I also found this list on that site and I thought it was funny but SO true also! And make sure you check out www.mynaturalhairstore.com ! It was alot of products and info!
1. waiting too long to big chop. honey, cut it off already or get good trims and keep that stuff braided up especially if you are type 4 because your breakage is going to be serious.
2. too much heat to compensate for the straight ends. two words – heat damage.
3. going into being natural as if you hair is going to be fab by default. this was my problem. i thought that just by being natural my hair would thrive and grow long and be this larger than life, extra ordinary fro. long it did grow, but thrive. no so much. i didn’t know what i was doing when it came to care nor did i take the time to really learn what other naturals were doing on top of pressing my hair twice a week. talk about breakage. ouch!
4. not letting go of what you used to look like with a relaxer. flaming hot unpopular opinion ahead! news flash! you don’t look that naturally – it’s fake; a mirage, a silicone boobie. it’s fake because you had to FORCE your hair to be straight so when you see the real you it’s a shocker. i know it’s a process, but lets work to get over it and move on with your life.
5. obsession with curl pattern. either you have it or don’t. been there, done that, got the tee shirt. again, we gots to keep it moving and work with you were born with. stop shingling and giving yourself tendinitis and early onset arthritis trying to get your hair that probably has no curl to curl. curls are pretty and so are no curls so let it do what it do.
Thursday, October 20, 2011
TEN SYNTHETIC COSMETIC INGREDIENTS TO AVOID
I stumbled upon this list via http://www.mynaturalhairstore.com./. I try not to use things on this list but I do slip up a time or two..or three..well you get the gist lol But hpe you find this useful:
1. IDMETHYL, PROPYL, BUTYL, AND ETHYL PARABEN-Used as inhibitors of microbial growth and to extend shelf life of products. Have caused many allergic reactions and skin rashes. Studies have shown that they are weakly estrogenic and can be absorbed by the body through the skin. Widely used even though they are know to be toxin.
2. DIETHANOLAMINE (DEA), TRIETHANOLAMINE (TEA)-Often used in cosmetics as emulsifiers and/or foaming agents. They can cause allergic reactions, eye irritation and dryness of hair and skin. DEA and TEA are "amines" (ammonia compounds) and can form cancer-causing nitrosamines when they come in contact with nitrates. Toxic if absorbed into the body over a long period of time.
3. DIAZOLIDINYL UREA, IMIDAZOLIDINYL UREA-These are widely used preservatives. The American Academy of Dermatology has found them to be a primary cause of contact dermatitis. Two trade names for these chemicals are Gernall 11 and Germall 115. Neither of the Germall chemicals contains a good antifungal agent, and, they must be combined with other preservatives. Both these chemicals release formaldehyde, which can be toxic.
4. SODIUM LAURYL/LAURETH SULFATE-A cheap, harsh detergent used in shampoos for its cleaning and foam-building properties. Often derived from petroleum, it is frequently disguised in pseudo-natural cosmetics with the phrase "comes from coconuts." It causes eye irritation, scalp scurf similar to dandruff, skin rashes and other allergic reactions.
5. PETROLATUM-Also known as petroleum jelly, this mineral oil derivative is used for its emollient properties in cosmetics. It has no nutrient value for the skin and can interfere with the body's own natural moisturizing mechanism, leading to dryness and chapping. It often creates the very conditions it claims to alleviate. Manufacturers use petrolatum because it is unbelievably cheap.
6. PROPYLENE GLYCOL-Ideally this is a vegetable glycerin mixed with grain alcohol, both of which are natural. Usually it is a synthetic petrochemical mix used as a humectant. It has been known to cause allergic reactions, hives and eczema. When you see PEG (polypropylene glycol) on labels, beware- these are related synthetics.
7. PVP/VA COPOLYMERA-petroleum-derived chemical used in hairsprays, styling aids and other cosmetics. It can be considered toxic,since inhaled particles can damage the lungs of sensitive person.
8. STEARALKONIUM CHLORIDE-A quaternary ammonium compound used in hair conditioners and creams. Developed by the fabric industry as a fabric softener, it is a lot cheaper and easier to use in hair conditioning formulas than proteins or herbals, which are beneficial to the hair. Causes allergic reactions. Toxic.
