Hair Tip #18: Vinegar Rinse

 

Apple Cider Vinegar



Distilled White Vinegar



I LOVE to rinse with vinegar. I have used both types of vinegar and I have been pleased with both. When my scalp is dry and itching, I know it is time to rinse! Whether it be Apple Cider Vinegar or White Vinegar, it will do your hair great good to rinse with it!

You can pick them up at your local grocery store, Wal-Mart, Target. This week I found white distilled vinegar at the Dollar Tree :) That was very exciting!

 
What are the benefits?





Hair cuticle when it is open


• Acidity is close to the pH of your hair
• Good conditioner
• Cleansing agent and germ killer
• Removes build-up from products and dandruff
• It closes the cuticle which covers and protects the hair shaft. The result will be smoother hair strands. If you look at the pictures, you can see the difference in each hair strand. When you rinse with the vinegar, you can literally feel the difference in your hair.
• Makes hair more manageable for detangling
• Combats dry scalp!

How do you use it?





Hair cuticle when it is closed


• Mix 1/3 cup of vinegar with 1 cup of bottled (distilled, filtered) water
• Pour a liberal amount of the mixture through your hair and scalp before washing
• Massage it through your scalp and hair
• Rinse
• Proceed to shampoo and condition.

What about the smell? Don't worry about the smell. Once your hair dries, the vinegar smell will go away!

Does it burn? If you have been scratching your scalp so much that you have sores or scabs, there will be a slight burn but it will help cure the itching.

Hair Tip #17: Chopsticks

I LOVE high buns.
     I LOVE low buns.
         I LOVE curly buns.
             I LOVE sleek buns.

And with my buns,

I LOVE CHOPSTICKS!!

I only own one pair of black. I think the plain ones look very classy.

 But they do make many chopsticks with embellishments.

 If you find some plain ones, you can embellish them on your own.

All you need is a hot glue gun and creativity.

How do they look in a bun??

They look marvelous to me. What do you think?!

They them out!

I will be doing TWO tutorials on high buns very soon :)

Hair Tip #16: Protective Styling Works

I just wanted to shoot a quick reminder that protective styling works! Now you don't have to wear twists and braids all the time. There are SO many variations you can use. The 3 main rules of protective styling are:

• Low manipulation: touch, brush and style your hair at a minimal amount.
• Protect your ends: tuck them under! They can endure weather damage. 
• Limit the heat: if you choose to use heat be sure to protect your hair from possible damage

Now you can decide what style options you prefer but keeping those above mentioned rules in mind, the possibilities are endless! GO CRAZY!! 

I want to offer some encouragement to all of you. It takes time for hair to grow. (I don't like that fact) But it is the truth. SO with that said, just be patient and with time you will begin to see substantial growth. Our hair does grow!

Let me show you how protective styling has worked for me! Let it be an encouragement to all of you!! 

January 2010

May 2010

February 2011

It is growing! And yours will too, with the help of the Lord and the strength of one another!! Oh, and of course, protective styling!

Hair Tip #15: Twists on Stretched Hair

One of my most go-to protective styles are twists! They are very easy to do, they last for several days and once I take them out, I love the curl definition they create! I find that they last the longest if I do them on stretched hair.

What is stretched hair? It is a way to stretch your curls out to show more length. There are many ways to do this without the use of heat. You can do this by twisting your hair, by braiding your hair, french braids, flat twists, etc. Once you remove the twists, braids, etc, your hair will be stretched to a longer length than it would have been in its natural state. Some people even consider stretched hair blow dried hair. Personally, I do not blow dry my hair even when I straighten it because it can cause heat damage!

While there are many ways to do twists, I get the best results on stretched hair.

Here is how I stretch my hair for twists:

• After my washing routine, I detangle my hair using a leave in conditioner (right now I am using garnier frutis) and wide toothed comb. I use clamps (just like the ones in the picture) to separate the hair as I detangle. I seal in moisture with oil (right now I am using Africas Ultimate Herbal oil and Hollywood Beauty Tea Tree Oil) paying specific attention to the ends.
• Next, I twist my hair in 8-10 large twists all over my head. If I am doing this in the morning, I pin it all back into an up-do. If I am doing this at night, I just put on my scarf and silk bonnet.
• The next day, after my hair has dried, I re-twist my hair into smaller twists. So each large twist turns into 2-3 smaller twists. This makes my twists longer in length then they would be on wet hair.

