NATURAL HAIR IN THE WORKPLACE

Do you ever get compliments on your hair from your coworkers?? I find in my all white everything environment, they LOVE my hair. I mean LOVE my hair. Since I have my weekly routine of DC and protective styling they're so curious as to what my hair is gonna look like on a weekly basis. I find this extrememely funny and comforting. It allows us to talk [more like me educate them] about my hair in a non-threatening manner.

I remember when I first wore my afro to work. I was having one of my many infamous hair funks and had an attitude for whatever reason, so I tied my scarf around my W&G and walked out the house. I was afraid of what they would say and how they would react, but surprisingly they welcomed it. It was on like popcorn from then on.

I have, however, talked with other people who have had the opposite happen to them. It's so unfortunate too. I look at it like what does my hair have to do with anything? Am I completing my assignments on time and with high quality? Alright then. [stopping my rant before I get started]

So whenever you're feeling particularly bold, go on girl, show them the REAL you. It's ok, you may actually be surprised. Just make sure you've accepted yourself FIRST, the rest will follow.

BRAZILIAN BLOWOUT

Have you ever heard of a Brazilian Blowout?? I got some info in my inbox and I was like what the heck is that and how is it different from a regular blowout? I had to go directly to the Site to find out what it was.

Well apparently it's a Protein Smoothing Treatment. It lasts for about 10-12 weeks.

Per the site: If your hair is wavy, the Brazilian Blowout will make your hair appear naturally straight and healthy. If your hair is very curly, it will minimize frizz while enhancing the appearance of the natural wave/curl. If you have straight, frizzy hair, this treatment will eliminate frizz and promote radiant shine.

Well IF I was ballin, which I most certainly am NOT, I would try it out. This boy costs $270 and up...which may or may not include after care maintenance. I guess if you{I} break it down per month it's not that bad...ok I quit. I am such a jusitifier, lolol.

There is a salon in Cleveland that does these blowouts, soooooooo if you wanna try it out, email me. I got you covered.

If you have tried it out, give us a review. I sure am curious to know more about it.

IT'S BEEN A LONG TIME...

I SHOULDN'T HAVE LEFT YOU

***GROUP HUG***

I have missed you guys, however between 2 weddings (both in which I was a participant) 1 week apart AND grad school...a sista was tied up *STRESSED* Just wanted you to know I haven't forgotten about you guys, but now I am back in business *cheers*

IS NATURAL THE NEW LIGHT-SKIN??

I find the following article very interesting. It is definitely on point with some of the conversations I've had with some relaxed ladies.

Natural is the new Light Skinned

In short, he wants to know if Natural hair the new fad?

Now I personally believe it depends on the reasoning behind it. Everybody has their own reasons and I am not one to judge. I did it because I wanted a fro plus I was tired of my hair getting to a certain length and then breaking off. I've since discovered how healthy my hair really is and I like it. I find it kinda therapeutic to play in my hair and I get to shop! *PJItch* I do not think I would ever go back to a relaxer, so for me it's definitely not a fad, but for others it may just be the 'IT' thing to do. And that's ok. It's their hair.

What is NOT ok, however, is the sentiment that just because a lady has a relaxer they're 'hating' themselves *don'tkillme* Some people really like relaxers and don't have the tolerance, time, or even want to deal with their hair. {Which all us Naturalites know it takes}

It's ultimately up to the individual anyway, so let's just embrace each other as Sisters whether we are relaxed or natural. No one is bigger or better than because of their hair. We're ALL fearfully and wonderfully made.

Just my thoughts...what do you think?

JOB WELL DONE!!!

TO ALL WHO SHOWED UP TO THE CLEVELAND NATURAL HAIR CARE EXPO!!

I had a blast with all the ladies who volunteered and the vendors. Way to show up and show out Cleveland!!!

JUNKIE ALERT: DESIGN ESSENTIALS NATURAL

It's OFFICIAL, I, Lady D, am a Product Junkie. I just cannot help myself!!! *PJItch* Everybody is getting in the game and I feel like it is my duty to play.

Our newest player is Design Essentials. DE has launched their new Design Essentials Natural Hair Care System. Sounds like a promising line too, somebody in their roster might be educated. *impressed*

Claims to fame:

A suite of products infused with a blend of natural butters and oils to maintain and style loose wavy to tightly coiled hair textures. Comprised of nourishing ingredients like Jojoba, Cocoa Butter and Almond Oil, you are sure to produce beautiful, healthy hairstyles that are rich in moisture, high sheen and strong hold for lasting style.

SILICONE FREE - PARABEN FREE - PARAFFIN FREEPETROLATUM FREE - FRAGRANCE FREE - MINERAL OIL FREE

Formulated with high quality Natural Ingredients
Provides Excellent Moisture
Provides Lasting Sheen & Hold
Controls Frizz
Appropriate for All Textures

Now I have never used DE personally, so I have no clue if their regular products are good or not. *plug for reviews* I just know that I am excited that I (and you) have another product to try :D

They have Maintenance Products such as the

*Curl Cleanser

*Moisturizing Conditioner

and Styling Products like the

*Moisturizing Lotion

*Defining Creme Gel

*Stretching Cream.

Can't wait to try them out!! I hope you will too!

T - MINUS 3 DAYS AND COUNTING...

Ok guys!! It's almost here!!! *EXCITED*

It starts at noon on Saturday. There will be classes on topics such as:

*A Natural Hair Affair - Introduction to Natural Beauty

*The Transition

*Transitioning From Relaxers to Natural Hair or Locs

*Ask The Chemist

*Herbal Hair Care

*Caring For Your Natural Hair

*Finished Look

*The Knotty Truth - It's All Good Hair!

And of course you know I'll definitely be in the building so come looking your Naturally flyy best!! Can't wait to see you guys!

MUST-HAVE STYLING TOOL: DENMAN BRUSH

Hey Ladies, this is a sho 'nuff must have for Natural hair. You can use it to straighten or detangle your hair. It works wonders. Those little bristles combined with light tension stretch your curls without the snagging.

I use mine when I'm doing my weekly deep condition. I part my hair in sections and start at the ends and work my way up. Keep in mind though, that my hair is completely wet. Never use this brush to stretch out dry hair. It will snag every time. *ouch*

My stylist uses it to blowdry my hair. She finger parts my hair in small sections and starts and the top and works her way down. When I say my roots are STRAIGHT, my roots are STRAIGHT. (She used the brush to do my hair last week) I use it to touch up my roots after I workout or something before I flat-iron it. It definitely helps keep them in tact.

I absolutely LOVE mine and you will too. They're available at Sally's and anywhere else online for around $10.