9.SYNTHETIC COLORS-Used to make cosmetics "pretty" synthetic colors, along with synthetic hair dyes, should be avoided at all costs. They will be labeled as FD&C or D&C, followed by a color and a number. Example: FD&C Red No. 6. D&C Green No. 6. Many synthetic colors can be carcinogenic. If a cosmetic contains them, don't use it.
10.SYNTHETIC FRAGRANCES-The synthetic fragrances used in cosmetics can have as many as 200 ingredients. There is no way to know what the chemicals are, since on the label it will simply read "fragrance." Some problems cause by these chemicals include headaches, dizziness, rash, the list goes on. Advice: Don't buy a cosmetic that has the word "fragrance" on the ingredients label
1. IDMETHYL, PROPYL, BUTYL, AND ETHYL PARABEN-Used as inhibitors of microbial growth and to extend shelf life of products. Have caused many allergic reactions and skin rashes. Studies have shown that they are weakly estrogenic and can be absorbed by the body through the skin. Widely used even though they are know to be toxin.
2. DIETHANOLAMINE (DEA), TRIETHANOLAMINE (TEA)-Often used in cosmetics as emulsifiers and/or foaming agents. They can cause allergic reactions, eye irritation and dryness of hair and skin. DEA and TEA are "amines" (ammonia compounds) and can form cancer-causing nitrosamines when they come in contact with nitrates. Toxic if absorbed into the body over a long period of time.
3. DIAZOLIDINYL UREA, IMIDAZOLIDINYL UREA-These are widely used preservatives. The American Academy of Dermatology has found them to be a primary cause of contact dermatitis. Two trade names for these chemicals are Gernall 11 and Germall 115. Neither of the Germall chemicals contains a good antifungal agent, and, they must be combined with other preservatives. Both these chemicals release formaldehyde, which can be toxic.
4. SODIUM LAURYL/LAURETH SULFATE-A cheap, harsh detergent used in shampoos for its cleaning and foam-building properties. Often derived from petroleum, it is frequently disguised in pseudo-natural cosmetics with the phrase "comes from coconuts." It causes eye irritation, scalp scurf similar to dandruff, skin rashes and other allergic reactions.
5. PETROLATUM-Also known as petroleum jelly, this mineral oil derivative is used for its emollient properties in cosmetics. It has no nutrient value for the skin and can interfere with the body's own natural moisturizing mechanism, leading to dryness and chapping. It often creates the very conditions it claims to alleviate. Manufacturers use petrolatum because it is unbelievably cheap.
6. PROPYLENE GLYCOL-Ideally this is a vegetable glycerin mixed with grain alcohol, both of which are natural. Usually it is a synthetic petrochemical mix used as a humectant. It has been known to cause allergic reactions, hives and eczema. When you see PEG (polypropylene glycol) on labels, beware- these are related synthetics.
7. PVP/VA COPOLYMERA-petroleum-derived chemical used in hairsprays, styling aids and other cosmetics. It can be considered toxic,since inhaled particles can damage the lungs of sensitive person.
8. STEARALKONIUM CHLORIDE-A quaternary ammonium compound used in hair conditioners and creams. Developed by the fabric industry as a fabric softener, it is a lot cheaper and easier to use in hair conditioning formulas than proteins or herbals, which are beneficial to the hair. Causes allergic reactions. Toxic.
9.SYNTHETIC COLORS-Used to make cosmetics "pretty" synthetic colors, along with synthetic hair dyes, should be avoided at all costs. They will be labeled as FD&C or D&C, followed by a color and a number. Example: FD&C Red No. 6. D&C Green No. 6. Many synthetic colors can be carcinogenic. If a cosmetic contains them, don't use it.
10.SYNTHETIC FRAGRANCES-The synthetic fragrances used in cosmetics can have as many as 200 ingredients. There is no way to know what the chemicals are, since on the label it will simply read "fragrance." Some problems cause by these chemicals include headaches, dizziness, rash, the list goes on. Advice: Don't buy a cosmetic that has the word "fragrance" on the ingredients label
Monday, October 10, 2011
And the Results are.....
Well Hello again!
