Protective Styling in Full Effect!

Over the course of last month, I had my hair "out" for some time. I probably wore in twist-outs, wash and go's and two-stand twists for about 3 weeks or so. But the time for that has ended and I will be returning to wearing my hair in protective hair styles. While I was transitioning, I pretty much stayed with my hair crocheted. I only stopped briefly recently when I was rocking some self-installed microlinks. Now that I have a more developed hair care regimen, I am excited to go back and really start retaining length.

This rip I am trying a new color combo....and I absolutely LOVE IT. I installed the hair with my crochet needle and then flat-ironed it when I was finished. I love wearing my hair this way. It doesn't take much time to install or take down, it's good for about a month AND it is super duper "cost-efficient."

So here's a quick video for those who have never installed them, or if you just want to see how I did mine.

I will follow it up later with the finished look....stay tuned!!!! :-) And be sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel as well as THIS BLOG (click the blue "join this site" button)

Length Check: August 2013 (and CO challenge 'before' shot)

Since my castor oil hair growth challenge started yesterday, I thought it would be a great time for a length check. I just trimmed my ends recently as well. So this is where I am now and I HOPE (fingers crossed) to be at BSL (bra-strap length) by this time next year. I'm working on it!

Cantu Moisturizing Twist and Lock Gel

OMG!!!! I love, love, love, love, LOVE this gel! No, seriously. I tried others and they just did not stand up to this one. They were too watery or too flaky or just did not produce the look I wanted, expected or would settle for. However, when I came across this one, I first fell in love with smell- mmmm...it's so, so good. The packaging seemed to have everything that I was looking for in a gel for my twist-outs, so I gave it a try.

The first time I applied it, I knew, or rather- I was quite hopeful that this was exactly what I was looking for and indeed it was. The consistency is great, nice and thick- something that can handle and hold my hair. Even when apply a very generous amount, it gives me the perfect hold and no 'crunch.'

I don't see myself switching to anything else. This is perfect. It leaves my curls nice and firm, yet still bouncy and light. Besides all those grea things it also doesn't leave a dent in my pocket some other products high in popularity.

Product Review: Cantu Shea Butter Leave-in Conditioning Repair Cream

Having already tried the Cantu Shea Butter Moisturizing Twist & Lock Gel and absolutely loving it, when it was time to shop for a new leave-in I naturally wanted to try this one. First of all, the smell is so very delightful - I love it. (If you didn't know, I am very big on smell, LOL).

I use it after shampooing but also as my daily leave-in. I have very thick, coarse 4b/4c hair and this stuff leaves my hair feeling so soft and smooth. The consistency is great, it isn't too thin or too thick. It doesn't clump up when you apply it or leave white spotches when it dries and not experiencing breakage as I was before. And, of course, the shea butter that is in it keeps my hair with a nice amount of moisture- which I can't get enough of! :-)

I would definitely recommend this product for those that aren't satisfied with what they are using currently. Or if you are just looking for something new and have never tried it-- give it a go, it just might be your new favorite conditioner!

I don't know what you're using, but this Cantu Shea Butter Leave-in Conditioning Repair Cream is most definitely keeping my hair both HAPPY and HEALTHY. A must-have for my hair!

Is The "Wash And Go" a Myth for Type 4 Hair?

I've heard many women say that one thing they looked forward to or even that they like presently since becoming natural is the "wash and go" hairstyle. Oh the joys of cleansing your hair and scalp and then running out of the door- no fuss, no muss. I mean, c'mon. We've all seen the pictures of glorious wet spirals glistening with moisture and bouncing in the wind! But you know what?- that is NOT my hair. I do not have curly spirals, ringlets, waves or anything of that nature.

My hair is extremely thick and very coily. If I were to do an actual and true wash and go, my hair would look a whole HOT mess! That is, IMO. It's just the nature of my hair. It is thick and course and the curl pattern is not all that defined. When I first started doing the WNG I was a bit frustrated that it wouldn't be so quick and easy as I had orginally thought.

