WOW, so another year has already gone by. It's been an eventful year to say the least, not much in the way of hair though. I'll explain.
To be honest, I've found it worked out better if I just left my hair alone this year. For the most part, I had twists, yarn twists (y'all know how those turned out ... itching n' itching some more. I'm still mad at that, but that's another thread altogether) or bunned. I can safely say that I've made it past BSL despite having cut off quite a bit around this time last year.
Despite regular haircare routines having been helpful in the past, I just don't see an absolute need for them anymore. My hair thrives without them. I'm not saying that it would not probably have thrived even more, it totally could've. But it's thrived never-the-less and I'm satisfied with that. Perhaps now that things have settled down, I may pick up a routine again. However, at the moment:
I hardly DC, maybe once every 3-4 months.
I now wash once every 2 weeks - 1 month.
Moisturizing maybe 1-2 times a month.
I pretty much just do whatever whenever. It's been largely due to the crazy number of work hours I've been doing. When I do have time off, hair is the last thing on my mind.
I'm still determined to grow longer and will continue to protective style. Since the yarn braids or yarn twists didn't work out for me,I think I may try the marley braids two strand twists. Here's to no itching in 2012!
Happy New Year everybody!!
The Yarn Braids and Itching Saga Continues
Saturday, November 5, 2011
I HAD to take them out. My scalp was itching like there was no tomorrow. It was getting a bit ridiculous and I was also getting white bits in there ... most likely dandruff.
Since taking down the yarn braids, I've been bunning. I must say though, that the itching has reduced dramatically. Still itching, but not nearly as bad. Ok, so what gives? *puts problem solving had on*
What I've tried so far:
Changing shampoos - I've tried Cream of Nature, Herbal Essences Hello Hydration, Natural Look Clarifying Shampoo and Lacura Nourishing Shampoo (SLS free). Lacura has been the best so far, it really has helped and my scalp is not itching 2 mins after jumping out of the shower. While Lacura helped, the itching continued.
Oiling my scalp - I thought maybe my scalp was dry. Dry scalp can be itchy and dandruffy. That didn't work either.
Changing yarn brands - Nada.
Removed yarn twists - The itching seems to have subsided somewhat after taking out the twists ... So I'm assuming that since I tried the first 3 things before taking the braids out this time round, and they didn't work, it may be something to do with yarn, period. Let me know if my logic is flawed.
So now the question remains. What is it about the yarn that would make my scalp itch? I have often asked myself whether the dyes/chemicals used on the wool may cause problems. I know on the Crown and Glory website Robin suggests soaking hair extensions before use in a vinegar/ water mixture, to remove an alkaline base that coats the extension. To be honest, I don't know whether there is an alkaline base that coats extensions, but I know for a fact that most do have some sort of film that can be removed by that method. There are some who claim that removing this film makes a difference to scalp irritation.
While I don't know the mechanism behind it, I just wonder whether a similar principle could apply to yarn. I use acrylic yarn, which I know is most commonly dyed with basic (alkaline dyes). I have mentioned before that I would try soaking the yarn first before braiding, but I just never followed through. Hmmpf.
Although I've had a bit of a rough time with yarn twists recently, I really don't want to give up on them. They are so gentle on my hair and have made retaining length a breeze. They are excellent for my edges too.
So one more try, with this soaking method ... that will be the deciding factor as to whether I continue to use yarn or not. I'll make sure to take pics or make a video about the process.
Any suggests would be helpful ladies. Don't be shy to pitch in!
Since taking down the yarn braids, I've been bunning. I must say though, that the itching has reduced dramatically. Still itching, but not nearly as bad. Ok, so what gives? *puts problem solving had on*
What I've tried so far:
Changing shampoos - I've tried Cream of Nature, Herbal Essences Hello Hydration, Natural Look Clarifying Shampoo and Lacura Nourishing Shampoo (SLS free). Lacura has been the best so far, it really has helped and my scalp is not itching 2 mins after jumping out of the shower. While Lacura helped, the itching continued.
Oiling my scalp - I thought maybe my scalp was dry. Dry scalp can be itchy and dandruffy. That didn't work either.
Changing yarn brands - Nada.
Removed yarn twists - The itching seems to have subsided somewhat after taking out the twists ... So I'm assuming that since I tried the first 3 things before taking the braids out this time round, and they didn't work, it may be something to do with yarn, period. Let me know if my logic is flawed.
So now the question remains. What is it about the yarn that would make my scalp itch? I have often asked myself whether the dyes/chemicals used on the wool may cause problems. I know on the Crown and Glory website Robin suggests soaking hair extensions before use in a vinegar/ water mixture, to remove an alkaline base that coats the extension. To be honest, I don't know whether there is an alkaline base that coats extensions, but I know for a fact that most do have some sort of film that can be removed by that method. There are some who claim that removing this film makes a difference to scalp irritation.
While I don't know the mechanism behind it, I just wonder whether a similar principle could apply to yarn. I use acrylic yarn, which I know is most commonly dyed with basic (alkaline dyes). I have mentioned before that I would try soaking the yarn first before braiding, but I just never followed through. Hmmpf.
Although I've had a bit of a rough time with yarn twists recently, I really don't want to give up on them. They are so gentle on my hair and have made retaining length a breeze. They are excellent for my edges too.
So one more try, with this soaking method ... that will be the deciding factor as to whether I continue to use yarn or not. I'll make sure to take pics or make a video about the process.
Any suggests would be helpful ladies. Don't be shy to pitch in!
Freshening up Yarn Twists - The Undoing and Redoing Part 1
Friday, September 30, 2011
It's that time again. My yarn twists are starting to look a tad worse for wear, so I've decided to freshen them up. A few posts ago I let you in on how I redo yarn braids. I'm using the same method for my yarn twists.
So I've redone half my head and will do the other half next weekend. So far this is what I've learnt.
So I've redone half my head and will do the other half next weekend. So far this is what I've learnt.
- Undoing yarn twists is a breeze!! So perfect for those bereft of time to spend on hair, or the lazy : ). When doing yarn twists, I braid at the root then start twisting. So when I'm undoing them, the yarn pretty much unravels until the small braided section. It takes about 15 seconds to undo that section, and I'm done! In terms of time consumption, yarn twists are winning.
