You Asked, I Answered

The first question, I have actually been asked twice in one week. I felt that this post needed to go up as soon as possible.


You Asked:
I love your blog and I was just wondering how you moisturize your hair during the week and how you moisturize your hair after you wash and condition it. Thanks


I Answered:
Great question. It comes along at a time when I am ready to review my most recent moisturizer (that post will follow this one). When it comes to moisturizing my hair I like to incorporate it in every step in my regimen while at the same time still being careful not to over-moisturize my hair. Before shampooing I always prepoo to prevent the shampoo from drying out my hair and I always DC after a shampoo. If I am only cowashing, I apply my (thick & creamy) conditioner, sit under the steamer, and then rinse thoroughly. After shampooing or cowashing I apply a (water-based) leave-in conditioner, and seal with an oil or butter while my hair is still wet and while I am styling. If my hair is in a set style or a protective style I will spray my hair with a moisturizer almost daily.


You Asked:
You have some great tips on your blog and a lot of them have worked really well for me but I have a question about  styling my hair. How do I create braidouts and twistouts that are more defined? Thanx!


I Answered:
I have figured out after a lot of trial and error that I am able to get very defined looks on my hair when I set that twists/braids on wet hair. Setting on damp hair is not as defined and setting on dry hair gives me a big fluffy even less defined style. So I would suggest setting on wet hair, keeping the braids/twists neat, don't separate the sections to even out the length in the braids/twists, and let the hair dry completely before releasing the braids/twists.

Got a tip/suggestion to add? Please leave a comment below.

►If you have a question you would like to ask, please use the contact me button at the top of the page.

You Asked, I Answered

The first question, I have actually been asked twice in one week. I felt that this post needed to go up as soon as possible.


You Asked:
I love your blog and I was just wondering how you moisturize your hair during the week and how you moisturize your hair after you wash and condition it. Thanks


I Answered:
Great question. It comes along at a time when I am ready to review my most recent moisturizer (that post will follow this one). When it comes to moisturizing my hair I like to incorporate it in every step in my regimen while at the same time still being careful not to over-moisturize my hair. Before shampooing I always prepoo to prevent the shampoo from drying out my hair and I always DC after a shampoo. If I am only cowashing, I apply my (thick & creamy) conditioner, sit under the steamer, and then rinse thoroughly. After shampooing or cowashing I apply a (water-based) leave-in conditioner, and seal with an oil or butter while my hair is still wet and while I am styling. If my hair is in a set style or a protective style I will spray my hair with a moisturizer almost daily.


You Asked:
You have some great tips on your blog and a lot of them have worked really well for me but I have a question about  styling my hair. How do I create braidouts and twistouts that are more defined? Thanx!


I Answered:
I have figured out after a lot of trial and error that I am able to get very defined looks on my hair when I set that twists/braids on wet hair. Setting on damp hair is not as defined and setting on dry hair gives me a big fluffy even less defined style. So I would suggest setting on wet hair, keeping the braids/twists neat, don't separate the sections to even out the length in the braids/twists, and let the hair dry completely before releasing the braids/twists.

Got a tip/suggestion to add? Please leave a comment below.

►If you have a question you would like to ask, please use the contact me button at the top of the page.

You Asked, I Answered

You Asked:
I am seeking information for the directions for the leave-in conditioner Kimmay Tube Kinky Curly Knot Today. Please just tell me what is required, I have seen that the video is private! I am requesting direction.
I thank you in advance.


I Answered:
I am assuming she made the video private now because from what I hear she is about to come out with her own product line. I don't really know the details because I don't watch her videos like I used to but I do still have the recipe for and still use the leave-in.
2 tbs (1oz) Kinky Curly Knot Today
2 tbs Aloe Vera Juice
2 tbs Castor Oil
2 tbs Jojoba Oil

I use the exact measurements above but I use SheaMoisture Shea Butter Leave-in in place of the KCKT.


You Asked:
How do you get your roller-sets and curl-former sets so smooth?

I Answered:
Practice makes perfect. My first roller-set was not pretty at all, to me. I learned that I have to do all sets snug (not tight) on wet hair, and then I have to make sure my hair is completely dry before removing the rollers or the curlformers. Also, I learned that I can't load my hair down with product. I try to only use my leave-in conditioner and then CurlyNikki's Curl Defining Spritz when I do any type of curl set. As long as they are 100% dry when I remove the rollers, everything comes out fine.

You Asked, I Answered

You Asked:
I am seeking information for the directions for the leave-in conditioner Kimmay Tube Kinky Curly Knot Today. Please just tell me what is required, I have seen that the video is private! I am requesting direction.
I thank you in advance.


I Answered:
I am assuming she made the video private now because from what I hear she is about to come out with her own product line. I don't really know the details because I don't watch her videos like I used to but I do still have the recipe for and still use the leave-in.
2 tbs (1oz) Kinky Curly Knot Today
2 tbs Aloe Vera Juice
2 tbs Castor Oil
2 tbs Jojoba Oil

I use the exact measurements above but I use SheaMoisture Shea Butter Leave-in in place of the KCKT.