So, if you're newly natural and thinking that this is what you want to do, don't be fooled by all the hype. If you've got type 4 hair, more specifically type 4b and/or 4c, to achieve a really good "wash and go" look you're going to have to put in a bit more work.

Depending on your hair regimen, you will have to wash or co-wash, condition, detangle, comb, towel dry, and add more product to produce the curl and look you hope for. It isn't so much work that it deterred me from styling this way, but it's definitely not as simple as it's name, that is for sure!

Getting Ready for a Growth Challenge!

My Castor Oil Challenge Details

Braids Into Twists: Protective Style

Semi-Mini Twists: My Protective Style

So, here they are- my semi-mini two-strand twists. They are most definitely smaller than what I would do for a twist-out, but not teenie weenie enough, in my opinion, to be full-on 'mini.' I like them. They fir my face well, easy to do, and not too time-consuming. I just hope they will last a full week! 

7 Essential Oils For Your Natural Hair

Coconut Oil -- Great for promoting hair growth, moisturizing, thickening hair, preventing damage,                                        straightening hair and preventing dandruff.


Olive Oil (Extra Virgin) -- Oilive oil helps with moisturizing, deep conditioning, eliminating                                        dandruff, improving the strength of your hair and it helps fight hair loss.


Castor Oil --   Castor oil promotes hair growth, thickens hair, moisturizes, prevents thinning, helps                                       tame frizz, reduces split ends and can prevent scalp infections.


Avocado Oil -- Has lots of nutrients, amino acids, essential fatty acids, as well as vitamins A, B, D                                         and E. Great for deep conditioning, strengthening hair, promoting hair growth and                                         boosting sheen.


Rosemary Oil -- Great for stimulating follicles for hair growth, preventing hair loss and dandruff,                                              as well as strengthening hair and boosting sheen.


Safflower Oil -- Nourishes hair follicles, protects hair and moisturizes. Stimulates red blood cells                                            which promotes hair growth and thickness.


Almond Oil -- Locks in moisture- great as a sealant. Smooths hair cuticles to help control                                                    shedding. Nourishes hair, promotes thickness and growth, prevents hair loss and                                          gives sheen.

DIY Quick Hair Masque : How-To

Coconut Oil Moisturizing Treatment: How-To

Hair Care Regimen for Kids?

I recently came to the decision that I would now start a regular hair care regimen for my daughter, who will be 4 years old in a month. She, of course, has natural hair- no chemicals. Her hair type is that of a 3c for the most part and when straightened or stretched, it reaches the middle of her back.

I thought now would be a good time to start implementing happy, healthy hair practices to not only keep her hair growing steadily and consistently and longer, but also to ensure that it stays HEALTHY.

I will basically mimic my hair care with hers for the most part. When I wash mine, I'll wash hers. If I do a prepoo, she gets a prepoo. Deep conditioning for me, same for her...and so on. I'll start it this way and then tweak it as I go along until I have a concrete regimen for the both of us. I probably won't do the same hair styles, though.

I will update blog with her hair and hair care as well, moving forward.

Until next time, y'all! Keep that hair happy...not "nappy"

-SC

Mommy/Daughter Prepoo with Coconut Oil - YouTube Video

Decided to do a video showing how one does a prepoo / moisturinzing treatment using coconut oil.
I did my own hair, then did a demo using my daughter's hair. Yes, people, take care of your kid's hair too! :)

Time For a New Protective Style

So, I've had my microlinks out for a couple of weeks now. I've washed my hair a couple of times, deep conditioned, regular conditioning, two-strand twisted it, rocked a couple of twist-outs and a one or two wash-n-go's. I feel it is time to let my hair rest and rid it of manipulation for a at least a month.

Today, I'm thinking I'm going to do a deep moisturizing treatment - a prepoo with coconut oil. I'll follow with a shea butter leave-in conditioning cream and then I'll braid my hair into cornrows and begin crocheting it tomorrow.

