Sunday, December 25, 2011

Merry Christmas!

Hey all!

From the bottom of my heart, I would like to wish all my beautiful kinkies and kinkettes out there, a blessed and wonderful Christmas!

Mine definitely did not turn out as I intended, but there is always a reason to be humble, and to count your blessings. That is what Christmas is about anyway! I did have fun at my family's Christmas Eve party, so it was not all bad.

Just for fun, this was my Christmas Eve look...wish I had an after party to go to (Lol)




Oh yeah, I did Yarn Braids about a week ago (Lol). I did them a little longer this time, BSL instead of APL. I love them, they went wavy without me having to do the work to crinkle them! I will be keeping these babies in for while!

Enough about me and my Holiday nonsense, again, I would like to wish you all a very, Merry Christmas!


~NM

Thursday, December 15, 2011

Black Hair Planet Secret Santa Goodies

Hey All!

As you all know I am on many a hair forum, but I call Black Hair Planet, BHP for short, my home forum. It was the very first one I joined, and it is so close knit, like a little hair family (Lol) I love the ladies there.

The reason I bring my divas up is because it is holiday season! Like last year, we are doing Secret Santa. When we do it we all write up lists, just as we would with Santa, and the secret gift giver sends you something from the list.

Well my divas are already sending gifts out.How do I know? Well it is because I just got mine!

I already know who sent it to me by the name...and it was the Lovely Ms. Saunta (Hope she doesn't mind the shout out).

Here is the items she sent me ^_^


  1. Tangle Teezer. (Supposed to be awesome for detangling)
  2. Tropical Isle JBCO
  3. Aphogee Keratin & Green Tea Reconstructurizer (Great leave in/heat protectant)
  4. Shea Butter (As if you all did not know what it is! lol)

She pretty much got almost everything on my wish list, come to think of it lol. Besides raffles, and Secret Santa, I love BHP because everyone is so close knit. My girl is from Barbados, and still was more than willing to participate, so it is all love! Join if you have not found a home forum, and even if you do, there is no forum like Black Hair Planet.

As for my gift, I have yet to send it (LOL). I keep kicking myself for it, but I am forcing myself to do it tomorrow; no excuses!

I could not find much on the list unfortunately, but I hope my Secret Santa giftee likes them.

I just HAD to share! I hope everyone is getting their shopping, because Christmas is less than 2 weeks away! I know I need to.

Oh I did BSL Yarn Braids aka Genie Locs, so I will be posting soon. Be on the look out!

~Naomi


Sunday, December 4, 2011

Sublimed Sulfur for Growth

Hey All.

I finally got  a chance to get my hands on a camera to take the pictures of my Sulfur Mix.

I have been using that in combination with Hairdrenaline (Potion) once a week for 8 hours using GHE method, and I also have lazily been taking MSM 500mcg capsules as well. I say lazily because I rarely remember to actually take them.

My baldspots are making amazing progress, I will have to post pics later, probably sometime tomorrow I will post comparison pictures.


What got me interested in wanting and using Sublimed Sulfur was a challenge the had on BHP. It is now ending, but from there I learned that Sublimed Sulfur had the ability to promote growth, up to 1 inch in a month! So you know I had to give it a try!

I will however say that I did NOT follow instructions. I used a whole 2-4 (cannot remember which) in an 8oz bottle which is a definite no-no. Sulfur is potent and it definitely not one of those things that more=better. Too much can have adverse effects such as

Skin Irritation & Burning
Inflammation to Respiratory System if inhaled
Eye Irritation
Can cause a dry scalp if used too often

For more info on side effects, precautions, and other uses for Sublimed Sulfur click the links.

To an 8oz amount of oil, any but EVCO (Coconut Oil) because this oil can harbor bacteria, you use one heaping teaspoon of Sublimed Sulfur. That is how potent this stuff is.

To combat my issue. I mixed JBCO into my EVOO which turned out to be 24oz, and honestly I still do not feel that it is diluted enough because I have experienced a pulsating feeling on my scalp when I use it; so instead of sectioning and oiling as I usually would I use a quarter sized amount of oil, rub it in my hands, and massage it throughout my scalp.

I still have some Sulfur left in my applicator from the first "batch" (Lol) I do not keep up with it as I should. At best, I use it twice a week. I would like to use it 3-4 times a week.

I keep forgetting to take pictures of my bald spots, but I promise they will be up soon. MSM has Sulfur in it, so I am using it on my scalp, and ingesting it (Lol) on top of Hairdrenaline, so I cannot honestly say what is promoting the most growth, but I am on a mission to grow my baldspots back, because I am too tired of being style hindered!

Here is what the mix looks like




I have to shake it up before I use it, and it gets a yellow-green color.

Here is the rest of the sulfur in the applicator bottle


I suppose when I run out of the oil in the bottle, I will be using what is in the applicator bottle.

