I'VE REACHED MY HAIR GOAL...NOW WHAT??

{Source}

*CONFETTI*  YAY!! CONGRATULATIONS!! *CONFETTI* You've reached your hair goal!!!

Now what???  Do you let it continue to grow?  Keep it at your dream length?  Cut it?  What???  I sure as heck don't know.  That's why I'm asking.  I am pretty close to my 2012 hair goal *CHEERS* and although it's not my ultimate hair goal I want to have a plan in place for when I do reach it. 

When I got my hair straightened the last time, it was annoying the crap out of me.  It was always getting caught on something, flying in my mouth, landing my food, on and on and on.  Now.  If I want my hair to ultimately be BSL, how am I going to handle all that hair when my hair is just shy of APL and working my nerve?? Sigh. 

But I'm curious, what have you done since reaching your hair goal? 

HOUSTON WE HAVE A PROBLEM....

{Source}

Brace yourself PJs - Look what I've found!!!  I've been plotting on this for a minute.  It's a monthly goodie bag of natural hair products!!!! 

I've found 2 that are the most popular and taking social networks by storm, CurlBOX and CurlKit. 

 {Source}

CurlBOX is a monthly subscription service ($20) that caters to women with natural curly/afro textured hair by sending them 5-7 samples of hair products. They also include a mini magazine featuring your favorite Natural hair bloggers and vloggers.

{Source}

CurlKit sends out a selection of 6-9 samples of everything from pomades and conditioners to natural hair tools, from well-known brands as well as emerging gems.  It is also $20/month.

 

Now.  The difference is not only the products themselves, but how you must subscribe.  CurlBOX has a list that is like super duper hard to get on.  You have to be at your computer practically about to press the button as soon as the list opens.  I mean I've seen them tweet about the subscriptions being sold out in less than 5 minutes!!  I ain't got that kind of patience or energy *shrug*  Meanwhile you can get a CurlKit anytime.  No muss, no fuss.

*INSERT DISCLAIMER {cue Silkk the Shocker & Mystikal} IT AIN'T MY FAULT* 

 

Seriously though, what's NOT to love about this??? BUT do you see the pic above?? It's definitely representative of underneath my bathroom sink. And to think I am considering adding more???  I can already see this becoming a problem for the kid.  I mean SERIOUS problem. *hides face in shame*

So what say you good people?  Are we in??

BONJOUR!!

{Source}

Once upon a time 7 Naturalites took a trip to Morocco..... Hey guys!!! I'm happy to be back, but I had an amazing time in Morocco. Big ups to my girl Jocey for organizing the entire thing. She's awesome. The weather was PERFECT, the people were incredibly nice, and the food was simply amazing especially in the Berber Village where I had the absolute best Tangine ever!!!

As you all know, my hair was in mini twists. I didn't do too much too my hair because we were hella busy the first few days, I did rinse about Day 3/4 because my scalp was itching terribly, but here's a quick recap (of myself and others):

Fun times had by all!!

I will say I HAVE to find some way to deal with product buildup with these twists. I've already taken them down because of it. My scalp was awful. I don't know if it was the gel or what. Any suggestions??

Oh and beware of TSA I definitely had my hair patted down and they took my shea butter *PISSED*

CURL DISASTER ~ HEAT DAMAGE (OR NOT)

{Source}

Picture this:

So because you're curious as to how long your hair really is (it's been curly for so long, you can't tell) you decide to try something new—a straight style! After hmmm let's say 2.5 days ,you're completely OVER IT. You can't wait to get your curls back, but come wash day, your hair doesn't revert back to those curls you've grown to love so much.

I've experienced this almost every time I get my hair straightened (3-4 mos.). Partially because I was a "pressed transitioner." Even moreso because even AFTER I cut off and grew out what I thought was damaged, my front STILL will NOT kink/curl up no matter what I do, so I've come to expect my kinks to wave out when I get a press. My homegirl, eh, not so much.

She got her hair straightened for the first time in almost a year and because her hair did not immediately revert back I had to talk her off the ledge lololol. She spewed two words that are definitely on our hair's Top 10 Beware List ~ HEAT DAMAGE.

I cannot 100% surely say it's not heat damage, but in MY experience, you just have to "help" your hair along on its journey back to Curlyville.

