Hair and Skin Care

Reinvention

2012-01-15T10:35:00.002-05:00

I have not been on here for months, and thats because I have been posting all updates on my facebook site "cotton and curls a natural hair journey", from now on that will be no more. I will be posting both here and on my facebook site, this is a new year and we intend to make a couple changes. This especially since I am no longer relaxed and am now a natural who loves henna and lots of other things. stay tuned guys.

Update

2011-09-14T22:37:00.003-05:00

Hey guys I am back! I just spent a long time trying to setup a facebook page and now am tired. I really need to give an update on what I have been up to that I will have to do tomorrow. Until then I will just let a pic speak for itself! I will try to post the link to the facebook page soon.

Professional and Chic Natural Hair Style Tutorial

2011-01-27T14:19:00.000-05:00

Hair Story: Why Black Women Don't Swim - Essence.com

2010-07-20T22:11:00.000-05:00

Hair Story: Why Black Women Don't Swim - Essence.com

Going Natural in a Relaxer driven world

2010-05-09T19:24:00.003-05:00

As much as it may seem great going natural, I am still the minority, now that I am 6 months post relaxer it is starting to show. People are starting to wonder "what is she doing with her hair" These comments I am getting almost daily and it is disheartening. Are you going dread? why are you going natural? Do you have pretty hair or something to want to go natural? How dare I grow out a perfectly good relaxer, why wouldn't you want to get a relaxer? At least put some braids in so it doesnt look so trashy. We fool ourselves in thinking that it makes our hair more manageable, it makes us fit in, it makes us neater and more appropriate for the work place. Even my BF said he didnt think I was serious and joked to his friends that he was going to relax my hair while I sleep. He said he didnt mean anything by it but the damage was already done, I guess you need to be torn to your core, your raw natural self to find out who you truly are, one of a kind.

Its a hit!

2010-03-25T16:53:00.002-05:00

This Saturday it will be 5 months since I last had a relaxer, I am currently transitioning and it has been no easy task trying to find hairstyles that look cute, trendy and happen to be good for your hair.

My plan is the less manipulation the better, the less I have to deal with these two textures the less hair I will lose trying to tear through my hair. The catch is I still want my hair to grow, I dont want to cut it all off just yet, I want to enjoy the length a while longer, so how can I strike the balance. I have been doing lots of plaits and cornrows. Today I undid the twist in my hair and out of sheer lack of time had to leave the roots in plaits. needless to say I LOVED the results, I am sure to do this next week again, this style is really hot.

My Hair is like a box of chocolates....

2010-03-21T21:46:00.002-05:00

You never know what you might get.. Seriously ever since I stopped relaxing, almost 5 months now so often I am surprised by my hair. I guess the plaits that I am in now take the guess work out of it. But sometimes you use the same products and do the same thing to your hair but the outcome is different. This can be a plus.. It really can be, you just have to learn to roll with it and embrace the fact that your hair has its own personality give it a break and try to keep it healthy and happy.

4 hours later

2010-03-15T20:46:00.002-05:00

WOW, I took 4 hours on Saturday to twist my hair, the whole time thinking that relaxed hair never was this time consuming. Seriously if you think natural hair is going to be less work then you are in for a surprise. Now I remember why I relaxed in 2004, an entire weekend would be dedicated to my hair and the longer it grew the longer it took. Well at least I wont have to think about it for another two weeks.

My hair and I continue to be in this love hate relationship, I get so tempted to relax, and with this amount of new growth your hair tends to look shorter. One thing I learnt though is the more conditioner the better. I just piled the stuff on and detangling became easier, not a breeze just easier.

Style Ideas for transitioners. (headbands)

2010-03-05T22:56:00.002-05:00

Headbands

I saw this post on essence and I absolutely love them, these headbands are cool, they can be worn with braid outs and lots of bobby pins, they can be worn with pin up do's. I see where they can be very versatile. I am gonna try them after I take these braids out, I think I posted a while back about a headband that I bought that looked like a zipper. But anyway just loving these.

Celebrity inspiration (Braids)

2010-03-04T18:25:00.004-05:00

I know many of us find it so difficult to rock braids as they may look too simple for work and not glam enough for going out. I did a search and came up with some inspirations I am sure there are many more but these should be enough to get you seriously thinking about them as a protective style. Remember you can glam them up with some accessories like big earrings or chains. Makeup is key as well, focus on the eyes. And when you rock braids you have to be FIERCE!

Back in Braids

2010-03-02T16:37:00.003-05:00

I did some cornrows about 6 weeks ago and I did not like them much. They were too big. I usual do the cornrows myself and use some extensions to give them length and longevity. This time they are back in. What I did was cowashed and airdried my hair, I then used the hand held hair dryer to detangle the roots. I really need to do some videos but then my sister taught me this so she should do one. The hair dryer really helped, I then moisturised with shea butter and did my cornrows. I have been getting huge compliments and oddly enough alot and I mean ALOT of people think its all mine. Sure it is I bought it didnt I?

I plan to leave them in for 2 to 3 weeks. I maintain them by spraying my hair with an Aphogee green tea leave in with coconut oil a concoction that I have, alternating with my new Oyin Juices and berries leave it. I also use castor oil and Alma oil on my roots daily before going to bed. Oh and not to forget, I tie the hair at nights , it can look messy really quickly if I dont.

Twin sister to the rescue (New Stuff YEEAAAH)

2010-02-23T16:44:00.002-05:00

My twin sister sent me a package with lots of great stuff, Oyin handmade shine and define, Oyin juices and berries and Jessie Curls deep conditioning treatment and shea treatment, PLUS Deva One conditioner. Yes I was so happy it felt like Christmas, Needless to say I used them all and hopefully I will be able to do reviews on them.

But now I am going to talk about the SHINE AND DEFINE. Now that gave my braid out less frizz and more definiton without the flaky dry feeling. I could not believe that there was a product that could do that. It did not do much in the way of shine but I am really happy with the product.

I did a cowash with the Shea deep conditioning treatment and Deva One Conditioner. I DO NOT USE A COMB IN MY HAIR WHEN WET. So I finger detangle and braided my hair with the juices and berry, long term relationship and the Shine and define. I was so pleased with the results.

Mamas recipe

2010-02-21T08:55:00.003-05:00

I told my mom I wanted to go natural and if she had any advice to give me. I have a baby sis (she is 19 now) who got relaxed at a very early age. We were all upset, she was too young not even 12. She has thick 3c/4b hair and we thought it odd that she would relax it as she has 4 more girls and we all went without relaxers until High School.

Well after realising her error she stopped relaxing it. And I realised in about 3 years she was natural again. Well she said she steamed my sisters hair weekly with castor oil. I also noticed that she was in alot of protective styles. She would go to the salon once monthly to get the hair washed and blow dried, then placed in cornrows , single twist, whatever. I think she got some of those castor oil treatments whilst in the protective style.

Up to this day she is still natural and wearing protective styles. I know she is going to kill me but I found some pictures of her hair and it is still beautiful! Sometimes you dont have to look very far for inspiration.

More Inspiration

2010-02-09T08:33:00.002-05:00

For those who may be getting frustrated with this journey, myself included.

You've got Good Hair

2010-02-07T19:26:00.002-05:00

I keep telling people that I am going to go natural, just so I wont be tempted to relax again, the answer I get is, "you can do that you have good hair". I know this topic has been beaten to death however I decided to watch the movie "Good Hair" today. I thought I was going to get a mouthful about relaxed hair... But what I got from it was, weave it, relax it, braid it, flat iron it, it does not matter as long as you are happy with it its "Good hair".