So that is my mix. Hope it helps any of you guys who were interested in using Sublimed Sulfur, or any of the other growth aid options I mentioned!

~Naomi

Sunday, November 27, 2011

Favorite New Hairstyle- Flat Twist Out's

Hey All!

I remember saying that I was going to share my holiday hair with you all, sooo that is what I am here to do!

I originally wanted to do a rod set, (which I am still lusting after) but because I was up late the night before, I had to do a rushed hairstyle, and though I am terrible at doing Flat Twists, it is faster than two strands, and I knew it would take better on dry hair.

All I did was dampen my hair a tiny bit, and used Shea Butter to give my hair a little moisture. I did six Flat Twists all together, and Bantu Knotted the ends, so they would blend with the rest of my hair.

I slept with them, and took them out in the afternoon. They were perfectly stretched, and wavy! My exact desired results. I have to say that I prefer this to my beloved two stranded twist, my hair looked less clumpy and blended.

I even got compliments from my mother, who stands by the creamy crack and constantly picks at me for being natural. So that is a plus in my book. Even my transitioning sister rocked her fro proudly.


Even with being natural for 2 years, I am still discovering what styles work for me! Oh, and I believe my sister did a really chunky twist out, with a side part.

I hope you guys love it as much as I do!

~Naomi

Friday, November 25, 2011

Happy (belated) Thanksgiving!

Hey All!

I know I am super late, but I had a lot of house hopping to do, and errands to run, but  I did not forget about you all! I hope all of you enjoyed your Thanksgiving! There is nothing like spending time with family....with FOOD. We all know that is the best part! (Lol)

I would also like to say food luck to you brave souls who are out there fighting shoppers for items, and standing on those long lines, on this Black Friday. I did it once, and it was freezing, and it was a sight to see! (Lol) Maybe I will participate next year.


~Naomi

Tuesday, November 8, 2011

Apparently I Have Been Featured

Hey All.

I have been meaning to post about my sulfur mix, but as soon as I get new batteries, and find the cord for my camera, I will be able to get pictures.

This post however is about something different. I was minding my business on Facebook, and you know how you get notifications right? Well a friend of mine posted a video on my wall, so I am thinking it is something funny, but apparently someone on Youtube made a video for Hairstyles for Natural Haired Brides, and my picture found it's way in there. (Lol)

I did not get permission so I am not sure how I feel about it, but I must admit I am a touch flattered that they felt my style was appropriate enough to be featured.

The other styles are quite pretty, but if you are not interested in all of that, my picture pops up at the 2:05 mark. Creative Wedding Styles

I wanted to post the video in this post but for some reason it is not letting me.

Again, it is a little flattering but a touch invasive, but unless you watermark your pictures, they can be easy to take and be used to a persons liking. So be careful!

~Naomi



Monday, October 31, 2011

Happy Halloween!

Hey All!

I know I have not been posting as much I usual, but that is because I have not been doing my hair as much as usual! (Lol) I have been terrible! I swear I am trying to get back into the whole regimen thing. I am trying a new growth aide as we speak, I will get into that next post, which will be very soon! I am hoping to put up pictures as well. Some drama ensued before even using it (Lol)  but I will save that for later. For now to all my beautiful kinkies and kinkettes ...



Happy Halloween


I hope all of you have your hair and costume's ready for that Halloween party tonight, or are getting the kids together for trick-or-treating, but if you are anything like me, boring and childless (LOL) you will be at home trying to find something scary to watch. Either way bundle up, and try having fun YOUR WAY.




~Naomi

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

2 Years Natural!

Hey All,

A couple of days ago (on the 16th) I hit my 2 year mark of being natural, and I have been relaxer free for 2 years and 8 months. I am not going to say that it has been easy, and I have not lusted after that relaxer box, because I surely did, I still do at times. I am still very happy about how far I have come and I always try to keep that in perspective when I do have those lustrous thoughts (LOL)


When I self bc'ed back in 09' my hair was super dry, and it probably was no longer than EL. Through the help of learning proper hair care, and educated myself on growth aides in a year I made it to SL.


This year's short term goal was to reach APL by June, but I did not make it until September I want to say. You cannot let not making goals discourage you from reaching your goals. It is just a way that to learn patience.

I feel like my hair is in the best state it has been since I had virgin hair (never relaxed), so that is something to be proud of. I made APL, though in layers, but then again, who says we have to have a blunt cut to claim a length, right?

That would dismiss all the Layered, V-Shaped, U-Shaped ladies out there. I say longest later reaches, claim it! (Lol) That is my philosophy and I am sticking to it.

I am currently wearing my hair straightened, and I know there are some "Hard-core Naturals" or "Natural Nazis" as I like to call them, out there who believe that you are no longer natural if you use heat to alter your texture (which happens to be temporary) or that you should not manipulate your curls or try to define them; Like we are suppose to be walking around with a matted fro. I will be damned!