So, before you break out the shears and tears, try these:

* Deep condition - Use a moisturizing deep conditioner and sit under a dryer in a shower cap for 30 minutes. You may even have to do this for several days to train it back into its natural curl pattern.

* Protein Treatment BEFORE you straighten - Prevention is key. Protein protects the hair's elasticity, preventing breakage.

* Use rollers or barrettes when styling - I use this method all the time. I think of it as a memory trick.

What other tips do you have for returning your hair back to it's kinky/curly/wavy state?

HEALTH OVER STYLE - ALWAYS!!

{Source}

While getting my hair done this weekend - FINALLY, I was listening to a conversation that another stylist was having with her client (all up in the business lolol). Basically she was telling her that she could not do the style she wanted because her hair was weak. She then proceeded to give her alternative styles that would compliment her hair and not further damage it. The customer was adamant about getting this style and surprisingly the stylist did not back down. *Impressed* Eventually the client conceded, but it got my mind to wondering why she was so determined to have her hair in that style KNOWING the condition of her hair didn't warrant it.

The other day I was having a convo with a friend of mine who wanted color and I told her that she should consider getting her hair treated first because of the amount of color and breakage from that color she claimed she was having. Thankfully after the discussion (read LECTURE) , she gave in. *Cheers*

Now why is that we women even consider sacrificing the health of our hair for a particular style? That should NEVER be the case. Our health should always be of utmost importance.

I will admit though, I have been guilty of this at times, especially when it comes to length, but then I always come to my senses and take the "It is what it is" approach. It's just hair. It will grow back. There's no sense in holding on to the length when it's all split ends or putting your hair in a style when your hair simply cannot support the extra strain. Sometimes ladies you have to bite the bullet and let it go.

We must always be mindful of the condition and health of our hair. These are our crowns of glory and they should be treated as such!

What advice would you give to someone considering sacrificing the health of their hair for a style?

CAN I TOUCH YOUR HAIR?

{Source}

Hey guys! Vacay was awesome *sigh* I long to go back to those sandy island beaches, but anyway, I came across this interesting article and thought I'd share.

"Can I touch it? The fascination with natural, African-American hair" via CNN

What are your thoughts? Do you like (or even allow) people touching your hair?

UM...SIR...

{Source}

Why me?? Well I'm sure I'm not the only one, but anyway I was at work having a conversation with one of my coworkers, and as most of you know, I work in a not black anything environment. I was looking at something to post for my Loc'd up ladies and he, in a very nasty tone, said:

"Those look like worms. I don't like those, I hope you don't do that to your hair."

Now. Immediately I was offended because A. it's none of his business what I do to my hair B. no one asked him for his .02¢ and C. that was just straight up rude. We're "cool" (and I use that term loosely) but don't be talking ish about my fellow Naturalites, I don't play that. I just politely {though blessing him out in my head} told him he shouldn't make comments like that because it's offensive and everyone has their own reasons for loc'ing their hair and he needs to respect that.

What really bothers me though is what makes him (or anyone else) think they could say that to anybody about what THEY do with THEIR hair. And because of his tone. It was SO degrading, like HE was offended.

So I'M TELLING YOU your hair is fabulous!! Don't let close minded, negative people get you down or have you thinking otherwise.

But I am curious, how do you handle yourself when confronted with negativity about your Natural hair?

DRY STYLING

{Source}

For a long time I was under the impression that the only way I could style my hair was if it was wet. I don' t know, I always thought it set better when it was wet and I was sticking to my guns about not combing my curls dry (which I still do). However, after this here winter, I'm thinking I may need to change that up.

I washed my hair the usual once/week and ProStyled, but in the winter I can't afford to walk out with my hair even being slightly damp. My head would start hurting the minute I walked out the door, not good at all. I was talking to one of my friends and she has a bi-weekly routine and I was like what?? How is that possible? She rocks a braid-out or twist-out for a week, then instead of re-doing it for the next week, she'd pin it up in a bun or something. Don't get me wrong, I've tried doing stuff with old twist-outs and braid-outs, but for WHATEVER reason (we'll say frustration and lack of creativity at the time) I'd just wash it and redo it to make it easier on myself. Now I've realized that maybe manipulating my hair like that this winter might not have been the best thing for it. I'll definitely take that as a lesson learned for next time.

So if you're going to dry style, just remember Rule #1, never style your hair without something on it. This could be a moisturizer, shea butter, water, etc... but whatever you do, just use something!