Good Hair Day today...

2010-02-07T15:04:00.004-05:00

Here's why,

I have my hair in a protective style that I like and as it gets messy it looks nicer. I am about 13 weeks post relaxer. Last weekend what I did was started plaiting the roots (three strand twist) and finished the shaft with a two strand twist. I have been treating the roots with a castor oil and coconut oil mix and moisturising the hair with shea butter. Occasionally I apply a bit of the coconut oil and castor oil to the hair itself along with the shea butter and wrap a damp warm towel on my head for about 20 minutes.

The ends looked shabby so I did some dusting and then soaked them with long term relationship. Even though this is a Low manipulation style one might not call it a "protective" style, so I put this in a loose bun for work. So far I have been enjoying this. At least I have 2 weeks stress free until cowash day.

Transitioning

2010-01-28T19:45:00.002-05:00

I have been MIA for a while, I just had nothing to say and I have been busy.

Ok I know my goal was to be BSL which I think/hope I will get to by my length check in Feburary/March. But then again I want to go natural, I have always wanted to be natural I just never wanted to do the BC. I want to let my hair grow, I was always cutting it. I am thinking there is no way it will grow if I am transitiong but I am going to try.

I am going natural, I am going natural, I am going natural, I wish I could click my heels and it would be done. But it is hard, I am now 12 weeks post and it has been a fight. But I am pushing ahead, and I will be updating from time to time on how it is all going. Wish me luck.

Breaking issues

2009-06-26T00:01:00.003-05:00

Recently I had a serious bout of breaking, I was almost tearful each time I combed my hair or just ran my fingers through it. My house floor looked like two cats had been fighting. I was a good pair of scissors away from cutting it off. I decided to do a moisturizing cowash and have realised that I was probably overloading on the protein. So will reduce the protein from once a week to once every two weeks. I know that might sound strange especially if you read my last post but I find too much protein ON the hair makes it very brittle.

I am not badmouthing a product but the Joico Reconstructor has been "shelved" and will stay there for a while.....

Changes

2009-06-25T23:19:00.003-05:00

Firstly, I dont know if you guys know but I am a vegetarian and have been feeling pretty lousy for some time now. I then started to compare my hair and before and after I became a vegetarian. I was more alert and my hair grew longer and thicker. The Castor oil challenge, DC and stretching really cannot compare with adequate nutrition especially the protein content. Taking multivitamins does help but they don't contain protein. So I am "Drinking my way to waistlength challenge", I noticed the smoothies are essentially high in protein. I have also been forced to review my diet to get my 50-60g of protein a day.

I have also started going to the gym, a much needed decision, drinking more water and just taking better care of me. I have been feeling better already after just two days!

Relaxer Update

2009-06-18T18:59:00.003-05:00

I did my hair, it was almost a disaster, I self relaxed with the help of my boyfriend and probably it wasnt such a good idea to use real relaxer as the test run. Well we pushed through and it came out pretty well. I used the now trusty ORS lye relaxer, and some pre-chemical treatment before on the previously relaxed hair. I rinsed thoroughly with luke warm water and left my Affirm sustenance conditioner for 5 min. I then proceeded to neutralize 5 times and deep con with ORS deep penetrating conditioner for 45 mins. To finish off I did a roller set with aphogee provitamin leave in and was under the dryer for 1 hour.

My hair now is about 2-3 inches from BSL and I am pushing to make it for my one year HHJ. I have come a long way. I still I have major breaking issues and problems with the moisture/protein balance. But one step at a time. The pics arent that great did it with the camera phone but i guess this would be useless without a pic right?

My rollerset at 10 weeks

2009-06-07T16:05:00.003-05:00

I seriously thought a rollerset at 10 weeks would have been a disaster. But this has me wanting to stretch to 6 months. But of course I won't push my luck; the key to stretching for me is more moisture and occasionally protein. This what I did;

1) I clarified with Mizani clarifying shampoo

2) Used the last of my Alter ego garlic condish. Now this is definately a staple, can be a bit expensive but if you can you must buy it.

3) Steamed my hair for 30 minutes. This step is key at this stage of stretching it really makes the new growth soft. I warmed a damp towel, placed it on my hair covered with a shower cap and went under the dryer.

4) Rinsed and then left the ORS deep condish for 1 hour with a steam cap while I messed about at home.

5) Rinsed with cold water and set my hair with Aphogee Provitamin leave in. I was really pleased with the results.

I know this hair journey can be frustrating at times. Sometimes you just cant be bothered, well dont be. Just make sure you deep condition at least once a week, tie your hair at night, moisturise your hair daily and pay special attention to your new growth. You will soon realise that cant be bothered can equate to low manipulation and your hair begins to look better than ever.

Revisiting Cowashing

2009-06-03T12:13:00.003-05:00

What have I been missing, I could never understand what all the fuss was about, I even decided to stop cowashing as too much manipulation was causing my hair to break. I have been noticing that I suffer from a serious case of dryness especially when I am stretching, its as if the oil from my scalp just does not go down the hair shaft. Each time I comb all I hear is crackle and snap and I am losing hair.

I have found my solution after months of my HHJ. Oil rinsing peps, oil rinsing. In additon I found the greatest cowashing condish Herbal Essense long term relationship.

Last night I cowashed with HE LTR and then poured about 1/4 cup of almond oil and 1/4 cup of olive oil on my head, paying special attention to my roots. Left it for about a minute and rinsed, thats it. The hair is oily but not dripping with oil just soft. I then air dried with HE LTR leave in. I will do this more often and as long as my hair does not break I will stretch as long as possible.

My plan for whats left of my stretch

2009-05-30T21:55:00.004-05:00

To help me to get to 12 weeks here's my plan. Yes ladies I am ditching the cowashing. Friday will be my day once a week.

Next friday (June 5th) I will pre poo with castor oil and olive oil wash with a moisturizing shampoo, oil rinse with carrot oil and olive oil, deep con with Alter Ego and ORS replenishing pak rollerset and airdry.

Week 11 ( Jun 12th) will pre poo with same as above, oil rinse and deep con with hydrafuse and thermasmooth rollerset saran wrap.

Week 12 (June 18th) (thursday) pre poo, clarifying shampoo, hard protein treatment, deep con with steam with hydrafuse, rollerset.

Relax day at 13 weeks (June 22nd)

As you can see I will be rollersetting more or attempting to, no more cowashing the less manipulation the better,

10 weeks on Monday

2009-05-30T21:23:00.001-05:00

This stretch has me shedding more and possibly breaking more. I am seeing breaking especially in the middle of my hair. I am wondering if the castor oil is making my hair shed more and harder to manage. I have now started to apply my moisturizer like a relaxer. I will slow down the castor oil to see what happens and will definately try oil rinses.

Stretching and Product Haul

2009-05-18T16:28:00.002-05:00

I need to go to "PJ anonymous" for sure. I went to a hair store and I had to talk myself into not buying too many things. I ended up getting;

Mane and Tail Detangler

CON shampoo and Conditioner

Hair pins and steam caps.

I must say that the Mane and Tail detangler is definately a keeper, not so sure about the CON conditioner.

This stretching business is no joke, I was about to throw in the towel today but after a deep conditioning with Aussi 3 min, Hydrafuse, olive oil and CON I was Ok. I used waaaay more conditioner than I usually do but I was really desperate. I had been experiencing a lot of breaking and shedding recently and decided to lay off the protein deep con and it did work. I also decided to finger comb my hair when wet and gently use a comb when dry. Us 4a girls have really fragile hair so you have to be careful with the manipulation. I am now airdrying it and will do some neat cornrows when dry.