You Asked:
How do you get your roller-sets and curl-former sets so smooth?

I Answered:
Practice makes perfect. My first roller-set was not pretty at all, to me. I learned that I have to do all sets snug (not tight) on wet hair, and then I have to make sure my hair is completely dry before removing the rollers or the curlformers. Also, I learned that I can't load my hair down with product. I try to only use my leave-in conditioner and then CurlyNikki's Curl Defining Spritz when I do any type of curl set. As long as they are 100% dry when I remove the rollers, everything comes out fine.

You Asked, I Answered

You Asked:
I just cut my hair to my new growth... I still have a lot of relaxed hair left... but what do you recommend for my hair to keep it from drying up too much...

I Answered:
Quite a few ladies with TWAs recommend a rosewater spritz to help keep your hair moisturized. For my hair I make sure to deep condition regularly with a moisturizing conditioner, use a leave-in conditioner, and spritz with care free curl when my hair is feeling dry.
You may want to look into the Baggy Method and visit this post on How I Retain Moisture

__________

You Asked (said):
I discovered your blog today and wanted to let you know that you have inspired me to continue on my natural journey. I love your spreading of the Word as well. Thanks for being an inspiration.

I Answered (replied):
Thank you! That was so nice and its a great feeling to know that the time I set aside working on this blog is helping someone. Your kind words are greatly appreciated!

You Asked, I Answered

You Asked:
I just cut my hair to my new growth... I still have a lot of relaxed hair left... but what do you recommend for my hair to keep it from drying up too much...

I Answered:
Quite a few ladies with TWAs recommend a rosewater spritz to help keep your hair moisturized. For my hair I make sure to deep condition regularly with a moisturizing conditioner, use a leave-in conditioner, and spritz with care free curl when my hair is feeling dry.
You may want to look into the Baggy Method and visit this post on How I Retain Moisture

__________

You Asked (said):
I discovered your blog today and wanted to let you know that you have inspired me to continue on my natural journey. I love your spreading of the Word as well. Thanks for being an inspiration.

I Answered (replied):
Thank you! That was so nice and its a great feeling to know that the time I set aside working on this blog is helping someone. Your kind words are greatly appreciated!

You Asked, I Answered

You Asked:
Hi my name is ****** and i am a 14 year old and i am getting serious about my hair. I have been natural for my whole life. I am focusing on growing my hair long like yours and making sure its healthy. I have been following you for a long time. I was just wondering could you please tell me how to moisturize my hair while in cornrows and twist but exspecially for cornrows. You have beautiful hair and i cant wait till my hair gets long like that. Thanks

I Answered:
Lucky you! I wish I would have had someone to talk to or somewhere to go to ask about my natural hair when I was 14. I spent a lot of time and effort trying to keep my curls hidden. At your age many of the decisions you make about your hair will have to be run by the parental units first. It's a part of life - we all went through it. But since you are already natural it sounds like they are on board with your hair being in it's natural state. High five to them!
When I wear my hair in cornrows or twists I moisturize by using a spray bottle filled with my moisturizer to help spread the product through the hair. For instance, I am currently wearing two-strand twists and each morning I spray a mixture of my leave-in conditioner and water onto my hair (50:50 mix). This technique would work the same for cornrows. In my opinion, moisturizing hair that is twisted or braided is the easiest because you just spray and go. Important: Don't forget to MOISTURIZE THE ENDS of your hair. If you neglect the ends they can become dry and brittle. When they get to the point chances are that they ends will break off and it will appear that your hair is not growing at all.
Take good care of your hair and keep it moisturized - you will have long hair in no time! You're still growing so take advantage of that and continue to engage in healthy hair practices.

Got something to add? Please comment below.

You Asked, I Answered

You Asked:
Hi my name is ****** and i am a 14 year old and i am getting serious about my hair. I have been natural for my whole life. I am focusing on growing my hair long like yours and making sure its healthy. I have been following you for a long time. I was just wondering could you please tell me how to moisturize my hair while in cornrows and twist but exspecially for cornrows. You have beautiful hair and i cant wait till my hair gets long like that. Thanks

I Answered:
Lucky you! I wish I would have had someone to talk to or somewhere to go to ask about my natural hair when I was 14. I spent a lot of time and effort trying to keep my curls hidden. At your age many of the decisions you make about your hair will have to be run by the parental units first. It's a part of life - we all went through it. But since you are already natural it sounds like they are on board with your hair being in it's natural state. High five to them!
When I wear my hair in cornrows or twists I moisturize by using a spray bottle filled with my moisturizer to help spread the product through the hair. For instance, I am currently wearing two-strand twists and each morning I spray a mixture of my leave-in conditioner and water onto my hair (50:50 mix). This technique would work the same for cornrows. In my opinion, moisturizing hair that is twisted or braided is the easiest because you just spray and go. Important: Don't forget to MOISTURIZE THE ENDS of your hair. If you neglect the ends they can become dry and brittle. When they get to the point chances are that they ends will break off and it will appear that your hair is not growing at all.
Take good care of your hair and keep it moisturized - you will have long hair in no time! You're still growing so take advantage of that and continue to engage in healthy hair practices.