Natural to me is simply not using a relaxer to chemically alter your hair that makes you lose your natural curl pattern. That is it. So as far as I know I have lived up to that.

I have yet to color, but if you want to lighten up that fro, why not? Straighten it from time to time; Go for it! Why do people who create these boxes for themselves feel like they are "More than" because they use all natural products, or chose a vegetarian/vegan life style. If you are doing something you feel betters yourself, why put the next person down because they are not doing what you do?

Anyway guys, all I have to say is, DO YOU! You are the only person who truly has to live with your decisions, and if it is not detrimental to the health and well-being of those around you, why should their opinion matter. Much less of someone who does not know YOU.

I know I will! So happy anni to me!

~Naomi

Saturday, October 8, 2011

Bad News (Update)

Hey All!

Remember how I said that I was taking Hairfinity vitamins for growth, well....I somehow managed to lose them. (Lol) I tend to carry them around in my purse, and somewhere along the way I lost them, I missed a couple of days taking them, but I was close to finishing off the bottle.

I really wanted to be able to track my progress for you all, but I clearly cannot without taking them! Eventually I will order some, and try to track again, but until then, I will be getting back to using my Hairdrenaline/Potion; starting today!

I have been incredibly lazy with my hair lately, and going heat crazy, so my hair really could take some tending to.

I am really upset about the Hairfinity Vitamins, but C'est la vie.

Just wanted to give you guys an update, as soon as I get find my camera I can go back to taking pictures, and soon enough will upgrade to a youtube channel. So thanks for bearing with me!

Stay tuned!

~Naomi

Thursday, September 29, 2011

Happy Belated to Me!

Hey All!

My birthday just passed on the 27th, and though I am still a baby, (21) I feel old. Especially being that I am officially legal.

Perhaps it is just the pressure I am feeling to get my life in order. Either way, Happy Belated to me! lol

Monday, September 26, 2011

Natural Hair Self-Esteem

Hey All.

Today I rocked a fro, with a headband. A semi-stretched fro so it was almost at its potential froliciousness (yes I made that word up lol) and I caught quite a few stares.

Fortunately I have gotten to a point of security with my hair, so getting stares does not bother me. However, when I was transitioning, and my first year of being natural, I was really self conscious. I was always wondering who was looking at me, or if it was looking "too nappy" so I always did styles that produced a defined curl pattern; Bantu Knot Outs, Braid/Twist outs, Rod sets, etc.

Then out of the blue one day I just grew a tough skin, and said to myself, "this is my hair, it's okay if others do not like it, because it is not theirs!"

The thought came to mind because when visiting a friend, her boyfriend asked me if I did my hair today, and also that I looked like I got electrocuted. A year ago, those words would have been so discouraging, but now I can genuinely laugh at it, and let the comment roll off my back.

What I also found interesting is that people 4 (a,b,c) hair are those who suffer from texture insecurity. 3's do too apparently! My sister has 3b/c hair who has been natural, but goes to Dominican Salon's religiously suffers from texture insecurity too. Which is ironic, because I use to envy her hair.

I believe that this is due to media in America still trying to live up to European standards of beauty. Straight, or type 2 hair, along with other standards such as skin tone, hair length, etc. It all contributes to how we view ourselves.

This just shows me that we may never be totally satisfied with what we have, but we need to learn to love and work with what we got! Rock that texture with confidence, let those comments fall by the wayside, and do you!

I am interested to hear you guys struggles, or triumphs when it comes to rocking your natural texture, so share! I also hope that this helps encourage those struggling with the decision to go natural, or staying natural.

Just wanted to share.


~Naomi

Wednesday, September 21, 2011

No Combing= Knots


Hey All!



Life has been pretty hectic this past week; so ever since I flat ironed my hair, I have been bunning it.

Thing is, I have not been oiling my scalp, or combing my hair. I have only been taking my Hairfinity pills. Really lazy I know. So pretty much what I have been doing is simply just taking it out of the hair band, gathering my hair, and putting it right back into a bun.

So I have been doing my usual ritual (as of late), of no combing bunning, and for some reason in between that I try to run my fingers through my hair. My hair is straight so I figure I could do that, but I found this matted up, knot in my hair.

I cannot express to you all the look of horror that engulfed my face.  I did not even know it to be possible for straight hair to get knotty. To think I thought by keeping it straight I was avoiding them. So much for laziness.

I wish I had taken a picture. I got rid of it the wrong way; by ripping it out (gently) instead of cutting it out, but then again I have rarely been the one to follow my own advice.

So for you guys out there, I will tell you with my Mother has told me "Do as I say, not as I do" totally hypocritical I know (lol) but trust me if you want healthy hair it is best to do things the right way.

