Top Five New Year Hair Care Resolution to make in 2015

 

 

We all try to make resolutions when the New Year arrives. However, at times we have challenges achieving them.  Here are five hair care tips which will transform your hair in 2015  if you are able to stick with them.  Healthy hair care takes hard work and a deliberate effort to keep your hair at its healthiest.

 

Resolution # 1

 Use the blow dryer as little as possible. Blow dryers deposit direct heat on to the hair. This direct heat depletes the hair of its moisture and promotes breakage.  Try more healthy alternatives such as a hooded dryer, a fan or air drying.

 

Resolution # 2

Switch to using a shampoo free method. Shampoos usually contain sodium laureth sulfate which is commonly used in detergents. This ingredient strips the hair of its natural oils and thus causes the hair cuticles to open and thus promotes frizz and brittle hair. Try more healthy alternatives to cleaning the scalp such as diluted apple cider vinegar or co-wash with a light moisture based conditioner. If you cannot do without a shampoo, try sulfate free shampoos. The words “sulfate free” are usually written on their labels.

Resolution # 3

 Learn the art of self-trimming. While trimming does not grow your hair, it does keep the hair ends healthy and free of knots and splits which will inhibit length retention. Without length retention the hair will appear  not to grow. Self trimming ensures that you are able to trim on demand without having to go to a salon every time you need a trim. Never allow your hair to get to a stage where you need a trim which takes of more than ¼ inch of hair.  Try the search and destroy trimming method to keep your hair healthy at home.

Resolution # 4

Deep condition regularly. Deep conditioning infuses each strand of hair with the nutrients of the products which are being used to fortify each strand of hair. This promotes stronger hair and healthier hair. Deep conditioning with heat is the most effective whether with body heat or a hooded dryer. Try Deep conditioning with olive oil, castor oil, moisturizing conditioners or protein conditioners as the case may be.

Resolution # 5

Protect your ends. Protecting your ends is very important in promoting length retention.  If your ends are frizzy and crocked then you will have to trim excessively and thus your hair is likely to remain at a particular length for years. When your ends are well protected, tucked away from the elements and from rubbing back and forth on your clothing, which promotes breakage, this ensures length retention. When you retain your length you will maintain your length goal such as bra-strap length or even waist length.

 

Sticking to these key tips will give you the hair you always dreamed of in 2015.

 

 

 

 

KNOW YOUR INGREDIENTS: Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein and Citric Acid

Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein is a moisturizing and conditioning protein which is a derivative of whole wheat. It increases the hair's ability to hold moisture and produce shine and gloss to damaged and dull hair. Because of  its low molecular weight, it easily pierces the hair shaft. Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein attracts and retains moisture, builds body, reduces porosity, improves hair manageability, improves luster and smoothness.

Products which contain this Ingredient

1. Kenra Moisturizing Conditioner
2. Wave Nouveau Moisturizing Finishing Lotion
3. Herbal Essences Replenishing Conditioner
4. Abba Color Protect Conditioner
5. Miss Keys 10 en 1

Citric Acid is an organic acid. It is usually used as a pH adjuster and a natural preservative in hair care products. It  is known to alter the pH level in most shampoo's and conditioner's down to a pH level of 4.5-5.5. A slightly acidic shampoo and/or conditioner with a pH level of 4.5-5.5, will cause  hair cuticles to  lay flat making the hair look/feel smooth, shiny and sleek.

Which products contain this Ingredient?
1. Elasta QP H-Two Leave-in
2. Elasta QP Creme Conditioning Shampoo
3. KeraCare Humecto Conditioner
4. Herbal Essences Long Term Relationship Conditioner
5. Nexxus Humectress Conditioner

adoptedsource:sunshyne

Black Tea Rinse helps to Reduce Shedding!

Shedding is a normal process that we all experience. When the hair has reached the end of its’ growing phase, it falls out so that new hair can grow in its place. Shed hair tends to be long in length with a white bulb attached at the end. 

On average, women shed 50-100 hairs a day, however, if you notice more than this due to stress, weight loss, dieting etc., doing a Black Tea Rinse can reduce your unwanted shedding.