- Seeing as the hair and yarn are twisted, this could potentially turn into knots and breakage central. Especially if you're natural. When you get to the roots, just be cautious and focus more on working the hair out of the yarn, rather than whipping the yarn out. Untwisting each strand of yarn or each piece of hair individually may work when you see a tangle forming.
Yarn Braids or Yarn Twists and Itching
Sunday, September 25, 2011
I really don't know what it is. But lately, when I have yarn anything in my hair, I get this insatiable itching. It's really getting on my nerves now.
Yes people, I do wash my hair. Even though, my scalp will begin to itch a few hours after the wash. I use shampoo and I've changed shampoos. I've tried apple cider vinegar rinses. Nothing doing.
The only thing that's worked so far is using a clarifying shampoo. The itching is quelled for approximately a week. I really don't want to wash my hair with clarifying shampoo weekly. No way, Jose.
What gives UHCers?? Anyone experiencing the same thing with yarn? Any suggestions?
Yes people, I do wash my hair. Even though, my scalp will begin to itch a few hours after the wash. I use shampoo and I've changed shampoos. I've tried apple cider vinegar rinses. Nothing doing.
The only thing that's worked so far is using a clarifying shampoo. The itching is quelled for approximately a week. I really don't want to wash my hair with clarifying shampoo weekly. No way, Jose.
What gives UHCers?? Anyone experiencing the same thing with yarn? Any suggestions?
Yarn Twists - Styling and Accessorizing Yarn Twists
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
In my last post I bemoaned my yarn twists "just not looking great." Well, a reader - KayTee- stopped by and encouraged me to try styling and accessorizing the yarn twists. Brilliant idea! Thanks KayTee!
Welp, here's what happened:
I bunned, I'm not ready to wear these babies down yet. I know what you're thinking. "Errmm, you were bunning in the last yarn twists post, Urban." But look guys, I put in a cute flower!! *proud face*
But wait, there's more!! I had a side-swoop, bang-type thing going on at the front:
I know it doesn't seem like much, but I'm a really 'low maintainance' type of girl. I don't wear makeup and usually just wear hairstyles that are convenient. I'm usually one to just tie back yarn braids. So I'm really stoked to be trying out different styles.
This style looked nice. It's simple, but still manages to add a little spice to my, generally smart but simplistic, everyday coporate look.
I've also just discovered an entire draw of styling bits and bobs, from years ago, that I had forgotten about. Let the yarn twist styling games begin!
Welp, here's what happened:
I bunned, I'm not ready to wear these babies down yet. I know what you're thinking. "Errmm, you were bunning in the last yarn twists post, Urban." But look guys, I put in a cute flower!! *proud face*
But wait, there's more!! I had a side-swoop, bang-type thing going on at the front:
I know it doesn't seem like much, but I'm a really 'low maintainance' type of girl. I don't wear makeup and usually just wear hairstyles that are convenient. I'm usually one to just tie back yarn braids. So I'm really stoked to be trying out different styles.
This style looked nice. It's simple, but still manages to add a little spice to my, generally smart but simplistic, everyday coporate look.
I've also just discovered an entire draw of styling bits and bobs, from years ago, that I had forgotten about. Let the yarn twist styling games begin!
Yarn Twists - I did Yarn twists and I don't think
Friday, September 9, 2011
I don't think ... I like them!!
So I folded and took out my yarn braids. My scalp hadn't been free of braids for 4 months and just really needed to breathe.
Now, I know ... and have posted about the arduous task that is removing yarn braids. But it took about 10 hours people!!! Ridiculous! I think it was partly because I'm so gentle and really take my time. So needless to say, by the time I was done ... that last thing I wanted to do was put in braids again. No ma'am. But I had to. I didn't want my hair out. It had to go back into a longterm protective style ASAP.
That is when I though of putting in twists instead. They don't take as long to put in and would be easy as pie to take out. I took it a step further and decided to do fat twists that would ... well, take even less time to put in and be even easier than pie to take out! How clever am I???? *hi^5*
NOT. They just don't look great : ( But not to worry, they look fine bunned. So that's how I'll wear them. It works out I suppose. I work in an environment where my hair needs to be out of the way anyway.
What is the problem? Well, I think
1) They're too thick and
2) I had never, ever done twists in my life and thought myself a pro after watching a few YouTube tutorials. I think I may not have twisted tight enough or I don't have that rolling-of-the-threads-as-you-twist thing down pat yet.
Either way, they took me about 7 hours to put in. Best believe, I'm keeping them in.
What do you think?
So I folded and took out my yarn braids. My scalp hadn't been free of braids for 4 months and just really needed to breathe.
Now, I know ... and have posted about the arduous task that is removing yarn braids. But it took about 10 hours people!!! Ridiculous! I think it was partly because I'm so gentle and really take my time. So needless to say, by the time I was done ... that last thing I wanted to do was put in braids again. No ma'am. But I had to. I didn't want my hair out. It had to go back into a longterm protective style ASAP.
That is when I though of putting in twists instead. They don't take as long to put in and would be easy as pie to take out. I took it a step further and decided to do fat twists that would ... well, take even less time to put in and be even easier than pie to take out! How clever am I???? *hi^5*
NOT. They just don't look great : ( But not to worry, they look fine bunned. So that's how I'll wear them. It works out I suppose. I work in an environment where my hair needs to be out of the way anyway.
What is the problem? Well, I think
1) They're too thick and
2) I had never, ever done twists in my life and thought myself a pro after watching a few YouTube tutorials. I think I may not have twisted tight enough or I don't have that rolling-of-the-threads-as-you-twist thing down pat yet.
Either way, they took me about 7 hours to put in. Best believe, I'm keeping them in.
What do you think?
Freshening up Yarn Braids
Sunday, August 7, 2011
I've had yarn braids in since March. I left them in as long as I could because I was so overwhelmed at the prospect of having to take out an entire head of them AND redoing them. Life has been getting in the way, so I just haven't felt like I had that amount to time on my hands.
But not to worry, I came up with a solution. You want in? Ok, I'll tell you. The secret is to redo the braids bit by bit! While watching a movie, YT vids, reading your favourite blogs ; ).
I've found I start redoing maybe after 1.5 months. Every few days, I take out a handful (on weekends I can usually do a lot more) and redo those. At the 3 month mark or there abouts, I undid the top half or so (during a weekend) and redid all that. In the next 1 or 2 weeks I'll do the back half.
