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"Grow Afro-Textured Hair To Maximum Lengths In The Shortest Time" - Chicoro

I have mentioned that I like to follow Chicoro's method for sealing when bunning my hair - well she has a tone of additional great tips. What I really like about Chicoro is that she was able to grow and retain healthy hair with simple techniques. Less it more. 


The following list was composed by Chicoro, Author of Grow It: How To Grow Afro-Textured Hair To Maximum Lengths In The Shortest Time. Below the list is a link to how you can download a free copy of her 13-page book.


1. Avoid bleach and hair dye.These products degrade the protein on your hair, damage the hair, and make the hair strand weaker and vulnerable to breakage.
2. Detangle hair with fingers only enough to section your hair before washing. Do this only if hair is not dry and hard, matted, or sticky with product. This will help to smooth hair in one direction and minimize tangles.
3. Detangle hair when wet with a comb, when trying to remove snarls and tangles.Afro-textured hair is more relaxed when wet and less prone to breakage when wet.
4. Air dry hair whenever possible. The moisture level in hair matches the moisture level in the environment. Blow drying dries hair and removes natural moisture from the hair strand. This makes it prone to dryness and breakage.
5. Cover your head when in bright sun and windy environments. The sun and air degrade the protein in your hair and break it down. This weakens the hair strands and hair structure.
6. Moisturize and lubricate your hair. Moisture comes from water. Your hair strands contain water and this is what makes the hair flexible and pliable. Lubrication helps the hairs to slide past one another and align in the same direction. Water provides moisture and oil like substances provide lubrication. They are not the same.
7. To hold on to all the length you get, use protective styling. This keeps the ends of the hair from the air and minimizes dryness. Protective styling is not necessary to gain length, but can help you to grow your hair past the point where it usually breaks.
8. Put down the scissors. Cutting hair does not make it grow. Trim or cut when hair is split or broken. Most hair grows unevenly. It’s natural.
9. Set goals for your hair. Determine what you want to do. Goals help keep you on track.
10. Document your hair journey. Take photos of your starting point. Write down what products you use and how you use them. Photos help you to see true progress. Without photos, sometimes we cut off our hair because we think we have not made any progress. Photos and journals help you to see clearly and serve as a record for what works and doesn’t work for you.

"Grow Afro-Textured Hair To Maximum Lengths In The Shortest Time" - Chicoro

I have mentioned that I like to follow Chicoro's method for sealing when bunning my hair - well she has a tone of additional great tips. What I really like about Chicoro is that she was able to grow and retain healthy hair with simple techniques. Less it more. 


The following list was composed by Chicoro, Author of Grow It: How To Grow Afro-Textured Hair To Maximum Lengths In The Shortest Time. Below the list is a link to how you can download a free copy of her 13-page book.


1. Avoid bleach and hair dye.These products degrade the protein on your hair, damage the hair, and make the hair strand weaker and vulnerable to breakage.
2. Detangle hair with fingers only enough to section your hair before washing. Do this only if hair is not dry and hard, matted, or sticky with product. This will help to smooth hair in one direction and minimize tangles.
3. Detangle hair when wet with a comb, when trying to remove snarls and tangles.Afro-textured hair is more relaxed when wet and less prone to breakage when wet.
4. Air dry hair whenever possible. The moisture level in hair matches the moisture level in the environment. Blow drying dries hair and removes natural moisture from the hair strand. This makes it prone to dryness and breakage.
5. Cover your head when in bright sun and windy environments. The sun and air degrade the protein in your hair and break it down. This weakens the hair strands and hair structure.
6. Moisturize and lubricate your hair. Moisture comes from water. Your hair strands contain water and this is what makes the hair flexible and pliable. Lubrication helps the hairs to slide past one another and align in the same direction. Water provides moisture and oil like substances provide lubrication. They are not the same.
7. To hold on to all the length you get, use protective styling. This keeps the ends of the hair from the air and minimizes dryness. Protective styling is not necessary to gain length, but can help you to grow your hair past the point where it usually breaks.
8. Put down the scissors. Cutting hair does not make it grow. Trim or cut when hair is split or broken. Most hair grows unevenly. It’s natural.
9. Set goals for your hair. Determine what you want to do. Goals help keep you on track.
10. Document your hair journey. Take photos of your starting point. Write down what products you use and how you use them. Photos help you to see true progress. Without photos, sometimes we cut off our hair because we think we have not made any progress. Photos and journals help you to see clearly and serve as a record for what works and doesn’t work for you.

Hair of the Week

Last week I gave my hair a much needed break from elastic bands and hair pins. I created a simple two strand/flat twist updo.


 To moisturize throughout the week I would spritz my hair with S-curl.


The only thing I started to dislike about this style was that the hair on the side was hanging in my face and started to cause a breakout on my cheek.


On Friday I took out the twists and gathered my hair in a high loose ponytail.


 The headband in the picture is from Tomoka's Twists, I picked this up at the NC Natural Hair Care Expo 2011. I bought myself and Hubby one. They are so easy on the hair. Most of my headbands I can only wear for a few hours because they start to hurt. This headband felt just fine all day long.