WHY are twists better on stretched hair?

• Longevity
• Less frizz
• More length
• Better definition for twist out

Can you see the difference??

Lots of length!!

Very little frizz!

Now this is just the beginning. No need to wear your twists in a frumpy style! I did these twists in the evening so I put in about 8 flexi-rods over night (which stretches it even more)

 Here is how it turned out the next day!

Curlies to the side :)

Very cute and easy!!

In a side pony with some pieces pinned up :)

I hope you can apply this to your protective style knowledge archives! This is a great way to make your twists look sheen, neat and achieve a beautiful twist out! I got so many compliments when I wore the twist out. Too bad I didn't take pics lol

Celebrating protective styling the cute way <3

Hair Tip #14: Oil Rinsing

First let’s talk about why oil is so important for the health of our hair. Oil is essential, necessary and I would go as far to say, crucial for the health of your hair!

Why?

• Oil is essential for nourishing hair.
• It contains natural product extracts that hydrate, condition and protect hair.
•  In addition, it helps you to avoid tangles and roughness in the hair.
• Above all else, it gives your hair stability which enables hair to grow faster.

There are many different types of hair oil. Many women choose to use hair mixes that contain various different oils.

1. One type of oil is Tea Tree Oil. It is best for oily hair and is good for combating dandruff and a scaly scalp. Lemon Oil is also good for oily hair and helps to fight against dandruff as well.
2. Another type is Neem Oil, also known as “wonder oil”. It is best for an itchy scalp because it is very soothing to the scalp.
3.  Rose Oil has extremely similar properties and works the same way as Neem Oil.
4. Almond oil is a great oil for all types of hair. It contains vitamin E, it nourishes hair, smooths hair cuticles (which reduces frizz), adds shine, and controls hair loss. It also helps hair to grow thick and strong.

Some very popular oils that you hear talked about on literally every natural hair care site are Jojoba, Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) and Coconut Oil. I was very curious why these oils stand out to natural women so much.

Here is why:

1. Jojoba Oil is a natural hair softener. It also hydrates the hair and balances secretion of sebum (natural oil that is produced by the scalp) on the scalp.
2. EVOO is rich in biotin, niacin, vitamins A and E and it also contains antioxidants. It is also great for treating dandruff and it contains moisture retaining properties.
3. Coconut Oil keeps hair strong, vitalized, nourished and protected from the effects of hair aging (sun, wind, weather damage, etc). It contains lauric and capric acid that protect the hair from hair loss due to microbial action on scalp and roots. There is also vitamin E in this oil. It has moisture retaining and anti dandruff properties. In addition, it is great to use for hair styling!

With all of that said, here is a new way to nourish your hair with oil. And that is through an oil rinse.

You will need:

• Shampoo
• Conditioner
• Wide toothed comb (optional)
• 1 cup of warm oil of your choice

(1) Shampoo hair with warm water. Make sure hair is thoroughly saturated with warm water

(2) Apply warm oil to hair, not scalp. Finger comb or use wide toothed comb to gently detangle the hair

(3) Rinse with warm water

(4) Condition the hair paying close attention to the ends

(5) Use cool water to rinse out the conditioner in order to smooth cuticles and add shine

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FAQ about Oil Rinsing

• Is an oil rinse better than a hot oil treatment?
• In most cases yes because the shampoo is done before oil is applied so natural oils that are lost during the shampoo process are replenished with the oil rinse
• Is 1 cup enough for every hair length?
• You will have to modify the amount of oil you use based on the length and thickness of your hair. Using too much oil can cause your hair to be weighted down and greasy
• Does this really work?
• There are hundreds of reviews raving and singing the praises of this oil rinse
• Do you have to shampoo your hair in order to do this? Can it be used with a co-wash (washing your hair with conditioner) or wash and go (rinsing your hair with water and wearing the curls out)?
• You do not have to shampoo your hair in order to do this. It can be done with a co-wash or wash and go. You just have to be sure to rinse out all of the oil!