I did crochet hairstyles for the majority of my time transitioning and it really showed my hair some love.
Since, it is summer time here in the windy city it is REALLY hot, REALLY humid and NOT very windy at all! LOL. It is definitely too hot and humid to be rocking wigs (though, I'll probably bring them back into the rotation come fall or winter), and because I don't want to over-manipulate my hair to help with retention, I think crochets and sew-ins will be my buddies for the next couple of months.

I'll update with whatever look I decide to give myself!


Until next time....

Hair Journey Essentials - Products I Use #1

These are just a few things that I have come to know and love since having started my hair journey. Good products for both natural and chemically treated hair.

Finger Coils For Kids - Cute and a PS!

So, I was contemplating giving myself some finger coils, but decided to hold off because my hair is soo, so thick I wasn't quite sure what the end result would be and also because I currently have my hair in a two-strand twist protective style and I want to wash and condition my hair before the next hairdo.
Therefore, I opted to do them on my almost-four-year-old daughter instead.
Here's where we are so far with it- about halfway done with her head. Taking a break so she can run around, and then I'll be back for round 2. I will post the finished product here as well as post a brief tutorial on how to do them on my YouTube channel. You can subscribe to my YouTube channel by clicking here: SUBSCRIBE TO MY YOUTUBE CHANNEL

Also, since you're reading this, take a moment to look at the left margin of this blog, click on the blue "Join this sirte" button to follow this blog and stay current with all things HAIR!

Microlinks on Natural 4B/4C Hair - 30 Day Review

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d6Q5XhvsHAs

At the Beach with Natural Hair-- Things You'll Need

It's important not to forget to properly care for your hair during these summer months.
Here are a few of the essential items that you'll need this summer when enjoying a hot day at the beach or pool:

• Swimmer's conditioner - Apply before swimming to prevent hair from absorbing too much water.

• UV Spray- Will protect your hair during long periods of sun exposure to your hair.

• Chlorine Removal Shampoo- Will rid your hair of damaging chlorine after your swim

• Swim Cap- To prevent your hair from being soaked with chlorine-filled water

• Floppy Hat- Protects your hair from the sun and keeps you looking FAB all at the same time.

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My Twist turned Faux-Hawk!

This is how changed up the look of yesterday's twist-out:

Easy Ways To Stretch Your Hair

Banding

• Divide your detangled, wet hair into 8-10 sections
• Apply rubber bands about 1 inch apart along length of the hair
• Allow to air dry

Bunning

• Start with wet, detangled hair and apply leave-in conditioners
• Divide hair into 2 sections and brush edges with boar bristle brush
• Tie into 2, low twisted buns 
• Allow to air dry

"Double Bubble"

(Provides the best results)

• Stretch your wet hair by bunning or banding method
• Allow to air dry
• Once dry, section hair and braid 
• Leave overnight to set

Questions About Transitioning vs. Big Chop?

Transitioning

Here's the long and short of it- Transitioning is when you grow out your relaxed hair until it has reached a length where you are comfortable wearing it, then cutting off your relaxed ends.




Big Chop (or "BC")

The big chop, sometimes referred to as "BC," is when you chop off all of your relaxed hair and basically start your natural journey with you new growth, or a TWA, (teeny weeny afro).


Hope this helped those who are thinking about going natural or just had questions!

My Twist-Out:The Results and How I Did It

So, I must say, I like this twist-out style a lot better than the last one. That Hollywood Beauty Oilive Oil really made a difference in the appearance of my hair. Also, the back looks a lot better as I made the twists slightly smaller. Reason behind that is that my hair in the back is more coarse than in the front, so the last time, when the twists were bigger and I hadn't added the olive oil, they were really dry-looking and frizzy- not too cute. 

This is how I did it:

- Wet/Dampen hair

-Section Hair 

-Add Cantu Shea Butter Twist & Lock Moisturizing Gel (from root to tip)

- Add Hollywood Beauty Olive Oil (from root to tip)

-Twist hair

-let air dry overnight

-unravel twists 

-separate 3-4 times to make smaller curls

Tweaking My Twists and Twist-Out

So, yesterday I did my wash, but didn't have time to style...so I did a wash-n-go. Today I did my two-strand twists, but this time I did the ones in the back just a tad bit smaller because the last time they were too puffy. This time I also used olive oil to help with sheen and moisture....we shall see if I like the results better tomorrow when I unravel them. At first glance, they do look more moist than the last time I did them...but again, we shall see in due time!