So please Ladies & Gentlemen, be a dear and comb that hair.


Just wanted to give you a brief going's on in the hair department.

~Naomi


Thursday, September 15, 2011

That's it, I'm claiming it!

Hey All!

I am not sure if you guys know, but my ultimate goal is to grow my hair out to WL stretched, so that would be MBL-ish unstretched. My short term goal for this year was to make it to APL by June of this year, but unfortunately I did not meet my goal. Hey, it happens. I continued on with my regimen, I do not let things like not meeting goals discourage me, it makes me want to try even harder!

I think I got a lot of growth from my hair being in braids during the summer, since it is a protective style, even with me not washing my hair. Which is something I totally do NOT advice. Don't believe that myth about hair growing on a dirty scalp. It does not, a clean scalp is best environment for growth.


I am part of a challenge; The Six Inches Challenge for 2011 over on BHP, and still my goal was to reach APL. We recently had another check in to do. So my growth comparison was from when I flat ironed my hair back in April.

Well I flat ironed my hair with my MAXIglide Xpress a couple of days ago.I did not blow dry before hand. My hair was in a Bantu Knot Out from the day before, and I really got the urge and I had an important interview to go on, and it worked out because of the check in. I did make sure to moisturize with my Aphogee Keratin & Green Tea Reconstructerizer, and sprayed my Beyond the Zone heat protectant on each section before flat ironing.  Here is what my progress looks like.

 

Judging by the picture I think I made APL. So I really retained a lot of growth since then. My head is a teensy tilted, but even if it was not, I would be APL because I am a little over the armpit mark. I am ecstatic! I think Hairfinity has something to do with it. :)

Oh I am layered by the way, it is how my hair grows. Not everyone likes, wants, or has a blunt hair cut, and just because you do not have one does not take away from your length. I pay no attention to "Full" length titles, (Full SL, Full, APL, etc.) because I feel it limits you to having your hair look a certain way. It's like those who's hair grows in a V shape, or U shape. I actually like the V look and I think my hair has a natural V shape.

Getting to this length means a lot to me because I have not had hair this long since I was a kid (before relaxers), and I thought I would never get my hair to grow past CL for the longest time. With BHP and other forums for advice, tips, and learning new methods, along with educated myself on hair, and proper hair care, my hair is the healthiest it's been in years.

Anyway, I just wanted to share my good news with you guys! Now I'm on to my next short term goal; BSL. I will aim for June of 2012. We shall see!

~Naomi

Saturday, September 10, 2011

Hairfinity (Hair Growth Supplement)

Hey All!

Do you guys remember the post I wrote a while back about the gifts I won from Black Hair Planet, through a raffle?  Well I started taking the Hairfinity Vitamins yesterday. (09/09/11)

For those who are not familiar as to what Hairfinity is, it is a vitamin supplement that is intended to help promote hair growth. It does this by "speeding up" the anagen (growth) phase.

I do not know many people who have used it, but reading up their FAQ's I read that most people who have used Hairfinity experience 3/4-1 inch of growth in a month.

(For more info on growth using Hairfinity, here's there official website http://www.hairfinity.com/FAQs.htm)


I have the 30 day supply, which is perfect for me, because I am an inch or so off from my goal of APL. I am hoping I will make it for my 2 year natural anniversary but we shall see!


To get Hairfinity you have to order it from their official website, the 30 day supply that I have goes for $24.00 USD.

They are sold in terms of series of month supply.

2 Months goes for $42.00 USD
4 Months goes for $84.00 USD
6 Months goes for $126.00 USD

They also have a year supply that goes for $250.00 USD.

All prices excludes shipping fees.

I am really thankful to BHP (the beauty of being a member!) to get the chance to try this supplement out, because I cannot see myself pay $24.00 USD for any vitamins or hair products. I am cheap, and I am not afraid to admit it! (lol)

While using Hairfinity I will not be using Hairdrenaline, to ensure that any "extra" growth I get over the course of this month will be due to the Hairfinity.

The directions calls for me to take 2 of the vitamins a day. They are capsules with white powder in them. Much like Biotin or MSM.





For reference I took  start pictures so you guys can see where I am, and at the very least I will post an ending picture for comparison.





I really am hoping for APL by October, but I know realistically; I should be there by December. Either way I am happy, I have come a long way from CL.

Wish me luck guys!


~Naomi







Friday, September 9, 2011

Styling Braided Hair-#4 (Sailor Moon)

Hey All!


I was playing around with my braids, and decided to put them in pig tails. I started out doing them low, but then I thought, I could do "Sailor Moon" pig tails. Do you guys remember that cartoon/anime from the 90's.

If you had a Mr.Softee truck pass through your neighborhood growing up, the had the "Sailor Moon" ice cream pop thingy (lol). They had toys, and movies, oh I loved them. My favorites were obviously Sailor Moon, and Sailor Mercury. I loved them all really.