As I promised PICTURES!!!! Well first off here is how i pinned my twists back the lazy way
Ok then I took my twists out this morning...hmmm...I shall say NO holding properties! My hair frizzed the moment I took the twists out! I was later told I could of used alil gel to hold it together better...hmmm alil too late lol BUT I will say I started liking it more as it frizzed up a bit. I do enjoy alil frizz in my twist outs!
 |
| You can see the frizz in the back already!!!! |
 |
| This side was alittle more defined |
XoXo
Open Letter to a Newbie Naturalista
Now I found this article on bglhonline.com. I also check out this website DAILY!!!! It is very informative to say the least! Love it! Helped me with articles such as this when I first BC. Enjoy!
This is a note to my dear friend who recently did the big chop and to all women out there who have just begun their natural hair journey. I know what you’re going through. You might be on cloud nine after leaving the salon feeling happy to be natural. Until you wake up the next morning, look in the mirror and wonder “now what?”. Please know that I am with ya as someone that went natural just seven months ago. I want you to know a few things as you take steps to become reacquainted with yourself. And so, this is my advice to you:
Now that you are natural, you will need to embrace yourself in a whole new way. Your hair in its natural state will bring out your unique beauty.There will be days when you feel “ugly”. When you wake up in the morning and your hair is smushed to one side and you have no idea how to tame it. Always know that you will get through it and you are NOT ugly. Your natural hair is a new element to your beauty and will require time and patience for you to get to know it and the tools to treat it with care.
Whenever you walk down the street, you will find yourself staring at other women with natural hair. Thoughts like “what does she use in her hair?”, “oooh that’s a nice style”, and “hey, she’s natural too!” will come to mind. This is normal; embrace your new acceptance into the natural hair community.Your hair will not do the same things as her hair. Although we may have similar hair types and textures, do not expect your hair to look exactly like someone else’s even if you use the same products. Whatever your hair type is, own it!
Speaking of products, don’t, I repeat, DON’T become a product junkie. You may not be able to avoid this in the beginning as you search for products that work best for your hair. But as soon as you find your top 3-4 products that work for you, give away the rest to your other natural hair friends.
Youtube is your friend; use it! From style tips, tutorials and product reviews, the resources are endless.Experiment! This is your time to be free and creative by trying new things with your hair. Natural hair can be just as versatile as relaxed no matter what length it is. This can be extended to your wardrobe as well. Going natural represents a new you so mix it up with a funky chic outfit to compliment your new natural do.
Know that not everyone will cheer you on with your decision to go natural. Going natural is not just a fashion statement but also a decision of personal growth and preference. Some people won’t understand it but learn to be ok with that and still love your hair anyway.You are not alone. There are plenty of women who became natural before you and there will be plenty after you. Reach out to them, ask questions, and offer support. We are a strong loving community!
Be patient. As hard as that is to hear, you’ll be better off if you just embrace and get to know your hair one day at a time for as long as it takes.Your natural hair will be wild and unruly; that’s beauty of it, don’t fight with it. Let it do what it do.I’m sure many of you who have gone through the first stages of having natural hair can relate to some of my points above. The truth is that we will have different experiences through our natural hair journey but always remember that your hair is an extension of your appearance; true beauty starts from within. So go out, hold your head high, and rock that natural hair!
With love,Ariane
Ariane Hunter is celebrating seven months of natural hair since her big chop last August. She is a professional photographer, blogger, and student of life from New York City. Ariane is a firm believer in following your passions and sharing your gifts with the world. You can learn more about her by visiting her blog at: arihunterphotoblog.com.
This is a note to my dear friend who recently did the big chop and to all women out there who have just begun their natural hair journey. I know what you’re going through. You might be on cloud nine after leaving the salon feeling happy to be natural. Until you wake up the next morning, look in the mirror and wonder “now what?”. Please know that I am with ya as someone that went natural just seven months ago. I want you to know a few things as you take steps to become reacquainted with yourself. And so, this is my advice to you:
Now that you are natural, you will need to embrace yourself in a whole new way. Your hair in its natural state will bring out your unique beauty.There will be days when you feel “ugly”. When you wake up in the morning and your hair is smushed to one side and you have no idea how to tame it. Always know that you will get through it and you are NOT ugly. Your natural hair is a new element to your beauty and will require time and patience for you to get to know it and the tools to treat it with care.