Got something to add? Please comment below.

You Asked, I Answered

You Asked:
@HerBestHair I have a Q: I've been natural for 1yr now & it's reached that slow-grow period. Any tips for faster growth other than vitamins?

I answered:
This is a very common question and I think the majority of us have pondered this at least once. My belief is that there is NOT a miracle product or pill out there that will result in mega-fast hair growth. You hair is growing, but what are you doing to make sure it's healthy and that you are retaining every millimeter that appears? For healthy and optimal growth you must take care of yourself from the inside out. If your body is lacking any of the requirements it needs to be healthy it will start to pull them from places that need them the least, like your hair. Vitamins are recommended to aid in hair growth because they will help to ensure that your body has the proper vitamin and protein balance it needs. I try to eat balanced meals because I am more concerned about my overall health.

The slow growth period you are referring to may mean that you are in the telogen phase of hair growth. It is important during this stage that you handle your hair with care, condition properly, and avoid styles that may cause breakage. You don't want to cause a setback during this period because then you increase your chances of having to start at a shorter length once you cycle back to the anagen phase. I hope this info helps and encourages you. Be sure to check out the links below for further encouragement. Be patient, the length will come - I know from first hand experience.

Sorry I don't have the "do this" or "use that" answer. We all want it. Good luck on journey. Stay consistent and the length will come. Document your journey monthly and you should notice that you are gaining length.


---
Resource: Hair Vitamins
Example of 1 year of growing using protective styles: Reniece Shrinkage and Length Check
Human hair growth

Got anything to add? Please comment below.

Twitter questions are also accepted, encouraged, and answered. 

You Asked, I Answered

You Asked:
@HerBestHair I have a Q: I've been natural for 1yr now & it's reached that slow-grow period. Any tips for faster growth other than vitamins?

I answered:
This is a very common question and I think the majority of us have pondered this at least once. My belief is that there is NOT a miracle product or pill out there that will result in mega-fast hair growth. You hair is growing, but what are you doing to make sure it's healthy and that you are retaining every millimeter that appears? For healthy and optimal growth you must take care of yourself from the inside out. If your body is lacking any of the requirements it needs to be healthy it will start to pull them from places that need them the least, like your hair. Vitamins are recommended to aid in hair growth because they will help to ensure that your body has the proper vitamin and protein balance it needs. I try to eat balanced meals because I am more concerned about my overall health.

The slow growth period you are referring to may mean that you are in the telogen phase of hair growth. It is important during this stage that you handle your hair with care, condition properly, and avoid styles that may cause breakage. You don't want to cause a setback during this period because then you increase your chances of having to start at a shorter length once you cycle back to the anagen phase. I hope this info helps and encourages you. Be sure to check out the links below for further encouragement. Be patient, the length will come - I know from first hand experience.

Sorry I don't have the "do this" or "use that" answer. We all want it. Good luck on journey. Stay consistent and the length will come. Document your journey monthly and you should notice that you are gaining length.


---
Resource: Hair Vitamins
Example of 1 year of growing using protective styles: Reniece Shrinkage and Length Check
Human hair growth

Got anything to add? Please comment below.

Twitter questions are also accepted, encouraged, and answered. 

You Asked, I Answered

You Asked:
Dear Tia,

First let me say that I absolutely love your hair!!!
I also love protective styles and prefer to wear my hair that way. I find updos very elegant and feminine. I usually do 2 strand twists and wear them up in some sort of braided updo and then tuck in the ends (no pins).
However, I have an issue: whenever I take down the updo after a week, I realise that my ends are super dry. It's frustating because I feel like I'm loosing all benefit from the protective style and not retaining any length.
When well moisturised, my ends immediately curl up and yes I have a lot of single strand knots. You've said in one of your posts that it can lead to breakage? I thought it was simply the way my hair is and there's nothing I can do about it.
You have said that you prefer buns. I've always been a little afraid of buns because it requires ponytail holders and other accessories. Aren't does bad for our hair?

Thanks in advance for any advice you may have for me. I've been stuck at shoulder length for the past 2 years (it seems).

Little info about my hair :
very coily,
frizzes a lot (but I don't mind that at all),
shrinks a lot,
prefers not to be combed,
a nightmare to detangle if not well deep-conditionned, loves water, loves conditioners,
hates shampoo on the length however my scalp MUST be clean otherwise it itches horribly.