Here are a couple of dry styles I'd invite you to try:

WEAVE ALLERGIES?

{Source}

A Transitioner asked:

"Can you be allergic to weave? I'm transitioning and decided to get extensions to make my journey easier. I've recently gotten cornrows and I can't stand to have them in longer than a week. My scalp was beyond itchy and very red, clearly irritated. It'd gotten to the point where I just HAD to take them out! I've never had this issue before."

How timely. It's right about this time when my own scalp is starting to act a fool with my kinky twists {changed my mind on those Janet braids}. That good old 2 week mark. I guess my scalp still hasn't gotten used to the added hair. **SIDEBAR: I use my Lemon/Water mixture in between washes**

Ok so you don't usually think of people being allergic to weave, but it's true. Just like some people can't handle certain foods, some crowns of glory simply CANNOT handle weave.

If you're allergic, your symptoms would start happening almost immediately, I'd say definitely within the first 3 days. There'd be a burning sensation on your scalp - where it feels like it's on fire, little bumps would start to appear, and rashes would pop up anywhere the hair touches. You would be wanting to snatch that weave out just as quick as you got it in. For most folks the pain in unbearable.

If you're NOT allergic, your symptoms would definitely be a little less dramatic. Mostly your scalp would be itchy and flaky.

So based on your symptoms girly, I'd say you might be allergic to that particular weave :(

REALLY??

{Source}

So this weekend while out celebrating my girls' birthday, I was rocking my 'fro with a flower. Nothing major - or so I thought. THREE guys came up to me and said something about me and my hair....it was um...interesting. I still don't know how I feel about it.

Guy #1: You know, you're kinda funny acting, I mean I can just tell with your fro and all. You came up in here all Black Power. It's intimidating.

Guy #2: I didn't expect you to kick it like you're doing right now. I expected you to be snooty with your fro and all.

Guy #3: You know..you have to have a LOT of confidence to wear your hair all out like you do. It's (pause) different. I mean, it's not what I'm used to seeing. I think I like it.

Now, I was just out and about kicking it with my girls. I'm not one who walks in a spot and screams 'HERE I AM WORLD!' Negative. I'm the opposite. I do NOT consider myself arrogant or overly confident or super soul sista at all. So when those guys came up to me, it definitely caught me off guard. I was just being lazy, didn't feel like doing my hair for real and just did my W&G.

With Guy #1 - I was offended at first then I was intrigued. I mean where did he get that from?? He didn't have a real answer, so I kept it moving.

With Guy 2 - I guess I should take this as a compliment. We can have just as much fun as the next chick...it has nothing to do with how we wear our hair.

With Guy 3 - I'll take this as a compliment. Not like I need him for validation of anything, but just that guys in Cleveland are warming up to us Natural sistas.

What do y'all think? What reactions are y'all getting when you're rocking your Natural 'dos?

THROWBACK HAIR

Hey all! FINALLY we're starting to attempt to get Spring-like temps around these parts *YES* I love warm/hot weather so naturally Spring and Summer are my favorite times of the year. The sun beating down on me is the best feeling in the world, especially on a Friday that I just got paid on and DO NOT have to work *cue Johnny Kemp* I digress...

Spring, right, this time of season I tend to not want to be bothered with my hair AT ALL so when I get tired of W&G I usually get twists/braids/strawsets something of the sort. This year I'm thinking about taking it back and getting those Poetic Justice braids. Since I will be working 60 hours a week for 6 weeks or so, that leaves NO time for me to attempt to do anything to my hair. Plus, braids grow my hair out like a mug, so I'm thinking my hair will be APL by the July. Right on track for where I want to be by October.

Solange inspired me. I love her look.

{PhotoCredit}

What are your Spring/Summer 2011 hair plans?

WWYD: I HATE MY HAIR

{PhotoCredit}

What Would You Do (WWYD) if you came across teenage girls who HATED their hair?

I met 2 young ladies who have expressed how much they hate their hair. I mean they don't even LIKE their own hair. They prefer weave and believe me there's nothing wrong with that, but to the point where you think your hair is ugly?? WHAT???

I am so disturbed. I've always at least LIKED my hair, even if it is a Love/Hate relationship at times, but I've never PREFERRED something that wasn't mine over mine. Maybe it's just a phase I don't remember going through, IDK, but I do know that something must be done. There has to be a bigger issue.