The front half undone.
It's not as overwhelming for me because I only spent a few hours on the process and still had a lot of my weekend to do other stuff.
Some people may be reading this and thinking, "I couldn't be bothered, Urban, I'd rather do it all in one go and get it over and done with it." More power to you. But for some reason, I don't have it in me to sit for so many hours doing my hair at the moment.
My edges on the other hand, are still redone every 3 weeks or so, by the way.
But not to worry, I came up with a solution. You want in? Ok, I'll tell you. The secret is to redo the braids bit by bit! While watching a movie, YT vids, reading your favourite blogs ; ).
I've found I start redoing maybe after 1.5 months. Every few days, I take out a handful (on weekends I can usually do a lot more) and redo those. At the 3 month mark or there abouts, I undid the top half or so (during a weekend) and redid all that. In the next 1 or 2 weeks I'll do the back half.
The front half undone.It's not as overwhelming for me because I only spent a few hours on the process and still had a lot of my weekend to do other stuff.
Some people may be reading this and thinking, "I couldn't be bothered, Urban, I'd rather do it all in one go and get it over and done with it." More power to you. But for some reason, I don't have it in me to sit for so many hours doing my hair at the moment.
My edges on the other hand, are still redone every 3 weeks or so, by the way.
The Past Year .... Work/ Coporate Wardrobe and Natural Hair
Saturday, July 30, 2011
It's been a HUGE learning curve for me. I wasn't too impressed with my hair's progress. I suppose that's why we call this a "hair journey." You live and learn. I didn't have any set backs as such, but I didn't see as much progress as I had expected.
What do I think was the problem? Well, I was wearing a lot of plats and twists (without extensions), which I was redoing every 2 weeks or so. I gather that was too much manipulation for me. While I think they were better for my hair than having it out all the time, I think I would have seen more progress had I chosen a longer-term style.
I see other ladies being able to keep in their twists or plats for longer, but I couldn't do it. It would get too untidy to be presentable for work, so I redid mine often.
I also started working in June in the industry I studied for. I wanted to make a good impression and dressed really well (semi-coporate), even though no-one else did. It was an entry level position while I was on the homestretch to finishing my degree. You know, the whole dress-for your-next-position-type-thing. Before, I make my point, it may be good to add that there are not many black people where I live. So, I didn't want to wear extensions because I felt that if I took them out, I'd have to be answering too many questions that I didn't want to. It would cause people to focus on my hair rather than my work. So I wore my hair in a bun for the first 2 months or so .... which I redid everyday. Yes : (. As a natural 4b this is something I learnt I shouldn't do for 2 months straight. For a few weeks, it's absolutely fine, but by 2 months, it will have taken its toll.
After those two months I'd settled into the job well. So I started up again with the twists and plats which I tied back in a bun. Much better than the lose hair bunnning! But I redid them every 2 weeks or so ... which for me, is too much manipulation. This carried on into my next "real" job after graduating about 5 months later. Stictly coporate, so I went back to bunning for the first couple of months .... then into the bunned twists and plats ... until I unleashed the yarn braids on them!! LOL. This was after the 3 month probationary period was over.
You probably know how that went. How did you do it? How long did it take? Oh, is it painful? WHAT?? You do them yourself? How do you do the back?! People touching the braids with their dirty hands. One of my Eastern European coworkers who likes to think she knows everything 'black' said in an ebonics-type accent, "girl, you should get a weave!" While rolling her neck and bobbing her head from side to side. I just smiled and continued working. AND THEN, she came back to tell me my hair was "unbeweavable." LOL.
So yes, it did cause a bit of a shift of focus to my hair for a couple of weeks. But I suppose I felt that I had established myself in the new job for it not to matter too much. I didn't want my hair to define or influence too much while I was still starting. I wanted people to just focus on me being a good worker in those first 3 critical months while I started my career.
It's funny. Part of this work thing is really a game. You have to learn to play smart. Especially if you're Black and Natural.
So, I'm opening up the floor. I know natural hair in the workplace has been discussed on a lot of blogs. BUT I truly and genuinely want to know, if you're natural, how have YOU handled your hair in the workplace? Have you felt limited in your styling choices? Have you used the gradual, unleasing technique (LOL) like I did?
What do I think was the problem? Well, I was wearing a lot of plats and twists (without extensions), which I was redoing every 2 weeks or so. I gather that was too much manipulation for me. While I think they were better for my hair than having it out all the time, I think I would have seen more progress had I chosen a longer-term style.
I see other ladies being able to keep in their twists or plats for longer, but I couldn't do it. It would get too untidy to be presentable for work, so I redid mine often.
I also started working in June in the industry I studied for. I wanted to make a good impression and dressed really well (semi-coporate), even though no-one else did. It was an entry level position while I was on the homestretch to finishing my degree. You know, the whole dress-for your-next-position-type-thing. Before, I make my point, it may be good to add that there are not many black people where I live. So, I didn't want to wear extensions because I felt that if I took them out, I'd have to be answering too many questions that I didn't want to. It would cause people to focus on my hair rather than my work. So I wore my hair in a bun for the first 2 months or so .... which I redid everyday. Yes : (. As a natural 4b this is something I learnt I shouldn't do for 2 months straight. For a few weeks, it's absolutely fine, but by 2 months, it will have taken its toll.
After those two months I'd settled into the job well. So I started up again with the twists and plats which I tied back in a bun. Much better than the lose hair bunnning! But I redid them every 2 weeks or so ... which for me, is too much manipulation. This carried on into my next "real" job after graduating about 5 months later. Stictly coporate, so I went back to bunning for the first couple of months .... then into the bunned twists and plats ... until I unleashed the yarn braids on them!! LOL. This was after the 3 month probationary period was over.
You probably know how that went. How did you do it? How long did it take? Oh, is it painful? WHAT?? You do them yourself? How do you do the back?! People touching the braids with their dirty hands. One of my Eastern European coworkers who likes to think she knows everything 'black' said in an ebonics-type accent, "girl, you should get a weave!" While rolling her neck and bobbing her head from side to side. I just smiled and continued working. AND THEN, she came back to tell me my hair was "unbeweavable." LOL.