My protective style for this week

2009-05-05T09:18:00.002-05:00

I am really determined after seeing the progress of others to "up my game". Basically trying to retain every inch of hair that I grow. "Dusting" the ends on relaxer days and on a "need to do" basis. So the challenges I am presently doing are the , "BSL in 09" and the "Castor oil challenge".

I have now been moisturizing and sealing my hair daily with my Giovanni moisturizer and castor oil and EVOO mixture, with alternate day application of the castor oil to my scalp. DC twice per week with protein once weekly. Hard protein every 4-6 weeks with corrective moisturizing DC after each protein treatment.

Now on to the topic at hand; since protective styling is soooo important especially for us 4a-4b gals I must say that it is easy to get "stuck in a rut". I am trying a new style its kindda a spin off from a style I saw on essence.com and something that Traycee does from time to time. You either hate it or love it, I love it.

Oils

2009-05-04T21:46:00.003-05:00

Oils have been missing from my regimen for a couple of weeks, I ran out. I joined the castor oil challenge and I am back on the oiling trail. The castor oil challenge has us using the castor oil on our roots at least twice a week. Initially I had a big prob with this, it would irritate my scalp and I would actually get sores from itching it so much. So after some advice I decided to mix the castor oil with EVOO 50:50 with a few drops of tea tree oil and I have been doing good. I am now adding EVOO in my conditioner as well as using it as a pre poo/ hot oil treatment. I love love how it makes my hair feel, love everything about this combination. I would strongly advise you to try it, the challenge goes on for 3 months. Of course I will post pics.

Keep that silk scarf on!

2009-04-29T11:14:00.002-05:00

I notice that I go to bed with my silk scarf and wake up with it off. Seriously I tie it in all sorts of ways and can never get it to stay. Over the past 2 days I have decided to put a head band on it. Its thin and almost the same colour as the scarf. All I can say is that the scarf has not fallen off in 2 days. And it doesnt have to be tight either. Just something that is flexible and will move with your head when you toss around at nights. Try it.

Silk not cotton

2009-04-27T10:35:00.003-05:00

Its so weird that our natural hair looks less like silk, more like cotton but really should be treated like silk. I have noticed that our hair is the most fragile of them all (4a-4b). Due to our tight curls, when the hair does a spiral its actually very weak at the turning point. If you examine your hair closely you would notice that even when natural the cuticle is not smooth and you feel ridges as you go along the hair shaft, this is the point where it tends to break. This is the way it grows out of the scalp. Protein treatments, deep conditioners all tend to smooth down the cuticle and "fill out" the ridges but nothing really permanent, thats the way we were born. I suggest that we treat our hair more like silk and less like cotton. As the wash cycle says, cold wash , gentle cycle and low iron (if at all). This means for us in addition to the different conditioning treatments and stretching of chemical treatments (to avoid overlapping); cold rinses, no harsh brushing or unnecessary combing and low heat. Just my 2 cents.

Increased hair loss

2009-04-24T10:44:00.002-05:00

Ok so I have been noticing that I have more hair loss especially when I comb my hair. So much so that I am afraid to comb it. I have decided to either comb it in the shower under a heavy stream of water soaked in conditioner or when it is dry. I am even afraid to roller set it. I have been using my protein treatments and my garlic treatments but to no avail. The only thing that I have not been doing it taking my vitamins. Gulity as charged of not taking my vitamins or eating properly. My products have not changed, my regi has not changed much just my diet. So its back to the vitamins I go.

Many people presume hair vitamins arent necessary but think about it, I am vegetarian, lead a stressful life and forget to eat sometimes so I believe I am a prime candidate for hair loss due to nutritional reasons. I wont let it keep me down though, I am off to correct this problem. Remember you will always have setbacks but its your response to them that makes the difference. Recognise and treat.

Jamaica hijacker.. Whatever

2009-04-20T21:00:00.002-05:00

Ok, I am not an illiterate fool, but seriously all the guy wanted was a ride to Cuba. In case you did not know a 21 year old guy, (fine as hell) has to be the cutest hijacker in history decided to hijack a plane of Canadians headed to Cuba at a Jamaican airport. First off, who hijacks the Canadians? They are everybodys friends they are always so.. hummm.. nice. So it was then that you should have known that his screws have been moved around a bit in his head. He the "lone' gunman stormed pass security (now what that tells me was that there was no security). His friends and father begged him (negoations) but to no avail.

The military who were probably at base in Kingston playing dominoes I am sure were eager for the excitement. They showed up "bad boys" style and well in Jamaican terms "done di place". Now all the passengers got free 1 week stays at Sandals in Jamaica and whatever else (prob some rum cream and suntan lotion).

Now that did not work out too bad dont you think. And by the way, what the hell does the prep school that he went to have to do with the situation. Well that was my two cents and always remember in Jamaica there's no problem. We dont really mess with tourist we like y'all especially the Canadians.

The sculpted look

2009-04-15T12:49:00.003-05:00

Just had to share what a little bronzer can do. You may not be able to appreciate the look with the webcam but I am loving it right now.

Help Needed

2009-04-15T12:35:00.000-05:00

Its carnival season and I am so excited. But what to do with the hair when parading in the sun, rain, sweating and whatever comes is a whole new ball game. I was online with my sisters last night and the general concensus was that I should wear it in a braid out style. Its kindda hard to maintain a straight style. But I am really wondering what would go best with the head piece that I have. There is no doubt that the hair will look a mess at the end of the day but there is a difference between a mess and a "hot mess".

Scared

2009-04-13T21:26:00.004-05:00

I have not combed my hair in a week and I dread to see what is going to be the outcome. Well it all started with the intention on Tues to cowash my hair but never got around to doing it now today monday I am really apprehensive about my hair. I just applied some pre poo consisting of castor oil, coconut oil and olive oil conditioner, I will sit under the dryer for 10 min with a steam cap then proceed to do an Alter Ego then Aphogee/ treatment. I will update you guys soon.

Talk about a HOT protective style.

2009-04-05T14:45:00.002-05:00

This is definately one to try. You can use some extensions to make it longer, basically this is different because the cornrows are actually done inside, meaning a little bit like multiple french rows. Will do this soon and post a pic.

Oil sheen vs Gloss drops

2009-04-04T14:12:00.002-05:00

I was never a fan of oil sheens, so much so that I hated when the hairstylist would insist on using it. I figure oil drops were better and did not weigh the hair down as much. In addition whats the point of using oil drops and oil sheen at the same time.

Now I have decided to switch it up a bit, what about not using oil drops and replacing it with the sheen. After much research I settled on "Keracare oil sheen with humidity block". I must say that so far I have been pleased (to say the least) with the results. I was out last night sweating and dancing and so far the hair has been ok. No frizziness whats so ever. It does not weigh your hair down and instead it gives a nice bounce. Try it and let me know what you think.

My hair today

2009-04-02T22:52:00.004-05:00

This week was one of those unintentional low manipulation weeks. I washed my hair on Sunday an airdried it. I have just been putting it in a bun. This has been easier in part by the Herbal essence long term relationship. That stuff smells so good and makes your hair really soft.

Today I went to the gym and figured that I needed to get all dolled up for the weekend. So I applied castor oil to my roots and olive oil conditioner mixed with coconut oil to my hair as a pre poo. I then went in the sauna for about 30 mins. When I got home I washed my hair with CON moisturizing shampoo and am now DCing with Affirm Sustenance. Boy does that recommended 30 mins seem long! So far so good though. I have been slacking up on my vitamins I need to do better.

