds the character your hair needs for second and third day hair and in turn wash day hair is perfect too.
The wash day is the foundation that your hairstyles thereafter must grow upon.
Try more moisturizing products
It may mean your hair is thirsty on wash day if it is benefiting from the steam of showers afterwards. If so, then try sticking to extra moisturizing shampoos, as your cleansing routine may be making your hair thirsty. Jessicurl Gentle Lather Shampoo and Elucence Moisture Benefits Shampoo are great shampoos that will up your hair’s moisture levels. If you are rewetting your hair after wash day then that routine (whatever it may be”> seems to be satisfying your hair’s needs so tweaking what you are using on washday may be all you need to do to get the hair you desire on washday.
Try new styles
Opt for updos, braids styles, and headpieces like headbands to get you through those first days if it is just a matter hair needs some time to feel like itself.
Give your hair back its character
Wash day means removing all the dirt, product, and (for some”> character for those first few days. You can try a texturizing product like Ouidad Wave Create Texture Taffy to add some texture to your hair if it needs some oomph from the wash day blues. You can even use DevaCurl No-Poo Quick Cleanser that will clean your hair (without water”> but add some texture to limp strands.
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This plant has been used in traditional medicine in Russia, Scandinavia, and other countries for years and between 1725 and 1960 it appeared in scientific literature in France, Germany, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden. Despite being extensively known for its health-promoting effects, it is still largely unknown in the West since the bulk of the research on Rhodiola rosea is in Slavic and Scandinavian languages.
What is the composition of Rhodiola Rosea?
It has five active biological compounds: rosin, rhodioloside, rosarin, salidroside, and tyrosol with tyrosol, rhodioloside, and salidroside as the most active, according to the Journal of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Analysis. Salidroside has antioxidant properties to help in anti-aging. Rhodiola rosea is one of a handful of plants that fall into the category of adaptogens or botanicals that possess anti-stress and fatigue-fighting properties.
What are the benefits of Rhodiola Rosea?
Rhodiola rosea is rich in phenolic compounds, which are known to have strong antioxidant properties. A study in 2010 found that male athletes, following an intense workout, were less sore when they received Rhodiola rosea supplements. This was believed to be a result of the herb reducing the lactic acid buildup and muscle damage that normally occurs after intense workouts and shows the potency of this herb as an adaptogen. Rhodiola rosea aids in physical and mental fatigue and in turn enhances energy. It can improve endurance, physical work, capacity, recovery from exertion, stamina, and strength.
With its antioxidant properties it is a great ingredient for fighting off free radicals and prevent cell damage from the sun and pollutants. Antioxidants neutralize the free radicals, leaving hair stronger and healthier. Adaptogenic herbs like Rhodiola rosea help the body adapt to stressors, whether emotional, mental, physical or even environmental. This helps to balance hormones and reduce cortisol (aging hormone”> levels. This is believed to help with hair loss or hair shedding, as stress can affect one’s hair. Anecdotally, I personally know this to be true because when I suffer stressors in my life I do notice excessive hair shedding in upcoming weeks. I may need to pick up some of these supplements myself!
Rhodiola rosea can be found in supplements online and in local stores, but if you prefer to use them in hair products, we have a few that harness the potency of this herb for fighting free radicals, slowing down the aging of your strands and de-stressing the body for a healthier head of hair.
Question
The menopause – natural journey.
52+, in the mist of menopause (for about 10 yrs. now-no med only herbal”>, started transitioning 9.15. (I”> always had a full head of hair until about a year prior. It’s the reason I finally decided to go natural. (I”> started to notice more hair than usual in the sink after washing. My beautician didn’t see any different. But after 30 years of relaxing I decided to change. But (I am”> not sure if I’m going to have anything to flat twist soon. I don’t want to do the big chop but I have been snipping about 14 to 12 a month so it’s still growing. The tangling is the WORST and a lot of shedding from the root during /after washing. I’ve been using Blk castor oil throughout the head (thinning areas “>, coconut oil, carols daughters, sheamoisture, to name a few. Nothing is working tee shirt dried nor mostly air dried. Plain and simple please someone HELP !!!…!
Not sure which editor to select, somewhere between 4a/4c not sure because of the relaxer, so I go with the middle queen. Please put my case at the round table.
Answer
What you are facing is normal and a concern for many women, so we appreciate you sharing your story with us. This type of hair loss is called androgenetic alopecia and involves the hormones called androgens, which affect sex drive and the regulation of hair growth. Androgens are found in both sexes and androgenetic alopecia occurs in both men and women and the hair loss associated with it is a result of a shortening of the anagen phase, which is the growing phase in hair.
Research has shown that hair loss during menopause is a result of hormonal imbalance and related to a lowered production of estrogen and progesterone and an increase in the production of androgens. Despite what feels like your body working against you, there are steps you can take to treat your hair loss and improve the quality of your strands.
Talk to your PCP and or Trichologist
The time is now to discuss with a professional what your body is going through so you fully understand and verify that nothing else is causing the hair loss. They can also offer medications and while they do not work for every women, women are finding success in them like Women’s Rogaine.
Reduce stress
As I mentioned above, stress is a direct result in excessive hair shedding for me, but I am far from alone. According to Healthline, reducing stress can help keep your hormones in check and exercise like yoga are effective in fighting menopausal symptoms.