DHT (Dihydrotestosterone) is a hormone causing hair follicles to shrink making it impossible for healthy hair to survive. It's the hormonal process of testosterone converting to DHT, which then harms the follicles. This process takes place in both men and women.  Fortunately, Black Tea contains caffeine (much more than coffee) which is known to block DHT.  Caffeine, acidic in nature, removes DHT from the scalp, thus reducing hair fall. Not only does Black Tea aid in reducing shedding, it also provides softness to the hair, volume and shine!

Here's how to do it!

·         Pour 2 Cups of water into a pot. Add 5 tea bags into the water. Bring to a boil.

·         Leave the tea bags in to steep. Once cool, remove the bags and pour the tea into a spray bottle.

·         Shampoo your hair twice and dry for 15mins.

·         Apply an old towel around my neck to prevent the tea from dripping on my clothes and staining it.

·         Then section your hair and spray the tea directly into my scalp. Spray the tea all over my head until my scalp is completely saturated.

·         Put on my shower cap to allow the tea to penetrate my scalp. I leave it on for 45mins -1hr.

·         After an hour, rinse out the tea thoroughly.

·         After rinsing it out, follow up with a moisture rich deep condition for 30 mins. Black Tea tends to make the hair feel dry (even while wet, it's hard to describe) so deep conditioning after or while the tea is on your hair, is a must!

adoptedsource:Sunshyne

COCONUT MILK A TREAT FOR YOUR HAIR

Coconut milk is a liquid derived from mature coconuts. This milk is a high fat content. It contains vitamins like niacin and folate which increases blood circulation. Coconut milk is the answer of every hair problem you are facing. It contains vitamin E and fats which are very beneficial for hair and also promote hair growth.

How to apply coconut milk for hair growth?

1.     Detangle your hair properly.

2.     Apply the milk on your scalp, hair and tips. Use your fingers to massage your scalp. Scalp massage is good for blood circulation and hair growth.

3.     Tie up your hair  and cover with a steam cap. It’s going to naturally heat up your hair and also prevent the milk from leakage.

4.     Leave your hair for 4-5 hours, so that the milk enters the root of the hair.

5.     Wash hair with sulphate free shampoo.

6.     Condition your hair.

Deep conditioning by coconut milk:

1.     Take 4 tablespoons of coconut milk and mix it with honey and hair oil (you can use olive oil or castor oil).

2.     Heat this mixture for 2 minutes and then apply it to your hair. This process can be a little messy.

3.     Now wear a steam cap and leave your hair for an hour.

4.     Wash your hair with regular shampoo.

Now you can see the awesome results of your hard work. Trust me you will fall in love with your hair. This hair mask will not only help in hair growth but it will also make your hair silky, smooth and shiny.

adopted Source:stylecraze

Natures Pearl Shampoo and Conditioner

Natures Pearl

I was recently introduced to these products by a friend of mine, at first i was reluctant to purchase the items because they are a pricey pair costing $4000 Jamaican Dollars each. That is about $36 United states dollars each. For me that is pricey because I normally spend $500 Jamaican dollars each for my favorite pair of shampoo and conditioner. I however got a 50% discount on each for my purchase.

But I can tell you that I was not disappointed with my purchase except for one thing which i was discuss later in this post. I must firstly say that i did not love the smell of the products. It is alright but not appealing enough for me.

 The shampoo is sulfate free which is a plus and it serves to detoxify the scalp and rid it of unwanted toxins and in turn promotes healthy scalp and we know that healthy hair grows from a healthy scalp. Also it does not strip the hair of its natural oils but provides a deep clean. It is thin in consistency. This is what they have to say:

" Tired of chemical detergents and solvents in your shampoo that frizz, thin and split your hair? Breathe in the refreshing scent of mangos and coconut along with the antioxidant-rich texture of powerful Muscadines. Cleanses every hair type, without stripping essential oils. "

The conditioner is thick in consistency and is very moisturizing. This is my favorite of the pair primarily for its detoxifying and moisturizing properties. It is fortified with rosemary and thus gives that tingling feeling which helps to increase blood flow to the scalp. It left my hair feeling soft and manageable. This is what they have to say:

"Our unique Certified ToxicFree Ingredients are infused in distilled water and combined with nourishing botanicals such as Aloe Vera, Rosemary and White Oak Bark. These organic ingredients will detangle your hair as well as strengthen and repair split ends. "

My only disappointment with these products is the capacity. 

Because I have long mid-back hair I could only get two uses

 from the container.

