Naturalista Series™ Presents: Brittany

What's your name and where are you from?

Brittany Matthews and I am from Silver Spring, MD (DMV).

Have you always been natural? If not, what inspired you to go natural? Did you transition? If so, for how long?

When I was younger me and my sister had hair down to our behinds, needless to say it was overwhelming for my mom to manage two heads of thick long hair so I got a perm. I received perms all the way up until my freshmen year of college when I decided I wanted to grow my hair out for health purposes and to have the option of wearing it natural if I chose to. In 2006, I received my last perm a week before Thanksgiving, I also cut my hair into a bob. Right before the new year I cut my bangs. It took me about a year to get rid of all the chemical.

What is your hair type?

I have naturally curly/wavy hair that is very thick. My hair is more curly underneath and more wavy up top.

(click to enlarge)

What do you love most about being natural?

Being natural can be a challenge but one that is well worth it. My hair is stronger, longer and over all healthier than it is was with a perm.

What are your hair goals for 2010?

I have become very interested in reaching MBL which I originally said was too long for me but I have changed my mind and made that my hair goal for 2010

Name a few challenges you are currently facing with your hair. Have you been doing anything different to overcome these challenges?

Trying to cut back on the time I spend doing my hair is the main problem. I have yet to find a solution to this problem. I do not EVER go to the hair dresser I do my own hair and it takes about 4 hours to wash, condition, blow dry, and flat iron.

(click to enlarge)

What styles do you love to wear the most and why? How do you go about achieving this style?

99% of the time my hair is down with my bangs out or parted down the middle. I use a flat iron to get my hair as straight as possible then I wrap it at night to give it some bend.

(click to enlarge)

(click to enlarge)

List the products that you use and how you use them. What is your current hair regimen? share what works for you!

I am a NEXXUS girl 100% I love the entire line.

1. Therapee shampoo
2. Humectress conditioner
3. Silk elements heat protectant

I use these products in this order then I blow dry and flat iron my hair. IF I use any oil at all (my hair created it's own oil in excess) I use Lisa's Hair Elixar from the Carols' Daughter line.

What products do you use to achieve soft beautiful curl definition?

I never wear my hair natural. This summer is actually going to be my first time wearing my hair natural so I have yet to find a good product for my hair. I know that when it's natural it dries out extremely fast so something with a lot of moisture will probably be necessary.

(click to enlarge)

How do you detangle your hair?

I don't detangle my hair because it almost never tangles. I don't comb it before I wash or before or after I condition. I only comb it right before I sit down to blow dry it the comb usually slides right through.

What product or technique would you say really helped your hair flourish?

I would attribute a large part of being able to manage my hair to the Silicon. I no longer use this product but when I was using it my hair was amazing!!! Now I attribute all my hair success to the NEXXUS line in it's entirety.

(click to enlarge)

Do you have any advice for other naturals?

For the Naturalista's who wear their hair natural often I would be careful straightening it to much because it can lessen and ruin your curl pattern.

Where on the web can we find more about you and your styles?

Hairlista is the only site I use solely for hair but my facebook page has pictures of my hair at all different stages over the last 4-5 yrs. www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1228950114#!/profile.php?id=1227900161&ref=profile

Thank you Brittany Matthews for sharing all that information with us!

Crazy Yung L.A. (Leland Austin) Mohawk African Haircuts 2010

African Hair Styles brings you Crazy Yung L.A. (Leland Austin) Mohawk African Haircuts 2010





Crazy Yung L.A aks Leland Austin its a black African American rapper who loves to wear different styles of Mohawk hair.Crazy Yung L.A wears this Mohawk hairstyles because it's very easy to spot a Mohawk and he likes to be in the center of attention. Crazy Yung L.A Mohawk hairstyels has shaved hairs on both sides of the heaven but leaving the center thick.You too can get this type of hairstyle its actually very easy and you can do it at home just look at these photos and you will have soon a pretty similar Mohawk hairstyle:

 Crazy Yung L.A. (Leland Austin) Mohawk African Haircuts 2010

 Yung L.A. Mohawk African Haircuts 2010

Jamaica You Are In My Prayers!

As many of you know, I am half Jamaican. My family and friends reside there. You may or may not be aware, but the tragedy unfolding in Jamaica right now is becoming a wider crisis of organized crime, armed violence and political corruption. Unfortunately, this problem runs very deep and it would be impossible for me to explain it all.

My heart goes out to those in critical condition. Condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives. I pray that my cousins in Kingston remain safe as well as the innocent people who can no longer leave their homes due to the shootings and violence taking place. I pray that God will watch over Jamaica during this hard time and that this mess will soon be behind us.

For More Info, check out these sites:

1. http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-504083_162-20006062-504083.html

2. http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2010/may/26/kingston-jamaica-dudus-coke

3. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7w-13gAo-GY&feature=player_embedded#!


♥ Sunshyne

Naturalista Series™ Presents: RMichelleM

What's your name and where are you from?

My name is RMichelleM, I'm from Baltimore, MD.

Have you always been natural? If not, what inspired you to go natural? Did you transition? If so, for how long?

No I have not always been natural. When I moved from home for college I didn't have a beautician I trusted relax my hair. Instead, I would wait months until I went back home to get my hair relaxed. Eventually, I just decided to nix the relaxer (since I was rarely getting touchups) and give natural hair a try. I transitioned for about 8/9 months; I've been natural for almost 3 years now.