Anyway this is my ode to"Sailor Moon".







I just used a couple of braids in the back and wrapped it around the hair I was putting in a pig tail. I did it for each side.

For those who do not know of "Sailor Moon"

Just wanted to share!

~Naomi

Thursday, September 8, 2011

Styling Braided Hair- #3 (The High Bun)

Hey All!


I did another simple style the other day, (it is actually a go to of mine), The High Bun. I absolutely adore the looks of buns, especially high ones.









Since my braids are super long (WL) to make a bun, all I have to do is twirl the hair around itself. Hold it at the base, and then wrap the hair around, and secure with a hair tie of necessary.


You can also accessorize this look with a cute headband, or flower/butterfly clip.

Just wanted to share!


~Naomi

Monday, August 29, 2011

Happy Birthday MJ!

Hey All!

Today was the King of Pop Birthday. He would have be 53 years old. They always say the good die young, either way, we should be celebrating his life instead of his death, As well as all the wonderful music he's given us over the past decades. I will be jamming to his stuff for the rest of today!


Happy Birthday Michael!

Sunday, August 28, 2011

Styling Braided Hair-#2 (Cleopatra)

Hey All!

Today I got bored and started messing around with my hair, and ended up twisting it. I thought it was kinda cute, and actual wearable.










It reminds me a lot of that girl group Cleopatra from back in the day. Lol.



I am still very much enjoying the length, but I do miss my regimen. Anyway, I just wanted to share.


~Naomi

Saturday, August 27, 2011

Stay Safe!

Hey All!

I know most if not all of you have heard about Hurricane Irene, that is about to hit the East Coast, Nothing much has happened where I am, but back home in NY the shut down the metro system (MTA) and buses, so it has to be serious, because NY never shuts down!

I hope everyone has got the supplies they need, I went to the supermarket, and you would have thought it was Thanksgiving by how packed that place was!

So to all my East Coast Kinky's and Kinky's at heart, stay safe!


 (Oh, and for those interested, I possibly will be posting another style later today. So look out!)


~Naomi

Wednesday, August 24, 2011

Styling Braided Hair- Style #1

Hey All!

I am about to get on a countdown for when I can finally take these things out! Though for now, while my hair is all luxuriously long (lol) I figure I would post some of my favorite, or more so, everyday styles I have been doing with them.

I still have my spots, so I cannot do high styles really because I have to keep them hidden, which still sucks, but I hoping to clear that problem soon. Will be getting on my Hairfinity, Potion, JBCO, and allofthat (yes one word! lol) once these braids are out, because I am too tired of being inhibited. I am ready to experiment!

I call this one, a side parted, chignon bun. It is easy peasy.



Just create a side part by putting more braids on one side of the head than the other, collect it all in the back like your doing a pony tail.  Twist it around, and then wrap the hair around itself, secure with hair band if necessary, and voila!


Will be posting another style tomorrow, so look out for it!

~Naomi

Wednesday, August 17, 2011

Rebraiding Waist Length Individuals/Box Braids/ Update

Hey All!

I have been missing you guys! I know it has been a minute since I have given you all an update. I still have the braids, in fact I rebraided them.

After about the 3 week mark, my new growth really started to come through. Though new growth is a great thing, I hate seeing it when I have braids. It looks so, unkempt. I knew I wanted to keep them for 2 months so I decided to rebraid so they will look decent for the latter portion of my time with them. I have already made my halfway point with them.

At first I only planned on doing my hairline, and the few braids that are at the middle part. Come to find out, I am super paranoid, and thought that you would be able to tell I have new growth still, so I decided to do my whole head. I did it at my own leisure, probably over the course of a week and a half (lol). It really went quicker this time though, if I did it straight through I am sure it only would have been a matter of a couple of days.

My only complaint, or gripe if you will, is that my braids are much thinner. While rebraiding the hair would form tangles and knots, and it would thin out the hair from the original strand or braid. I am really missing the thickness of my braids. What I am happy about is I somehow learned how to braid tighter, like there was some actual tension after I put a braid in.

It could be that I had acrylic nails on at the time when I put my first set in. Who knows? Either way, I am glad I am finished! I will not be doing it again, if I get more new growth, oh well.

 Here's how my hair came out.






I have yet to wash my hair, I am hoping to get my hands on Organic Root Stimulator (ORS) Herbal Cleanse Dry Shampoo. I hear it works well for those with braids, and I think it will be better than saturating my hair or using actual shampoo, in the past I have experienced a lot of build up trying it that way. Should I use it, I will be doing a review.




I have also heard of people using an applicator bottle, and diluting  a shampoo of their choice, most likely the clarifying kind, with water and applying it directly to the scalp.