If you can afford this pair its a must have for your hair Regimen.

Body and Bounce!

Body and Bounce!

A friend of mine who is of Indian decent recently explained to me that hair growth is not her issue, her issue is to get her hair to have body. By this she means that she wants her hair to be thick from root to ends. So I dedicate this article to her and my other readers with a similar issue. 

Some sure ways to ensure thick hair include:

           Maintain a healthy diet, keeping the scalp clean and free of micro-bacterial fungus, minimize hair loss, Reduce split ends and keep hair at a length this it is most healthy.( cut stringy          unwanted ends)

Here are some other useful tips:

Thick hair begins with your Diet

Foods that contain omega-3 fats are essential. They include fish, salmon and nuts as walnuts and flax seeds. You should also eat vitamin-rich foods such as leafy green vegetables. Eat fruits, vegetables, whole grains, protein and dairy daily.

Include Castor Oil in your Hair Regimen

Castor Oil has antibacterial and anti fungal properties that helps to keep the scalp healthy and reduces lair loss.

Include Aloe Vera in your Hair Regimen

Aloe vera acts as a natural conditioning agent that restores the hair’s sheen, luster, and shine. It not only makes the hair soft, but it also enhances strength and suppleness. It naturally combats frizz but does not have the greasy buildup that many hair care products leave behind.

Regardless of the scalp or hair’s condition, whether too oily or too dry, aloe vera can restore the proper balance. It has amazing results for promoting hair growth as well as staving off hair loss. Try aloe vera, nature’s own remedy for restoring health and beauty to hair.

Include Eggs in your Hair Regimen

Hair loss can also be controlled to a great extent by using eggs. Mix two egg yolks with about 1 tablespoon of castor oil. Mix both the ingredients properly, and then massage it on your hair and scalp. Keep it for about half an hour, and then rinse it off with water. This treatment will make your hair stronger, shinier, and well-moisturized.

CO-Washing

The practice of co-washing has given my hair a lot of body because the conditioner penetrates the shaft of the hair and  causes it to swell. When each strand swells this results in a thicker bouncier head of hair.

Finally, include sulphate free shampoos and conditioners in your hair regimen. These products do not strip your hair of its natural oils and so your hair tends to be healthier with their use.

Remember, be patient with your hair. Don’t tug at it. Be careful you are not ripping it off by your styling techniques. Protect your hair properly at nights. Do not over use chemicals. All in all if you nurture your hair the right way it will make you proud.

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Hair Trimming - Trim those ends

Trim Those Ends

When I was younger I hated getting my hair trimmed. I wanted long hair at all costs. It didn't matter to me that the last two or three inches at the end of my hair were thinning, uneven, splitting, had knots and were just unhealthy looking. 

As far as I was concerned, my hair was “long” and it was those extra inches that made it so.

Since my “ hair revolution” aka my hair journey, I have come to really embrace the idea and the act of trimming my hair.  I decided to write an article on this topic today because I recently gave myself a 2.5 inch trim which took me from closer to waist length to two inches below bra strap ( Mid back length). I have been asked the question many times 

“ Why did you cut your hair?"

I now value trimming my hair because, while trimming the hair does not make it grow, as I was lead to believe when I was younger, it does have multiple benefits to achieving a healthy head of hair.

Such as:

1 .

 It removes split ends– which are not only unsightly but can contribute to thinning hair if the split is allowed to make its way up the shaft of the hair.

2. 

Trimming also removes knots which contribute to split ends. If the knots are not removed properly i.e ripping it off with a comb.

 3.

Keeps the hair healthy looking by giving it a fuller appearance.

Well trimmed hair has the potential to remain healthy over time and thus reduces the need for doing big chops of 5-6 inches to get the hair to its healthiest length.

I did my trim for two reasons:

1. Some strands were out of place.

2. I wanted to be full mid- back length where the shortest length where my hair is healthiest is mid back length. That means that i had no little strings touching waist length when the majority of my strands weren't, so that i could claim waist length.

When trimming your hair your choice of scissors is very important. This is because your scissors can make the situation better or worst.

A sharp trimming scissors dedicated to the purpose of trimming your hair is the best scissors to have.

A dull scissors will contribute to squashing the strand and causing more splits after the first was removed. Do not use everyday cutting scissors which you use to cut paper cardboard and everything else around the house to cut your hair.