Using HairFinity -- Day 15

So, I am just over 2 weeks in with my HairFinity vitamins and I wanted to do an update with my progress thus far. My hair has always been quite thick, so that was not my main reasoning for taking the vitamins. I was more into it for promoting hair growth. I do think that my hair is a bit thicker, though and it has definitely grown in these short two weeks that I've been taking them. The pic below shows where I am now, 2 weeks into it, which you can compare with my earlier post that showed where I was on Day 1. When I started, the portion from the from went down to about mid-chin and now it well past there.
Remember, if you want to give HairFinity a try you can click the widget on this blog's homepage any time, or you can click here to get started with your supply.

and here is a side-by-side comparison from when I stared:

Quick Tip #2

If you blow dry your hair, always use a diffuser to dry curls evenly. Flip your head, start at the roots and work your way down to the ends.

Diggin This Individual Twist-Out

Twist-Out Time!

So yesterday, I washed my hair with Dark and Lovely's Au Naturale Hydrating Soak Shampoo (boy, that's a mouth full!). I conditioned with Smooth and Shine's Tea Tree and Olive Oil deep conditioner and then two-strand twisted my hair using Cantu Shea Butter Twist and Loc Moisturizer Gel to prep for today's twist-out. Here's a shot showing the before and after results. Overall, I like it. I haven't done many twist-outs but I am content with this one. My only complaint is that my curls, though they do not FEEL dry, do LOOK a bit dry to me, even when the starands were twisted. So my hope is that in the very near future I will find some thing or some way to change that. That- and maybe a teeny bit more definition.
But for the most part- FIERCE!

A Wash-n-Go Type of Day

Just finished taking out my microlinks. Time to get back to rocking my natural hair! So, a deep condition and wash was very much necessary. No time to do much else to it, so a wash-n-go it was! Not as many coils as I would have liked, but hey...

Quick Tip #1

Condition wet hair and gently detangle with a wide-toothed comb before shampooing to protect against split ends and breakage

Wear Your Hair Curly Day!!!!

August 14th is "Wear Your Hair Curly" Day!!!

Celebrate your natural-born beauty!

I will be acknowledging the day with some FIERCE curls...if you will too, leave me a comment below!

Elongating My Twist-Out

I was finishing up on my two-strand twists for a twist-out, when it occured to me just how much length I was losing to shrinkage. Now, I know that even with the shrinkage my 'do will still be fierce, but I wanted to see if I could combat that dreaded shrinkage, LOL. I personally haven't seen anyone else try this method, but it did and does work for me. So, here's what I did: after I finished up with the twists, I went and grabbed some of my daughter's hair 'balls' and put them on the ends of my twists (I put 2 twists with each set of balls). Adding them, made up for about 1/2-1 inch of shrinkage that I would have had, had I not weighed the twists down a bit while air drying. And this is what it looked like:

Give it a try and tell me what YOU think! :) Until next time...."Be Happy. Not 'Nappy'"

Order HairFinity today and SAVE!!!!

Hey lovely ladies!

Looking to order your HairFinity vitamins, but want to save some $$$...MUST click on the link below to order and when checking out you can use promo code 'SUMMER2013' to save 10% off of your order! http://www.shopbrockbeauty.com/?AffId=563

1st Thoughts: Dark and Lovely 10-in-1 Styles Gelee

Okay, so if you follow this blog you know that I was quite ready to dive into Dark and Lovely's new Au Naturale line of products.

I tried the shampoo on my daughter's 3c type hair and I liked the results that I got. It was pretty much what I had hoped and expected that it would do as far as elongating her curls. Her curls define pretty well on their own so that aspect of it was not something I was really looking for in regards to her hair.

I will update with results of what it does for my own 4b type hair soon!