One last thing: I have to confess that I don't really understand how to "seal in the moisture". Wet hair - put your moisturizer and add a butter on the ends? Or let air dry a little then add butter to the ends?

Sorry for the long message.

Blessings from France


I ANSWERED:


Hey FRANCE!! Boujour - That's all the French I know :)

Let's get to it... the issue that you are having with your dry ends is not new. I had the same problem when I first started doing updos. To remedy the problem I started focusing more product on the ends of my hair but that did not work because I wasn't using water-based product. In sum, I would suggest to apply a generous amount of a water-based product with your hair and then sealing that in with an heavy oil or butter. Please choice the product that your hair prefers. To work with the curling (which I have also) apply the product right before the moment you are ready to pin, tuck, secure, etc your ends. Also applying the product in a smoothing motion will help calm down the curl and decrease the occurrences of SSKs.

It is true, I do prefer buns. I lessen the chance of harm happening to my hair with the ponytail holders by using holders that do not have metal clasps. I also do not put them on too tight. They are secure but lose enough where I don't even feel them. Other options for holding the hair for buns include using pantyhose or satin covered ponytail holders.

I remember when I was stuck at shoulder length. Then I read about length retention. I used to dye my hair a lot so I could tell my hair was growing because the dye was growing out. The problem was the ends of my hair. So that was when I experimented with Chicoro's method, moisturizing & sealing, and protective styles. So far so good :) As far as sealing is concerned, the way I prefer to do it is to apply a water-based product and then immediately apply an oil/heavy or cream-based product.

Final note: All the advice I have offered is based on experience - some successes and some failures. That's how we learn. Now what works for my hair may not work for yours so please feel free to tweak anything stated in this post so that you get the most benefit from it.

Have some tips or alternate advice to offer? Please comment

You Asked, I Answered

You Asked:
Dear Tia,

First let me say that I absolutely love your hair!!!
I also love protective styles and prefer to wear my hair that way. I find updos very elegant and feminine. I usually do 2 strand twists and wear them up in some sort of braided updo and then tuck in the ends (no pins).
However, I have an issue: whenever I take down the updo after a week, I realise that my ends are super dry. It's frustating because I feel like I'm loosing all benefit from the protective style and not retaining any length.
When well moisturised, my ends immediately curl up and yes I have a lot of single strand knots. You've said in one of your posts that it can lead to breakage? I thought it was simply the way my hair is and there's nothing I can do about it.
You have said that you prefer buns. I've always been a little afraid of buns because it requires ponytail holders and other accessories. Aren't does bad for our hair?

Thanks in advance for any advice you may have for me. I've been stuck at shoulder length for the past 2 years (it seems).

Little info about my hair :
very coily,
frizzes a lot (but I don't mind that at all),
shrinks a lot,
prefers not to be combed,
a nightmare to detangle if not well deep-conditionned, loves water, loves conditioners,
hates shampoo on the length however my scalp MUST be clean otherwise it itches horribly.

One last thing: I have to confess that I don't really understand how to "seal in the moisture". Wet hair - put your moisturizer and add a butter on the ends? Or let air dry a little then add butter to the ends?

Sorry for the long message.

Blessings from France


I ANSWERED:


Hey FRANCE!! Boujour - That's all the French I know :)

Let's get to it... the issue that you are having with your dry ends is not new. I had the same problem when I first started doing updos. To remedy the problem I started focusing more product on the ends of my hair but that did not work because I wasn't using water-based product. In sum, I would suggest to apply a generous amount of a water-based product with your hair and then sealing that in with an heavy oil or butter. Please choice the product that your hair prefers. To work with the curling (which I have also) apply the product right before the moment you are ready to pin, tuck, secure, etc your ends. Also applying the product in a smoothing motion will help calm down the curl and decrease the occurrences of SSKs.

It is true, I do prefer buns. I lessen the chance of harm happening to my hair with the ponytail holders by using holders that do not have metal clasps. I also do not put them on too tight. They are secure but lose enough where I don't even feel them. Other options for holding the hair for buns include using pantyhose or satin covered ponytail holders.

I remember when I was stuck at shoulder length. Then I read about length retention. I used to dye my hair a lot so I could tell my hair was growing because the dye was growing out. The problem was the ends of my hair. So that was when I experimented with Chicoro's method, moisturizing & sealing, and protective styles. So far so good :) As far as sealing is concerned, the way I prefer to do it is to apply a water-based product and then immediately apply an oil/heavy or cream-based product.

Final note: All the advice I have offered is based on experience - some successes and some failures. That's how we learn. Now what works for my hair may not work for yours so please feel free to tweak anything stated in this post so that you get the most benefit from it.