As for oiling my scalp, I have rarely done that. I originally brought Ginseng Miracle Wonder 8 Oil, but I have not because for one, I was home (NYC) for 3 weeks, and left it home, and two, I am terrified of build up. I have used it on my skin though, and I love it. Once I get my scalp clean I will get back to using it on my scalp. I will be doing a review on that as well.

I plan on taking my braids out anywhere between the 12th-21st of September. Pretty much on one of those weekends, before my birthday, which is the 27th of September.

I want to straighten my hair then, but I think that would be too much stress for it, so I think I will roller set it, and save flat ironing for my 2 year natural anniversary on the 16th of October.

Just wanted to give you all an update, and let you guys know that y'all were missed! I promise I will be posting a lot more often when these braids are out!

~Naomi

Sunday, July 31, 2011

Update

Hey All!

I know it has been a minute since my last post, but this is my first time logging into a computer for a while being that I have been in my hometown (NYC). My braids are holding up, though I do have some slippage from when I went to the pool, but otherwise the look fine. (I will post pics of roots/new growth later if I remember)

Believe it or not I am Trend Setting over here! I have received many compliments, especially after I tell them that I did them by myself (pats herself on the back lol).

I am hoping that I can at least keep them in until Labor day, but we shall see.

Just wanted to fill you guys in, and say hey. I miss you all!

~Naomi

Tuesday, July 12, 2011

Thanks BHP

Hey All!


As you guys know, I am part of many hair forums, but the very first I joined, which I call my "home forum" is Black Hair Planet. I joined before I was even interested in hair care or starting a HHJ.

The ladies (and gentleman) there have been nothing but wonderful to me, I swear they are family!

Getting along to the point, another great aspect of being a member of BHP, besides the people, and advice, is the raffles!

Around holidays, there tends to be raffles that members can participate in. No real money is used, only the credits you earn through posting in threads. (Posting also helps you gain status, since I have been posting since for ever I have reached the highest I can go, is Senior Diva, which I am sure they are working on as we speak!)

You enter the raffle, and those holding winning tickets get the prize. The prizes are awesome. It can be Hairfinity Vitamins, JBCO, Shea Butter, Gift Certificates, etc.


The raffle before last- The 4th of July raffle, I actually won items.

I won Hairfinity Vitamins (30 day supply), and a 4oz Tropical Isle Coconut JBCO, so I am more than pleased.


So this is a thanks to Admin & Dena! You guys are amazing!


~Naomi

New Style: Waist Length Individual/Box Braids

Hey All!

I know I have not posted in a bit, but I was busy doing these waist length braids I have been wanting to do. My long term goal is WL so I figured dealing with braids this long would be good practice!

Originally I was going for the "Poetic Justice" braids- Janet Jackson wore them in the movie, but mine came out much much thinner.

It took forever- I braided my hair on and off from this past Saturday, until 4am this morning. I used a billion packs of hair. 4-5 some got tangled, so it is hard to say the exact amount used. The type of hair I used is Kanekalon (Kanekalon is a synthetic flame retardant hair- will not burn, so it you can heat style it. ie curling iron) , and the brand I used is Outre, color 1B. Now this braid of hair is super wispy. Too wispy in fact.

It was also was a bit rough, so I did a few cuts handling this hair. It also tangles a lot, it could be the way I handled the hair, but I found it to be very tangly. I paid $1.99 at a local BSS (Beauty Supply Store).



I did not prep it really, just used it straight out of the package.


To prep my hair I did a protein treatment of Egg, Mayonnaise, mixed with Olive & Coconut Oils. I left the mixture in for about an hour without direct heat, with a shower cap. I meant to follow up with Queen Helene Cholesterol Conditioner for moisture, but time got away from me, so I just let my VO5 Moisturizing Milks Strawberries & Cream Conditioner in the shower for a half hour or so.


After that all I did was run some Shealoe through my hair, and called it a night. I started braiding Friday, but did not start for real until Saturday. I went out that day and had a great time out with DH at the Caribbean Festival, then came back home to start up again.

By far this has been the longest amount of time it has taken me to finish braids, but then again these braids are by far the longest I have ever had. I wish I had time frame, but I am pretty sure it took more than 10 hours.

When finished I had to boil some water in a pot, and dip my ends in a few times, take them out carefully, cradling with towel, squeezing them, and re-dipping, until I got the desired results- straight ends.

Oh and I encountered a few tangles, and I had to cut a strand of hair out. Yes, I cried, but I am glad I did not give up, I am super happy with the results.

Here is where I started from...



 More than halfway through...


Finished product!


I love them! Since they are so long, I do not see myself shampooing, or doing it very often, so I will have to invest in a dry shampoo. I plan on keeping these braids in until labor day, if I can help it.

I made a last minute purchase for something to use on my scalp for the duration I will have braids, it is Ginseng Miracle Wonder 8 Oil.