Eat well and stay hydrated
Eating a well-balance diet is one of the best defenses against hair loss and that includes drinking a lot of water to stay hydrated. Eating right allows all the nutrients you need to give your body the energy and fuel it needs for stronger hair. That includes, essential fatty acids (salmon, flaxseed oil, and nuts”>, vitamins (potatoes, spinach, fish”>, and protein (eggs, soy products, chicken”>. The right foods help to power your body and staying hydrated allows for a properly functioning body and healthier strands. Water is your best bet along with steering clear of sugary drinks.
Going natural
You are doing your hair wonders by going natural and reducing your heat applications, as they can cause heat damage and dryness. Recent studies have shown that black women are more prone to hair loss and it has been attributed to extensions, wigs, and braids, because of tight applications and keeping them in too long. The chemicals found in dyes and perms also compromise your scalp, so continue to go natural and steer clear of heat.
DIY
I love hair rinses and use them faithfully since I have noticed I suffer from excessive hair shedding when I am stressed. Black tea rinses are great and you can find five simple hair rinses for shedding here. Garlic, onion, emu oil, all of these along with other herbs, foods, and plants are great for helping with hair loss or shedding, so try checking out some recipes that will help while you work on a few of the above mentioned tips.
Menopause does not have to be a negative experience if you know how to combat some of the ill effects and work on a better you.
Question
I have hated my curls for my entire life. How do I love my curls? How can I get my desired look? This is extremely important to me. If anyone has the slightest bit of advice, please share. I really need help. I probably should have made an account asked this question to the Naturallycurly community a while ago. A long while ago. But I can’t do this any longer. So I ask for your help now. I am almost 20 years old and I have never loved my hair. I have tried everything for years. SO many different products and methods. SO many hours of shifting through curly articles. SO many hours of watching YouTube tutorials and information videos. SO many hours of just looking at pictures on Google images and wondering why I can’t have beautiful curls. And nothing works. I have attached some photos of my disgusting hair for reference. I think its 3B, but I can never really tell. I almost never shampoo it. I’ve currently been using Shea Moisture Curl and Shine conditioner. I use a hairbrush in the shower to brush it through. I put it up in a t-shirt for a while, then take it out, brush out the knots, and apply some sort of oil. I will put it up in a bun until I’m done getting ready/ready to leave the house. If I don’t, it turns into a giant, fuzzy, triangular afro. I am constantly switching brands to find the one that works for me, and none of them have. Don’t get me started on the way I part my hair. It’s hideous and it needs to be fixed. But I can never find the correct way of parting my hair. I almost always wear my hair in a bun because I am ashamed of how I look. That, or I am sick of people only knowing me as “the girl with the big hair.” I just want to be me. Not my big, fluffy hair. In the video I have attached is my DREAM HAIR. I have tried endless times to follow her styling instructions and my hair never turns out the same. I hate my hair. It makes me feel disgusting and ugly. It is taking a toll on my mental health; I can never stop thinking about it or being paranoid about what it looks like. It’s all I ever think about. I’m tired of hating the way I look. Someone please help!
xo, Kyra
Answer
Your hair is everything. I had to start off with that first because you need to hear it and really listen to what I said. I see you and your pain and I appreciate you reaching out to us to share what is bothering you as many other young women face the same challenges and concerns. Here are a few pointers that should ease your pain along with giving you the dream hair you desire.
Try a cut
No one is saying to chop it off but rather give some shape to your hair. Seeking a curl specialist will help you on several levels because not only can they help you with the perfect cut to give you less volume and less frizz but they can aid in styling and hair products you may enjoy. You can find a curl stylist here.
Try a cream styler and/or serum
You said you only add oil to your hair but it seems you need a styler to help tame the volume you do not care for. A cut will help with “debulking” or removing your hair’s pyramid shape, but a styler will also help to calm the frizz and volume. Take a look over at this year’s Editors’ Choice for our favorites. AG Hair Cosmetics Smoothing Balm and SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Reconstructive Finishing Elixir (I love this stuff”> may help in fighting the frizz you are seeing. Also make sure to use moisturizing products from shampoos to conditioners to styler to aid in calming down frizz. I know you’ve tried quite a few products so let the curl stylist help in finding some brands that will work for you.
The less you manipulate your hair after you wash it, the better. Make sure your hair is fully detangled before applying your moisturizer, leave-in conditioner, and/or oil. Brushing your hair after you wash it is only inducing frizz.
Don’t let hair envy make you hate your hair
Many of us have hair or curl envy but when it turns to hating your own hair then it is damaging to you. The video you shared is a popular one of a vlogger with amazing hair but you have amazing hair too. Don’t let someone else make you feel any less beautiful and know her routine and products may not fare well with you. We all have hair envy occasionally, but just as the grass isn’t always greener, your own grass will grow so much better if you tend to it more than worrying about someone’s else’s. Those just means focus less on others and more on your own tresses and begin to see a huge difference in the upcoming weeks.
Talk to someone
We do not want you hating your hair or yourself to the point of feeling hopeless, so talk to someone whether it is a friend, family member or even your curl stylist to fix the problem and move forward in a positive and productive way. Get out of your negative feeling and onto a path where you can make some real change in the right direction for your hair. Your hair is beyond gorgeous and with a few tweaks you will be out of that bun and into a freedom from frizz and volume in no time.
Do you sometimes hate your hair? Tell us below.
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