What is your hair type?

4a

What do you love most about being natural?

I like that I'm not committed to a relaxer anymore. I like that I can just wash my hair and bun it, puff it, twist it or leave it out and be done with it. I used to be so annoyed by trying to camouflage my new growth with my relaxed hair when I needed a touch up; I like that all of my hair is always the same texture--it's just so much simpler for me.

(click to enlarge)

What are your hair goals for 2010?

My hair goal for 2010 is to reach bra strap length.

Name a few challenges you are currently facing with your hair. Have you been doing anything different to overcome these challenges?

Right now, I can gladly say that I am not facing any challenges with my hair! It took some time for me to get to this point so I'm very proud of my progress. I used to deal with dryness, frizz and single strand knots. Deep conditioning and finding a moisturizing leave in conditioner has alleviated the dryness and reduced frizz a lot. Keeping my ends stretched (by two-strand twisting or wearing my hair in buns) and well detangled has almost eliminated the single strand knots.

What styles do you love to wear the most and why? How do you go about achieving this style?

I mostly wear my hair in buns, puffs. I like my texture so I like to style my hair in puffs; and I've always liked the look of buns so I mainly alternate between those two styles. I do two strand twist my hair quite often as well. Recently I tried roller setting my natural hair; it was a successful experiment so I've been styling my hair that way every now and then.

For my buns and puffs, I simply co-wash, moisturize & seal and put my hair up into a ponytail. Last, I'll smooth some gel on the front of my hair with my hands. I don't use a brush to smooth.

(click to enlarge)

For my two strand twists, I co-wash, moisturize and use a Shea butter pomade for hold; and twist small sections of hair. This usually takes me about an hour and a half to finish. I usually pin my twists up into different styles; I like two strand twists because they make my hair more workable for different styles and they can last at least 2 weeks (I co-wash and deep condition while my hair is twisted).

(click to enlarge)

For my roller sets, shampoo my hair with Dr. Bronner's peppermint liquid castile soap, deep condition with Aubrey Organics honey suckle rose conditioner. I use a setting spray (ultra sheen setting lotion & a little conditioner) and a creamy setting lotion (black & sassy creamy set). I use 1.5 inch rollers and sit under the hooded dryer for about 2 hours. Once dry I let my hair cool and then remove the rollers.

(click to enlarge)

List the products that you use and how you use them. What is your current hair regimen? share what works for you!

Products--Aubrey Organics Conditioners (DEEP CONDITIONER), Nature's Gate Conditioners (RINSE OUT/COWASH), Giovanni Direct Leave in Conditioner (LEAVE IN), Castor Oil (SEALANT), Dr. Bronner's Liquid Castile Soap ("SHAMPOO").

I detangle my hair with conditioner first, then I cleanse and condition my hair, finally I moisturize and seal my hair in sections. I do this at least once a week. Also, I've started doing a protein treatment once a month that consists of full fat yogurt, baking soda and liquid aminos (The Cherry Lola Treatment).

What products do you use to achieve soft beautiful curl definition?

Typically, I just use the same products I use regularly. I don't really like curl defining products because the hold is never as soft as I'd like. But, in the summer, a cheap curl enhancing product I use from time to time is Long Aid Curl Activator--the reason I only use it in the summer is because it is LOADED with glycerin and takes forever to dry on my hair, when it is hot out it dries faster.

How do you detangle your hair?

I put my hair into four sections, saturate my hair with water, then coat it with conditioner (usually nature's gate--jojoba, aloe vera or pomegranate). First I finger comb through each section, then use my denman brush.

What product or technique would you say really helped your hair flourish?

The Curly Girl Method has been amazing for my hair. When I first went natural I struggled with major dryness, some of my hair was rough and the front of my hair would not curl. Within 1 month I started noticing improvements; after 6 months the changes were significant. My hair maintained moisture, it was softer and developed natural sheen; also the section of my hair that would not curl developed a curl pattern. What I do not use: petroleum, mineral oil, sulfates, cones and drying alcohols. Eliminating these ingredients from my hair regimen keeps my hair in great condition.

Do you have any advice for other naturals?

Take you time learning about your hair. Don't jump right into doing what you see works for other people without considering what you know about your hair.

Where on the web can we find more about you and your styles?

Right now, Hairlista.com is where I keep all of my hair info. But I am a member on several other sites including Longhaircareforum.com and Naturallycurly.com.


Thank you RMichelleM for sharing all that information with us!

Top Beautiful Black Celebrity Trendy Hairstyles 2010

African Hair Styles brings you Top Beautiful Black Celebrity Trendy Hairstyles 2010





Here are the top beautiful African American celebs:  Beyonce,Tyra Banks,  Alicia Keys, Halle Berry Black Celebrity Hairstyles,Rihanna Black Celebrity Hairstyles.These are the top hottest popular black celebrity hairstyles in different cute style from loose curls, waves, short haircuts and more these are the top black celebrity hairstyles. Take these hot styles to your stylist and chose the best for you, here are the photos that will help you:

 Top Beautiful Black Celebrity Trendy Hairstyles 2010

Top Beautiful Black Celebrity Trendy Hairstyles 2010

Top Beautiful Black Celebrity Trendy Hairstyles 2010

S-Curl No Drip Activator Ingredients have CHANGED?!