Whenever you walk down the street, you will find yourself staring at other women with natural hair. Thoughts like “what does she use in her hair?”, “oooh that’s a nice style”, and “hey, she’s natural too!” will come to mind. This is normal; embrace your new acceptance into the natural hair community.Your hair will not do the same things as her hair. Although we may have similar hair types and textures, do not expect your hair to look exactly like someone else’s even if you use the same products. Whatever your hair type is, own it!
Speaking of products, don’t, I repeat, DON’T become a product junkie. You may not be able to avoid this in the beginning as you search for products that work best for your hair. But as soon as you find your top 3-4 products that work for you, give away the rest to your other natural hair friends.
Youtube is your friend; use it! From style tips, tutorials and product reviews, the resources are endless.Experiment! This is your time to be free and creative by trying new things with your hair. Natural hair can be just as versatile as relaxed no matter what length it is. This can be extended to your wardrobe as well. Going natural represents a new you so mix it up with a funky chic outfit to compliment your new natural do.
Know that not everyone will cheer you on with your decision to go natural. Going natural is not just a fashion statement but also a decision of personal growth and preference. Some people won’t understand it but learn to be ok with that and still love your hair anyway.You are not alone. There are plenty of women who became natural before you and there will be plenty after you. Reach out to them, ask questions, and offer support. We are a strong loving community!
Be patient. As hard as that is to hear, you’ll be better off if you just embrace and get to know your hair one day at a time for as long as it takes.Your natural hair will be wild and unruly; that’s beauty of it, don’t fight with it. Let it do what it do.I’m sure many of you who have gone through the first stages of having natural hair can relate to some of my points above. The truth is that we will have different experiences through our natural hair journey but always remember that your hair is an extension of your appearance; true beauty starts from within. So go out, hold your head high, and rock that natural hair!
With love,Ariane
Ariane Hunter is celebrating seven months of natural hair since her big chop last August. She is a professional photographer, blogger, and student of life from New York City. Ariane is a firm believer in following your passions and sharing your gifts with the world. You can learn more about her by visiting her blog at: arihunterphotoblog.com.
Old School Practices You Should Consider Ditching Posted by CURLYNIKKI
per http://www.curlynikki.com/ On my daily quest for knowledge I stumbled upton this articles and others. I learn so much from other Natural people who seem to have it all together!
Hair Tips by Tammy Goodson of Curlychics
1. Using “grease” to oil your scalp (Blue Magic, Ultrasheen, etc.)
This very old school practice was once considered a treat and darn near a religious experience to have someone “grease your scalp”. Most little girls spent Saturday afternoons between their mother’s legs with a jar in tow. It was supposed to treat dry scalp, add sheen and provide nourishment to the hair strands.
Reasons to Reconsider
• Clogs the pores
• Attracts dirt
• Weighs down tresses leaving a greasy feeling
2. Scratching dandruff
This old school practice often went hand in hand with old school practice #1. This is the act of going through the hair section by section with a comb and scratching the partings in the hair, thus lifting all the dandruff and dry flakes from the scalp.
Reasons to Reconsider
• Causes irritation to the scalp
• Causes damage to the hair at the root
It is also not recommended to scratch the scalp when shampooing or co washing. Gently massage the scalp without using fingernails is sufficient.
3. Brushing your hair 100 times per day
This practice was at one time considered the key to growth stimulation and blood circulation. What we know now is that nothing good can come from excessive brushing.
Reasons to Reconsider
• Causes split ends and breakage
• Causes permanent damage to the hair cuticle
Blood circulation can be achieved through scalp massages. In addition to aiding in stress reduction, scalp massages strengthen the hair shaft and follicle.
4. Referring to our coils as “good hair” or “bad hair”
Although this is very old school thinking, it is unfortunately still very much a part of our hair culture.
Reason to Reconsider
• Good hair is merely healthy hair and does not refer to curl pattern or hair type.
5. Teasing or backcombing
This old school practice played an essential part in achieving big hair. The act of holding the hair strand up with one hand while combing the hair down to the root with the other hand is the basic definition. It is still widely used when creating updos and big buns.
Reason to Reconsider
• While it does create volume, it can also cause massive tangling and stress on the hair strands leading to split ends.Sharing hairstories and life experiences from a curl’s perspective. Find Tammy at her blog, Curlychics, on Twitter, and Facebook.