So yes, it did cause a bit of a shift of focus to my hair for a couple of weeks. But I suppose I felt that I had established myself in the new job for it not to matter too much. I didn't want my hair to define or influence too much while I was still starting. I wanted people to just focus on me being a good worker in those first 3 critical months while I started my career.
It's funny. Part of this work thing is really a game. You have to learn to play smart. Especially if you're Black and Natural.
So, I'm opening up the floor. I know natural hair in the workplace has been discussed on a lot of blogs. BUT I truly and genuinely want to know, if you're natural, how have YOU handled your hair in the workplace? Have you felt limited in your styling choices? Have you used the gradual, unleasing technique (LOL) like I did?
Yarn Braids - Yarn Braids/ Genie Locs Directory of Sorts
Friday, April 23, 2010
So in my last post, I promised to make a post that would serve as a type of yarn braids directory. Like a one stop shop of links, to save you from having to trawl through hundreds of websites for information. Some of these links I've used and revisited again and again. Some I think maybe to useful to others.
Please note that this is a work in progress and will be updated as I find more links. So bookmark this page and check back regularly. If you have links that you think may be helpful to others and want it added here, leave me a comment and I'd be happy to. Here goes!
Yarn Braids Videos
Vlog - Yarn on the Brain
My Yarn Braid Results
Yarn Braids
My Yarn Braids Experiences (Answers and Styles)
Yarn Braids
Yarn Braids - Results
My Genie Locs/ Yarn Braids
Yarn Braids - How To's
Yarn Braids - how to start and end a yarn braid (demonstration, not talking)
Yarn Braids Tutorial - how to start and end a yarn braid (talks you through)
Yarn Braids / Genie Locs - nice close up of how to start a yarn braid and how to end it, with great style pics at the end (demonstration, no talking).
Camouflaging Your Hair in the Braid or Yarn Braids - You know how you get those frizzies sticking out of the braid, especially if your hair is natural? Here's a potential solution. Haven't tried it. Let me know if it works for you! (talks you through).
Yarn Braid Tutorial - One of the best braiding tutorials I've ever seen. She does such a good job of explaining step by step. Not a fan of the color combination, but that's besides the point (talks you through).
A note for those who are new to braiding: A few of the tutorials will have a different way of starting the yarn braids, braiding and ending the braids. Watch a few of the videos and see which methods you're more comfortable with. You can combine techniques from different videos if that works. Don't get overwhelmed. There's no single way of doing this!
Yarn Braid Photo Albums
Yarn Braids/ Genie Locs - by Kellum (she has lots of styles here too!)
tjk25's album - tjk25 was my inspiration for yarn braids, he's made a lot of progress with the, lots more albums on his fotki.
My Yarn Braids - by Kaleela1
To be continued ...
Please note that this is a work in progress and will be updated as I find more links. So bookmark this page and check back regularly. If you have links that you think may be helpful to others and want it added here, leave me a comment and I'd be happy to. Here goes!
Yarn Braids Videos
Vlog - Yarn on the Brain
My Yarn Braid Results
Yarn Braids
My Yarn Braids Experiences (Answers and Styles)
Yarn Braids
Yarn Braids - Results
My Genie Locs/ Yarn Braids
Yarn Braids - How To's
Yarn Braids - how to start and end a yarn braid (demonstration, not talking)
Yarn Braids Tutorial - how to start and end a yarn braid (talks you through)
Yarn Braids / Genie Locs - nice close up of how to start a yarn braid and how to end it, with great style pics at the end (demonstration, no talking).
Camouflaging Your Hair in the Braid or Yarn Braids - You know how you get those frizzies sticking out of the braid, especially if your hair is natural? Here's a potential solution. Haven't tried it. Let me know if it works for you! (talks you through).
Yarn Braid Tutorial - One of the best braiding tutorials I've ever seen. She does such a good job of explaining step by step. Not a fan of the color combination, but that's besides the point (talks you through).
A note for those who are new to braiding: A few of the tutorials will have a different way of starting the yarn braids, braiding and ending the braids. Watch a few of the videos and see which methods you're more comfortable with. You can combine techniques from different videos if that works. Don't get overwhelmed. There's no single way of doing this!
Yarn Braid Photo Albums
Yarn Braids/ Genie Locs - by Kellum (she has lots of styles here too!)
tjk25's album - tjk25 was my inspiration for yarn braids, he's made a lot of progress with the, lots more albums on his fotki.
My Yarn Braids - by Kaleela1
To be continued ...
Yarn Braids - Yarn Braids/ Genie Locs Photos Finally
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Drum roll please!! I know I promised to post pictures of my yarn braids forever and a day ago. Better late than never. Here they are:
This set of yarn braids has been in for about 6 weeks. I re-did my edges after about 3 weeks, so they are due to be re-done again soon.
I'm really enjoying these braids. But I'm still yet to improve on the styling front.
This has been my only attempt at a real style. I'm going to go through BlackOnyx's Youtube channel again and look for quick yarn braid styles. Another trick I found is to also looked at styling videos from ladies with proper locs. The end result with yarn braids is very similar. Clearly, I haven't really been putting effort into trying all the beautiful styles I've found. lol. That's about to change the! In one of my next posts, I'll make a yarn braid video directory of sorts so that you won't have to dig around too much.
Anyway, so far here are the pros and cons of yarn braids:
Pros
This set of yarn braids has been in for about 6 weeks. I re-did my edges after about 3 weeks, so they are due to be re-done again soon.
I'm really enjoying these braids. But I'm still yet to improve on the styling front.
This has been my only attempt at a real style. I'm going to go through BlackOnyx's Youtube channel again and look for quick yarn braid styles. Another trick I found is to also looked at styling videos from ladies with proper locs. The end result with yarn braids is very similar. Clearly, I haven't really been putting effort into trying all the beautiful styles I've found. lol. That's about to change the! In one of my next posts, I'll make a yarn braid video directory of sorts so that you won't have to dig around too much.
Anyway, so far here are the pros and cons of yarn braids:
Pros
- Easy to maitain
- Light
- Gentle on my edges
- My hair was soft and moisturized when I look out my edges
- Take ages to dry when washed
- Laborious to take down
The red line is at about 1.5 cm (around 0.6 inches). So give or take, I'd say I'm hair has been consistently growing at the normal average hair growth rate of 0.5 inches per month.