I'm a huge fan of S-Curl No Drip Activator as my leave-in conditioner and daily moisturizer ( I still use Wave Noveau Finishing Lotion). It never fails me. I always re-purchase the 32 fl oz. size because I get 16 more ounces for an extra $3-4. Both bottles have always had the same ingredients, therefore its a better bargain for me to get the larger one.

When it comes to Scurl, I always purchase the big bottle then I pour a good amount (never measure) into the older bottle with the spray nozzle just for convenience and ease in distributing the product all over my hair. I re-stock with the big bottle and pour it into the smaller bottle.

However, when purchasing the 32 fl oz. size this time around, I noticed additional ingredients on the list. Check out the pics below for a visual comparison.

The new 32 fl oz. bottle of S-Curl No Drip Activator. *Hint* The new ingredients are after fragrance.

The 16 fl oz. Spray Bottle Version

I've been using the new bottle and so far I've found no difference in the effectiveness of the product. It feels just the same as before. Moisturizing! If I do notice a change in the near future I'll just go back to purchasing the 16 fl oz size. I just wanted to put it out there that if you purchase the big bottle of S-Curl, like myself and you notice a difference in the ingredients as well, don't be alarmed.

♥ Sunshyne

Rihanna Short Haircuts 2010 African Hair Styles

African Hair Styles brings you Rihanna Short Haircuts 2010 African Hair Styles





Rihanna has a lot of modern and cool short hairstyles it all depends of what you want for you if you want to copy one of her hairstyels. But be careful and chose one hairstyles that match your face shape. Your haircut can change the very image of your style and personality. The best short straight hairstyle of Rihanna is the straight bob and bang cut. Check below Rihanna's latest popular short hairstyles: straight short hairstyle with and without bangs, bob hairstyels and more:

 Rihanna Short Haircuts 2010 African Hair Styles

Rihanna Short Haircuts 2010 African Hair Styles

Tropic Isle Living Jamaican Black Castor Oil Hair Care System

Tropic Isle Living’s Jamaican Black Castor Oil:

An Excellent Scalp Tonic and Conditioner

Tropic Isle Living’s Jamaican Black Castor Oil is traditionally used for a multiplicity of complaints relating to the hair, skin, aches and pains, pregnancy, women's health, constipation, massage, cancer, and much more. To cover all these topics adequately in one blog, however, would be impossible. And being that this is a media that focuses mainly on Black hair and skin care, I will therefore narrow my focus on said matters.

This week I am here to let you know that Tropic Isle Living Jamaican Black Castor Oil makes an excellent scalp tonic and conditioner. Its cleansing ability allows it to penetrate the scalp and help detoxify it of damaging toxins caused by chemical hair products, the environment, and parasites. A toxic scalp can manifest as dandruff, itchy, dry and flaky scalp, thinning hair, poor hair growth and much more.

Research shows that Castor oil contains phyto-nutrients that help to destroy many types of bacteria, fungi, virus and other parasites that cause scalp and skin problems such as dandruff, eczema, psoriasis, liver spot, and other types of skin issues. Tropic Isle Living Jamaican Black Castor Oil is specially prepared to preserve these phyto-nutrients so that you can benefit from them.

By massaging Tropic Isle Living Jamaican Black Castor Oil into the scalp on a regular basis, you will be removing damaging toxins from your scalp, cleansing action, blood circulation will improve, and more nutrients will reach the roots of your hair. This all means your scalp will return to its natural state of good health. And in turn your hair will become thicker, longer, stronger and more vibrant.

Tropic Isle Jamaican Black Castor Oil Scalp Massage

• Step 1: Slightly heat Tropic Isle Jamaican Black Castor Oil for 10 sec or till warm to touch (Please do not Microwave)

• Step 2: Section your hair in for parts

• Step 3: Chose one section as your starting point… using a comb, further section your hair in mini-parts within the selected part to reveal your scalp and apply Tropic Isle JBCO directly as you go along.

• Step 4: Repeat step 3 for the three remaining parts.

• Step 5: Once your entire scalp is saturated with Tropic Isle JBCO gently massage your scalp with your finger tips and pay close attention to areas prone to breakage or signs of bald spots. Do not forget to apply the oil to your hair line (for most this is our weak spot). Do this for at least 1 to 2 minutes….your scalp will love you for it! Remember healthy scalp healthy hair.

• Step 6: (Optional) Place heating cap on head for 20 minutes to an hour for maximum effect.

• Step 7: (Optional) You may chose to wash your hair or simple style hair as desired.

It is recommended that you do at least one scalp massage per week.

Tropic Isle Living’s Jamaican Black Castor Oil is made the traditional way. Our seeds are delicately roasted to facilitate the extraction of the minerals and phytonutrient contents found in their outer covering. In a nutshell – no pun intended - this means a more nutrient rich Tropic Isle Living Jamaican Black Castor Oil.

For more information on Tropic Isle Living’s Jamaican Black Castor Oil call 718-503-4603 or visit us at www.tropicisleliving.com

Tropic Isle Living’s Jamaican Black Castor Oil Hair Care System

This System will Moisturize, Nourish, and

Fortify your Scalp, Making your Hair Thicker, Longer, Fuller and Healthier

Ladies,

The same way we layer our bodies with a particular fragrance for that extra special effect, it’s basically the same principle you would use to make your hair stronger, thicker, longer, healthier and more vibrant. I would like to share with you how I layer my hair with Tropic Isle Living line of Jamaican Black Castor Oil products to get absolutely fabulous hair.