Hair Tips by Tammy Goodson of Curlychics
1. Using “grease” to oil your scalp (Blue Magic, Ultrasheen, etc.)
This very old school practice was once considered a treat and darn near a religious experience to have someone “grease your scalp”. Most little girls spent Saturday afternoons between their mother’s legs with a jar in tow. It was supposed to treat dry scalp, add sheen and provide nourishment to the hair strands.
Reasons to Reconsider
• Clogs the pores
• Attracts dirt
• Weighs down tresses leaving a greasy feeling
2. Scratching dandruff
This old school practice often went hand in hand with old school practice #1. This is the act of going through the hair section by section with a comb and scratching the partings in the hair, thus lifting all the dandruff and dry flakes from the scalp.
Reasons to Reconsider
• Causes irritation to the scalp
• Causes damage to the hair at the root
It is also not recommended to scratch the scalp when shampooing or co washing. Gently massage the scalp without using fingernails is sufficient.
3. Brushing your hair 100 times per day
This practice was at one time considered the key to growth stimulation and blood circulation. What we know now is that nothing good can come from excessive brushing.
Reasons to Reconsider
• Causes split ends and breakage
• Causes permanent damage to the hair cuticle
Blood circulation can be achieved through scalp massages. In addition to aiding in stress reduction, scalp massages strengthen the hair shaft and follicle.
4. Referring to our coils as “good hair” or “bad hair”
Although this is very old school thinking, it is unfortunately still very much a part of our hair culture.
Reason to Reconsider
• Good hair is merely healthy hair and does not refer to curl pattern or hair type.
5. Teasing or backcombing
This old school practice played an essential part in achieving big hair. The act of holding the hair strand up with one hand while combing the hair down to the root with the other hand is the basic definition. It is still widely used when creating updos and big buns.
Reason to Reconsider
• While it does create volume, it can also cause massive tangling and stress on the hair strands leading to split ends.Sharing hairstories and life experiences from a curl’s perspective. Find Tammy at her blog, Curlychics, on Twitter, and Facebook.
Sunday, October 9, 2011
My Natural Hair Journey Regrets....
Why hello again! Well yes you read the title right...regrets. We all hva ethem and I know I have just a few natural hair regrets....
- Well my first time going natural I really wish I would of research everything and really find out the do's and don'ts early on instead of just diving in eyes closed. Thats why I only last 6 months! Had no idea what I was suppose to do while transitioning.
- I regret the 2nd time I went natural i really wish I would of BC alot sooner so I could rock the TWA!!! They are too cute!!! I was so afraid and just KNEW I would be looking crazy with short hair even though I normally cut my hair frequently so i dont know what my hang up was.
- Not completely reading up on HENNA! The first 2 times I henna'ed my hair I did not DC after! I guess I just read half the article and just ignored the rest! I reread it some weeks after and it CLEARLY states to DC after lol WOW! I was wondering why my hair was so dry and crispy after...silly me lol
XoXo
Length Check!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I just came across these pictures and thought I should post them!!!
This is my hair in March of 2011
My hair in Feburary
And this is my hair now Oct 2011......
And this is my hair now Oct 2011......
Some of My Fav Accessories!!!
Well I have a few accessories that I love to use anytime I possibly can! I just love beanies, flowers and headbands I use to do puffs.....
Beanies
Some Flower Choices.....
(btw these are the ones from PinkHeart in Atlantic Station)
Beanies
Some Flower Choices.....
New Products!!!
Hello Hello!
Well since I took my sew in out I spent the weekend pampering my curls! I started off doing my normal Henna Treatment that i will be doing weekly to see what i difference it will make on my hair and keeping it in a twist out style. No more WnG's for me. I had too much tangling and I just feel keeping it stretched would be benificial to my hair growth!
Well after my Henna I deep conditioned with the Alikay Honey and Sage Deep Conditioner I purchased from Black Onyx. I will say the smell is AMAZING!!!! It is not as thick as I would like my Deep Conditioners to be. I found myself adding more and more to my hair because I felt it wasn't coating my hair how i wanted. I used almost the whole jar.
You can see how it does not really smooth or evenly distrubuted through my hair? I will say I love it though! The smell is great though. My hair was super soft after though. All in all I liked it but Idk if I would spend the money again..I got a good deal bc I brought the products at the show so I am not sure if I could buy them again lol I will use it one more time and see what I think.