A maintainance/ washing/ conditioning/ regimen post will be coming up soon. Stay tuned!
A maintainance/ washing/ conditioning/ regimen post will be coming up soon. Stay tuned!
Bobbi Brown Pretty Powerful - Vote for Amina
Friday, March 19, 2010
A fellow natural, Amina, is a semi-finalist in the Bobby Brown Pretty Powerful contest. She's a product junkie like a lot of us. Her blog Coup de Coeur has tons of reviews of hair, make up and bath and beauty products. She has the cutest video entry:
You can vote multiple times, no need to register. Just one click! So please bookmark the page and vote as many times as you can. I just even got the SO to vote! lol.
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You can vote multiple times, no need to register. Just one click! So please bookmark the page and vote as many times as you can. I just even got the SO to vote! lol.
Yarn Braids - I Did yarn braids/ genie locs!
Saturday, March 13, 2010
These yarn braids took forever and a day to do but I'm so happy I did them. It's been about 2 weeks since I put them in. I know, I need a smack for not updating sooner. Better late than never, right?
Ok, I'll go straight to the point as to why I'm absolutely loving these yarn braids/ genie locs:
What I don't like?
How to do yarn braids
How to maintain yarn braids (moisturizing, a few styles, products, tips, etc)
For now have a look at my yarn braid inspirations:
TJK25's fotki
Blackonyx's YouTube
Talk to you soon ladies (and gents?!).
Ok, I'll go straight to the point as to why I'm absolutely loving these yarn braids/ genie locs:
- They are extremely light. So they don't pull on my hair at all, especially my edges. This was the whole reason I'd given up on extensions ever since April 2009. But these babies are extra gentle on my hair. There are quite a lot of them, but they're not heavy at all.
- The yarn is soft and I'm guessing this limits breakage as it doesn't cut into my hair.
- I've just undone my hairline today (since it's been two weeks) and my hair is well moisturized, as opposed to being dry and breaking when I use normal extensions.
- I'm loving the 'locs' look!
What I don't like?
- They take FOREVER to dry when they are washed. Well what did I expect, really? It's like trying to dry a thick cardigan on the washing line. Of course it's going to take a while. Duh, Urban! lol. But I haven't been going anywhere special lately so it doesn't bother me too much. Even then, once they've dried out for a 2-3 hours, you can pretty much leave the house, without dripping water everywhere.
- That I had to burn the ends. I hate burning braid ends because they stick to and pull on clothes. I tried the knotting the end method, but that started unraveling after a couple of days. Maybe I should've sealed them in hot water?
- If you have xray vision like I do, and look very very closely ... umm... i think the yarn is kinda turning blue??? : o But it's a very dark blue which I don't think you can notice unless you're very... very close to my head ... and well, I don't plan on having anyone that close to my head so I think I'm good.
How to do yarn braids
How to maintain yarn braids (moisturizing, a few styles, products, tips, etc)
For now have a look at my yarn braid inspirations:
TJK25's fotki
Blackonyx's YouTube
Talk to you soon ladies (and gents?!).
I'm back! Out With Pixie Braids, in with Twists.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Finally done with exams! Wooohoooo!
Ok enough of that and back to the point of this post. I removed the pixie braids I had. They ended up looking so so so frizzy, had to hide them under a wig. It's probably because I co-washed them about 4 times over the last 5 weeks. But they did the job. Kept my hands out of my hair and they were really hassle free.
I got some good growth too over the last 5 weeks. Here are some pics. Disclaimer: I know, I know, this probably wasn't the best way to measure the growth, but it gives me a rough idea which is all I needed, really. I got a little more than a centimetre ... that's about 0.5" or a little less (what I've marked in red is where I cm begins and ends on the ruler, then in black where the braid begins). I'm happy with that : )
After undoing the pixie braids I DC'd on dry hair with Organic Root Stimulator Hair Mayonnaise with heat. My first DC with heat in more than 6 months! I'll post a review on the ORS Hair Mayo after a couple more uses. I then put my hair in twists because I'm thinking of doing a twist out tomorrow. Yes yes, if I do I'll be posting pics : ) . The pic on the left is the set of twists I did today and the one on the right is a set from October/November.
: ) Couldn't be happier with my hair at the moment.
Ok enough of that and back to the point of this post. I removed the pixie braids I had. They ended up looking so so so frizzy, had to hide them under a wig. It's probably because I co-washed them about 4 times over the last 5 weeks. But they did the job. Kept my hands out of my hair and they were really hassle free.
I got some good growth too over the last 5 weeks. Here are some pics. Disclaimer: I know, I know, this probably wasn't the best way to measure the growth, but it gives me a rough idea which is all I needed, really. I got a little more than a centimetre ... that's about 0.5" or a little less (what I've marked in red is where I cm begins and ends on the ruler, then in black where the braid begins). I'm happy with that : )
After undoing the pixie braids I DC'd on dry hair with Organic Root Stimulator Hair Mayonnaise with heat. My first DC with heat in more than 6 months! I'll post a review on the ORS Hair Mayo after a couple more uses. I then put my hair in twists because I'm thinking of doing a twist out tomorrow. Yes yes, if I do I'll be posting pics : ) . The pic on the left is the set of twists I did today and the one on the right is a set from October/November.
: ) Couldn't be happier with my hair at the moment.
VO5 Moisture Milks Passion Fruit Smoothie - Review
Saturday, January 30, 2010
So ask me what I did as soon as I got home? Hit the shower to cowash of course!! LOL. And let me tell you! I love this conditioner! It's truly moisturizing.
As soon as my hair got a dose of this goodness, it felt like butter. It felt really soft and lubricated. I have my hair in pixie braids at the moment, so I wasn't able to test what it would be like on the detangling front. Although, to be honest, it felt like it would provide quite a bit of slip. I'll have to give it a try on loose hair as well.
Compared to Strawberries and Cream (S&C) and Free Me Fresia (FMF)... I think Passion Fruit Smoothie (PFS) might be more moisturizing. Although S&C is more moisturizing than FMF, they both have a tendency to harden my hair a little (more so with FMF). The hardening isn't too bad, it's more a strengthening kind of hardening. I can't quite remember the ingredients in S&C but I know FMF definately has hydrolized keratin, which would probably account for the strengthening properties. I didn't feel that PFS did that at all. It's just purely moisturizing.