CLEAN THE BOTTOM OF YOUR SHOWER after an oil rinse if you share a shower with someone! Oil is very slippery!!

Celebrating the bare necessities of hair <3

Hair Tip #13: Banana Mask

Did you know that Bananas are good for your hair?!

Here is why!

• They help to re-grow hair
• Bananas prevent hair loss
• They are good for dry and greasy hair
• Help dry and lifeless hair
• Help to prevent frizz!
• Great for damaged hair to restore moisture

Here are different ways to make this hair mask!

(1) If your hair can handle protein:

2 Bananas blended or pureed (or 2 large jars of banana baby food)

2-3 spoon fulls of mayonnaise

3 spoon fulls of olive oil

(2) If your hair is protein sensitive:

2 Bananas blended or pureed (or 2 large jars of banana baby food)

3 spoon fulls of olive oil

Once you make the mask,

• Apply it to moist hair focusing on the ends and then working it down to your scalp
• Cover your hair and leave it in for 15-30 min
• Rinse 
• Shampoo and condition as usual!

Does it work for you Kendra?!

YES it was an excellent deep conditioner. One that I will be using again this Saturday. Just DO NOT try to mash the banana by hand, if there are any chunks at all, they are extremely  difficult to get out of our hair! (I had a few stubborn chunks myself) So I am speaking fro experience!! lol!

From what I have read, bananas also make excellent face masks, they are good for the skin and of course great to ingest :) They smell great and they worked awesome on my hair!!

Celebrating natural things in natural hair <3

Hair Tip #12: Hair Scrub Recipe

Have a dry scalp in need of some therapy?  Here is one way to give your locks some TLC during the winter season. This works very well for me when I have a dry scalp! In fact, I will probably be doing this treatment next wash day!

Hair Scrub Recipe:
Milk 1/4 cup
Olive oil (or any oil of preference) 1/4 cup
Sugar 1/2 cup
Conditioner

-Lightly scrub with your fingertips into your scalp. You want to slowly massage away the dry flakes and dead skin
-Once you have worked it in well, rinse thoroughly and follow up with your normal wash and condition regimen.

ENJOY!

Celebrating a healthy scalp <3

Hair Tip #11: Chemicals to AVOID in Hair Products

Here is a very helpful list of chemicals to avoid when you go shopping for new hair products. I strongly encourage you to seek out organic and herbal types of products. PLEASE, I cannot stress this enough! Check the labels!

If you don't believe me, keep reading :)

 