Have some tips or alternate advice to offer? Please comment

You Asked...I Answered

You Asked:
I go to the gym 3 times a week and I play sports. I can't go to work with my hair looking a mess - how can I wear cute styles and still be active?
I Answered:
I wore a press-n-curl for years so when it comes to keeping my hair in place during hot weather and physical activities it seems pretty simple to me. It took me seeing others try to cope with this to realize that it was a skill I learned over the years and it is once worth sharing. When my hair is out (Example: twistout) I will gather my hair into a high ponytail (like pineappling) and wear a sweat band or scarf around the edges. After working out I will not touch my hair at all until it is all the way dry (if I sweat). If my hair is in a style (example: updo or bun) I will tie a do-rag on and leave it until I am ready to leave the house (usually the next morning). When my hair is straight - I follow the "style" routine. The key is to not touch the hair if any moisture is present because that is what causes the frizz - manipulation while wet/damp. Because there is salt present in sweat it will benefit you to wash/rinse your hair more than normal if you are sticking to a strict and frequently workout regimen.

You Asked:
How do you know if your hair is moisturized enough? I don't think I can ever tell. After sitting under the steamer last night my hair didn't feel so good. It felt kind of brittle. Any idea why that is? And what do you put on your hair before you steam?
I Answered:
That is interesting - after sitting under the steamer my hair feels extremely soft and my Hubby's new growth felt the same way after I put him under the steamer. What did you put on your hair prior to sitting under the steamer? I've used a conditioner with a humectant and also a light oil and got good results with both but better results with the conditioner. If you are dealing with solving a dry hair issue you may have to deep condition weekly for at least a month before you have any results that are truly noticeable. Also after deep conditioning and rinsing you may want to look into applying a moisturizer or a leave in conditioner and then sealing that in with an oil or butter.
Also, how is your protein - moisture balance? If you are experiencing brittle feeling hair after conditioning or steaming you may want to check your products to see if they contain protein. I could be a chance that you are protein sensitive. It's really difficult to say that X,Y, and Z are causing the brittle feeling without knowing your exact regimen and the products routinely. I hope the suggestions provided give you a place to start with resolving the issue.

If you have any additional tips for the questions above please leave them in the comment section below.

You Asked...I Answered

You Asked:
I go to the gym 3 times a week and I play sports. I can't go to work with my hair looking a mess - how can I wear cute styles and still be active?
I Answered:
I wore a press-n-curl for years so when it comes to keeping my hair in place during hot weather and physical activities it seems pretty simple to me. It took me seeing others try to cope with this to realize that it was a skill I learned over the years and it is once worth sharing. When my hair is out (Example: twistout) I will gather my hair into a high ponytail (like pineappling) and wear a sweat band or scarf around the edges. After working out I will not touch my hair at all until it is all the way dry (if I sweat). If my hair is in a style (example: updo or bun) I will tie a do-rag on and leave it until I am ready to leave the house (usually the next morning). When my hair is straight - I follow the "style" routine. The key is to not touch the hair if any moisture is present because that is what causes the frizz - manipulation while wet/damp. Because there is salt present in sweat it will benefit you to wash/rinse your hair more than normal if you are sticking to a strict and frequently workout regimen.

You Asked:
How do you know if your hair is moisturized enough? I don't think I can ever tell. After sitting under the steamer last night my hair didn't feel so good. It felt kind of brittle. Any idea why that is? And what do you put on your hair before you steam?
I Answered:
That is interesting - after sitting under the steamer my hair feels extremely soft and my Hubby's new growth felt the same way after I put him under the steamer. What did you put on your hair prior to sitting under the steamer? I've used a conditioner with a humectant and also a light oil and got good results with both but better results with the conditioner. If you are dealing with solving a dry hair issue you may have to deep condition weekly for at least a month before you have any results that are truly noticeable. Also after deep conditioning and rinsing you may want to look into applying a moisturizer or a leave in conditioner and then sealing that in with an oil or butter.
Also, how is your protein - moisture balance? If you are experiencing brittle feeling hair after conditioning or steaming you may want to check your products to see if they contain protein. I could be a chance that you are protein sensitive. It's really difficult to say that X,Y, and Z are causing the brittle feeling without knowing your exact regimen and the products routinely. I hope the suggestions provided give you a place to start with resolving the issue.

If you have any additional tips for the questions above please leave them in the comment section below.

You Asked...I Answered

This Q&A sessions excited me because both of the questions  below pertain to loc wearers and they both came in on the same day. A sign? Maybe :).  Let me make it clear that I am NOT AN EXPERT on loc care but I do care for my husbands locs so I have learned quite a lot with his journey. I hope the information below is helpful.

You Asked:

Need help,
I am in my early 50 and i am having problem with the top ofy my hair is very thin to be honest I am **** near bald at the top can you help me and please give me some advice I have been wearing locs for the past 4 years. help.