Hair of the Week

Last week I gave my hair a much needed break from elastic bands and hair pins. I created a simple two strand/flat twist updo.


 To moisturize throughout the week I would spritz my hair with S-curl.


The only thing I started to dislike about this style was that the hair on the side was hanging in my face and started to cause a breakout on my cheek.


On Friday I took out the twists and gathered my hair in a high loose ponytail.


 The headband in the picture is from Tomoka's Twists, I picked this up at the NC Natural Hair Care Expo 2011. I bought myself and Hubby one. They are so easy on the hair. Most of my headbands I can only wear for a few hours because they start to hurt. This headband felt just fine all day long.

In The News: My bald patch led to a thriving UK natural hair community :: People with Voices

Curls are really starting to "run the world," not too long ago a few curlies had a feature in the NY Times and now here's a UK curly featured on People With Voices. This was one of the top stories on my Google news feed.

My bald patch led to a thriving UK natural hair community :: People with Voices

After you read the article, check out the sites:

The Natural Lounge Blog

The Natural Lounge Facebook Group

In The News: My bald patch led to a thriving UK natural hair community :: People with Voices

Curls are really starting to "run the world," not too long ago a few curlies had a feature in the NY Times and now here's a UK curly featured on People With Voices. This was one of the top stories on my Google news feed.

My bald patch led to a thriving UK natural hair community :: People with Voices

After you read the article, check out the sites:

The Natural Lounge Blog

The Natural Lounge Facebook Group

What's Your Nighttime Regimen?


As naturals or individuals on our healthy hair journeys, we tend to spend a lot of time on our seasonal regimens and that makes it easy to forget about the nighttime regimen. What good is a great summer regimen if you destroy most of your efforts at night?

When developing a nighttime regimen you should first examine what it is that your hair will need throughout the night. Loose hair will have different needs than hair that is in a protective style.

For example my nighttime hair regimens are as follows:

Loose hair
Whether it's twist-outs, braid-outs, or curly sets, I pineapple my hair and put on either my loc soc or my satin bonnet. I don't apply any product to my hair at night when its loose because I tend to lose most of the product in my bonnet, on the pillowcase, or on the sheets when I am sleeping at night. In the morning I will remove the bonnet/loc soc, fluff, and spray with a light oil. I don't spritz my hair with a water-based product because for me, water=frizz on loose hair. Also, I don't retwist or rebraid because I have learned that my hair does not respond well to a lot of manipulation

If my hair is straight, I apply coconut oil or shea butter to the ends of my hair at night. Then I wrap my hair and put on a durag. This helps keep my hair straight and prevent it from drying out when I have flat ironed my hair.

Updos and Protective Styles
My nighttime regimen is easy when my hair is in a protective style. When my hair is in a protective style I can use water-based products and I don't get frizz. So I will spritz my hair with a water-based product at night and tie down my hair with a durag. The water-based product in combination with a du-rag actually helps the fly-aways lay down and keeps the style looking fresh longer.

How is your nighttime regimen? Have you learned any helpful tips or tricks along the way?

What's Your Nighttime Regimen?


As naturals or individuals on our healthy hair journeys, we tend to spend a lot of time on our seasonal regimens and that makes it easy to forget about the nighttime regimen. What good is a great summer regimen if you destroy most of your efforts at night?

When developing a nighttime regimen you should first examine what it is that your hair will need throughout the night. Loose hair will have different needs than hair that is in a protective style.

For example my nighttime hair regimens are as follows:

Loose hair
Whether it's twist-outs, braid-outs, or curly sets, I pineapple my hair and put on either my loc soc or my satin bonnet. I don't apply any product to my hair at night when its loose because I tend to lose most of the product in my bonnet, on the pillowcase, or on the sheets when I am sleeping at night. In the morning I will remove the bonnet/loc soc, fluff, and spray with a light oil. I don't spritz my hair with a water-based product because for me, water=frizz on loose hair. Also, I don't retwist or rebraid because I have learned that my hair does not respond well to a lot of manipulation

If my hair is straight, I apply coconut oil or shea butter to the ends of my hair at night. Then I wrap my hair and put on a durag. This helps keep my hair straight and prevent it from drying out when I have flat ironed my hair.

Updos and Protective Styles
My nighttime regimen is easy when my hair is in a protective style. When my hair is in a protective style I can use water-based products and I don't get frizz. So I will spritz my hair with a water-based product at night and tie down my hair with a durag. The water-based product in combination with a du-rag actually helps the fly-aways lay down and keeps the style looking fresh longer.

How is your nighttime regimen? Have you learned any helpful tips or tricks along the way?

Heavenly Hues & Hair Do's: 2 Flat Twists & A Bun

Check it out:


Cute protective and summertime hairstyle. This hairstyle would be great for a busy hot day when your hair needs some conditioning. This style will give you the option to condition on the go.

Conditioning on the go is something I used to do a lot during my college days when I would only have 2 free hours at a time. I would simply use a deep conditioner as a styler and let it sit in my hair all day until I was ready to wash and rinse at the end of the day.