I'm trying to see how far I can go with a No Poo (no shampoo) routine. Despite that I've been using Chicoro's moiturizing method and coating my hair with 3 layers of product almost everyday, my hair felt clean with just this cowash. I didn't check my scalp before tying my scarf up for the night, so I'll check tomorrow and update this. But my hair definitely felt clean.
**Update** After that first wash, my scalp wasn't clean. So I cowashed again with this yesterday, same great results, soft moisturized and clean hair. However, my scalp doesn't seem to be getting clean. I tried leaving the conditioner on for half an hour or so. Massaging it in. Lathering twice. Nothing doing ... it's worked before with the FMF ... hmm... maybe because I'm in pixie braids?? Cowashers out there, any tips??
The consistency is quite runny just like most of the cheapie VO5s. But that's a good thing. The runniness makes coverage much easier. Yet it's thick enough to not run down my back/ face. However, this consitency means that you have to be more generous. I think I used a handful and a bit. But maybe that's just me, I'm usually quite heavy handed anyway when it comes to conditioner.
This stuff smells devine too!! I don't know why but it reminds me of Herbal Essences Hello Hydration. And you know how good that smells!
I'll definitely be updating this post as I use the conditioner more. But for now it's looking like it could be fav!
Ingredients: Water (aqua eau),cetyl alcohol, stearalkonium chloride, centrimonium choloride, fragrance (parfum), glyceryl stearate, dmdm hydanton, disodium edta, butylhenyl methylpropional, limonene, hexyl cinnnamal, linalool, orange 4, red 4, polusorbate 20, red 40, propylene glycol, stearyl alcohol, steareth-21, tocopheryl acetate, passiflora incarnate flower extract, panthenol, ascornic acid, prunus persica (peach) fruit extract, glycerine soja (soybean) seed extract, niacinamide, biotin.
If you're in Australia, read about where I found this conditioner here.
Other VO5 Moisture Milks Passion Fruit Smoothie Reviews:
http://archive.longhaircommunity.com/showthread.php?t=62802
http://wickednaps.blogspot.com/2009/12/review-v05-moisture-milks-moisturizing.html
http://www.expotv.com/videos/reviews/3/42/V05-Moisture-Milks-Passion-Fruit-Smooth/293991
http://nappturalcaramel.blogspot.com/2009/09/vo5-moisture-milks-passion-fruit.html
VO5 Moisture Milks in Australia - Update (Passion Fruit Smoothie!!)
Friday, January 29, 2010
In my last post, I talked about finding the cheapie VO5 conditioners (Moisture milks, Free fresia etc) in Australia. I'd said Chemist Warehouse where I'd originally found it can't order in any of the Moisture Milks range for me at this stage due to a "manufacturing problem." So I ended up going to IGA.
I found it!!!!
It's not the Strawberries and Cream I was looking for though. It's the Passion Fruit Smoothie flavour. Can't wait to try it! Review Coming up next!
I found it!!!!
It's not the Strawberries and Cream I was looking for though. It's the Passion Fruit Smoothie flavour. Can't wait to try it! Review Coming up next!
VO5 Moisture Milks and other products in Australia
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
So somewhere in 2009 I was minding my own business at Chemist Warehouse. Of course before I left, I had to visit the hair isle. And guess what I found?? VO5 Moisture Milks (strawberries and cream) and Free Me Fresia!! I could've done a cart wheel right there! I was so excited!
I've grown to love these conditioners, particularly the Strawberries and Cream. I'll explain why and what method I use now to select conditioners that are good for cowashing. But lately when I've gone back there's only been the Free Me Fresia available. So about 2 weeks ago I asked the girl at the counter if she could order the Strawberries and Cream for me. She obliged, took down my details and said she'd call me once they got there.
Well 2 weeks later. Nothing. I'm getting a little antsy. Lol. So I just called them up a few minutes ago and apparently there's a delay on the order and they'll re-enter it. So more waiting. Fingers crossed, I'll have my precious in my hands in a week or so.
Anyway, I guess the point of this post was to let those in Australia know that you can get the VO5s here at Chemist Warehouse. If your local one doesn't have it, they can order it for you. I've read somewhere on the Longhaircommunity forum that they can also be found at the big IGA stores. I haven't been to one of those.
Other products and where I've found them:
Nature's Gate conditioners - Priceline
Yes To Carrots - Priceline
Clairol Vitapointe - Chemist Warehouse
*update - just as I was finishing this post, Chemist Warehouse rang me back. Apparently there's a manufacturing problem and the distributor won't be able to get it in. Man!! They said to come in in 2 weeks and ask them to try again. Will keep you guys updated. In the meantime I think I'll check at an IGA.
I've grown to love these conditioners, particularly the Strawberries and Cream. I'll explain why and what method I use now to select conditioners that are good for cowashing. But lately when I've gone back there's only been the Free Me Fresia available. So about 2 weeks ago I asked the girl at the counter if she could order the Strawberries and Cream for me. She obliged, took down my details and said she'd call me once they got there.
Well 2 weeks later. Nothing. I'm getting a little antsy. Lol. So I just called them up a few minutes ago and apparently there's a delay on the order and they'll re-enter it. So more waiting. Fingers crossed, I'll have my precious in my hands in a week or so.
Anyway, I guess the point of this post was to let those in Australia know that you can get the VO5s here at Chemist Warehouse. If your local one doesn't have it, they can order it for you. I've read somewhere on the Longhaircommunity forum that they can also be found at the big IGA stores. I haven't been to one of those.
Other products and where I've found them:
Nature's Gate conditioners - Priceline
Yes To Carrots - Priceline
Clairol Vitapointe - Chemist Warehouse
*update - just as I was finishing this post, Chemist Warehouse rang me back. Apparently there's a manufacturing problem and the distributor won't be able to get it in. Man!! They said to come in in 2 weeks and ask them to try again. Will keep you guys updated. In the meantime I think I'll check at an IGA.
What I want to try in 2010
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Just a quick one. A list of techniques I want to try in 2010:
I'll be doing detailed posts on each technique soon. What I'm doing, why I'm doing it and products I'm using.
What techniques are you going to try in 2010?