Inspired

2009-03-25T22:06:00.003-05:00

I saw Tracyee's video on how her hair has improved over such a short space of time and I am inspired. She went from APL to WL in just over a year and thats great. I know that everyones hair is different but dang!

Ladies with fine to medium hair (like me) have quite a prob retaining length and keeping it thick. But I am sticking to my regimen and hopefully it will pay off. I wonder if BSL for me will come at my one year mark. That would be great, in the mean time health over length anyday. Hair looks healthy when it has shine, movement and body. If you notice that your hair is moving when you do you are on the right track.

Update pics and Relaxer results 2

2009-03-22T00:20:00.002-05:00

The following pics are my update pics from my 7 month hair journey. This was taken with my phone so the quality is poor. The first pic was my starting pic (Oct 08) the others were taken today. I wrote a blog yesterday on what made the difference to my hair. I would also like to mention LHCF, Traycee, Sunshyne, Lavender, KISS, Macherieamour and Hairlista who have all been instrumental (though they may not know it) in my progress. Also to all my blog followers those who commented or just visited thanks. This is just the beginning, how we treat our hair is a lifestyle change. My first goal was BSL by Feb 09 ( made in March 09) and BSL (Dec 09) ultimately I would love thick healthy hair.

Garlic and hair loss

2009-03-21T17:18:00.002-05:00

This is the new rave on the boards, I just use the Alter Ego Garlic Conditioner every 2 weeks or so, but they have many recipes out there with garlic, I have not tried this one myself but it looks good.

What I did once was crush some garlic and soak it overnight in olive oil. I then applied this mixture as a pre poo it did reduce the shedding and breaking. I stopped because of the work involved but try it if you are having probs with shedding and breaking. I have not seen one bad review so far. Here is another recipe that you can try.

Ingredients:
1 tablespoon of aloe gel1 tablespoon of honey1 tablespoon of garlic juice 3 tablespoons of chamomile (tea bag content is fine to use)24 fluid oz of water
Instructions:
1) Peel garlic and use a garlic press to squeeze the juice out
2) Mix it with honey and place the bowl in the fridge (can replace the honey with olive oil)
3) Boil water with chamomile tea for about 30 minutes
4) Stir occasionally
5) Take the bowl with honey and garlic juice out of the fridge
6) Add aloe gel.
8) Use the mix and gently rub it in your scalp. Wrap a warm towel around your head.
9) Keep on your head for 20 minutes and wash once with a neutral shampoo (I used Johnson's Baby shampoo).
10) To finish off, wash your hair off with the previously prepared chamomile tea.

I have not tried this recipe myself, see what I did above, but they look pretty similar.

What is making the difference to my hair.

2009-03-21T16:59:00.005-05:00

I have noticed that on my hair journey I have had many set backs, hair breaking, seen with occasional patches of short hair especially in the center/ middle of my hair. Extremely hard hair which happened after a protein treatment (it took 7 hours for me to detangle) etc. I guess like everything in life you will have setbacks but it is what you do to remedy that which makes the difference. These changes have made the most difference to my hair

1- Stretching (I know can be hard but just add one week at a time to your normal regime, keep the new growth moist and with any sign of breaking or damage run to the hills and relax it.

2-DC not necessarily every other day but at least once a week til the hair improves.

3-Get the good Stuff (read the reviews, it just may work for you especially if the person has a similar hair texture to yours)

4- Take advice from someone who's hair actually looks good, makes no sense you follow the youtuber who's hair looks to put it frankly "jacked up".

5-Balance, protein is important, moisture is important know what your hair wants.

6- Leave it be, forget the blowdryer, flat iron, and all that gel and let your hair grow.

7- Change your relaxer (I did and I feel much happier)

Pics will come soon I promise.

Stress and hair loss

2009-03-21T16:47:00.002-05:00

Stress and hair loss can be related.
The most common type of stress-induced hair loss is telogen effluvium. In this condition, emotional or physical stress — related to a death in the family, pregnancy, severe weight loss or surgery, for example — pushes large numbers of growing hairs into a resting phase. Within a few months, the affected hairs may fall out suddenly when simply combing or washing your hair. The hair typically grows back when the emotional or physical stress is resolved, although this can take months.
For some people, intense stress may trigger a type of hair loss called alopecia areata. In this condition, white blood cells attack the hair follicle — which stops hair growth. Within weeks, the affected hair falls out. The hair loss usually starts as a small round patch but may eventually spread to the whole scalp, and sometimes to body hair as well. The hair generally grows back, but the cycle may repeat itself.
Talk to your doctor if you notice sudden or patchy hair loss or more than usual hair loss when combing or washing your hair. Sudden hair loss can signal an underlying medical condition that requires treatment. If needed, your doctor may suggest treatment options for the hair loss as well.

Mayo clinic

My Relaxer (part 1)

2009-03-18T00:58:00.004-05:00

I am sitting at the computer now 1 am with conditioner in my hair. Today I decided to relax my hair and I went to this new hairdresser that I found, she was not bad with the application but put on the conditioner literally for 1 min. I was a bit worried but she continued. She roller set and wrapped my hair and yes we did get in that dreaded argument about the trimming. I allowed her to cut off 1 cm she was unhappy but I was elated.

I smelt something like relaxer in my hair still but I thought it was the other ladies hair I was smelling so I did not worry about it. I went home changed and went out and came home and wrapped my hair. This time the scent was overwhelming it smelt like relaxer, I am lying in bed wondering if that was my hair. It had to be, this was a first for me, I know the hair has a processed smell about it when it has just been relaxed but this was ridiculous.

I got out of bed determined not to let my hard work go to waste. I shampooed my hair three times and am now I am typing this with affirm sustenance in my hair. Yes I am tired, I have to get up early for work but hell no will I let this lady ruin my hair after such a long hair journey. I will say this again, by far my sister is the best person who has ever relaxed my hair.

About to throw in the towel

2009-03-13T12:25:00.002-05:00

Yess I enjoy stretching (sometimes), I love the feel of my natural hair but I am loosing too much hair. Last night after removing the plaits I washed and DC with aphogee and Humectress. On detangling I was shocked at the amount of hair I lost. They look like long stands but you can never tell. I have never lost this much hair and well I am done with the worrying and will relax my hair next week, at 11 weeks plus. I will post pics and though I dont want to do it my hair is saying enough is enough.

Stretching Woes

2009-03-08T18:24:00.005-05:00

Week after week I have been battling with my new growth. I was Ok whilst it was in braids but dealing with it now about 2 inches growth and week 10 I am having a really hard time. This has to be the hardest stretch ever and I really respect those ladies who go for 16 weeks and over.

I have been thinking about professional looking styles that would help me with my stretch. I mean I like to brush my hair back in one and smooth down the edges, but I get so nervous thinking about my new growth, it does not get touched and its sheer drama to detangle it come wash day.

I am still yet to come up with some styles to help me. Today I thought I would attempt one of the styles I used to rock all the time when I was natural. I just plaited the roots (the natural part) and twisted the relaxed part. My greatest challenge is trying to prevent the relax portions from unravelling. Well whatever the outcome I know I wont have this hair drama to face until my next wash day.

So here's what I did, I pre pooed with a hot oil mixture of almond oil and profective growth oil then washed with Giovanni invigorating shampoo. DC with my alter Ego condish and later my Aussie 3 min moisturizing con. I used the giovanni leave in and HE LTR and airdried. Today I parted my hair in small sections, saturated the roots with profective mega growth strengthener and finished with some more HE LTR.