Because they're a part of a local mentoring program, my aunt and I decided to host a session to talk about it. Now, here's where you all come in...how do you think we should address this? How would you go about trying to get someone to realize the beauty of their own hair?

Oh and **SHAMELESS PLUG** if you want to volunteer/help in any way, email me :D

DO I LOOK MASCULINE?

{PhotoCredit}

I was out to dinner with my newly BC'd aunt, she got a shape up at the barbershop, and was unsure about her new 'do. She asked me "Do I look masculine? Being that my hair is short and all." Of course I didn't think so, but I can imagine if you're a newly BC'd person this thought has run through your mind a time or two.

Contrary to popular belief, long hair does NOT automatically equate with being feminine. It takes a very strong person, inside and out, to rock a short 'do. I myself have contemplated it, but haven't quite built up the nerve, so I applaud all short-haired Naturalites out there.

So, how do you make yourself look more feminine? ACCESSORIES AND STYLING!!!

* Hair accessories, earrings, necklaces, THE WORKS. Even makeup (if you so choose). They all work together to complete your look. You just have to take the time to figure out what works and what doesn't. It's a process, but it's worth it.

* Some styles can make you look boyish and we can't have that (unless that's what you want). Cut out pictures-put your face on them, play in your hair, consult a professional, do whatever it takes, but you MUST find the right style for you. There's nothing worse than cutting your hair into a style you can do NOTHING about...BEEN THERE, DONE THAT!!

AND Yes, there are styles you can do on your TWA. Just the check the Vid, they are cute and girly:

INQUIRING MINDS: WHEN'S MY NATUR-VERSARY

I'm trying to figure out when my anniversary is. At what point are you considered Natural? Is it from your last perm or when you've completely chopped the last of your relaxer off?

I love this pic BTW, it's so fitting S/O to A Natural Hair Groove...ok, so I consider you to be a Naturalite when you've COMPLETELY chopped off what was left of your relaxer, unless of course you BC'd then it'd start that day.

The transition period, I don't consider b/c you still have relaxed hair. My Transition period lasted about 14 months. I chopped in between, but my hair was growing so fast it only took at most 4 chops (and because she was chopping hella inches at a time, lolol).

So in my world, you're Transitioner until you've done your last BC, then you're a full fledge Naturalite **OW OW**

Hope this helps you guys in determining your Natur-versary!!

HAPPY NATUR-VERSARY to anyone who became a Naturalite this quarter!! Keep it goin!!

'A HA' MOMENT: SENSITIVE SCALP

So talking to my mom this weekend, I was explaining to her my Sensitive Scalp issue. I was telling her how dry/itchy my scalp has been, how I hate the winter b/c it doesn't agree with my hair, and how I would be scratching my head for forever and it would still be itchy, etc... ya know having a complaint session. Then she said to me "Well, ya know your scalp is skin so maybe you're scratching too hard." *WHOA* I mean it hit me like a ton of bricks!!! I thought about that for a second and you know what...she was right!!

All those "digging" sessions of mine when I was scratching my head like nobody's business, how could I not notice that being the cause of my head being sore after?? Then furthermore, as I instinctively did it again, I noticed I wasn't using the meat of my finger, I was using my nail **A-HA MOMENT**

Each and every time I had a digging session, I would complain about how sore my head would be and then 2 days later those scabs would start appearing. Well DUUUUHHH *inmyJoeyvoice* if you sit there and scratch your scalp with your nail, it's breaking the skin...your scalp has to heal itself therefore you wind up with scabs. 1+1 = 2!!!

I was so excited about this revelation, I had to share :)

So ladies, in short, DO NOT scratch your head with your nails...massage your head with your finger!!

WELL. UM. OK. IDK.

sOOOOOOOOOOOO What is wrong with this picture?!?!? I'm just sayin... Mighty Fine is selling this shirt for $25, just in time for the holidays and while I do think the shirt is cute, I cannot get past why whoever in their stupidity thought it was ok and furthermore their boss agreed to ok and put this particular model in a shirt that is supposed to be (I presume) targeting African Americans?!! I've looked at their site and I KNOW they have black models, but worst case, they could have just grabbed a black chick off the street. I don't know, I'm having mixed feelings, but feel free to support them.

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.

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?