• ISOPROPYL ALCOHOL: aka, rubbing alcohol. Sure, thats a great thing to put in your hair! NOT!!! EW! I am sure you wouldn't want to go pour this in your hair, so I am sure you wouldn't want to use shampoo with it either!!
• PEG & PROPYLENE GLYCOL (PG): (abbreviation for polyethylene glycol) Polyethylene glycol is a petroleum product used in commercial cleaners such as oven cleaners. It is also used in personal care products. Over time, this chemical can cause premature aging of the skin. Do you really want something strong enough to clean an OVEN to go in your hair?! I think not!
• SODIUM LAURYL SUFATE (SLS) & SODIUM LAURETH SULFATE (SLES): Both sodium lauryl sulphate and sodium laureth sulphate are used as detergents and surfactants. If you look at MOST hair products, they are used in over 90% of them. They are used because they cause a lot of foam. And to us, foam = clean. Well accordng to research, It is possibly the most dangerous of all ingredients in personal care products.
• According to the American College of Toxicology both SLE and SLES can cause malformation in children's eyes. Other research has indicated SLS may be damaging to the immune system, especially within the skin. Skin layers may separate and inflame due to its protein denaturing properties. Hair is made of protein and is affected by SLS and SLES leading to poor quality hair, corroded hair follicles and inhibited hair growth, contributing to hair loss. SLS has the potential to cause cataracts through skin absorption, even without direct contact with the eyes. It can denature the protein of the eyes and delay the healing time of the eyes. Check it out here!
• Skin contact can cause SLS to be absorbed into the blood circulation and can then concentrate in organs such as the heart, liver or brain. This is potentially dangerous since SLS is a mutagen, capable of changing the information in the genetic material of your cell and organs.
• SEVERAL TYPES OF CHLORINE for obvious reasons, it is VERY drying!!
• DEA (diethanolamine), MEA (momoethnanolamine), & TEA (triethanolamine):These chemicals are sometimes listed as Cocamide DEA or MEA, Lauramide DEA. These are hormone disrupting chemicals and are known to form cancer causing nitrates and nitrosamines. They are common in shampoos. A study at the University of Illinois found that repeated skin applications of DEA-based detergents result in a major increase in the incidence of liver and kidney cancers. Children are at greater risk. TEA is used to adjust the pH. TEA causes allergic reactions including eye problems, dryness of hair and skin and can be toxic if absorbed into the body over time.
• FD & C Color PIGMENTS: Synthetic colours are used in a shampoos and conditioners to make them more visually appealing. Many pigment colours used in hair dye cause skin sensitivity and irritation, and nerve problems. Absorption of certain colours can cause depletion of oxygen in the body and even death. Many colours contain coal tar, which has been shown to be carcinogenic.
• FRAGRANCE: If a hair care product lists 'fragrance' on the label it can contain up to 4,000 separate ingredients, most of which are synthetic. Symptoms reported from use of these fragrances include headaches, dizziness, rashes, skin discoloration, violent coughing and vomiting, and allergic skin irritation. Studies have shown that exposure to fragrances can affect the central nervous system, causing depression, hyperactivity, irritability, inability to cope, and other behavioural changes.
• IMIDAZOLIDINYL UREA and DMDM HYDANTOIN: Formaldehyde is used in shampoos, and conditioners as an inhibiting agent against carcinogenic nitrosamine production. Yet, formaldehyde is carcinogenic itself. It readily penetrates the skin and can cause serious long term health concerns, and often sensitises individuals to other chemicals. It can seriously weaken the immune system and can cause cancer. It also causes allergic reactions, headaches, and chronic fatigue.

Print this out and take it on your next shopping list!!


Information taken from http://altowebmasters.com/, check it out for yourself!

Celebrating beautiful locks of glory <3

 

Hair Tip #10: Shedding, breakage, thinning and balding

Shedding.
        Breakage.
              Thinning.
                    Balding.

These are VERY real issues for some ladies. Not only is it frustrating but it can be extremely discouraging. No one wants to look in the mirror and see thinning edges and bald spots. Yet for some women this is a daily woe. I am sure it slowly wears at their self esteem. But help is on the way! I have done extensive research on this issue and I want to share what I have learned concerning this subject. Keep in mind that,

"You hair is one of the best indicators of your overall health"

Listed below are some tried and proven tips that will help:

• Do you see notable shedding or breakage for the first time ever? One of the most obvious solutions is to access the products you are using. A lot of times this is a result of a new product and your hairs reaction to this product. SO if there is a new product you just started using prior to the breakage, STOP using it. You could be experiencing an allergic reaction. For example, I am allergic to carrot oil- because I am allergic to carrots. So any small amount of carrot oil causes scabbing on my scalp. Return to your original regimen ASAP and refrain for using the new product. Everyone has a different hair type and different hair need.
• Are you noticing weakening strands and brittle/dry hair suddenly? One of the BEST things you can do to fight back is pick up a protein based conditioner! You can find them anywhere- or you can use mayonnaise. Sounds gross but its packed with protein. Protein rebuilds the bonds in your hair. This is very important to the strength of your hair. Another helpful tip is to pick up some apple cider vinegar, and do a rinse. Apple cider vinegar is very great because when diluted with water, it just about perfectly matches the natural acidity of your hair. Mix 4 parts apple cider vinegar with 6 parts water. White vinegar will do the trick as well, it just doesn't smell as pleasant. And you do not want to get that in your mouth either (i did that lol groooosssss). Another option is aloe vera juice. I find this helps to "quench my hairs thirst", if you will :)
• Do you see actual bald spots?? MASSAGE your scalp daily, especially the balding areas. You can be suffering from low blood circulation so you may need to manually stimulate your scalp. Using an essential oil to massage will be helpful. Such as, rosemary oil, jajoba or any other essential oil. Tea tree is also a great one.
• Are you a vegetarian? If you are it could be a vitamin deficiency. Healthy hair needs a sufficient amount of iron, zinc, protein, vitamin B6 and calcium. Again, be reminded that our hair is one of the best indicators of our health, if it is breaking, it could be informing you of a vitamin deficiency or even dehydration.
• Do you know your family history? It could be genetics or hormonal. It is common for women to lose hair as they age. Especially with the effects of menopause. What happens is that the hair gets stuck in the resting phase. If you read the post hair tip #8, about hair shedding, I explained how 90% of the hair is in a growth phase and 10% is in a resting phase. Well with some women as they age, the 10% grows and the resting phase doesn't return back to a growth phase. Therefore hair that is lost is not replaced.
• Are you stressed? STRESS! a HUGE cause for hair loss. Need I say more? If you are experiencing stress, you need to find ways to cope!! Prayer and the reading of God's word are best! Take a hot bath, if you are married ask your husband to help rub away some tension in your shoulders, write down the things that are bothering you and consider the worst case scenarios, then let it go, go for a jog, take an evening walk, etc. There are so many options. But above all else, trusting in God is the best way to relieve your stress! Its tried and proven over and over!
•  Do you crave sugar, caffeine and junk food? Excess amount of coffee, dairy or high sugar drinks and foods can result in hair breakage, shedding and even balding. Ever heard the phrase, "you are what you eat"? Your hair is a reflection of the inside!
• WORST case scenario: In the worst case scenario, you may be suffering from Alopecia Aerata which is a disorder where the hair balds. Symptoms are: soft small patches (any shape) but normally round or balding, area may tingle or be slightly painful, exclamation point hair- when the hair gets thinner towards the root, rather than towards the end. In most cases, the hair grows back within several months to a year.
• In the past, have you put your hair through A LOT? It could be a result of previous trauma to the hair. If you didn't take care of your hair in the past, your hair could just now be responding to the trauma after a stage of shock. It will revive itself with proper techniques and maintenance.
• Do you constantly pull back your hair when wet? Edge breakage is often a result of pulling back hair when wet OR pulling hair back into tight pony tails, buns, etc. Take it easy and remember, LOW stress on those tresses. They need your tender love and care.

PRAY for your hair if you are having serious issues. Perhaps it sounds juvenile or like the new convert who prays for everything, from their dog who scratches their ear to much, to what to order off the Burger King menu- because they are so concerned with being in the will of God. Sure that sounds a bit much. BUT remember that Jesus calls us to have childlike faith. And He is a father who desires to give GOOD gifts to His children. So its okay to ask God to help you with your hair. I promise. Because that one is tried and proven too!

Celebrating glorious and strong locks <3

Hair Tip #8: Hair Shedding

How do you feel about hair shedding??

• Our intial response when we see hair in the sink or hair in the shower is that our hair is falling out! But never to fear, studies suggest that anywhere from 50-100 shedded hairs a day is normal. So don't get too worked up. Focus on what is normal for your hair.
• One helpful tip is to record how much hair you shed. When you take a shower, use a hair catcher drain. When you are done washing, remove the hair and place it in a ziplock bag. While detangling your hair, try your best to keep all of that hair in a bunch as well. Once you are done detangling, add that hair to the same ziplock bag. Label the bag with the date. Do this for 6-8 weeks. You will discover what is normal shedding for your hair. (I got this idea from Kim Love from kimmaytube. I will not post the video but if you are interested in watching visit this link)
• STRESS will cause shedding! Take the time to prioritize your life and include de-stressing as a part of your daily routine. So many medical conditions stem from stress. It is a monster!
• If you think you are experiencing breakage rather than shedding, examine your hair strands that have come out. If you see stress, split ends and damage on the strands, then most likely your are experiencing breakage. In most cases, this is a clear indication that you are not handling your hair as gently as you should. Avoid extremely tight hair styles, never  brush or comb dry hair, do not attempt to style hair when you are frustrated or angry, avoid  tugging and pulling hair.

Understanding the Hair Growth and Shedding Process

Celebrating happy, healthy and long hair :)



Hair Tip #7: Preparing Your Hair for the Winter

With the winter season springing up on us very quickly, I am sure just like me you have had thoughts of :

Thanksgiving... Yummm turkey!