The Key to this system is layering with moisture every step of the way from wash to style. I have used this method for several years when I had natural hair, relaxed hair, AND NOW I am in my relaxed and colored phase by choice. You will need the following Tropic Isle Living Jamaican Black Castor Oil line to get going: Black Castor Oil, Shampoo, Protein Conditioner and Hair Food.

There is a 20% Discount for Hairlista and Hairlicious Clientele who purchase the Hair Care System starting May 26 2010 at Sam247.com

Tropic Isle Living Jamaican Black Castor Oil

Hair Care System for Natural Hair

• Phase 1 Hot Oil Treatment for 20 minutes to an hour using Tropic Isle JBCO.

• Phase 2 Shampoo more than twice with Tropic Isle JBCO Shampoo.

• Phase 3 Towel Dry hair to a damp feel and apply a generous amount of Tropic Isle JBCO Protein Conditioner leave in for 20 minutes to an hour, After application please wear a heating cap (you may chose to go under the dryer for 20 minutes if you are press for time or do chores around the house well while naturally heating your hair and scalp for 1 hour).

• Phase 4 Wash out protein conditioner with luke-warm to cold water...this well ensure that a lot of the moisture remains in your hair.

• Phase 5 Towel dry hair to a very damp almost wet state then apply Tropic Isle JBCO Hair Food to all areas of your scalp. Also apply hair food to hair follicles as well pay close attention to the ends of your hair to prevent frizz.

• Phase 6 Style as desire

• Phase 7 In between wash maintain hair and scalp with applications for Tropic Isle Hair Food Pomade

Tropic Isle Living Jamaican Black Castor Oil

Hair Care System for Relaxed Hair

• Phase 1 Shampoo no more than twice with Tropic Isle JBCO Shampoo.

• Phase 2 Towel Dry hair to a damp feel and apply a generous amount of Tropic Isle JBCO Protein Conditioner leave in for 20 minutes to an hour, after application please wear a heating cap (you may chose to go under the dryer for 20 minutes if you are press for time or do chores around the house well while naturally heating your hair and scalp for 1 hour)

• Phase 3 Wash out protein conditioner with luke-warm to cold water...this well ensure that a lot of the moisture remains in your hair

• Phase 4 You may chose to use a detangling conditioner if hair is not easily comb through for setting and styling. I highly recommend that you dry hair under the dryer and not blow hair

• Phase 5 Style as desire

• Phase 6 In between wash maintain scalp with small amounts Tropic Isle Hair Food Pomade (you may chose to eliminate this phase from the regiment if you feel that your hair is well moisturized.

Stay Tune for my next blog on how to use Tropic Isle Jamaican Black Castor Oil Hair System for Natural/Colored Hair as well as Relax/Colored Hair.

Please call 718-503-4603 to learn more about our Jamaican Black Castor Oil Line of Products and don’t forget to visit us at www.tropicisleliving.com

Enjoy your hair journey the destination will be worth it!!

Many Blessings

Lois Reid-Hines, Vice President and Co-Owner of Tropic Isle Living

Naturalista Series™ Presents: Nola

What's your name and where are you from?

My name is Nola. Hairlista user name ladyvp05. I am from a small town called Blytheville, AR.

Have you always been natural? If not, what inspired you to go natural? Did you transition? If so, for how long?

I have not always been natural. I was inspired by my two sister-in-laws. One had been natural for years. When I met her I saw how curly her hair was and I asked her how she got her hair like that. She told me she was natural. My other sister in law decided to go natural for spiritual reasons. I saw how fast her hair was growing after she cut it and it got me interested. I only transitioned for 3 months. Another reason I decided to go natural was because I put a relaxer in my hair and it had my hair falling out in clumps. So I put in kinky twist. When I took them out my hair started back falling out. So I decided enough was enough and just cut it. That relaxer was the last straw that made me decide to go natural.

What is your hair type?

My hair type is considered 3c with a mixture of 4a.

(click to enlarge)

What do you love most about being natural?

I love the ease of it. I can literally wake up, put water and moisturizer in my hair, shake it and it looks amazing. If I’m not having such a great hair day. I can put my hair in a puff and it works every time. I love how people look at my hair and ask how did you get your hair to do that. Is that a straw set? I tell them this is my natural hair.

What are your hair goals for 2010?

My hair goals are to try more styles. I love doing puffs but I need to step out the box and try other things. I also want to learn how to cornrow.

Name a few challenges you are currently facing with your hair. Have you been doing anything different to overcome these challenges?

My hair does not like hair creams including shea butter. I have tried everything I could but my hair hates them. I don’t really worry about it anymore. I know what my hair likes. It likes gels and products full of glycerin. My natural hair loves jherri curl products. I think that butters are just too heavy for my hair type.

What styles do you love to wear the most and why? How do you go about achieving this style?

I love the puff. I usually do a braid out first and let the braids sit for two days to stretch the hair. Then I undo the braids and pick the roots only. I slick my hair back with eco styler gel. I wear all types of flowers, headbands and accessories with the puff.

(click to enlarge)

List the products that you use and how you use them. What is your current hair regimen? share what works for you!