Its a Jungle in here

2009-03-04T19:00:00.003-05:00

I am nine weeks post and its a jungle in here. I decided to do low manipulation styles like braid outs, wash and goes and no combing and it feels good. The hair appears softer until you attempt to detangle.

Today I chose to let down my bun, detangle and moisturize and it took me an hour and a half. I had a bit of hair loss and I was so tempted to relax but didnt. I used olive oil moisturizing hair lotion and HE long term relationship leave in. And sealed with almond oil.

I hope and pray I am not over doing it. Its too late to relax anyway as I have been irritating my scalp. I will put back in the cornrows until about 5-6 days before relaxing my hair. The new growth is really too much and I fear I may tear my hair out. Wish me luck guys.

I will have a reveal after I relax to show my progress after 7 months of my HHJ. Oh my first goal was full APL. I think I may have missed the full part but I may be APL in some parts. I am also trying to accomplish thicker hair I hope to see that in my reveal in 2 weeks time.

My Sunday Do

2009-02-22T10:36:00.005-05:00

Ok I did another braid out, messed with it too much and the curls went a bit flat so I figured why not do a cute updo.

Rules of the loose updo

1- Never do it twice once you do it dont do it over as it would never look the same so give it one shot.

2- Lots and lots of bobby pins.

3- Something to smooth the edges

4 -Be creative

Now your ready to rip the runway of life.

The trip to the Salon and the Trim

2009-02-21T09:17:00.003-05:00

I am back, and will be trying to update my blog more often. On Monday I went to the salon because I had no other choice. I was locked out of my house and had just taken out my braids, I went 2 weeks without a wash or a DC and I was desperate.

I went to the first salon I saw up the street, it was an empty looking place with a customer getting her nails done. I asked the first attendant what product line they used for their DC, she did not know, I was surprised as I watched her walk over to the owner of the store to ask.

The owner greeted me and told me she was impressed that I was actually interested in the products used as most people walk in and just ask for a "treatment". She told me "Salerm, affirm, Dudleys, Vitale" and I was hooked.

She gave me the Salerm treatment and didnt attempt to detangle my hair until it was soft and easy to manage. There was a fair amount of shedded hair but I felt nor heard any breaking as I normally would. She then roller set my hair and flat ironed the roots. She looked at my hair and said the dreaded statement "You need a trim". I told her no thanks and left. I was very pleased with her, she spent most of her life in the US and most of her ideas about hair care are quite similar to what we share on the boards.

Then I got home and saw what she was talking about. I swore off trimming I was just bent on dusting my ends. But I am telling you something though the ends werent split they were seriously thinning and weighing my hair down. I cut it myself all 11/2 inches and felt better. I guess when I relax in 4 weeks time I can better assess the length, but rignt now I am more interested in the health and thickeness the length will come eventually.

Whats in my spray bottle

2009-02-09T23:32:00.006-05:00

I am off tomorrow and would like to do a quick blog on whats in my spray bottle. I will be spraying with this as needed (though I have not used it as yet). Nightly wrapping my hair with a satin scarf, and oiling scalp with a castor oil and peppermint concoction that I have.

I must admit that my scalp is itching a whole deal and the peppermint does help, but as the braids loosen its not as intense and it does get better with time. I just cannot imagine taking them out after all that time doing them, so I am hanging in there. I am getting mad compliments with them and as usual wondering if I should transition.

I have in my spray bottle

Wave by design finishing lotion (stole this from my SO I know thats strange but the stuff is good at moisturizing my NG)

911 for a little protein to keep it strong

Almond oil (the best oil I believe to use when hair is in braids)

Water

I saw a girl today and I was absolutely shocked. I asked her why she cut her hair and that I was meaning to ask her what products she used caused it looked so good. Little did I know that all this time she was wearing a weave and now had in a weave but had cut it shorter. I did find it odd once that there seemed to be pieces that were much shorter than the others but I thought she was growing out layers. Now thats to show you that you never know and well she did buy it so of course its hers.

Got Braids.

2009-02-05T16:47:00.003-05:00

This wasnt really part of the plan, not yet anyway, but I am going to be away from home for 2 weeks. I am not sure of what I will have available to me, and its not cute carrying all that baggage (hair conditioner, pre poo, etc) around. I am not even sure what the water situation will be like so to avoid that I did braids.

Last night was a looooonnng one. I pre pooed the night before with alma oil and washed with Keracare detangling shampoo the following day (last night). After this I DC'd with mizani combination treatment (Kerafuse and hydrafuse) dried on cool with hand dryer and finally 30 min under hooded dryer on low heat.

I used some Aphogee provitamin complex as a leave in prior to drying and moisturized with Nexxus Humectress (works well as a leave in, just use a small amount) and Profectiv mega growth anti breakage strengthener (a mouthful I know). I then proceeded to seal with lots and lots of almond oil and braided with cheap braids (the extensions help to make the style last longer).

The whole process from start to finish took me 6 hours! I could not believe it. Now to maintain them I will nourish the roots with a castor oil and peppermint mixture I have, and moisturise when needed. I will tie my hair down with a satin scarf. And hope that it last for 2 weeks.

Aphogee Challenge update

2009-01-30T19:43:00.000-05:00

I pre pooed with Profective growth oil and DC'd with the Aphogee 2 min reconstructor for 10 minutes. This followed by a moisturizing deep conditioner with heat for at least 20 mins. The provitamin leave in was added and coconut oil used to seal. This was done for 4 consecutive weeks and my hair felt stronger except for that Mishap with the Henna.

Its a good protein treatment that's not too hard and not too mild. I always followed with a moisturizing condish (Nexxus Humectress gave me the best results). Truth be told 2 weeks would have been enough. I never got any superb benefits past the 2 consecutive weeks the results plateaued off at that time.

Its a great product and I would use it again. Definately part of my rotation. I had to use the webcam to take the photos so the hair appears much thicker than it really is. I also did some brushing (of the ends) as well. As usual comments and questions are welcomed.

Braid out results from last night.

2009-01-26T13:04:00.000-05:00

Well my major problem with this style is that it is never dry in less than 24 hours. The braid outs work best with cowashes you want as much moisture as possible. You may get more breakage with braid outs as it may be a bit of a challenge if you try to comb it out. So that means that this style in and of itself is a low manipulation one. I dont comb my hair until the next wash. I just bun it like this or may wear it out. I use the Mizani moisturefuse as the leave in with almond oil for the plaits, rollers at the end and Voila. Still a work it progress though.

Update on coffee, hair and whatever else.

2009-01-26T03:29:00.000-05:00

Its 4:00am and I cant sleep, I guess drinking coffee at 7:00pm is never a good idea. Have you ever wondered how after a while your hair care journey almost becomes therapeutic? Seriously initially it was somewhat of a hassel, like watching grass grow. When you become less obsessed about the length and just more into the health of the hair you enjoy it more.

When I am upset I slather on some DC and go under the dryer, or I apply some oil mix to my scalp, these days I am into aromatherapy and just added peppermint to my castor oil. To my surprise I hear that it makes the hair grow and I was just going for the mood lifting effects.

I am combing my hair less, I never thought the day would come when I would say that. I guess when you have your hair in a protective style or just intend to put it in a bun all that manipulation seems pointless. And it does detangle pretty well on wash days anyway.

Had a setback the other day, did the Henna and decided 3 days later to do the Aphogee treatment as sheduled (my mini challenge). Needless to say there was much "crackle and pop", I did learn my lesson next DC after henna has to be moisturizing (for me at least).