- No shampoo
- Indian powder glosses
- Straightening (hotcomb or flatiron, not sure yet)
I'll be doing detailed posts on each technique soon. What I'm doing, why I'm doing it and products I'm using.
What techniques are you going to try in 2010?
Hair Progress: Length Check - January 1 2010
Friday, January 1, 2010
Ever reached one of your goals, but felt really indifferent about it? Even a big milestone like Neck Length to BSL, and just feel 'meh'? Then you probably have what the ladies on LHCF have dubbed Hair Anorexia (lol!). Hair Anorexia is feeling unimpressed with any progress and that your hair is never long enough, despite reaching your goals. A while ago there was an LHCF thread about this, and I remember posting that even though I'd reached APL, I didn't feel like my hair was long at all.
Today I was looking at old photos and came across a 'length shot' from back in April when I was SL. Did a side by side comparison with a photo I took today ... I must say, I'm really proud of myself!! I've really come a long way.
So if you're having a hard time appreciating the progress you've made, I encourage you to start taking length shots every now and then. Start now, because I remember when I started my hair journey, I'd always put it off and now I hardly have any photos of my twa stage. If you have a camera, take a quick one, it doesn't have to be perfect. Then every few months you can do side by side comparisons. It really helps!
Without further ado:
I'm also thinking I should get one of those hair progress T-shirts. Hmm... I did see another really clever way of keeping track of hair growth on Mane and Chic. How resourceful is that???
Today I was looking at old photos and came across a 'length shot' from back in April when I was SL. Did a side by side comparison with a photo I took today ... I must say, I'm really proud of myself!! I've really come a long way.
So if you're having a hard time appreciating the progress you've made, I encourage you to start taking length shots every now and then. Start now, because I remember when I started my hair journey, I'd always put it off and now I hardly have any photos of my twa stage. If you have a camera, take a quick one, it doesn't have to be perfect. Then every few months you can do side by side comparisons. It really helps!
Without further ado:
I'm also thinking I should get one of those hair progress T-shirts. Hmm... I did see another really clever way of keeping track of hair growth on Mane and Chic. How resourceful is that???
Hair Lessons From 2009
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Happy New Year Ladies (and Gents!!)
I strongly believe that life always has a lesson to teach. Even when it comes to hair! So here are my top 5 lessons learned throughout 2009:
1. Dry hair doesn't have to be that way
Although natural hair is inherently dry, it really doesn't have to be that way. If your natural hair always feels dry, you can do something about it. Don't just accept the dryness for what it is. The things I've found as key to retaining moisture are using water and sometype of oil to seal moisture in. My last post Sealing in Moisture outlines a method to lock in moisture into the strands. Give it a try.
2. Less is more
The more you manipulate your hair i.e. combing, styling etc this includes even the good stuff DC'ing, oiling etc... the more mechanical stress you load onto the hair the more likely it is to break. Of course to have healthy hair, you have to do some of these things. So find a happy medium to minimize physical stress to your hair.
3. Only do what works for you!
I can't stress this enough. I frequent forums and there are always new products that are all the rage, bandwagons to hop on, and certain beliefs that others try to force upon you. But you've got to remember that although hair is hair, it can differ between individuals. So sometimes products/ methods that work for some else might not work for you.
For goodness sakes, do not shampoo 2 times a week if it irritates your scalp and you know once a fortnight is sufficient! Don't DC 3 times a week if it leaves your hair mushy! If grease or Pink Lotion works for you, then so be it!! Find what works for YOU! It's great to try something you think might work for you, but don't stick with it if your hair doesn't like it. Do what allows YOUR hair to grow and be healthy.
4. Take control of your haircare journey!
I learned this during my bad weave saga. I haven't let anyone else touch my hair ever since and it's been thriving. If you're lucky enough to find someone who will do your hair but also listen to you if you want something done a specific way without catching an attitude, then hold on tight to them! These people are hard to find.
So many of the ladies on hairboards have also had setbacks with scissor happy stylists. I mean, walking into a salon with Mid Back Length (MBL) hair and coming out with shoulder length hair. Or asking a stylist to only cut ONE inch and they cut off THREE! Don't believe me? Just yesterday there was a post on LHFC about one of the forum's favourite relaxed, waistelength heads - Sylver2 who had a bad experience with a scissor happy stylist. She went to the salon for a 2-3 inch trim and left with a 4-5 inch cut and is now between brastrap length (bsl) and midback length (mbl). So sad, but I think we can all take a lesson from this. It doesn't have to be about trims, it could be the way they are overlapping relaxers or combing your hair.
It's all very well and good to have a stylist or friend help you with your hair. But if they are also hindering your hair growth and health in some way, you need to speak up. If they don't listen, then thank them for their services and move on.
5. Consistency is Key!
I think this one speaks for itself. If you know something works for you. Stick to it!
Well there you have it. What did 2009 teach you?
I strongly believe that life always has a lesson to teach. Even when it comes to hair! So here are my top 5 lessons learned throughout 2009:
1. Dry hair doesn't have to be that way
Although natural hair is inherently dry, it really doesn't have to be that way. If your natural hair always feels dry, you can do something about it. Don't just accept the dryness for what it is. The things I've found as key to retaining moisture are using water and sometype of oil to seal moisture in. My last post Sealing in Moisture outlines a method to lock in moisture into the strands. Give it a try.
2. Less is more
The more you manipulate your hair i.e. combing, styling etc this includes even the good stuff DC'ing, oiling etc... the more mechanical stress you load onto the hair the more likely it is to break. Of course to have healthy hair, you have to do some of these things. So find a happy medium to minimize physical stress to your hair.
3. Only do what works for you!
I can't stress this enough. I frequent forums and there are always new products that are all the rage, bandwagons to hop on, and certain beliefs that others try to force upon you. But you've got to remember that although hair is hair, it can differ between individuals. So sometimes products/ methods that work for some else might not work for you.
For goodness sakes, do not shampoo 2 times a week if it irritates your scalp and you know once a fortnight is sufficient! Don't DC 3 times a week if it leaves your hair mushy! If grease or Pink Lotion works for you, then so be it!! Find what works for YOU! It's great to try something you think might work for you, but don't stick with it if your hair doesn't like it. Do what allows YOUR hair to grow and be healthy.