It is mostly natural and it smells pleasant, best of all I do not have an allergic reaction to it. I will use it for a while before giving a true review on it.

I am deciding on whether I should start using my Hairfinity (A Vitamin mixture that helps promote faster growth) or not, I want growth, but not too much, because I do not see myself retouching my roots.

Anyway, this is what I have been up to as of late. Hope you guys like the braids, or at least it encourages you all to try braiding or twisting your hair at home!

~Naomi



Monday, July 4, 2011

1 Month Hairdrenaline/Potion Update

Hey All!

So I have been using the "Potion" for exactly a month now, and it has been a god send! My hair has thickened up as well as gained a significant amount of growth! I  measured from close to the nape of my head.


So that is going from

Left side
9 1/2 inches-to 11 inches.

Right side
10 inches- close to 12 inches. (A teensy bit over 11 1/2)

Which is amazing results considering I usually grow only a half inch a month. (Which is considered to be average growth)

I have been trying to keep up with my minimum of using the potion 3 times a week, at least two of those times being overnight. Using the GHE method.

(Green House Effect is a natural heating effect caused by using a plastic cap/saran wrap/ or even a plastic bag, and covering that with a bonnet or a scarf. It helps oils penetrate better, and also with moisture.)

Here are the comparison pics

Week 2
1 Month

I did not fill in my spots nor reach my goal of APL by the end of June, but in both cases, my hair is progressing!


Though I am loving the results, I may have to take a hiatus from using the "Potion" for a month or so, because I plan on braiding my hair this weekend coming. I have yet to decide on a style yet, but when I do I will be sharing, and doing a how to, sine I plan on doing them myself.

I hope my results are enough to encourage you all to try using the potion for yourself, whether you are looking for thickness or growth!

~Naomi

Sunday, July 3, 2011

1 More Day

Hey All!

I know I was suppose to do my weekly update yesterday (Saturday) but then I remembered that tomorrow will make my 1 month mark, since using the "Potion". I have been extremely satisfied with my results thus far, and I promise that I will share them....tomorrow. So please bear with me! I will be posting comparison pictures and measurements.


~Naomi

Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Week 3 Update Hairdrenaline/Potion

Hey All!

I know I was suppose to do an update last Saturday, but I was out of town. Due to my own laziness, I did not use the potion as much as I should have, last week. I believe it was only 3 times, when I usually use it 4-5 times a week.


I my growth is at a standstill, the measurements are the same. 10 on the right, 11 on the left. My camera is still on the fritz, and my phone is acting weird, so I have to figure out another way to upload pictures.

I will continue to follow my regimen, and hopefully the growth will continue, because I see that this is something you have to be persistent with.


Hopefully I will have better results to report this Saturday.

~Naomi

Saturday, June 18, 2011

Week 2 Update Using Hairdrenaline/Potion

Hey All!

I'm here to give you guys an update. I have been trying really hard to stay on my Potion regimen. Which I must say can be a bit tedious, especially because I use GHE (Green House Effect). Which leads me to have to cowash in the morning. So that means no Low Manipulation Styling, which I suppose is a good thing, being that Protective Styles help retain length.

(Green House Effect is a natural heating effect caused by using a plastic cap/saran wrap/ or even a plastic bag, and covering that with a bonnet or a scarf. It helps oils penetrate better, and also with moisture.)


Here is the picture comparison.


 I want to stay consistent with using the same shirt, but it is in the dirty clothes (lol).


Since pictures can make your hair seem longer/shorter depending on the angle, I make sure to measure.

This week the left measured
10 1/2 inches

the right
 11 inches

That's right ladies and gentleman, an inch! Which is unbelievable! So if I get an inch again next week, we will know for sure that this stuff is the truth!

It has also been helping a great deal with my bald areas.(Sorry if it is a bit blurry)




I just had to share! I will be posting next weeks results next Saturday, so look out for that post!


~Naomi


Tuesday, June 14, 2011

1 Week Update Using Hairdrenaline/Potion

Hey All!

I am a bit late with this one, but I decided that I am going to document my growth weekly, it is a bit hard since my camera decided to break, but I am going to try to make it work for you all!

I will be using my iPhone in the mean time, but I am having a bit of a hard time getting the right angles, to see the length properly. Hopefully I figure it out.

I will be posting updates every Saturday, until I reach my goal of APL.

Here is last weeks progress

Week 1= June 4th- June 11th.




I flat iron the piece in the back to get "true" length, and also since camera's can play tricks on you, meaning in different angles your hair can look longer/shorter I will be measuring as well.

Not on all points of my head. Just in the back. I guess I should start, but I only do the back because that is the straight part.

The left side measured in at
9 1/2 in.

the right at
10 in.

So apparently my hair grows lopsided (lol), hopefully the Potion can fix that, I will also starting this Saturday start tracking the growth on my bald areas as well.