I answered: 
When it comes to hair loss there are quite a few factors that you may want to look at to see if you can determine what is causing the problem. The most obvious and probably the first recommendation would be to visit a dermatologist. However, when I got to the loc portion of your email the first thing I thought was: twisting to tight. How often are you re-twisting your hair and when you retwist are there fingernails involved? Does the twisting hurt? Is heat involved?
Re-twisting to often can cause excess stress on your roots and contribute to breakage, jagged fingernails can tear those tiny hair strands to shreds. If your roots are re-twisted too tightly that could potentially  lead to traction alopecia and if you are sitting under a dryer after re-twisting then it possible that you could be experiencing some heat damage at the roots that is contributing to the breakage. As you can see there are a number of things that can play a part in breakage in the crown area.


You Asked:
Tia i see you do a lot of different things with your hair but I am wondering what are some new styles for men with locs? I use virgin coconut oil on my hair now but i'm looking for something new. Hair doesn't seem as healthy as it should. HELP A BROTHER OUT!! 
I am really big on no longer using harmful chemicals in my hair. So this is what I shampoo my hair with Dr. Bronners tea tree oil shampoo or the peppermint. I use this product bc it's made with coconut oil, olive oil, hemp oil and it's light.
I mix pure Vitamin E with my coconut oil when i rub it in my hair and on my scalp. That's all I use. My hair is breaking so I started using this combo. I laid off the shea butter. I'm not sure if it's because I tie my hair up to have it out my face or just the hair isn't as healthy anymore....Thanks


I answered
In my opinion, finding the balance between protein and moisture is key in preventing breakage. There are quite a few natural products out there that can help you with reaching that balance. You mention that you are pulling your hair back to keep it out of your face, are you tying the locs together? Tying them together increases the potential that you will pull them too tight. Try wearing something like a loc soc to keep the hair out of your face. That will reduce the amount of strain that you put on each individual loc.
Some natural strengthening products you can use include black tea, coconut milk, henna (my fav), eggs, and many others.
As for styles - I hear the call and I will try my best to discover some new looks. Since my hubby has locs I may make this a regular feature on the blog. I have noticed a number of other ladies that have men with locs and we have to show them love too. :)

---

With both of these questions: If you have a signature look that requires you to manipulate the locs in the same way often, STOP. No matter your hair type (loc, straight, kinky, curly, etc) if you can constantly wearing your hair in the same way and tension is involved - breakage is likely to follow.




For more information pertaining to these question please check out the links below:

Vitamins For Your Hair
All Natural Strengthening Product - CurlyNikki Forum
How Dreadlock Wearers Combat Thinning Hair
Essential Oils Can Help Regrow Hair
Dreadlock Blogs

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You Asked...I Answered

This Q&A sessions excited me because both of the questions  below pertain to loc wearers and they both came in on the same day. A sign? Maybe :).  Let me make it clear that I am NOT AN EXPERT on loc care but I do care for my husbands locs so I have learned quite a lot with his journey. I hope the information below is helpful.

You Asked:

Need help,
I am in my early 50 and i am having problem with the top ofy my hair is very thin to be honest I am **** near bald at the top can you help me and please give me some advice I have been wearing locs for the past 4 years. help.


I answered: 
When it comes to hair loss there are quite a few factors that you may want to look at to see if you can determine what is causing the problem. The most obvious and probably the first recommendation would be to visit a dermatologist. However, when I got to the loc portion of your email the first thing I thought was: twisting to tight. How often are you re-twisting your hair and when you retwist are there fingernails involved? Does the twisting hurt? Is heat involved?
Re-twisting to often can cause excess stress on your roots and contribute to breakage, jagged fingernails can tear those tiny hair strands to shreds. If your roots are re-twisted too tightly that could potentially  lead to traction alopecia and if you are sitting under a dryer after re-twisting then it possible that you could be experiencing some heat damage at the roots that is contributing to the breakage. As you can see there are a number of things that can play a part in breakage in the crown area.


You Asked:
Tia i see you do a lot of different things with your hair but I am wondering what are some new styles for men with locs? I use virgin coconut oil on my hair now but i'm looking for something new. Hair doesn't seem as healthy as it should. HELP A BROTHER OUT!! 
I am really big on no longer using harmful chemicals in my hair. So this is what I shampoo my hair with Dr. Bronners tea tree oil shampoo or the peppermint. I use this product bc it's made with coconut oil, olive oil, hemp oil and it's light.
I mix pure Vitamin E with my coconut oil when i rub it in my hair and on my scalp. That's all I use. My hair is breaking so I started using this combo. I laid off the shea butter. I'm not sure if it's because I tie my hair up to have it out my face or just the hair isn't as healthy anymore....Thanks


I answered
In my opinion, finding the balance between protein and moisture is key in preventing breakage. There are quite a few natural products out there that can help you with reaching that balance. You mention that you are pulling your hair back to keep it out of your face, are you tying the locs together? Tying them together increases the potential that you will pull them too tight. Try wearing something like a loc soc to keep the hair out of your face. That will reduce the amount of strain that you put on each individual loc.
Some natural strengthening products you can use include black tea, coconut milk, henna (my fav), eggs, and many others.
As for styles - I hear the call and I will try my best to discover some new looks. Since my hubby has locs I may make this a regular feature on the blog. I have noticed a number of other ladies that have men with locs and we have to show them love too. :)

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With both of these questions: If you have a signature look that requires you to manipulate the locs in the same way often, STOP. No matter your hair type (loc, straight, kinky, curly, etc) if you can constantly wearing your hair in the same way and tension is involved - breakage is likely to follow.