After I rinsed out the deep conditioner I detangled with my Tangle Teezer and then i twisted my hair with the other product I purchased. It was the Shea Yogurt Hair Moisturizer....now everyone knows how I am with smells and this smell right here is GREAT! Smells like a mix between shea butter and lemon. It is really creamy and smooth. Liked whipped shea butter. It melted wonderfully in my hair and gave my twists alittle shine. I very much enjoyed this product. I kept my twists in since Friday and I will be taking them out in the morning and I will post pictures tomorrow!
I pinned all of my twists down to stretch them out to make a fuller twist out for tomorrow. I actually got the idea from Naptural85 on YouTube..if you have not watched her videos you REALLY should!!! Very informative! I have been learning alot of new tricks and things to make my hair journey that much easier for me and others!
Hope my hair looks FAB tomorrow!!!!
XoXo
Well since I took my sew in out I spent the weekend pampering my curls! I started off doing my normal Henna Treatment that i will be doing weekly to see what i difference it will make on my hair and keeping it in a twist out style. No more WnG's for me. I had too much tangling and I just feel keeping it stretched would be benificial to my hair growth!
Well after my Henna I deep conditioned with the Alikay Honey and Sage Deep Conditioner I purchased from Black Onyx. I will say the smell is AMAZING!!!! It is not as thick as I would like my Deep Conditioners to be. I found myself adding more and more to my hair because I felt it wasn't coating my hair how i wanted. I used almost the whole jar.
Hope my hair looks FAB tomorrow!!!!
XoXo
Something Like a Rant lol
Good Afternoon everyone! I just had to take a break from homework and out this real quick before I post my other longer ones...this will be short and to the point lol Ok I was watching a Taren916 video on youtube (love her hair!!! Also you can followe her on Twitter @taren916. I do) and she made a very good point on one of videos. She mentioned her viewer count is lower when she makes her videos in straight hair because people feel she has a natural hair youtube channel and what is she doing. Hmmm....ok? I disgree but alrighty lol Funny but that type of thinking happens alot and it happened to me but alittle differently. Recently I decided to do a protective style and get a straight sew in. It did not last but a month and a half due to random reasons BUT people would see me and ask me "How can you promote natural hair and a relax free view on hair but you dont even wear your curls?? Blah Blah Blah" People had a problem when I went natural and they have a problem when I change it up! Make up your mind PEOPLE! lol I get a sew in once after I BC'd and people act like I have lost my mind! TOO FUNNY PEOPLE!!!! lol To go on the record I LOVE my natural hair and too delighted to have it back BUT I also believe in doing what I have to do to keep my hair healthy. If doing a protective styling every so often would help my hair I am on board with it. I do plan on trying another sew in with different hair bc the hair I used was NOT whats up! lol But I thought I should comment bc I agree with her..its OUR hair we can change it up as we like! Geesh! lol Gotta Love It
XoXo
XoXo
Saturday, October 8, 2011
Got That Hair Flow!
Well I decided to give my hair a slight break from me touching and fooling with it and I felt it would be a great break and some time for it to grow and grow!
Well without the aid of a blow dryer with the comb attachment I used some Natures Gate Heat Protective Serum to try and get my hair straight enough for it to get braided for my sew in BUT it really didnt get very straight =-( It was extremely thick, still was wavy and the ends were still curly so I really didnt get it as straight as I wanted but it was straight enough to braid.
She braided the mess out of my head! Had my forehead pulled all the way back! Eyes tight! lol but it was tight to deaf and still is!
Thank God for the end result!
I will be rocking this for 3 months! Yes!!!
XoXo
Well without the aid of a blow dryer with the comb attachment I used some Natures Gate Heat Protective Serum to try and get my hair straight enough for it to get braided for my sew in BUT it really didnt get very straight =-( It was extremely thick, still was wavy and the ends were still curly so I really didnt get it as straight as I wanted but it was straight enough to braid.
She braided the mess out of my head! Had my forehead pulled all the way back! Eyes tight! lol but it was tight to deaf and still is!
Thank God for the end result!
I will be rocking this for 3 months! Yes!!!
XoXo
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