              Christmas - highlight of my life!

                           Lights [i love lights]
                                      Yummy treats,
                                            Warm drinks
                                 Cozy sweaters, boots & tights :)

Well with all that this wonderful season brings, there is the reality that we will experience blistering cold winds, rain, snow, sleet and below freezing temperatures! So we must do the best we can to protect our tresses!
Here is a list of helpful tips to keep in mind!

1. Be proactive: If the cold weather hasn't hit your area yet, don't wait until it does to take precautions. Start preparing your hair now! Take heed!!
2. Deep condition once to twice a week: Heavier conditioners are best for this season. Make sure you condition the ends and avoid directly conditioning your scalp. With Afro-texture hair, we have plenty of natural oils on our scalp, yet because of our curls, the oil cannot easily move down the hair shaft. So be sure to moisturize from the ends in.
3. Avoid alcohol based substances: Gel and hair spray are the main culprits here. Check the labels on your products. If you haven't tried an ALL organic shampoo- winter might be the time to give it a try. You don't want to risk using drying products. Because you can't get back hair breakage- you can only grow new hair.
4. Fight back against stubborn static: Use a dryer sheet! Yes that's right! I just picked up new dryer sheets (not for my hair, for my laundry lol) and they have great scents. Lavender, mandarin orange, floral, etc. So you can get away with rubbing this on your hair. Don't try to brush and comb when static appears on your hair. It can cause breakage and tangles!
5. Limit your time under the dryer: If you commonly go under the dryer after washing and conditioning, limit this practice during the winter. If you do decide to sit under the dryer, towel dry your hair until it is about 20% dry. Once you are under the dryer, be sure to come out as soon as your hair dries!!
6. No WNG: This is very important! When you walk outside with wet hair, due to the cold weather, the water on your hair strands can freeze on your hair and cause breakage. In addition, you will be subjecting your hair to wind damage and exposure to the weather conditions. Wash your hair at night when it can dry overnight. If you must go out with damp hair, cover your head! Also, wash no more than 7-10 days. Too much washing can cause your hair to be dryer than it needs to be. Keep this in mind!
7. Easy on the heater: Don’t pump the heater too high in your car and home if it is not necessary. It can have a very similar effect as sitting under the dryer. Of course maybe not as dramatic- but it is a good analogy :)
8. Protective styling: Protective styling! Protective Styling! Need I say it again? *smile* Be sure to keep your hair protected with those ends tucked under. Hopefully by now I have given your a fair amount of style options! I will be coming out with a whole lot more this winter for sure!
9. Keep oil on hand like chap stick: Whenever your ends look or feel dry, take a drop of oil and rub it through your ends. You hair will thank you with growth and less breakage. Just don't get carried away! You don't want your hair drippin' like you have a Jerry curl!!
10. Cover your head: Here is your chance to add some flair to your do. Try some crocheted hats, cute beanies, thick fabric headbands or silk scarves. Don't be afraid to wear your silk bonnet underneath your hats! http://www.etsy.com/ Here is a good start to finding a unique and functional hat!

Celebrating happy, healthy and long hair :)

Hair Tip #6: Quick Hair-Do, Bun

I never have enough time!
24 hours a day is simply not enough time!
I somehow always end up with about
5-7 minutes to style my hair...
So what do I do?...

* One hair tie

*6 bobby pins (not even lol)

* Gel

*Water

Here is a video tutorial  of how to do this hairstyle

along with some extra little tips about growing out your hair.

ENJOY <3

Celebrating happy, healthy and long hair :)

Hair Tip #5: Hair Washing and Detangling Methods

What is more important than clean hair?

And what is better than saving money by saving shampoo??

I decided it would be easier to show my hair washing techniques rather than just

trying to explain them in words. I explain the best method I have found to distribute

 shampoo from my scalp to ends without tangling my hair. With this method

 there is the guarante of saving soap! I'm all about having the best of both worlds!

So here are a few short vids explaining how to shampoo and detangle your hair,

Kendras way of course :)

I hope this helps!!