For more information pertaining to these question please check out the links below:

Vitamins For Your Hair
All Natural Strengthening Product - CurlyNikki Forum
How Dreadlock Wearers Combat Thinning Hair
Essential Oils Can Help Regrow Hair
Dreadlock Blogs

Got tips or advice pertaining to these question? Please comment below.

You Asked...I Answered

You Asked:
I was wondering if you would do a post with your placement of twists when you do four sections and six twists in each section?  I was looking at your post from last July (http://tiashauntee.blogspot.com/2010/07/twists-pinned-up.html) and I really like the size of your twists.  My hair isn't as curly as yours, but I do have a similar mix of textures with very fine, almost straight hair at the nape.  I think my hair is about the length of yours at that time to.  So, just hoping seeing your placement might help me mimic the fullness as I'm trying to wear twists for the next couple of months but struggle with "scalpiness" due to my looser curl pattern and "fine" texture.  Okay, thank you!


I Answered:
When I part my hair in each section I make three horizontal parts first and then one vertical part in each of those sections. I like to make the parts with my fingers because when they are "messy" the parts are a little easier to hide. So the sections look like this:

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You Asked:
Hey
I just love ur vids, I had to subscribe on yt.  I was wondering if you could answer something for me- how long is your hair in the 'cornrow/twist updo video'?  I am a little past shoulder length stretched. I would love this for a protective style, I watched ur straightened vid which you posted about 1-2 wks prior to this one, it looked like ur hair was apl/bsl?  I couldn't really tell cause it was kind of cut off by the camera at the bottom.

If you could let me know what is the longest/shortest lengths of your hair (I know sometimes the front will be for example apl and the back much longer), or at least break it down by the areas of your head that would be great.  Thanks and keep coming with the great videos!!!


I Answered:
The shortest my hair has been with my updo styles is APL. The shortest part of my hair would be the crown area and the rest of my hair is about APL now. When doing those styles your hair will be up and you can actually do a little more than your think with the placement. If you are a little past shoulder length you should be able to achieve the style. Of course, you can always modify the style so that if fits you better. I hope it works out for you. I plan to start back doing updos soon and more tutorials will follow.

Got a question? Please feel free to ask. 

If I don't know the answer I will try my best to point you in the right direction

Just Email Me

You Asked...I Answered

You Asked:
I was wondering if you would do a post with your placement of twists when you do four sections and six twists in each section?  I was looking at your post from last July (http://tiashauntee.blogspot.com/2010/07/twists-pinned-up.html) and I really like the size of your twists.  My hair isn't as curly as yours, but I do have a similar mix of textures with very fine, almost straight hair at the nape.  I think my hair is about the length of yours at that time to.  So, just hoping seeing your placement might help me mimic the fullness as I'm trying to wear twists for the next couple of months but struggle with "scalpiness" due to my looser curl pattern and "fine" texture.  Okay, thank you!


I Answered:
When I part my hair in each section I make three horizontal parts first and then one vertical part in each of those sections. I like to make the parts with my fingers because when they are "messy" the parts are a little easier to hide. So the sections look like this:

---


You Asked:
Hey
I just love ur vids, I had to subscribe on yt.  I was wondering if you could answer something for me- how long is your hair in the 'cornrow/twist updo video'?  I am a little past shoulder length stretched. I would love this for a protective style, I watched ur straightened vid which you posted about 1-2 wks prior to this one, it looked like ur hair was apl/bsl?  I couldn't really tell cause it was kind of cut off by the camera at the bottom.

If you could let me know what is the longest/shortest lengths of your hair (I know sometimes the front will be for example apl and the back much longer), or at least break it down by the areas of your head that would be great.  Thanks and keep coming with the great videos!!!


I Answered:
The shortest my hair has been with my updo styles is APL. The shortest part of my hair would be the crown area and the rest of my hair is about APL now. When doing those styles your hair will be up and you can actually do a little more than your think with the placement. If you are a little past shoulder length you should be able to achieve the style. Of course, you can always modify the style so that if fits you better. I hope it works out for you. I plan to start back doing updos soon and more tutorials will follow.

Got a question? Please feel free to ask. 