Remember you gain six inches per year on average. If you cut one inch this year at the end of next year you would have gained 11 new inches in the two years. But if you don't trim when necessary this year and you don't next year either you may find that you end up with 5 damaged inches of hair which have to be removed. leaning you with gaining only 6 inches over two years. See the math in it?

Don't be afraid of your trimming scissors, its one of your hair best friends if used wisely.

Below is a video i did a while back on my trimming

 "search and destroy technique."

 Check it out.

                                              Keep Visiting For New and Innovative Hair Care Tips.

The Secret to Shiny Hair

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 The Secret to Shiny Hair

I had often wondered why after a salon visit some women had nice shiny bouncy hair.

I thought it had to do with the oils that were added to the strands during the styling process.

I also thought this natural shine was as a result of an apple cider rinse.

But recently I have come to learn that the true secret to shiny hair is rinsing the hair thoroughly for about 15 minutes non-stop under running water, after washing. 

This process causes each strand of  hair to reflect light perfectly thus giving that shiny look. 

So does your hair look dull after washing and drying? Next time rinse your hair thoroughly under running water and experience the difference.

HOT NEW THING - CREME OF NATURE STRAIGHT FROM EDEN

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 HOT NEW THING - CREME OF NATURE STRAIGHT FROM EDEN 

 We must admit that there is a trend now that many relaxed ladies are saying goodbye to their relaxer and embracing their natural hair. 


Big chops are very common and with the advent companies investing alot into their natural haircare lines, there are many viable options when it comes to products to take care of natural hair. 

Key issues have been softening the hair and defining curls. These issues have been solved by many products on the market. 

However in spite of this new trend there are still women such as myself who although we do embrace our natural hair still take a shot at relaxing our hair and are proud relaxer ladies, at least for now.

As relaxed ladies there are a few things that we don't like about relaxing our hair and one of them is the possibility of getting chemical burns. 

This comes as a result of the harsh chemicals which are apart of the relaxer systems. No matter what other " good" ingredients are also apart of the relaxer it doesn't hide the harsh reality of its core. 

So I often wondered.. with all the thrust in technology is there no way to make a relaxer that is healthy all around. 

See we debate which is better lye or no -lye. Some say lye is gentle on the hair but harsh on the scalp while no-lye is gentle on the scalp but harsh on the hair. Some women don't know the difference.

But I often wondered why not make a relaxer which is gentle on the scalp and gentle on the hair but still straighens hair properly.

Creme of nature seems to have answered my hearts call with their new Straight from Eden Relaxer System. I have not tried it yet. 

I plan to do so for my next relaxer day scheduled for april. 

But for now I am researching on the product and reading and watching reviews. All reviews have been good so far. 

This new product caught my eyes not only because it is plant based but " is formulated without lye, mineral oil, petrolatum, propylene glycol, sulfates, parabens or formaldehyde." 

Can you imagine a relaxer without any of those harsh chemicals and other bad ingredients for your hair? I cant wait to try it, plus nothing relaxes me more on relaxer day than the thought of no checical burns!!!! I cant wait.

 Here is what creme of nature says

"nourish To maximize conditioning results, the system includes a nutrient packed plant-derived conditioning treatment and a plant-derived repairing oil. These conditioning treatments, strengthen, nourish and moisturize hair. Derived from coconut, avocado, and olive oils these treatments rejuvenate hair and naturally provide additional post-relaxer protection against damage and dehydration when relaxed hair needs it most. straightening creme plant-derived* 

First, we started with the straightening creme. Unlike traditional relaxers, the 100% plant-derived* straightening creme is created from all natural plant-derived coconut, avocado and olive oils. This relaxer system is powered by plant life, one of nature's most powerful healing and rejuvenating sources. 98% of these oilsx are "alive" at the point of activation, unlike traditional systems you find on the market today. This patent pending technology is formulated without lye, mineral oil, petrolatum, propylene glycol, sulfates, parabens or formaldehyde."

Protective styling preferences: Braids or Weaves?

Protective styling preferences:

 Braids    OR    Weaves ?

Remy Hair

 Continuing on the issue of protective styling, many women are now choosing to wear weaves rather than braids. Weaves, if installed properly can have a very realistic look and provides more styling choices. Some will also argue that weaves have a more professional look and is more fitting for the workplace. This last statement is debatable and is perhaps more of an issue where cultural issues exist.