I would not consider myself a PJ but I do look forward to trying new things, I usually wait until I am out of something to replace it with another. Ok I do agree the Herbal Essence hello hydration is nice, nothing to shout about but nice for a cowash, better than VO5 and well I am yet to try some others.

On that note I am due another product review, next up "alter Ego garlic conditioner". Hope I can get some "shut eye" now.

Henna and Me

2009-01-20T22:49:00.000-05:00

Ok there was a time, about a month or two ago, when I was a firm believer that Ayurvedic was the way to go. I am all for the oils and Henna but have been finding it difficult to spend so much on shipping and handling. I will revisit that idea as soon as I can get a cheaper way to ship these things.

I did find a supplier of henna however and I have tried it twice. The result.....drum roll... for me has been nothing spectacular. I still think it is a work in progress and the longer I leave it on the thicker it makes my hair feel. But as I said nothing that makes your hair do a 180 turnaround. That being said it is a great option for when you are a bit tired of your routine.

The Aphogee Challenge.

2009-01-10T13:49:00.000-05:00

For all those who follow my blog, you would have known already that I have fine hair. I am trying to get it thicker and in the process hopefully grow it to BSL by Dec 09. Well I guess we all agree that aphogee is a great product. We hear so much about the 2 min Keratin treatment and the improvement seen with different hair textures that use it. Well I am now challenging myself to the aphogee statements. The bottle says use once weekly until the hair improves. Well that is exactly what a plan to do for one month. I did a treatment last week and will continue doing it to complete one month. I will post pics at the end of the challenge. The products I will be using will be the 2 min keratin treatment and the Provitamin leave it. I will prepoo with my oils, DC always with a moisturizing conditioner and cowash as usual.

ORS Relaxer (Lye)

2009-01-05T18:47:00.000-05:00

As I promised I will now review ORS relaxer lye. I am here sitting under the dryer just did a Apoghee 2 min Keratin treatment and DC with Affirm fiberguard conditioner and thinking how great the ORS relaxer was. The night prior to relaxing I had been irritating my scalp and though there was no burning so to speak there was a bit of discomfort. I had alot of new growth but with patience my sister (not a hairdresser but does the best job with my hair) was able to apply the relaxer to my new growth in about 20 mins. I rinsed with the neutralizer in the shower 5 times as I wanted to make sure I did not overprocess it; then DC with ORS conditioner.

The surprise came when I did not notice much hair on the shower floor. This was new to me, I had grown so accustomed to hairdressers giving me a good telling off about my stretch and breaking and needing to have a trim that for once the process was enjoyable. My hair felt strong, I am thinking whats the difference. I believe all the relaxers have the same basic ingredient list, so why do some work better than others? Well thats not for me to figure out right now, I know for now it works for my hair and I will keep doing what I am doing. Now if only my sister would visit more than once a year

I spent long hours on the boards reading the relaxer reviews so this was a well thought out process. My advice to you is think it through and dont take risks with your hair. Better to go slow and steady, I hope for no major setbacks and that we keep learning and growing.

For the record I have used, affirm sensitive scalp, affirm fiberguard, Mizani (regular), revlon (back in the day), ORS no lye, Motions, and this has been the best one in recent times.

New Year New Hair

2009-01-02T13:31:00.001-05:00

It has been a while since I blogged. It has been a busy holiday. I have been on this HHJ for about 4 months. My first goal when I started was APL (full) by feb 09 and BSL by Dec 09. I will now add thicker hair by Dec 09. I think I have managed a regimen though changing the products the basic structure is the same. One thing for sure, this year is I am increasing the protein treatments, more protective styling, continuing with my supplements and incorporating exercise. I will change my stylist. Its amazing how your stylist can cause major setbacks by tearing out your hair and trimming the life out of it.

Oh I stopped my last stretch at 9 weeks (had a family function) and relaxed with ORS lye. I must say I am happy with the results; I had minimal hair loss. I believe that when you have been having probs with progress think of changing your relaxer. I am ever on the quest to stretch my hair to 12 weeks and beyond. So to start the year I am yet on another stretch, no trim, deep conditioning (1-2 weekly) challenge. I will be doing product reviews also starting with the ORS relaxer sooon and rating them on a scale of 1-10. You have to be obessed about your hair to meet the goals sometimes. I hope we all have a fabulous year and that all our dreams come true.

What relaxer to Use.

2008-12-26T12:46:00.000-05:00

I am approaching the 9 week mark for my stretch and it is not for the lighthearted, there have been many times when I have been tempted to relax it, cut it off, or just continue and transition. I like my natural hair, but I know styling would be a prob, I just dont want to start alllll over again.

So back to the topic, relaxers; So it occured to me that I may not be using the best relaxer for my hair. I have been using either affirm and mizani for the past 2 years and have not seen where it has been doing anything positive for my hair. I am not really sure if it is the relaxer to blame or my hair care techniques. I have just started on my hair care journey and I am well aware that it could be a little of both. I have been researching relaxers for some time now and I have pretty much narrowed it down to, availablity and quality. I do not want my hair texturized or texlaxed as the variation in textures I believe cause more harm than good, though I am dying for thicker hair I am not willing to risk causing breakage for it. However some relaxers do tend to leave the hair limp and thin. Can I really relax and have some body (swang) at the same time? I have narrowed the choices down to, silk elements, ORS no lye, Affirm fiberguard, Alter Ego, Mizani BB or just continue with what I am using "Affirm for sensitive scalp". I am just not sure. well I have 3 more weeks to decide and I will be sure to update this blog when I do.

Everyone wants to look fly at Christmas time.

2008-12-21T11:26:00.000-05:00

I am now 8 weeks post and not sure I can push along to the 12 week line. The prob is its christmas and everyone wants to look fly at christmas time. The cornrows not cutting it, even though I am trying to accessorize it and Diva it up.

I ended up in cornrows because I was so tempted to cut off my thinning ends, I spent the whole day looking for the pair of scissors that I hid from myself . The knife started looking like a viable option and I knew I was in trouble. A wig did cross my mind but I am yet to see a natural looking wig.

Now according to my lunar predictions this Saturday (the 27th) would be the perfect time for a trim. My other option would be to trim it after my 12 week stretch which should put me back around the perfect time according to the lunar predictions. Whatever the deal is I am buying a new pair of scissors to avoid using the knife if I get the urge and leaving in the cornrows until Saturday. I will just have to wear lots of mascara to detract from my hair. "I am not my hair but I sure feel good when it looks good". Did I mention that I am shedding and breaking like a dog with a bad rash?

The Moon and hair

2008-12-12T16:14:00.000-05:00

Its been a while since I blogged about anything but this because I have been so busy. I am suffering from a serious bout of shedding, so I am sitting here with my "Alter Ego Garlic conditioner" hoping this will stop. I am however dying to henna my hair but again for lack of time I have been unable to do it. Well everything is for a reason. I have today a strange but interesting topic on how the moon affects hair growth, cant hurt right?