Meanwhile, I also purchased the Au Naturale 10-in-1 Gelee from Dark and Lovely. You know, might as well see what each product in the line has to offer, right? Well, I must say that I was not too pleased with the gelee. The consistency is just too watery for my tastes. When I got it home and really looked at it, I was thinking to myself " I don't know about this one." My gut feeling was right. That runny stuff is just no good for my THICK hair. It can't possibly hold and help define my hair for twist-outs and knot-outs, etc, etc. So sadly, I must say that I will not be adding it to my "Hair Life" team of products.

It may or may not work for you and give you the results that you are looking for, but for me it was a no-no. I will have to pass on this one! If you do or have used it, I would love to know how it worked for you. Leave me a comment and let me know.

Ta-ta for now.

Keep that hair HAPPY! :)

1st Thoughts: Dark and Lovely Au Naturale "Hydrating Soak Shampoo"

Well, let me start by saying I was quite pleased to see that Dark and Lovely created this line and was very excited to give it try and see if it really did what it said it could.

Their formula is supposed to elongate, soften and define curls. So, hello! this is what I need. :)
I actually used the shampoo on my daughter's hair, which is more of a 3b/3c texture. Her curls/coils are very, very tight and her hair is very, VERY thick. I really wanted to try it on her hair because her hair is so long, but with those tight curls, after washing and letting it air-dry, there is quite a it of shrinkage. Still cute, mind you, but not all that it could be.

So, I washed her hair with it and boy, was I pleased. It really made her curls looser. I could tell right away while washing it that there was a difference. The curls were still very much defined, light and bouncy, but not as tight as they'd usually be after washing her hair. Not to mention how good it smells. That coconut milk and honey is a delightful combination.

So, I really think it's a great product. I'm just anxious to give it a go on my mane! If you try it, let me know what YOU think by using the "comment" section of this post.

Product Review: Hollywood Beauty Olive Oil

I have recently begun using the olive oil by Hollywood Beauty. I decided to purchase to help aid with fighting my hair breakage. Right on the first application and usage, I really loved it. Makes hair really soft and the sheen is to die for! Hair feels a lot more moisturized.

In addition to softness and sheen, I used this on the ends of my hair where I noticed a bit a of breakage. I would imagine I'll need a bit more time to see a difference, but I am thinking it will make the hair healthier in time.

I have also used this olive oil for heat protection when I flat-iron my hair. Unlike some natural girls out there, I DO use heat with my hair. My hair is so very, very thick and sometimes, depending on the hair style or my mood, I do flat iron my hair. Of course, when applying heat to your hair it is always recommended that you use a heat protector.

I definitely recommend Hollywood Beauty's Olive Oil. It gets the job done.

3 Ways to STOP Hair Breakage

Tips for Shiny, Strong Hair

*Eat Omega-3 Rich Foods

Omega-3 fatty acids make up a small percentage of hair follicles and the body needs omega-3 fatty acids to support optimal hair growth. Sadly, our bodies cannot produce these fatty acids on their own, so it's up to you to get them on your own via a healthy diet.
Examples of foods that contain and are rich with Omega-3 are:

• Salmon
• Sardines
• Avocado
• Pumpkin
• Walnuts

*Get Plenty of B Vitamins

B vitamins are extremely important in regard to your hair's health, along with vitamin D, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids. B vitamins boost the immune system and help the body produce red blood cells and have been linked to hair growth. Vitamin B6 is especially important for healthy hair, however taking a B complex vitamin is best for most people.
Examples of foods that contain B vitamins:

• Beans
• Nuts
• Whole grains

*Shampoos and Other Products

You need to use a gentle, mild and natural shampoo and conditioner to help add shine to hair. Also, adding a hot oil treatment periodically will add glossiness to over processed tresses.

Protective Style: Bantu Knot-out...HOT!

I am really feeling this bantu knot-out! So fresh...no frizz! LOVE IT! My head/face is not made for bantu knots, in my opinion, but this knot-out might be the bomb. I will have to try once I take my microlinks out.

Using HairFinity -- Day 1

So this pic illustrates where I am as far as hair length as I begin the HairFinity regimen. Began 06/25/2013.