Pantene Pro-V Relaxed and Naturals Shampoo

Suave Professionals almond shea butter conditioner – rinse out detangling conditioner

Suave Professionals humectant conditioner – rinse out detangling conditioner

Aphogee 2 minute reconstructor – protein treatment

Sally’s GVP Moisturizing Conditioner (compare to Nexxus Humectress moisturizing conditioner) – deep conditioner

Glycerin – used to make spritz which is 2 parts water and one part glycerin – liquid leave in

Extra virgin Olive Oil

Extra virgin coconut oil

Pro-Line Comb thru softener - leave in

Eco styler gel – wash n go gel

Long aid activator gel – braid out and twist out gel

Suave clarifying shampoo

I wash and condition my hair 1-2 times a week. I detangle with conditioner still in my hair and put in fat twist to keep the hair from being tangled again. I rinse my hair while twists are still in with cool water. If I am doing a braid out or a twist out I apply activator gel. Undo the braids or twists when they are fully dry and lift the roots with a pick. To maintain the style I will re-braid or re-twist my hair at night. I moisturize every few days and seal in moisture with olive oil and wear a satin bonnet. Undo hair and style in the morning. If I am wearing a wash in go I apply Pro-Line leave in and eco styler olive oil gel. I plop my hair with a t shirt to get it to dry faster. After I take the shirt off I shake my hair and that’s it. I will just sleep with a satin bonnet at night. In the morning spray my hair with my water/glycerin mix and style it. Every few days I will moisturize and seal.

I clarify my hair every two weeks. I follow up with my protein treatment under a hooded dryer for about 8 minutes. After that I deep condition with my deep conditioner mixed with 1 tablespoon each of olive oil and coconut oil for 20 minutes under the hooded dryer. I then follow up with my detangling, moisturizing, and styling routine.

In the winter I wear braid outs and twist outs. In the spring and summer months I usually wear wash n go’s.

I do not like to co wash. It does nothing for my hair but leave a white buildup on my hair and scalp. I need shampoo.

What products do you use to achieve soft beautiful curl definition?

I use Pro line comb-thru softener and I then apply my eco styler gel for my wash n go’s. I use long aid activator gel for braid out and twist outs.

How do you detangle your hair?

I put a lot of conditioner in my hair and detangle from tips to roots. I first detangle my hair with a wide tooth comb. Then I go back over my hair with the goody mosaic double detangling comb. I used to only use the wide tooth comb but I find that when I use it alone my hair does not get detangled well. I end up with a lot of knots on the end of my hair. So I have to go back over it again with the other comb to get the hair the wide tooth comb missed. Then I put my hair in fat twists and rinse out the conditioner while hair is still in twists.

(click to enlarge)

What product or technique would you say really helped your hair flourish?

Wearing a satin bonnet to bed is so important. Back in my relaxed days I never protected my hair and my hair would always be matted and dry. Now my hair is never that way thanks to the satin bonnet. Detangling well is so important. Naturals always complain about those annoying knots. I promise if you detangle well they will be minimized. Keeping a proper moisture/protein balance is important. Before, I would only moisturize my hair and avoid protein. My hair was breaking when I touched it. When I started putting protein in my regimen the breakage stopped.

(click to enlarge)

Do you have any advice for other naturals?

Do a lot of research and watch youtube. Don’t get caught up in all the hype. You do not have to buy expensive products for your hair. Do what works for your hair.

Where on the web can we find more about you and your styles?

Find me on youtube http://www.youtube.com/user/NaturalNola86.

Thank you Nola for sharing all that information with us!

African Hair from Ashanti 2010 Black Hairstyles for Women

African Hair Styles brings you African Hair from Ashanti 2010 Black Hairstyles for Women

Ashanti is one of the most sexy African American celebrity which has the best looks with smooth, silky hair.You need a lot of maintenance for her look and her style no doubt, with relaxer maintenance, conditioning and 'in general' care but the result is fabulous. Check below all photos, pictures of hairstyles about celebrity Ashanti. If you want to look like Ashanti then take a printout of her picture and take to your salon or hairstylist.

African Hair from Ashanti 2010 Black Hairstyles for Women

African Hair from Ashanti 2010 Black Hairstyles for Women

Most Recent Product Haul + Mini Hair Set Back *Update*

It's been a longggg time since I purchased products for my hair. For the past few months I was just living off of the surplus of products I had. I didn't see the need to purchase anything new until my staples ran out i.e. S-curl No Drip Activator. Everything else you see in the photo is new to me (except for Aphogee). I'm just curious to see how my hair reacts to them :)

I've used the Aphogee 2 min reconstructor in the past and I remember it being so-so on my hair. I never wrote a review neither did I write about it in my hair journal so I'm going to try it out again (just for my records). Lately I've been learning about ceramides and how they are good for the hair, lo and behold, they are in the Aphogee 2 min reconstructor ingredients - Nice! Most importantly, I would also like to compare it to Joico K-PAK Deep Penetrating Reconstructor and observe the differences as I mentioned I would here.

This Elasta QP Soy Oyl Ultra Hydration deep conditioner caught my eye. I've NEVER seen this product before so I immediately I picked it up. I'm anxious to try it out. Based on the ingredients it looks like a moisture/ultra light protein conditioner...I guess we'll see.

I recently tried out the Mane n Tail Detangler so expect a review on that shortly and last but not least, Wild Growth Oil. I'm excited to try this oil. I hear nothing but good stuff about it from my Hairlista ladies. Although I've found my staple oils, I'm willing to try this one out for recommendation purposes.

On to the depressing News...

I've become a victim of excessive split ends due to dull hair scissors. It's sad but true. I've had these Eclipse Hair Sheers from Sally Beauty Supply since fall 2008. I've only used them for dusting my ends, nothing else! However, I consistently noticed the re-occurrence of split ends. I'm there thinking to myself "I'm doing everything right so why on earth am I repeatedly seeing split ends? This makes NO sense!"