 

Celebrating happy, healthy and long hair :)

Hair Tip #4: The Mirror

When you look in the mirror, what do you say to your reflection?

When you look in the mirror, what is the expression of your face?

Do you embrace the image that looks back at you?

Or do you anxiously turn away thinking its all a waste?

When you look in the mirror, is there a smile or a look of disdain?

Is there a thought that natural beauty is a waste or is it all a pain?

When you look in the mirror are you sad at what you see?
Or do you say, "that is beautiful and yes it is me"?

Is your perception of beauty what God sees?





This is an extremely important hair tip! I know its not about a style, a product or something "conventional". But I feel that I need to encourage some of my beautiful ladies that YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL! I know some of you might be the only black girl in your church with natural hair but know that you are beautiful.. We were fearfully and wonderfully made. I have had days where I have cried and just wished my hair wasn't so different and hard to manage. But I go right back to the question, what is your purpose Kendra? Why are you doing this?? Because your hair is your glory. No need to hang our heads in shame or feel embarrassed. This is how God made us and it is beautiful!

So I ask the question,

When YOU look in the mirror,
what does your reflection say?...

Celebrating healthy, happy and long hair :)

Hair Tip #3: Deep Conditioning

Deep conditioning is a must. I have found many ways that I like to do this. Allow me to offer a few suggestions and helpful ideas. These are all things I have done and found to be great:

1. Hot oil treatment along with your normal wash and condition regimen. Pour on the hot oil, massage it into your scalp, and then add shower cap. Leave on for 15-45 min. You can sit under the dryer for added penetration.
2. Purchase a protein deep conditioning treatment.
3. Try blending an avocado with your conditioner and then applying it to your hair.
4. Condition with coconut milk and aloe vera juice.
5. Try my spa day treatment

OH THE WAYS YOU CAN CONDITION!

 This weekend I deep conditioned my hair. I started by washing my hair. Then I added a mixture of coconut milk, Africa's best ultimate herbal oil and aloe vera juice to my hair. I massaged this in for a while and then rinsed it out. Next I applied a hot oil treatment to my scalp, massaged it thoughout my hair to be sure it was equally distributed. Then I added my conditioner. I used a plastic bag to cover my hair (my hair can no longer fit under a shower cap lol) and left it in for 15-20 minutes. I then thoroughly rinsed my hair. My husband and sister and law could not stop commenting on how healthy, soft and moisturized my hair looked and felt. In addition, my husband noticed a definite difference in curl definition. Yay hair! Here are the results:

Its getting quite long. I will be doing length check pictures soon :)

SO find what works for you and make this part of your weekly hair regimen!

Your hair deserves the best! After all, it is your glory!!

Celebrating happy, healthy and long hair :)

Hair Tip#2: Modest Additions

I am not a huge fan of big and gaudy!

But I am much more a fan of

classic and simple.

In this case,

less is more :)

Here is an awesome way to add a little something to your natural hair do. Just a simple flower, feather or crocheted masterpiece. There are so many options to suit what you like! Silk scarves, felt headbands and flowers, crocheted bows and flowers, etc. The list goes on and on.....

Have a look :)

I have found a girl in my church who makes just what I like and the price is right!

Celebrating healthy, happy and long hair :)

Hair Tip #1: Avoid Excess Breakage

Hair Tip #1:
Want to avoid excess breakage on your ends and your edges??

Tying up your hair at night is a must!!

• Avoid  cotton bandanna's!!! Look for satin and silk!
• Find what works for YOU, or find SEVERAL options that work!
• Some options are better than others depending on the style you are trying to preserve!

 Satin Bonnet

Convenient, easy to use, comfortable and stays on all night! (for me anyway)

Perfect for twist outs, braid outs, twists and braids.

You can find it less than $3 at most places!!

Silk Scarf or a Do Rag

Perfect for laying down edges! If you are a hard sleeper it can easily

 slide off so beware! And if tied too tight it can cause a headache lol.

 But its great for slick styles, cornrows, flat twists, etc

Silk or Satin Pillowcase

This is another easy option. If you aren't in the mood to tie up your hair

you can rest easy knowing you aren't pulling out hair all night on your pillowcase

 Celebrating happy, healthy and long hair :)