Worried about this turning white? Apply the conditioner, style (no gel or oil), and leave it alone. If it is not touched it should not flake or turn white.

If you try this look please leave Mrs.TheBronx a comment.

Heavenly Hues & Hair Do's: 2 Flat Twists & A Bun

Check it out:


Cute protective and summertime hairstyle. This hairstyle would be great for a busy hot day when your hair needs some conditioning. This style will give you the option to condition on the go.

Conditioning on the go is something I used to do a lot during my college days when I would only have 2 free hours at a time. I would simply use a deep conditioner as a styler and let it sit in my hair all day until I was ready to wash and rinse at the end of the day.

Worried about this turning white? Apply the conditioner, style (no gel or oil), and leave it alone. If it is not touched it should not flake or turn white.

If you try this look please leave Mrs.TheBronx a comment.

4th of July Firework

I apologize I didn't get this up for the 4th of July things have been busy as most of you experience too!
The state we live in celebrates the 24th of July much like the 4th of July which I forget that other states don't celebrate.  

This style was so simple and she turned out to be the most patriotic hair around our town.
All I did was make a poof then put her hair into pigtails (since she doesn't have much hair this was the easiest)
I went to our local dollar store and found a patriotic paper weight that had the strings below 
and stars attached to a metal wire wrapped in red white and blue. 
I folded the long strands of red white and blue over so they weren't so long and secured them with an elastic.
Right before we went out for the night we wrapped bracelet glow sticks in between each pigtail.  Since the bracelets were much heavier than her hair we added a 3 on across the top of her head.

I tried the Curly Girl Method...


I first heard about the Curly Girl Method on the CurlyNikki.com forums. I have always been a shampoo girl so when I read that it eliminated shampoo I didn't give this method a second thought. Plus, I was done with bandwagons by the time I heard of the Curly Girl Method. However, not to long ago I started washing my hair twice a week but I only used shampoo once a week. I liked how soft my hair felt after the co-washes plus I didn't need to DC after co-washes so they are somewhat of a time-saver. To make a long story short - I thought this would be a good time to try a modified Curly Girl Method.

To begin the Curly Girl Method I clarified my hair with a sulfate shampoo, deep conditioned with a -cone free conditioner and rinsed in cool water. After that first wash I followed it with conditioner washing only on wash days for one month.

Click Here for "How to Follow the Curly Girl Method"

My method was modified because I did not leave my hair loose and I still used oils on my hair. After one month of using conditioner only my hair was soft and there was little to no breakage but to be honest I really couldn't tell much difference between my shampooed hair and my no shampoo hair.

When I use shampoo I only use it on my scalp so the shampoo is not applied to the length of my hair anyway. I also steam and deep condition every wash day so shampoo has not had any ill effects on my hair. One benefit from this method would be that I would not have to do as much steaming and conditioning on wash day if I wasn't using shampoo.

I would say if you are curious about the curly girl method, give it a try. What have you got to lose? You may already have the products needed to get started.

Have you tried the Curly Girl Method? How did it work for you?

I tried the Curly Girl Method...


I first heard about the Curly Girl Method on the CurlyNikki.com forums. I have always been a shampoo girl so when I read that it eliminated shampoo I didn't give this method a second thought. Plus, I was done with bandwagons by the time I heard of the Curly Girl Method. However, not to long ago I started washing my hair twice a week but I only used shampoo once a week. I liked how soft my hair felt after the co-washes plus I didn't need to DC after co-washes so they are somewhat of a time-saver. To make a long story short - I thought this would be a good time to try a modified Curly Girl Method.

To begin the Curly Girl Method I clarified my hair with a sulfate shampoo, deep conditioned with a -cone free conditioner and rinsed in cool water. After that first wash I followed it with conditioner washing only on wash days for one month.

Click Here for "How to Follow the Curly Girl Method"

My method was modified because I did not leave my hair loose and I still used oils on my hair. After one month of using conditioner only my hair was soft and there was little to no breakage but to be honest I really couldn't tell much difference between my shampooed hair and my no shampoo hair.

When I use shampoo I only use it on my scalp so the shampoo is not applied to the length of my hair anyway. I also steam and deep condition every wash day so shampoo has not had any ill effects on my hair. One benefit from this method would be that I would not have to do as much steaming and conditioning on wash day if I wasn't using shampoo.

I would say if you are curious about the curly girl method, give it a try. What have you got to lose? You may already have the products needed to get started.

Have you tried the Curly Girl Method? How did it work for you?

Dry hair? Try a Hot Oil Treatment


The dry winter air can be harsh on your strands and so can the summer. This can leave you looking for a remedy for dry hair all year long. Have you tried hot oil treatments?

Many professional hair stylists recommend that hot oil treatments are done on a weekly basis. Let me be the first to admit that I only do them as needed - doing them weekly would be too much for my hair. Hot oil treatments can work by giving your hair strength and locking in the moisture it needs to prevent breakage.

Some common ingredients used in hot oil treatments are Olive oil, honey, canola oil, various body & hair oils, and essential oils. The oil choice that you use should be based on your hair's needs.