Day 1

HairFinity has arrived ...

I have done my own personal "research" regarding the results of using these and whether they actually work or not. I would say about 90% of all feedback was good. So, with those odds I figured it couldn't hurt to give them a try.

So, yesterday I received my two-month supply of Hairfinity vitamins, which promote growth of strong, healthy hair "from the inside out" and today I will begin my regimen. (BTW, I ordered on a Thursday afternoon and they arrived Monday--so FAST shipping!). Of course, I will update with progression....

I just LOVE all this pink :)

... and if you'd like to order some for yourself, you can do so here: www.shopbrockbeauty.com/?AffId=563

Finger Coils?

Saw this finger coil hair style earlier today.
It looked kinda cute. Think I might try that.

Dark and Lovely Au Naturale Products

Dark and Lovely Au Naturale Hydrating Soak Shampoo.


Recently purchased. No harsh chemicals. Great for ALL curl types.

Dark and Lovely Au Naturale 10-IN-1 Gelee

Great for natural hair hairstyling. Knot-Outs, Braid-outs, Twist-outs....etc. Lots of hold with no "crunch!"

Can't wait to try on my twist-out....pics soon to come

Don't Forget to FOLLOW ME!

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You can also follow by entering your email address in the box that says "Follow By Email" on the right side of your screen.

Thank you so much for taking this journey with me and sharing in my process. If there's anything you would like to know or see, please comment on a post with your question.

If you like what you're seeing here, be sure to +1 this blog, follow, and share.
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Remember to keep your hair "Healthy and Happy"

---SakeenaChanel

Check Me Out on YouTube

My YouTube channel is up and coming and will feature many DIY hair tutorials and product reviews and general hair care related posts and videos.

SUBSCRIBE and check out my videos here: www.youtube.com/user/Keena84

New Hair Care Products for my Regimen

I went out last evening and purchased some new hair care products especially formulated for natural hair.
The ones that I got are from the Dark and Lovely line called "Au Naturale"
I hope that they are all I expect them to be.
Will try soon and keep you posted.

HairFinity is on it's way to me!

So, I pulled the trigger on ordering my HairFinity Vitamins.

Ordered a 2-month supply yesterday.

It went out today, so I should get it during the beginning of next week some time.

EXCITED!!!! :)

You can get your HairFinity products here: www.shopbrockbeauty.com/?AffId=563

Length Check : Mid June 2013

Okay, so this is where I'm at now, mid June of 2013. I'd say that's about 1/2 inch past the collar bone.

Side view.

 And this is where I am in the back.

Learn more and purchase here: HAIRFINITY

Get a Boost with HairFinity!

Rather recently I discovered these seemingly awesome hair vitamins called "HairFinity" by BrockBeauty.

They are supposed to promote healthy hair growth "from the inside out."

I've seen fabulous reviews and results from others that have used this product and I am most definitely going to give them a try! I will be posting and updating with my progress once I begin my regimen.

You can take a closer look and place your order for them here: 

Ready to step up your beauty game? Click here to find out how.

So, today I will officially begin the documentation of my hair journey.

Went natural about 2 years ago, give or take. I did not do the "big chop" that I often hear about. However, I did just kind of phase out the relaxed hair and now my hair is relaxer free! No lye!

I am pretty happy with my hair for the most part. It took a bit of time to get all of that relaxed hair out of the picture, so now I am really motivated to start a better hair care regimen and really get this stuff growing and making sure that it is as healthy as can be.

Currently, I am rocking some microlinks that I recently installed. I think I might remove them in about 3 weeks or so. I want to trim my ends and moisturize and deep condition my hair and get ready to really grow this stuff out.

For the record, I have predominantly 4c hair with a little 4b mixed in there.
My hair is incredibly thick and as far as length goes, currently it is a little past my shoulders in the back and the longest piece in the front is about at my collar bone.

So...I will document my journey from this point on....walk with me!

The pic at top left is most recent- with the microlinks installed
Top middle is my natural hair 'fro'd out
Bottom left is my natural hair in an uncombed afro... just so you know where we're starting from ;)