4. Take control of your haircare journey!
I learned this during my bad weave saga. I haven't let anyone else touch my hair ever since and it's been thriving. If you're lucky enough to find someone who will do your hair but also listen to you if you want something done a specific way without catching an attitude, then hold on tight to them! These people are hard to find.
So many of the ladies on hairboards have also had setbacks with scissor happy stylists. I mean, walking into a salon with Mid Back Length (MBL) hair and coming out with shoulder length hair. Or asking a stylist to only cut ONE inch and they cut off THREE! Don't believe me? Just yesterday there was a post on LHFC about one of the forum's favourite relaxed, waistelength heads - Sylver2 who had a bad experience with a scissor happy stylist. She went to the salon for a 2-3 inch trim and left with a 4-5 inch cut and is now between brastrap length (bsl) and midback length (mbl). So sad, but I think we can all take a lesson from this. It doesn't have to be about trims, it could be the way they are overlapping relaxers or combing your hair.
It's all very well and good to have a stylist or friend help you with your hair. But if they are also hindering your hair growth and health in some way, you need to speak up. If they don't listen, then thank them for their services and move on.
5. Consistency is Key!
I think this one speaks for itself. If you know something works for you. Stick to it!
Well there you have it. What did 2009 teach you?
My Hair and Homemade Coconut Oil - Sealing in moisture
Sunday, December 27, 2009
I'd probably say before I started using coconut oil, I never knew what moisturized 4b hair was really like. I'd just accepted the regular dryness for what it was. Every now and then I'd get that moisturized softness/cottonyness, but not for long. The 'normal' crunchiness would soon return. Meh.
So I've been using my homemade coconut oil for about 3 weeks (on both hair and skin), and of course .... I love it!! I'm about half way through it (about 1/4 cup left), so I'll definitely be making more in the next couple of weeks. I've been using it almost every day and it leaves my hair soft and really moisturized. Sometimes it's been the only thing I've applied to damp hair after washing, and it really does seal in the moisture. The moisturized feeling can last for days.
I went away over the past week and couldn't take any of my hair stuff with me. My hair stayed moisturized under my wig until I came back!!
Coconut oil is one of the few oils that penetrate and prevent protein loss from the hair shaft and also being an oil, it would create a diffusion barrier which prevents water from evaporating from the hair. Reasons it works so well!
So what's my moisturizing routine exactly? Well I'm using a method created by Chicoro. Let me tell you, this method really works. Before you put it off, let me just say, if you're having a problem with dry hair, JUST TRY IT! If it doesn't work for you (but I'm pretty sure it will), then so be it. But at least give it a go. I'm emphasising this because I actually came across Chicoro's method on her fotki about a year ago, and then just forgot about it ... I really wish I'd paid more attention back then, I'd probably have retained a little more length using this method. Ok, ok, I'll get to describing this miracle method!
It consists of applying 3 specific layers of products to moisturize and seal.
1) First apply a water based moisturizer. I realize people also refer to creams with the first ingredient being water as a 'water based moisturizer.' For this method, I'd suggest using something that's actually much more watery than that. No creams at this stage. I personally use a mixture of water and glycerine. I've gone back to a 50/50 mixture and it's working well so far. This adds moisture and the glycerine will draw moisture from the air, being an emollient.
2) Secondly apply an oil based moisturizer. I use my beloved coconut oil here. This seals in the moisture by creating that diffusion barrier.
3) Then a heavy or emulsified cream. I use Garnier Fructis Nutri-Repair. Heavier moisturizers sit on the hair and will seal the first 2 layers.
4) Lastly, she then suggests that you cover your hair. I've been wearing a wig when I leave the house or a scarf when I'm home. This prevents the air from stealing all the moisture.
That's it. It takes less than 5 minutes. My hair doesn't feel 'coated' or get 'build up.' I try not to be too heavy handed with the heavy cream leave-in part. You can find more information here:
So I've been using my homemade coconut oil for about 3 weeks (on both hair and skin), and of course .... I love it!! I'm about half way through it (about 1/4 cup left), so I'll definitely be making more in the next couple of weeks. I've been using it almost every day and it leaves my hair soft and really moisturized. Sometimes it's been the only thing I've applied to damp hair after washing, and it really does seal in the moisture. The moisturized feeling can last for days.
I went away over the past week and couldn't take any of my hair stuff with me. My hair stayed moisturized under my wig until I came back!!
Coconut oil is one of the few oils that penetrate and prevent protein loss from the hair shaft and also being an oil, it would create a diffusion barrier which prevents water from evaporating from the hair. Reasons it works so well!
So what's my moisturizing routine exactly? Well I'm using a method created by Chicoro. Let me tell you, this method really works. Before you put it off, let me just say, if you're having a problem with dry hair, JUST TRY IT! If it doesn't work for you (but I'm pretty sure it will), then so be it. But at least give it a go. I'm emphasising this because I actually came across Chicoro's method on her fotki about a year ago, and then just forgot about it ... I really wish I'd paid more attention back then, I'd probably have retained a little more length using this method. Ok, ok, I'll get to describing this miracle method!
It consists of applying 3 specific layers of products to moisturize and seal.
1) First apply a water based moisturizer. I realize people also refer to creams with the first ingredient being water as a 'water based moisturizer.' For this method, I'd suggest using something that's actually much more watery than that. No creams at this stage. I personally use a mixture of water and glycerine. I've gone back to a 50/50 mixture and it's working well so far. This adds moisture and the glycerine will draw moisture from the air, being an emollient.
2) Secondly apply an oil based moisturizer. I use my beloved coconut oil here. This seals in the moisture by creating that diffusion barrier.
3) Then a heavy or emulsified cream. I use Garnier Fructis Nutri-Repair. Heavier moisturizers sit on the hair and will seal the first 2 layers.
4) Lastly, she then suggests that you cover your hair. I've been wearing a wig when I leave the house or a scarf when I'm home. This prevents the air from stealing all the moisture.
That's it. It takes less than 5 minutes. My hair doesn't feel 'coated' or get 'build up.' I try not to be too heavy handed with the heavy cream leave-in part. You can find more information here:
- Chicoro's Tutorial - How to Strategically Seal the Hair Strand
- Blackonyx77's YouTube tutorial for this method - Sealing MOISTURE in Hair
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