To do a hot oil treatment you will want to heat the oil first. Some people heat the oil in the microwave, I don't recommend this method for heating because the oil gets too hot too fast. If you do choose to use the microwave please make sure you let the oil cool before using. The oil should be warm-to slightly hot, NOT burning hot. I prefer to heat my oil by placing it in a plastic container and then setting that container in a bowl of hot water. The oil will heat up gradually with this method.

Then apply the warm oil to your hair (I like to apply to dry hair), cover with a plastic cap, and let the oil sit on your hair for 15-20 minutes. At this point you can then shampoo and condition as usual.

The results from an hot oil treatment may not be instant but with consistency you should begin to see an improvement in your hair.

Additional Reading
Do A Homemade Hot Oil Treatment
How Hot Oil Treatments Work
How To Do A Hot Oil Treatment

Dry hair? Try a Hot Oil Treatment


The dry winter air can be harsh on your strands and so can the summer. This can leave you looking for a remedy for dry hair all year long. Have you tried hot oil treatments?

Many professional hair stylists recommend that hot oil treatments are done on a weekly basis. Let me be the first to admit that I only do them as needed - doing them weekly would be too much for my hair. Hot oil treatments can work by giving your hair strength and locking in the moisture it needs to prevent breakage.

Some common ingredients used in hot oil treatments are Olive oil, honey, canola oil, various body & hair oils, and essential oils. The oil choice that you use should be based on your hair's needs.

To do a hot oil treatment you will want to heat the oil first. Some people heat the oil in the microwave, I don't recommend this method for heating because the oil gets too hot too fast. If you do choose to use the microwave please make sure you let the oil cool before using. The oil should be warm-to slightly hot, NOT burning hot. I prefer to heat my oil by placing it in a plastic container and then setting that container in a bowl of hot water. The oil will heat up gradually with this method.

Then apply the warm oil to your hair (I like to apply to dry hair), cover with a plastic cap, and let the oil sit on your hair for 15-20 minutes. At this point you can then shampoo and condition as usual.

The results from an hot oil treatment may not be instant but with consistency you should begin to see an improvement in your hair.

Additional Reading
Do A Homemade Hot Oil Treatment
How Hot Oil Treatments Work
How To Do A Hot Oil Treatment

HHCB: Conditioner


Decades ago hair conditioner was developed by a well known perfumer to soften men's hair, mustaches, and beards. Decades later silicone was added to this product and it became what we now have and know as modern hair conditioners.

The benefits derived from hair conditioners depend on the type of hair conditioner that is used. It is important to know that all hair conditioners are not created equally. There are thick conditioners, leave-in, ordinary, and hold conditioners. Thick conditioners are typically what many refer to as your deep conditioner. Ordinary conditioners are less thick and work well for many as a cowashing conditioner. Leave-in conditioners are even lighter and are applied and left on the hair after the washing process. Hold conditioners, not use often by many naturals, are conditioner the act like gels by which they are used to hold and set styles.

Conditioner and Natural Hair
For natural hair, conditioners can enable the detangling process to be easier by giving the hair some "slip." If your hair is ever extremely tangled, try applying a lot of conditioner and finger detangling first before using a detangling comb/brush. One of the biggest debates that you may notice in the natural hair community is the -cone vs non -cone conditioner. This is a decision that you will need to make for yourself as to which conditioner you prefer. Some individuals do just fine with silicone conditioners while others hate the way that their hair responds to the -cones in those conditioners. -Cones are ingredients used in some conditioners that can leave a plastic-like coating on the hair and may prevent the hair from absorbing moisture. Note: I said "may." I personally use -cone conditioners with no problem.

Co-washing is frequently mentioned with the topic of conditioners. Co-washing stands for Conditioner washing and it simply means to use conditioner as you would a shampoo for washing your hair. -Cone free conditioners are typically favored for this hair care technique. I prefer to co-wash by applying my deep conditioner to dry hair and then rinsing thoroughly.


What conditioner is best for you?
Choosing a conditioner can be overwhelming when you don't know your hair's needs. So the first step is to access your hair. Choosing a moisturizing conditioner for dry hair. Choose a protein-enriched conditioner for weak hair or choose a reconstructing conditioner for damaged hair. It is important to keep in mind that not all conditioners will work the same for all people and just because the bottle says it will do something does not mean that it is true. When selecting a conditioner to try, look for some samples. Save your hard earn dollars and avoid buying full sized products that may not work for you.

Get the Most Out of Your Conditioner
If your hair is thick, apply the conditioner in small sections. You will actually use up more product by just slapping on the conditioner in any kind of way. Read reviews and ratings, make your purchase decision based on what is important to you. I live by the "5-ingredient" rule before I purchase something new. Once you figure out which ingredients your hair loves, purchasing products will become easier.

Some Helpful Links
-Cone free conditioners
Chlorine fighting Conditioners
Deep Conditioning Tips


My Favorite conditioners: My Regimen

Read the other Healthy Hair Care Basics posts.