Moon Phase:It’s no secret the moon pulls the tides but what is lesser known is the moon’s subtle effect on the growth of all living things…plants and animals. Lunar gardening and lunar agriculture, in particular, are such time-honored and proven practices that, since the 1st century A.D., gardeners and farmers, sensitive to the effects of the moon, planted their crops during favorable times to achieve maximum growth and yield. Their thinking was, if the moon could have such a magnificent effect on the ocean, then plants, composed of a good deal of water, must at least be affected to some degree. For humans, water accounts for 60-80% of our body weight. If there is credence to the notion that the moon effects all bodies of water then it will certainly have her say in the cycles of our lives, not to mention our hair. While it’s true the hair shaft is material and almost entirely protein, the moon does have an effect on hair since the hair follicles are made of epithelial tissue that is comprised mainly of Hydrogen and Oxygen, the two elements that combine to form water. One suitable explanation for the subtle effect is that during the phase when the moon increases in light (the waxing moon) fluids are drawn upwards as in growth. When the moon decreases in light (the waning moon) fluids flow to the roots. If you planted during a new moon, the growth energy available would increase the success and hardiness of a seedling. If, however, you planted after the full moon, energy for new seeds would decline. Enough about farming, what about the moon phases’ effect on hair? When we barely see the moon in the sky, it is in the new moon phase. From here it increases in size or waxes until it reaches the crest or peak of the cycle—the full moon. If you wish to speed up the process of growing your hair, then get it cut during the new moon to full moon phase. The full moon begins to decrease in size or wanes until it ends up as a new moon or new phase once again. If you want to slow your hair’s growth, cut it from the full moon to the new moon phase. Each phase is approximately 14 days in length giving you plenty of time to cut. For some reason, the signs that benefit the most from the changes in the moon seem to be Taurus, Cancer, Scorpio, Capricorn, and Pisces.

Eggs in your hair

2008-12-03T15:16:00.000-05:00

The thing about hair is that it can get boring, this is prob why I have been like a crazy lady trying this and that trying to avoid cutting or colouring my hair. The protective styles can be a bit drab, so now I thought, why not use eggs as my pre poo. So here I am sitting with an egg in my hair, mixed with a cheapie moisturizing condish and oils. Hope it goes well, I will see the texture when I cowash it out and decide which condish to DC with.

Ayurvedic Challenge Regime

2008-11-27T23:42:00.000-05:00

Pre poo with Alma oil and shikaki oil overnight(and scalp massages with same oils twice weekly)

Wash with Brahmi powder and or Shikaki powder

Wash out with cheapie condition

DC always (moisturizing conditioner, still working on the list)

Cowash with cheapie conditioner

Seal with Vatika oil/coconut oil/ shikaki oil

Monthly Henna

Air dry

Cool water rinses

Vitamin supplements

To Start December 1st or as soon as I get the powders and will run for 3 months.

No trim till I get to full APL only "brushing" if necessary.

Stretching

2008-11-25T22:03:00.000-05:00

Well the last time I stretched for 10 weeks I had some crazy shedding and hairdresser told me not to do it again as it was breaking my hair. Well I really need to increase the thickness of my hair and I believe that the less you relax it the fuller it will look. Of course you have the downside of the breaking at the demarcation line. So what I intend to do is as I approach the 8 week mark, I will put my hair in cornrows, essentially low manipulation and see how it goes. Whatever happens I can always relax but it makes sense to sets goals. So the clock is up and I am now in week 4. So eight more weeks here we come.

I am developing a regimen for the 7 week and beyond stretch.
1- Cornrows each week
2- Detangle in sections before DC every week (with ORS, Nexxus Humectress, Keracare Humecto, prob CPR products that give me the most slip add EVOO to all conditioners) DC with Alter Ego when shedding always follow with a moisturizing Condish.

3-Shampoo every 2 weeks with CON
4- Protein treatments every 2 weeks
5-Pre poo before each DC with daily moisturizing of scalp with Alma oil
6-Giovanni and Pantene Leave in both extremely moisturizing. Consider S-curl to moisturize and seal with Vatika oil.
7- Need to get a really Huge snag free comb
8- Airdry might not work may need to do low heat rollersets
9-Bantu knots dont work for me and the curly styles though hide the new grow for some strange reason I believe may cost more breaking
10-Listen to my hair, relax as SOON as it starts to act the FOOL.

This is a work in progress by the time I get to week 7 I should be ready.

Happier

2008-11-23T15:13:00.000-05:00

I got some new hair stuff last night and I was so anxious and happy to give them a try. First off I started with an overnight pre poo with the Alma Brahmi oil that I got. The results in the morning were the best pre poo results I have ever had in my life. I then washed my hair in two, meaning did the right side then the left. Just applying shampoo (Keracare detangling) on the scalp and giving it a light rub. No more washing my hair like I am washing clothes for me. I then proceeded to add the Alter Ego Garlic Condish, I must say it smells quite refreshing nothing at all like garlic. It is also quite smooth and felt moisturizing, I left it on for about 2 hours while doing other stuff. Much to my surpised when I washed it out it did not give me a good slip a little dry, on the up side though very very very little hair in the bath or comb. I added a little Nexxus Humectress to add some moisture and washed it out after 30 minutes. I then added the Giovanni leave in, I think I added a little too much made my hair mushy, I know next time but hey the best detangler as a leave in I have ever tried, will come in handy for my stretches. So far I am a happy bunny, hair in rollers and airdrying. I am planning on putting in cornrows soon to stop watching my hair, cause it is a bit like watching grass grow. I may post a pic, if I have not that means that it came out all jacked up. "I am not my hair" but it sure feels good when it looks good.

Frustrated

2008-11-18T18:16:00.000-05:00

Steaming, Hot oiling, Dcing and I am not seeing the progress I want, probably I want too much too soon but reading other blogs and hair sites, I just feel like my hair is not growing fast enough or thick enough. I am sitting under the dryer with a towel and shower cap firmly on my head, hoping to get all these wonderful benefits of steaming, I have even prepared my coffee rinse, I am serious and ready to go, hoping my hair will get the kick start it needs, I am tired of buns, DCing and all of that, I want to cut. But I guess I will give this some more weeks at least until my next relaxer. Will start doing some cornrows after Dec 1st so I wont check everyday for growth.

Coffee for Hair

2008-11-08T17:17:00.000-05:00

Study proves caffeine in shampoo does penetrate to the hair follicle Posted on April 3rd, 2007 in Hair Loss News, Hair Loss Studies by admin 1,333 Views Caffeine is being used as an ingredient in some hair loss shampoos. The reason for this is that an in-vitro study was done where follicles were treated with a caffeine solution and it was found that caffeine blocks the effects of a DHT, the hormone that causes Male Pattern Baldness and damages the hair folliclesDr Fischer, who conducted the first trial, took scalp biopsies from 14 men in the early stages of hair loss. He extracted the hair follicles and then placed them in test tubes with solutions containing different levels of caffeine. The follicles that were being treated with caffeine saw their average growth increase by around 46 per cent and the life cycle of the hair extended by 37 per cent, when compared to the control group.This study prompted some manufacturers to add caffeine to their hair loss products.In this study, researchers in Germany wanted to see if topically applied caffeine could be delivered to the follicle when being part of a shampoo.According to their study they were able to prove that after 2 minutes of shampooing, the caffeine in the shampoo was able to penetrate into the scalp via the hair follicles and stratum corneum (the outermost layer of the skin).This proves that shampoo is an effective delivery vehicle for caffeine, provided that it’s left on the scalp for 2 minutes or more.Follicular Penetration of Topically Applied Caffeine via a Shampoo Formulation.

Ayurvedic Hair Care

2008-11-04T21:35:00.000-05:00

I am so excited about this new thread! I think this is a good way to go, I can incoporate this without affecting my other regimes. Ayurvedic hair care seems to be a good way to go. It incorporates mind, body and spirit along with scalp massages. Will be trying Alma Oil and Vatika oil as pre poos, just about to order them am excited at the prospects. Then incorporate the other aspects, Henna, powders etc.