However my focus for this post is primarily on the issue of which styling choice is best as a protective style.

Braids are lovely especially within the first 2- 3 weeks after its instillation. But once the roots begin to grow out to the point where it becomes obvious, the style loses its appeal.  For this reason I think that weaves have more longevity. I also believe that weaves provides more styling choices if done properly. Because the weave is stitched to a base it is easier to conceal the growing roots. For this reason weaves can be kept in for longer periods of time.

As it relates to the care of the natural hair underneath the braid, it is easier to get to the roots of the hair when that hair is braided in order to apply oils to the scalp and so forth. This task tends to be harder with a weave that is stitched to the head. This can be achieved though, through with the use of spray bottles to apply concoctions to the hair while the weave is still attached.

My personal choice is weaves.

Remy Hair 

 I just love a good weave because I cannot go for a long period without combing hair.  Whether it’s my real hair or a weave I love to pass the comb through hair, the braids restrict me in this regard. I also love the weave because it allows me to take more risk with my hair styles that I wouldn't do with my natural hair such as the use of direct heat more often, using curling irons, crimping irons, blow dryers without the worry of not using a heat protectant. However, in spite of this I do not like the fact that I cannot give my scalp a good massage when I get my weave washed. I always think that my hair doesn't get a good clean whenever I wash it with the weave in.

Of course the quality of the hair used for your weave will determine whether or not you enjoy your weave. Some hair types matt so easily that it stresses the process more than is necessary. The best choice for me is Remy hair. It’s expensive but long lasting.

Remember that as good as the weave looks its purpose is defeated if your natural hair underneath is not being nourished and protected. The purpose of this style is to ensure that your natural hair is rested, free of manipulation and is given a chance to rest and grow and be healthy.

I always use hair that matches closely to my natural hair color type and texture that way it suits my face and complexion. That’s my view. What’s yours?

Until next time, happy hair growing!!

Braiding as a protective style: Twists, Plaits or Corn -Rows?

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     Braiding as a protective style: 

                 Which to choose?

Single plaits, Single Twists or Corn-Rows

One way of stretching or relaxer or just giving our hair a “break” is by using braids. These braids are usually made of synthetic fiber.  But are all braids created equal?

I have done all three types of braids over the years and I will rank these techniques in my order of preference.

Third: Single Twists/ Rope Twists.

Wow these look so beautiful when finished. When this style just came in I just really wanted to have it in my hair. It had this unique non-traditional flair to it and it looked far more elegant than the traditional plaits.  But when I got them installed and realized how damaging it is to my hair I was shocked. The constant twisting in opposite directions and very tightly at the roots was not my idea of a healthy hair style. Unless your hair is strong from roots to ends I do not recommend this style as a means of giving your hair a well needed rest.  Also if this style is washed while installed and has to be rocked back and forth on the pivots of the hair roots, the hair just plucks out of the root one by one. Ever noticed those white bulbs at the root of your braids? Well while some may be as a result of natural shedding the majority is as a result of tight braiding, and the fact that too much braid is being anchored on just a few strands of your natural hair.

Second: Single plaits.

While these braids may not be as attractive as the twists they can be gentler on the hair at instillation provided that it is not installed too tightly at the roots. The same issue of washing and day to day styling also causes strands to pull out from the root. But I prefer this method because it is gentler on the hair at instillation.

NUMBER 1!!!!

Without a doubt my favorite protective braiding style is corm rows. This style is both gentle on the hair as well as does not usually have that pivoting movement at the roots when styling because it is laid flat on the scalp. Also braiding is usually set in one style that can be kept in place with very little manipulation. Thus it truly allows your hair to be tucked away undisturbed for a period of time thus really giving your natural hair a rest.

Caution: As with any braided style consider the braid as a parasite which sucks your natural strands of its moisture and oils. When your hair is stripped of these essential components it will break. And this defeats the purpose of the process. Hence whenever you wear braids always spray with a leave in, so as to keep your hair underneath moisturised and nurtured during the process. Also, braids when installed too tight can cause breakage at the hair lines and this causes the hair line to recede. So do not choose this style styles too often. Nurture your edges with castor oil constantly to keep them thick and nice.

Until next time, happy hair growing.