HHCB: Conditioner


Decades ago hair conditioner was developed by a well known perfumer to soften men's hair, mustaches, and beards. Decades later silicone was added to this product and it became what we now have and know as modern hair conditioners.

The benefits derived from hair conditioners depend on the type of hair conditioner that is used. It is important to know that all hair conditioners are not created equally. There are thick conditioners, leave-in, ordinary, and hold conditioners. Thick conditioners are typically what many refer to as your deep conditioner. Ordinary conditioners are less thick and work well for many as a cowashing conditioner. Leave-in conditioners are even lighter and are applied and left on the hair after the washing process. Hold conditioners, not use often by many naturals, are conditioner the act like gels by which they are used to hold and set styles.

Conditioner and Natural Hair
For natural hair, conditioners can enable the detangling process to be easier by giving the hair some "slip." If your hair is ever extremely tangled, try applying a lot of conditioner and finger detangling first before using a detangling comb/brush. One of the biggest debates that you may notice in the natural hair community is the -cone vs non -cone conditioner. This is a decision that you will need to make for yourself as to which conditioner you prefer. Some individuals do just fine with silicone conditioners while others hate the way that their hair responds to the -cones in those conditioners. -Cones are ingredients used in some conditioners that can leave a plastic-like coating on the hair and may prevent the hair from absorbing moisture. Note: I said "may." I personally use -cone conditioners with no problem.

Co-washing is frequently mentioned with the topic of conditioners. Co-washing stands for Conditioner washing and it simply means to use conditioner as you would a shampoo for washing your hair. -Cone free conditioners are typically favored for this hair care technique. I prefer to co-wash by applying my deep conditioner to dry hair and then rinsing thoroughly.


What conditioner is best for you?
Choosing a conditioner can be overwhelming when you don't know your hair's needs. So the first step is to access your hair. Choosing a moisturizing conditioner for dry hair. Choose a protein-enriched conditioner for weak hair or choose a reconstructing conditioner for damaged hair. It is important to keep in mind that not all conditioners will work the same for all people and just because the bottle says it will do something does not mean that it is true. When selecting a conditioner to try, look for some samples. Save your hard earn dollars and avoid buying full sized products that may not work for you.

Get the Most Out of Your Conditioner
If your hair is thick, apply the conditioner in small sections. You will actually use up more product by just slapping on the conditioner in any kind of way. Read reviews and ratings, make your purchase decision based on what is important to you. I live by the "5-ingredient" rule before I purchase something new. Once you figure out which ingredients your hair loves, purchasing products will become easier.

Some Helpful Links
-Cone free conditioners
Chlorine fighting Conditioners
Deep Conditioning Tips


My Favorite conditioners: My Regimen

Read the other Healthy Hair Care Basics posts.

6 Natural hairstyles you can do in a rush


We've all had those moments when we have somewhere to be and our hair is a mess, it won't do right, or the style we had planned just did not want to work. In situations like that I like to have a back up style that I can do in a just a few minutes. Presently, I have a few that I keep in my in the back of my mind for those emergencies.

Here a are few styles that can save the day when you don't have much time:
Sassy Updo by MsAriella89
Quick Updo by tiashauntee
Asian-Inspired Mohawk by JourneytomyRoots 
Banana Clip Bun by aliciajamesmusic
Natural Hair Protective Style Updo by MyNaturalSistas
2 Styles: Quick fix for an old twistout or fro by nikanaturally

I would highly recommend (with all styles) that you practice them when you have free time. Creating a look for the first time when you in a rush can be frustrating. Save yourself that stress.


Got any quick style tips or suggestions? Please leave them in the comment box.

6 Natural hairstyles you can do in a rush


We've all had those moments when we have somewhere to be and our hair is a mess, it won't do right, or the style we had planned just did not want to work. In situations like that I like to have a back up style that I can do in a just a few minutes. Presently, I have a few that I keep in my in the back of my mind for those emergencies.

Here a are few styles that can save the day when you don't have much time:
Sassy Updo by MsAriella89
Quick Updo by tiashauntee
Asian-Inspired Mohawk by JourneytomyRoots 
Banana Clip Bun by aliciajamesmusic
Natural Hair Protective Style Updo by MyNaturalSistas
2 Styles: Quick fix for an old twistout or fro by nikanaturally

I would highly recommend (with all styles) that you practice them when you have free time. Creating a look for the first time when you in a rush can be frustrating. Save yourself that stress.


Got any quick style tips or suggestions? Please leave them in the comment box.

Product Review: Dr Miracles Follicle Healer

One of the best things about natural hair gatherings/meet-ups (other than the awesome people) are the free samples of products that you may not have even thought of purchasing. I honestly never thought I would purchase any of Dr. Miracles products because I don't like their advertising but....




I received this product back in April at the Curly Girls Rock event in Atlanta. There were actually two sample packs in my bag and I was glad about that because it gave me a chance to try the product more than once so that I could be sure what I experienced was not a fluke.