So I started doing research and I came across several articles stating that dull scissors will only encourage the hair to split further since the dull blades leave the ends open effectively creating a new split where it just removed one. Horrible cycle huh? There I am dusting my ends only to realize that I'm making the problem worse! SMH. I even explained my situation to the people over at Sally Beauty Supply and they mentioned that my particular scissors do not stay sharp for long and should be sharpened at least once a year, if not more, depending on how often you use them.

Now my main mission is to invest in high quality scissors (if you own a pair fill me in on where you got them from and how well they've work for you) or get mine sharpened every 3-6 months. I'll figure something out *sigh*. Learn from this experience folks, assess & evaluate the scissors you are using. I wouldn't want you to become a victim either :(

With that being said, I had my stylist trim the split ends off. I'm starting fresh - again. I believe I'm hovering around Bra Strap Length. It's all good. With the Castor Oil Challenge taking right now until summer, I should bounce back.

Man, when stuff like this happens I quickly remember that this Hair Journey is definitely a marathon not a sprint *wink*.

Happy Hair Growing☺

♥ Sunshyne

Female Short Hairstyles

Flaunting a very short haircut may make you a tad nervous but when it comes to short hairstyles for females, these offer you plenty of flexibility and add to the glam quotient for many. Here’s why, you should go in for one today







Do you feel nervous every time your hair stylist suggests or mentions very short haircuts? It is true that very short haircuts are not meant for just anybody and one has to consider certain factors before going in for a short hairstyle. Sometimes you may not be certain which short cut would be more suitable for you. Most ladies often feel scared to cut their hair short, as it would limit them, when it comes to the choices available for the hairstyle. But this actually does not hold true!

Variety is the spice of life and that goes for very short hairstyles also. So when you take the plunge and step into the salon, here are a few factors to consider:

* Face shape
* Hair type or hair texture
* Hair products that are used to maintain it
* The color of the hair
* The kind of make you generally apply

Face Shape:
First, analyze your facial shape. Pull back all your hair from the face and see if its round, square, oval or heart shaped. Look online for the basic shapes if you want a clearer picture. This would help you to identify your own, after comparison. When it comes to very short haircuts, you may not want to take any chances, so drop in at the local salon and use their imaging services to know how you would appear in various looks. The short haircut styles may reveal certain things about your face that you may not be comfortable about. It also gives one the feeling of being exposed, although this varies from person to person. If your face tends to be heavier on the jaw line, you should preferably avoid short haircuts that may add to the bulk of the area.

Hair Type or Hair Texture:
Know your hair type before you go in for short hairstyles. It could be curly, straight, wavy or bushy. The kind of short haircut you decide should be easy to maintain. This is because the hair type has to gel well with the cut. For example, a short blunt cut would look really fabulous for straight and sleek hair. It will need no additional touches for it to be maintained on a daily basis. For wavy and thick hair, one can have lot of layers that will make it appear smoother. Lets face it, a pixie cut may look good on the pictures that are splashed on the advertisements, but it definitely doesn’t mean that it would always look great on you.

Hair Products For Short Hair:
Even though you have found the perfect, cute, short haircut, it won’t take time to get messed up if you use the wrong kind of products. Female short hairstyles also need maintenance albeit not in a way that is required for long hair. A good conditioner, mousse, gel, sprays etc all help in creating the perfect look. So, go for in reputed brands when you make that purchase. Consult your hairstylist and know which products suit your short haircut. Look for herbal ones if you wish to avoid the harsh chemicals that may be found in most products today.

Hair Color:
Know your skin color before you opt to change the hair color. You may want to add some colored streaks for your short haircut, but it can turn to be a disaster if it does not blend with the skin. Colors can really help to enhance the hairstyle and help your very short haircuts look ultra glam, if done professionally.

Make up:
This is an important factor to consider for short hairstyle cuts. Very short haircuts bring more attention to your face. So, decide upon which are your best features and play upon them. If it’s the eyes, enhance them with good eye make up. If it’s your lips, you can enhance them with a good lip color.

Female short hairstyles look good with when combined with accessories. Long earrings or studs, chokers, chains, attractive pendants all help to bring the attention to the neck. A look through the malls would reveal a variety of options that you can use to decorate your short haircuts. Add some glitz to your hair locks with some trendy accessories.

So girls, its time to leave your worries behind and go in for a cute, short haircut that is bold, daring and makes you feel confident about yourself.

Short Hairstyles for Women

Short hairstyles are always trendy and have the ability to enhance facial features.

From Meg Ryan’s varieties of short cuts to Victoria Beckham’s new chic looking one… short hairstyles for women have always been in vogue. In fact, if you flip through the pages of hairstyle history, you will find that over the past hundred years the shag, the chop, the pixie, the bob and various other classic short styles have remained in fashion through the years.

Women who have opted for going short have always known that a well-crafted short style gives them the opportunity to try out practically endless styling possibilities. You can experiment with the wide array of hair styling products at hand these days, ranging from waxes and gels to sprays and creams. You can go stick straight, scrunch, spike, curl, back-comb, or wave, according to your mood, with the range of irons, blow dryers, pins, clips and accessories. For instance, hot flat irons can be used in a variety of ways on small sections of hair, which can then be layered, creating edgy and unusual styles.