If I don't know the answer I will try my best to point you in the right direction

Just Email Me

You Asked, I Answered

You Asked:

I love your blog and also your videos on youtube..I really have learned alot from your blog site. I have been transitioning from relaxed to natural goin on 5mons in November without tha big chop.All is well,Ive been using protective styles such as Sew-Ins.I have seen alot of growth thusfar.I have a question...I use organic root stimulator products for the most of my products but i have been wanting to try and use another brand to define my natural curl pattern,because my curl pattern is currently more of a wave than a curl.What is a good product or a good technique to start this curl pattern,so that i have other options besides sew-Ins?Also I just subscribed to your youtube page!!!Check me out..I will be startin my videos pretty soon! MsYellaBoneStar on youtube

Thank you

I Answered:

Your curl pattern is just that - your curl pattern.  That is how your DNA has designed it to grow.  You can temporarily alter it to make it appear to be different but you will not be able to permanently change it.  By that I mean you won’t be able to change the way it grows out of your scalp.  Also, you mentioned that you have not done the Big Chop (BC) – so don’t be surprised if you discover a new characteristic of your curl pattern after you BC.  If you read on a few hair boards you may see this happening among many that have recently done the big chop.  As far as products are concerned, recommendations are something that I do not like to make because what may work for my hair may not work for yours and vice versa. If ORS works for you, stick with it.  It’s the technique that gives results not the product.  If you want more curls try setting your hair in twists, flat-twists or Bantu knots.  Make sure your hair is completely dry before releasing and see if you are able to achieve the curly results you want with those techniques.
P.S. I'm waiting on videos!!!! :)

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You Asked:

Hey, your hair looks great.  I have a question though; why did you trim so much of your hair? Were your split ends really bad?  I know you wear protective styles a lot and I'm wondering what can be done to prevent split ends. I plan on bunning the entire winter too and don't want to have to cut all my new length off.  How do you plan on taking care of your ends (I need the advice).  Thanks, Love your blog!

I Answered:

My split ends were not that bad but I honestly did not have the time and patience to sit there and search & destroy my entire head.  I am not obsessed with length but I am obsessed with symmetry.  My hair being different lengths all over was driving me insane.  I wasn’t afraid to cut it off because I now know how to treat my hair so that I can retain length.  It will grow back and I will be able to retain the length with discipline.  After bunning all winter in 2009, my hair and ends looked great.  My split ends and SSKs occurred after wearing my hair out consistently, going on vacation and not taking time to properly care for my hair, and just getting busy and putting my hair care on the backburner.  Bunning was actually the best thing that I ever did for my hair which is why I am going back to it.  Good luck!

Have something to add? Please comment!

You Asked, I Answered

You Asked:

I love your blog and also your videos on youtube..I really have learned alot from your blog site. I have been transitioning from relaxed to natural goin on 5mons in November without tha big chop.All is well,Ive been using protective styles such as Sew-Ins.I have seen alot of growth thusfar.I have a question...I use organic root stimulator products for the most of my products but i have been wanting to try and use another brand to define my natural curl pattern,because my curl pattern is currently more of a wave than a curl.What is a good product or a good technique to start this curl pattern,so that i have other options besides sew-Ins?Also I just subscribed to your youtube page!!!Check me out..I will be startin my videos pretty soon! MsYellaBoneStar on youtube

Thank you

I Answered:

Your curl pattern is just that - your curl pattern.  That is how your DNA has designed it to grow.  You can temporarily alter it to make it appear to be different but you will not be able to permanently change it.  By that I mean you won’t be able to change the way it grows out of your scalp.  Also, you mentioned that you have not done the Big Chop (BC) – so don’t be surprised if you discover a new characteristic of your curl pattern after you BC.  If you read on a few hair boards you may see this happening among many that have recently done the big chop.  As far as products are concerned, recommendations are something that I do not like to make because what may work for my hair may not work for yours and vice versa. If ORS works for you, stick with it.  It’s the technique that gives results not the product.  If you want more curls try setting your hair in twists, flat-twists or Bantu knots.  Make sure your hair is completely dry before releasing and see if you are able to achieve the curly results you want with those techniques.
P.S. I'm waiting on videos!!!! :)

---

You Asked:

Hey, your hair looks great.  I have a question though; why did you trim so much of your hair? Were your split ends really bad?  I know you wear protective styles a lot and I'm wondering what can be done to prevent split ends. I plan on bunning the entire winter too and don't want to have to cut all my new length off.  How do you plan on taking care of your ends (I need the advice).  Thanks, Love your blog!

I Answered:

My split ends were not that bad but I honestly did not have the time and patience to sit there and search & destroy my entire head.  I am not obsessed with length but I am obsessed with symmetry.  My hair being different lengths all over was driving me insane.  I wasn’t afraid to cut it off because I now know how to treat my hair so that I can retain length.  It will grow back and I will be able to retain the length with discipline.  After bunning all winter in 2009, my hair and ends looked great.  My split ends and SSKs occurred after wearing my hair out consistently, going on vacation and not taking time to properly care for my hair, and just getting busy and putting my hair care on the backburner.  Bunning was actually the best thing that I ever did for my hair which is why I am going back to it.  Good luck!

Have something to add? Please comment!