They say: "My Restorative treatment is fortified with tea tree oil, aloe vera gel, soy protein and vitamins E, B3 and C, which boosts follicle and scalp health leading to beautiful, soft, shiny hair


Ingredients: Water Deionized (Aqua), Polysorbate 20, Aloe Vera Gel, Hydroxy Ethyl Cellulose, Polyquaternium -10, Allantoin, Wheat Germ Protein, Panthenol,Menthone Glycerin Acetal , Menthol, Isopulegol, Menthoxypropanediol, Salicylic Acid, Melaleuca Alternifolia Oil (Tea Tree Oil) , Biotin , PEG – 40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Retinyl Palmitate (Vitamin A), Pantothenic Acid , Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Thiamine , Pyridoxine HCL, (Glycine Soja) Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Cetyl Pyridinium Chloride, Lionoleaic Acid (Vitamin F), Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) , Propylene Glycol , Diazolidinyl urea, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Fragrance.


I Say: My scalp tingled, my tangles melted away, and my hair felt amazingly soft after rinsing. I was thorougly surprised at how well this product worked on my hair. I applied the deep conditioning treatment to freshly washed hair and sat under the steamer for about 20 minutes. After steaming I rinsed with cool water and my hair and scalp felt so refreshed. I would absolutely purchase this product again. Now I just have to find it locally - I will be searching my local Beauty Supply Stores.

Product Review: Dr Miracles Follicle Healer

One of the best things about natural hair gatherings/meet-ups (other than the awesome people) are the free samples of products that you may not have even thought of purchasing. I honestly never thought I would purchase any of Dr. Miracles products because I don't like their advertising but....




I received this product back in April at the Curly Girls Rock event in Atlanta. There were actually two sample packs in my bag and I was glad about that because it gave me a chance to try the product more than once so that I could be sure what I experienced was not a fluke.


They say: "My Restorative treatment is fortified with tea tree oil, aloe vera gel, soy protein and vitamins E, B3 and C, which boosts follicle and scalp health leading to beautiful, soft, shiny hair


Ingredients: Water Deionized (Aqua), Polysorbate 20, Aloe Vera Gel, Hydroxy Ethyl Cellulose, Polyquaternium -10, Allantoin, Wheat Germ Protein, Panthenol,Menthone Glycerin Acetal , Menthol, Isopulegol, Menthoxypropanediol, Salicylic Acid, Melaleuca Alternifolia Oil (Tea Tree Oil) , Biotin , PEG – 40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Retinyl Palmitate (Vitamin A), Pantothenic Acid , Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Thiamine , Pyridoxine HCL, (Glycine Soja) Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Cetyl Pyridinium Chloride, Lionoleaic Acid (Vitamin F), Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) , Propylene Glycol , Diazolidinyl urea, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Fragrance.


I Say: My scalp tingled, my tangles melted away, and my hair felt amazingly soft after rinsing. I was thorougly surprised at how well this product worked on my hair. I applied the deep conditioning treatment to freshly washed hair and sat under the steamer for about 20 minutes. After steaming I rinsed with cool water and my hair and scalp felt so refreshed. I would absolutely purchase this product again. Now I just have to find it locally - I will be searching my local Beauty Supply Stores.

Rolls to Side Ponytail

This is a quick and simple style. 
Start with a small roll.  Rolling her bangs back but leave a couple small amounts of hair around her face (these will be curled in ringlets)
Then roll all the hair starting on the opposite side.  Roll the hair into a side ponytail. 
Secure all the hair on the side with an elastic.
I then put ringlets in the hair around her face and the ponytail along with wrapping the ponytail with her own hair.

"CurlyNikki Does Raleigh" - Recap and Pictures

I would say that 98% of this past Saturday was spent with CurlyNikki and lots of curly friends. Sadly, Nikki is leaving the area but she couldn't leave us before hosting an awesome event (with lots of samples) for the natural ladies in the area. Attendees were there from as near as Raleigh (the host city) and as far as Charlotte (a 3 hour drive). It was great seeing so many gorgeous, smiling, and natural hair ladies (and some men). 

The line at 5:00pm
SheaMoisture sponsored the meet-up so there were a variety of free samples passed out. Conditioners, shampoo, bar soap, and masque treatments. There were also door prizes so 8 lucky attendees each left with about 3 full size products of SheaMoisture products. Those products are normally $9.99+ each so to leave with 3 or more for free...that's a great day!

CurlyNikki
Unfortunately, I was so busy running around that I didn't even get any samples for myself. I have tried the Curl Enhancing Smoothie but I want to try something else from their line to see if there is anything my hair will fall in love with. I like to find products that are easy to shop for and available in local stores. SheaMoisture is everywhere so I really want to give it a far shot. 

tiashauntee, Nikki, & NaturalNixon
I hope everyone that came out had a good time. Please understand that NC heat is beyond anyone's control and the AC was set on 66°, it was just that hot. If anyone tried to speak to me and I didn't answer, I apologize - I was probably trying to remember what to do next and trying to make sure all the SheaMoisture sample were put out for all of you to enjoy.