Because short hair is so beautifully flexible, it works with practically any texture or type of hair from thick to fine, wavy to curly and straight, or even a combination; hence, short hair is never boring. Plus, it’s so convenient, especially the short pixie cuts – the ultimate in wash-n-wear hair. Just lather it up, dry with a towel, finger pick it, and air dry – it can all be done in a jiff. Great for the ultra busy girl with no time to deal with complicated long hairstyles.

Short hairstyles are also usually instant wear. With the right cut, the hair simply slides into place, and yet looks amazing. Not only do short hairstyles lend a more professional air, but they can often also be the last word in chic, elegance and sophistication.

That said, here are some of the most popular short hairstyles for women:

Blunt Bob

If you have fine hair, this style will make it look thicker. However, it does not work well with curly hair, unless you’re willing to straighten your hair frequently. Get your hairstylist to create a few bangs over the brow and to give you a blunt line. If you choose to get a more severe fringe, it will sharpen the overall look.

To maintain: To keep it in shape, get a trim every 6 weeks. You can blow dry it to style and use a flatiron to finish.

Short Bob

This style looks best with square or oval shaped faces. If you have a very round face, get a longer version. This hair cut is ideal for very straight hair. To get that gamine, face-hugging effect, the longest length of a piece of hair should be about one inch above the chin.

To maintain: To keep this look well maintained you will need to visit the salon about once a month.

Curly Bob

If you have a round face, the hair should be kept longer than chin length, and a little longer at the nape of the neck, to create a balanced look. If you have spiral curls, make sure that your hairstylist doesn’t cut it too short. Curly hair tends to retract, hence keep the length at your cheekbones. You can get a choppy effect by cutting each individual curl.

To maintain: This cut usually maintains its shape, so you will not need to use a bunch of styling products. You will need to trim it about once in six weeks.

Short Shag

This style is great with most types of hair, except very fine or very thick hair. It looks especially good on faces that are delicate with small features. The longest length of hair should be at the crown.

To maintain: This style tends to grow out fast, so you’ll need to get a trim about every 4-6 weeks. Styling this cut is very easy; all you need to do is use a volumizer to pump up at the roots when the hair is damp. While blow-drying it, tousle it with your fingers. Finish it off by kicking out the ends with your fingers.

Pixie Cut

This creates an out-and-out messy and choppy effect. Also known as ‘Elfin’ cut, it is a short, layered cut. This style emphasizes the face, so you need to feel good about your features and skin if you want to try this style out. Basically, the hair is cut short, and at different lengths; hence, there are no even or blunt pieces of hair. This has the effect of creating close-cropped layers of hair that frame the face. Think Mia Farrow in ‘Rosemary’s Baby’ or Twiggy.

To maintain: You’ll need a monthly trim to keep it looking shapely. To get a girly effect, you can push the bangs to one side.

Long and Short Cut

This looks great with an oval shaped face. If you have straight, fine hair, this cut will add amazing body to it. You can create a rocker vibe if you have wavy hair. Keep the layers choppy all around and longish at the back. You can add uneven, heavy bangs, which you can either keep on your face or tuck behind the ears.

To maintain: To keep it looking fresh, you’ll need to get a trim every two months.

Short hairstyles have the ability of creating a new image instantly. Whether you want to show off a new, hot wardrobe or a new weight loss, there’s nothing like getting a new short hairstyle to really set it off. It can add new verve and vibrancy to your image and looks.

Hair Question: Is there anyway to prevent burning when I relax my hair?

Question:

"Is there anyway to prevent burning when I relax my hair? I switched to a lye relaxer (ORS) and it burned the heck out my scalp the last two times I used it. I based my entire scalp both times.

First I used regular, then I used extra strength lye relaxer. I assumed that extra strength would help it process faster therefore I would experience less irritation, but it burned twice as much.

I love the results better than no lye (I don't that gritty mineral build up feeling), so I don't want to go back, but the pain is really bad."

Advice:

I'm sorry to hear that the relaxer burned you badly. The reason why you burned could be due to several factors:

1. You washed too close to your relaxer day - It's important to wash 4-5 days prior to a relaxer retouch. Washing too close to your relaxer date can cause burning and irritation during the relaxer.

2. You itched/scratched your scalp - Keep your fingers AWAY from your scalp. Scratching your scalp can lift skin cells off of your scalp leaving it exposed to the relaxer, therefore, causing a burning sensation.. It will seep into the cracked skin and burn you.

3. Lack of Detangling - Pulling through the hair while you are relaxing can cause irritation because the hair is being tugged from the scalp leaving your scalp more sensitive and prone to burns.

4. The oil you used was not thick enough for your sensitive scalp - Use a thicker oil like Hollywood Beauty Castor Oil, Jamaican Black Castor Oil, Avocado Oil etc. to base with. These oils will provide a light coating over the scalp to prevent burns and irritation yet still allowing the relaxer to penetrate and straighten the hair to your liking.

5. You used the teeth of the comb to smooth the new growth - Make sure you are using the BACK of a comb or your hands so that you are not disturbing the scalp. Using the teeth section of a comb to smooth may scratch the scalp allowing the relaxer to get in contact with fresh skin which then causes burning!

6. You did not pay attention to the time limit - Be on point with how long you leave the relaxer on to process for. Follow the directions on the relaxer jar.

7. You worked out or did some physical activity before your relaxer - Do not exercise for 2 days before you get a relaxer. The sweat in your scalp opens up your pores making it very susceptible to burning.