Ayurveda is the traditional system of medicine practiced in India and Sri Lanka. It is a complete approach to health care designed to promote a way of life rather than an occasional treatment. As a holistic system of medicine ayurveda focuses on our uniqueness and takes into account our mental attitude, lifestyle and spirit which should not be treated in isolation from each other.
According to ayurveda, the following principles are beneficial to healthy and plentiful hair:
- The scalp must be kept cool, so protection from sun and washing in cold or lukewarm water are paramount.
- Sound nutrition is key, so a hair-friendly diet should emphasize proteins, iron, zinc, sulfur, Vitamin C, Vitamin B-Complex and essential fatty acids.
- Use should be made of hair analysis to ascertain toxicity levels and nutritional deficiencies.
- Oils, for example sesame and coconut, should be applied to the scalp to nourish, lubricate and strengthen the roots. This will also improve circulation to the head.

Steaming

2008-11-04T20:33:00.000-05:00

I just found this on a site and will be incorporating this is my regime, probably during my cowashes. The steaming I hear is good. Here goes, will be tweaking it again.
here are the tools:
2 Turban towels - turbie twists
Pink cleaning Gloves
2 plastic bags or plastic Wrap
Heating cap or Hooded Dryer (VERY Important -there needs to be a heat source......)
Bottled Water ( Let's stay as far away from the Chlorine as possible)
OK - dunk the turbies in cold water... put em in a Glass bowl and heat em in the microwave till they are hot.use the cleaning Gloves - to Wring out one of the turbies.
Put on your head.... immediately put on cap.Wring out the next turbie. Put it on top of the plastic.Wrap the last turbie in plastic. Sit for 30 mins under heat source.
STEAM!!!!!!Spray or rinse with COLD water - to seal the Cuticle!!! Also important...........

Will do this tomorrow.Yeah

My facial regime

2008-11-04T19:19:00.000-05:00

Ever since I was 17 years old I have been using clinique facial products, this after a string of bad decisions. I tried everything under the sun, but the clinique line is hassel free reduces the breakouts and surprisingly gentle on my skin. Occasionally I change the products I may use for some serious exfoliating. At present I use.
Clinique #2 face soap, exfoliator and lotion
Oil of Olay Microdermabrasion kit
Vitamin C serum at nights
Clinique night repair at nights sometimes too (But not worth all the money)
Garnier eye roller
Occasionally Clinique Deep cleansing emergency mask
Glycolic peel monthly
Fancy facial occasionally
Sunscreen (more than 50 spf)

My Hair regime

2008-11-03T20:40:00.000-05:00

My Regime
This is a work in progress, the constants for now are,

Pre poo twice weekly (with oil) with a 5-10 minute scalp massage

Cowash and DC on Wed (midweek)

Shampoo once a week

Clarify every 4-6 weeks

Seal with Vatika Oil

Alternate day leave in

Wrap every night

Low heat only cold hooded dryer or air dry

Cold rinses Relax every 8-10 weeks

Daily Vitamins

Protective styling after week 1 of relaxing (Dont like buns, twisting etc so soon after relaxing) NO COLOUR

Hair Vitamins and other growth aids

2008-11-03T17:57:00.000-05:00

Tried phytophanere hair tablets for 6 months, really expensive about $50 US per bottle (2 months worth in each bottle). I saw it in a magazine (very popular one) and it was all the rave, claims to improve hair and nails skin and vitality. It was Ok, but NOT worth that much money, I just never knew better. Now I am using futurebiotics about $15 US per bottle (1 1/2 months worth) about 2 weeks now will see how it does for me. Many people say it makes no sense taking them if you have a balanced diet and not deficient in any of these vitamins. I guess we will see in a couple weeks time I will give an update. If you have taken any vitamins or other product that you believed worked miracles do share.

Fast Gro Challenge

2008-11-03T17:37:00.000-05:00

This can be found under My faves link. I had an initial rough patch mixing too much protein with the moisture conditioner. My hair was so tangled that it took 7 hours for me to detangle it, it was a nightmare. So my advice is be careful with what you mix. If you find your hair snaps off easily and you have been using alot of products with protein. You may be having a protein overload. So will need to mix 3 parts hydrafuse to 1 part kerafuse. I use 2:1 and so far so good. Oh and ensure that the hair is properly detangled BEFORE you add the product.

DC/NT challenge

2008-11-03T17:22:00.000-05:00

This was my first challenge, I am still doing it, ends Dec 1st, I believe you can do it whenever you want to. I have tried some of the products and the best way to find out what works for you is to try it yourself (thats why I wish they sold stuff in smaller sizes) or just get some advise.

Deep Conditoning/No Trimming Challenge Overview

Participants must commit to deep conditioning and not trimming their hair for 12 weeks (September 1st to December 1st).
Participants must commit to deep conditioning at least once a week.
Deep Conditioning can be done on wet or dry hair but must be left on for an extended period of time (i.e. 20 mins to an hour).
Participants can deep condition under a dryer, steamer, hot wet towel, overnight or under plastic cap.
There are three deep conditioning passes for this challenge. This means, if the participant is in a hurry, they can forgo deep conditioning only three times during the challenge.
There are no trimming passes for this challenge. The challengers may use professional trimming scissors to trim individual split ends as they appear, also known as the “search and destroy” method. This may force you to use heat less and protect the ends as much as possible.
Participants are free to add dimensions to this challenge such as adding a cold water rinse, using no direct heat, etc., but must be consistent with this selection throughout the challenge.
For Best Results
A Challenge is an excellent way to learn about your hair and notice patterns and/or take aways for your individual regimens. As someone who has participated in numerous individual and site sponsored challenges, I have a few suggestions that will help you get the best possible results. Before September 1st:1) Take a picture today of your starting point
This will help you assess the current condition of your hair (before starting the challenge) and will be the most accurate reflection of your current regimen.2) Book an appointment for a professional trim
This will ensure that you start the challenge with healthy, blunt ends.
3) Take a picture of you hair with freshly trimmed ends
This will help you document your hair length before the challenge and will be used in a comparison shot after the challenge ends.4) Develop a basic regimen you will use and commit to during the challenge
Having a consistent regimen will help you pinpoint and measure how this challenge will impact your hair and will bar any externalities that could skew your results. For example, if you participate in this challenge but are also trying a new vitamin or growth aid, you will never be certain how deep conditioning consistently for 12 weeks and avoiding trims, has helped your hair.
5) Monitor, Monitor, Monitor
It is really important to observe your hair during this challenge. Take a lot of pictures, jot down notes after each wash, and review each product you are using. This will help you identify any patterns or lessons from the challenge.

Before the End of the Challenge
1) Review Blog/Notes/Observations
Are there any patterns you noticed during this challenge? What are the top take-aways from this challenge?
2) Take Final Pictures for Comparison
Has your hair thickened up? Do you notice an increase in length? What will you incorporate into your regimen moving forward?
These are just my suggestions. Feel free to add or edit them to suit your hair needs and individuals goals for this challenge. I hope this was helpful!

Hair Care and Hair Challenges

2008-11-03T17:07:00.000-05:00

I just started my hair journey in September 08, this after stumbling on a site that focused on taking care of all kinds of hair. I signed up to a challenge, "Deep Condition/No trim challenge" and thats basically the start. Now I have learnt new terms like pre poo (treatment before shampoo and Co wash (washing with conditioner). I will blog about all these things and how they have been for my hair. This first pic is my most recent pic (Oct 25th 08) pic, the other one is 6 weeks before (Sep 08) making some changes to how I care for my hair and stretching my relaxer to 10 weeks.

Actually from the bottom up its September, October and then November.

December, January and Feburary to go for my 1st goal thicker APL (armpit length hair)

I am also planning on providing links to all of my favourite hair care sites so the challenges can be viewed in detail.