At the end of the night NaturalNixon and I presented CurlyNikki with a remember us/see you again gift. We gave her some of her favorite wine and also some wine from one of NC wineries - Carolina Red. We're gonna miss Nikki, she is truly a wonderful person. So down to earth, no super ego, and just gorgeous inside and out. Nikki, we WILL see you again soon! Try to have fun up in State College. :)


 Check out all that hair!


"CurlyNikki Does Raleigh" - Recap and Pictures

I would say that 98% of this past Saturday was spent with CurlyNikki and lots of curly friends. Sadly, Nikki is leaving the area but she couldn't leave us before hosting an awesome event (with lots of samples) for the natural ladies in the area. Attendees were there from as near as Raleigh (the host city) and as far as Charlotte (a 3 hour drive). It was great seeing so many gorgeous, smiling, and natural hair ladies (and some men). 

The line at 5:00pm
SheaMoisture sponsored the meet-up so there were a variety of free samples passed out. Conditioners, shampoo, bar soap, and masque treatments. There were also door prizes so 8 lucky attendees each left with about 3 full size products of SheaMoisture products. Those products are normally $9.99+ each so to leave with 3 or more for free...that's a great day!

CurlyNikki
Unfortunately, I was so busy running around that I didn't even get any samples for myself. I have tried the Curl Enhancing Smoothie but I want to try something else from their line to see if there is anything my hair will fall in love with. I like to find products that are easy to shop for and available in local stores. SheaMoisture is everywhere so I really want to give it a far shot. 

tiashauntee, Nikki, & NaturalNixon
I hope everyone that came out had a good time. Please understand that NC heat is beyond anyone's control and the AC was set on 66°, it was just that hot. If anyone tried to speak to me and I didn't answer, I apologize - I was probably trying to remember what to do next and trying to make sure all the SheaMoisture sample were put out for all of you to enjoy.


At the end of the night NaturalNixon and I presented CurlyNikki with a remember us/see you again gift. We gave her some of her favorite wine and also some wine from one of NC wineries - Carolina Red. We're gonna miss Nikki, she is truly a wonderful person. So down to earth, no super ego, and just gorgeous inside and out. Nikki, we WILL see you again soon! Try to have fun up in State College. :)


 Check out all that hair!


10 Ingredients to Avoid Putting on Your Hair


Ingredients

Isopropyl alcohol: Isopropyl alcohol is produced by combining water and propene. Isopropyl alcohol is used as a water-drying aid for the prevention of otitis externa, better known as swimmer's ear. Isopropyl alcohol is used in keyboard, LCD and laptop cleaning, is sold commercially as a whiteboard cleaner, and is a strong but safer alternative to common household cleaning products. Isopropyl alcohol can also be used to (in conjunction with detergents which break apart plasma membranes) facilitate the extraction of chromosomes.

Mineral oil/petroleum: A mineral oil or liquid petroleum is a liquid by-product of the distillation of petroleum to produce gasoline and other petroleum based products from crude oil. Mineral oil is generally safe for human contact and consumption and has been approved by the FDA in personal care and cosmetic products, as well as for an additive for food to 10 mg/kg of daily consumption. Mineral oil is a common ingredient in baby lotions, cold creams, ointments and cosmetics. It is a lightweight inexpensive oil that is odorless and tasteless. It can be used on eyelashes to prevent brittleness and breaking and, in cold cream, is also used to remove creme make-up and temporary tattoos. One of the common concerns regarding the use of mineral oil is its presence on several lists of comedogenic substances.

PEG polyethylene glycol: Polyethylene glycol (PEG) is a polyether compound with many applications from industrial manufacturing to medicine. It is the basis of many skin creams, as cetomacrogol, and sexual lubricants, frequently combined with glycerin.

PG propylene glycol: As a humectant food additive, labeled as E number E1520, As a moisturizer in medicines, cosmetics, food, toothpaste, shampoo, mouth wash, hair care and tobacco products. Prolonged contact with propylene glycol is essentially non-irritating to the skin. Exposure to mists may cause eye irritation, as well as upper respiratory tract irritation. According to a 2010 study by Karlstad University, the concentrations of PGEs, propylene glycol and glycol ethers in indoor air, particularly bedroom air, has been linked to increased risk of developing numerous respiratory and immune disorders in children, including asthma, hay fever, eczema, and allergies, with increased risk ranging from 50% to 180%. This concentration has been linked to use of water-based paints and water-based cleansers.

Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS)/Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES): commonly used in many soaps, shampoos, detergents, toothpastes and other products that we expect to "foam up". Both chemicals are very effective foaming agents, chemically known as surfactants. sodium laureth sulfate is somewhat less irritating than SLS, it cannot be metabolised by the liver and its effects are therefore much longer-lasting. This not only means it stays in the body tissues for longer, but much more precious energy is used getting rid of it.

Chlorine: a common disinfectant, chlorine compounds are used in swimming pools to keep them clean and sanitary. Chlorine is a toxic gas that irritates the respiratory system. Because it is heavier than air, it tends to accumulate at the bottom of poorly ventilated spaces. Chlorine gas is a strong oxidizer, which may react with flammable materials.