I highly recommend (for sensitive people like yourself) that you base your scalp the night before and the day of your relaxer, in sections. This will ensure that you do not get burned since you are highly protected. Don't forget to base the entire perimeter of your hairline, ears, behind your ears, nape etc.

Please keep in mind that the problem could also be because of your high sensitivity and this particular relaxer may not be the right "fit" for you. Using a relaxer specifically for sensitive scalp may be the best route to go i.e. Affirm FiberGuard Sensitive Scalp Creme Relaxer, Vitale Mo Body Sensitive Scalp Relaxer, Mizani sensitive scalp etc.

Overall, when getting a re-touch, just leave your hair alone! Do not touch the scalp, itch or scratch. Low manipulation is key.

Hope that helps,

♥ Sunshyne

Naturalista Series™ Presents: Aliya

What's your name and where are you from?

Aliya. I'm from Philly

Have you always been natural? If not, what inspired you to go natural? Did you transition? If so, for how long?

I was relaxed since middle school. I tried to go natural in high school because Lauryn Hill was my hero but there wasn't much information about it then. I had no idea what I was doing so I went back to relaxers. I somehow found CurlyNikki.com and became inspired to try going natural again. Relaxers did not work for my hair type. My hair is very fine, thin and soft. The chemicals and heat from curling irons would make my hair break off very easily. I was forever stuck at neck length and knew there had to be a better way to grow my hair. I began my transition during the summer of 2008 and did my big chop in January 2009! I only transitioned for a few months. My hair was about .5-1 inch when I did my big chop.

(click to enlarge)

What is your hair type?

I have z-pattern hair but it coils and curls on the ends. I would say I'm mostly 4/b but I have some sections of 4/c & 4/a as well.

What do you love most about being natural?

I love my hair texture. We had a rocky start but we're cool now. LOL. I've always liked natural hair on other people, I figured why not try it on myself? Who knew that my confidence would be affected too! There's nothing like showing the world who you really are with no filter. It's very liberating. The main thing that I like about being natural is that my hair is GROWING and it's a lot thicker! As I said before, I always had neck length hair. Now, I'm grazing shoulder length.

(click to enlarge)

What are your hair goals for 2010?

My goal is to have full shoulder length hair! I'm going to achieve that by doing more protective styling and by really babying my ends.

Name a few challenges you are currently facing with your hair. Have you been doing anything different to overcome these challenges?

The biggest challenge for me is breakage during detangling. I've found that using products that make my hair very soft and that have great slip will allow me to manipulate my hair without all the drama. I had to try a lot of products to find the two that are now my staples (Aubrey Organics Honeysuckle Rose Conditioner & Creme of Nature Rosemary Lemongrass Leave-in) but I'm glad I did.

What styles do you love to wear the most and why? How do you go about achieving this style?

I do mostly two-strand twist outs on my hair because they stretch my hair out a bit but not too much. I use a spray bottle mixed with a little bit of conditioner and leave-in on small or medium sized sections of my hair. I gently detangle after saturating that section with the water mix. I apply a small amount of my whipped shea to my ends and twist. In the morning, I untwist carefully to minimize frizz, fluff and go! My twist outs can last for about 2-3 days but I tend to do them every other night because my hair needs the moisture.

(click to enlarge)

List the products that you use and how you use them. What is your current hair regimen? share what works for you!

Co-wash 1-2x per week with Pantene Pro V Smooth
Shampoo 1-2x per month with Aubrey Organics Honeysuckle Rose Shampoo
mixed with a cheap condish like V05 or Suave
Deep Condition 1x per week with Lustrasilk Aloe Vera Cholesterol &
Giovanni Tea Tree Triple Treat Condish (mixed with Aphogee 2 Min
Re-constructor or an egg as needed)
Deep Condition 1x per week with Cantu Shea Butter Leave-In mixed with
Giovanni Smooth as Silk Condish

I always wash/condition my hair while in large two-strand twists. I unravel each twist and spray it with water mixed with Aubrey Organics Honeysuckle Rose & Creme of Nature Rosemary & Lemongrass Leave-In. I apply my whipped Shea mix (that usually contains Shea butter, coconut oil, olive oil, avocado oil, Castor oil & jojoba oil) to my ends and twist in small or medium sized sections.

What products do you use to achieve soft beautiful curl definition?

Honestly, I've never tried to define my hair without the use of twist-outs. That's also one of my goals for this year.... to finally try to do this!

(click to enlarge)

How do you detangle your hair?

I part my hair from ear to ear and make 3 sections in the front and back of my hair. I work each section with my mix of water, condish & leave in to remove tangles. I don't comb my hair very often but when I do I use a wide tooth comb after I finger comb. I twist each section after I detangle it.

What product or technique would you say really helped your hair flourish?

If you have type 4b/c hair, I strongly suggest washing your hair while it's in twists or braids. Our hair shrinks up A LOT when wet. Trying to detangle 7 inches or more of hair that's shrunk down to an inch is a nightmare. Find products that work for you. What works for everyone else may not be best for you.

(click to enlarge)

Do you have any advice for other naturals?

Moisturize and Seal!! Take lots of pics. Be confident. :) Find me on Hairlista! haha!

Where on the web can we find more about you and your styles?

I'm on Hairlista.com under the name SewDope. I'm also on Fotki under
the same name.


Thank you Aliya for sharing all that information with us!