DEA/MEA/TEA: These two chemicals are often used in cosmetics to regulate the pH, and utilized with numerous fatty acids to change acid to salt (stearate), which then develops into the base for a cleaner. In 1996, the Cosmetics, Toiletries, and Fragrance Association stated that "These chemicals...should not be used as ingredients in cosmetic products."

Fragrance: Perfume oils are often diluted with a solvent, though this is not always the case, and its necessity is disputed. By far the most common solvent for perfume oil dilution is ethanol or a mixture of ethanol and water. Perfume oil can also be diluted by means of neutral-smelling oils such as fractionatedcoconut oil, or liquid waxes such as jojoba oil.

Imidazolidinyl Urea and DMDM Hydantoin: two of many preservatives that release formaldehyde. They are called formaldehyde-donors.


References
Toxic Ingredients

I never believe something that some random person suggested online, I always do my research. As you can see I looked up each ingredient and from this list I feel that it would be hard (not impossible) to avoid every single ingredient on this list. Some things are not as harmful in moderation so I can say with confidence that this list has not influenced me to change any of my product choices. 


Thoughts?

10 Ingredients to Avoid Putting on Your Hair


Ingredients

Isopropyl alcohol: Isopropyl alcohol is produced by combining water and propene. Isopropyl alcohol is used as a water-drying aid for the prevention of otitis externa, better known as swimmer's ear. Isopropyl alcohol is used in keyboard, LCD and laptop cleaning, is sold commercially as a whiteboard cleaner, and is a strong but safer alternative to common household cleaning products. Isopropyl alcohol can also be used to (in conjunction with detergents which break apart plasma membranes) facilitate the extraction of chromosomes.

Mineral oil/petroleum: A mineral oil or liquid petroleum is a liquid by-product of the distillation of petroleum to produce gasoline and other petroleum based products from crude oil. Mineral oil is generally safe for human contact and consumption and has been approved by the FDA in personal care and cosmetic products, as well as for an additive for food to 10 mg/kg of daily consumption. Mineral oil is a common ingredient in baby lotions, cold creams, ointments and cosmetics. It is a lightweight inexpensive oil that is odorless and tasteless. It can be used on eyelashes to prevent brittleness and breaking and, in cold cream, is also used to remove creme make-up and temporary tattoos. One of the common concerns regarding the use of mineral oil is its presence on several lists of comedogenic substances.

PEG polyethylene glycol: Polyethylene glycol (PEG) is a polyether compound with many applications from industrial manufacturing to medicine. It is the basis of many skin creams, as cetomacrogol, and sexual lubricants, frequently combined with glycerin.

PG propylene glycol: As a humectant food additive, labeled as E number E1520, As a moisturizer in medicines, cosmetics, food, toothpaste, shampoo, mouth wash, hair care and tobacco products. Prolonged contact with propylene glycol is essentially non-irritating to the skin. Exposure to mists may cause eye irritation, as well as upper respiratory tract irritation. According to a 2010 study by Karlstad University, the concentrations of PGEs, propylene glycol and glycol ethers in indoor air, particularly bedroom air, has been linked to increased risk of developing numerous respiratory and immune disorders in children, including asthma, hay fever, eczema, and allergies, with increased risk ranging from 50% to 180%. This concentration has been linked to use of water-based paints and water-based cleansers.

Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS)/Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES): commonly used in many soaps, shampoos, detergents, toothpastes and other products that we expect to "foam up". Both chemicals are very effective foaming agents, chemically known as surfactants. sodium laureth sulfate is somewhat less irritating than SLS, it cannot be metabolised by the liver and its effects are therefore much longer-lasting. This not only means it stays in the body tissues for longer, but much more precious energy is used getting rid of it.

Chlorine: a common disinfectant, chlorine compounds are used in swimming pools to keep them clean and sanitary. Chlorine is a toxic gas that irritates the respiratory system. Because it is heavier than air, it tends to accumulate at the bottom of poorly ventilated spaces. Chlorine gas is a strong oxidizer, which may react with flammable materials.

DEA/MEA/TEA: These two chemicals are often used in cosmetics to regulate the pH, and utilized with numerous fatty acids to change acid to salt (stearate), which then develops into the base for a cleaner. In 1996, the Cosmetics, Toiletries, and Fragrance Association stated that "These chemicals...should not be used as ingredients in cosmetic products."

Fragrance: Perfume oils are often diluted with a solvent, though this is not always the case, and its necessity is disputed. By far the most common solvent for perfume oil dilution is ethanol or a mixture of ethanol and water. Perfume oil can also be diluted by means of neutral-smelling oils such as fractionatedcoconut oil, or liquid waxes such as jojoba oil.

Imidazolidinyl Urea and DMDM Hydantoin: two of many preservatives that release formaldehyde. They are called formaldehyde-donors.


References
Toxic Ingredients

I never believe something that some random person suggested online, I always do my research. As you can see I looked up each ingredient and from this list I feel that it would be hard (not impossible) to avoid every single ingredient on this list. Some things are not as harmful in moderation so I can say with confidence that this list has not influenced me to change any of my product choices. 


Thoughts?
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