Oh, and I would like to add that the 2oz I had in the water bottle is finished, after following my Hairdrenaline/Potion Regimen.

I started on my 8oz today. So at this rate I am thinking I will have to make a new batch each month, but we will see!
 

Look out for this weeks update!

~Naomi

Wednesday, June 8, 2011

Hairdrenalin- The Potion Regimen

Hey All!



I have an idea for my Regimen for my Homemade "Potion".  I have only used it all of...twice (lol) but once leaving on overnight, and Tuesday night, leaving in for 3 hours or so, and cowashing it out.

I now know that my Homemade "Potion" is super thick, so it takes more than 1 cowash to get the oil and the scent off of my scalp. It smells like baked onion & garlic, not a smell you want to walk around people with!

Besides the scent, the "Potion" does tingle/itch, which I see as a good thing, but even if it does not, that does not exactly mean that it is not working. My batch just does.

I used one of my two favorite cowashing conditioners, VO5 Moisturizing Milks Strawberries & Cream, and it took 3 cowashes, and vigorous rubbing to get smell out. Only a faint amount remained, but with use of my leave in, which I like to call my Creamy Olive Aloe Mix ( Aloe Vera Gel, Olive Oil, Dilluted VO5 Moisturizing Milks Passion Fruit Smoothie), and my castor oil mix ( Home Health Castor Oil,Hollywood Beauty Tea Tree Oil, Olive Oil, Sunny Isle Rosemary JBCO) the scent was non existent.

So I think I will be using my "Potion" 3-4x a week
Overnight on Saturday's leaking into Sunday.

For a few hours on
Tuesday, Thursday, and maybe Friday's.

I hate restyling my hair though, especially since I am a lover of Low Manipulation Styling, but doing it this often will encourage me to bun more often, which is great for protecting my ends and will help with retention (gaining and keeping length).

I am also hoping that this will help speed up the growth on my bald area's so I can really start to experiment with styling!


Just wanted to share!

~Naomi

Sunday, June 5, 2011

Hairdrenalin- The Potion, Growth Aide

Hey All!

I am sure most of you know that I am a member over on Hairlista, (which is a great hair forum, so check it out if you have not already. Also my beloved Black Hair Planet.) and the big buzz over there has been about this hair "Potion" that promises to help speed up hair growth, to as much as 3 inches in 7 weeks. Of course all cases, and hair is different, so you may not experience those exact results.

There is also a group dedicated for those who are using the potion on Hairlista, which I joined, and lurked (lol) for weeks, before deciding that I wanted to try this for myself, after seeing so many great progress pics, and updates. So she has a fan in me, I also subscribed to her page.

The creator of the "Potion", comes from a lovely woman on  Youtube, who's name is Valerie, Her user is OhValeriMonCherie. She experienced growth from creating this potion and was generous enough to share how she makes it. She also sells her "potion".

Here are the how to's (it is a two part)


Here is the link on where to purchase the "Potion". http://www.hairdrenalin.com/ , once on the page, click on where it says, buy potion.

The "Potion" has ingredients that are know to help stimulate growth like
Castor Oil
Cayenne Pepper
Onion/Garlic Seed Oils
Biotin
Black Tea (to help soothe itch)


I figured that this could help put me over the edge to reaching my goal of APL, and possibly BSL by the end of the year. (For acronym definitions, check out this post ) As I just a bit past SL right now.

Using the exact ingredients she used, to make 16oz you will need
45 cut  Black Tea bags
1/2 large bottle (1.75oz) of Cayenne Pepper
30 Biotin pills (blended or powder form)
2-4 drops onion seed oil
1-2 drop garlic seed oil
2:1 ratio of onion seed oil to garlic seed oil
I decided to make my own variation to the "Potion", as did not have all the ingredients on hand. I wanted to do a video, but my camera decided it did not want to read my memory card, so I also could not take pictures during either. Smh Thankfully dh was nice enough to let me take pics with his phone, so I have after pics.

I used
16oz of (Home Health) Castor Oil
15 cut (Bigelow) Black Tea Bags
1/2 large bottle of (McCormick) Cayenne Pepper
50 Biotin pills (300mcg) (Known for treating hair loss, and promoting growth)
30 MSM pills (500mcg) (A form of sulphur, that is also growth promoting, which is why I chose it to replace the Onion Seed Oil)
1/4 large bottle of Onion Powder (McCormick 2.65oz) (Also to help replace the use of Onion Seed Oil)
1/4 large bottle of Garlic Powder (McCormick 2.65oz) ( For growth, help replace the use of Garlic Seed Oil)

Like Valerie's "Potion" I infused mine in the oven ( you can use a crock pot on low, as well), and I set mine for 220 degrees, and left it in for 5 hours.

(In her videos she says your temperature should not exceed 225, or be any lower than 200, and you should keep it in the oven for a minimum of 5 hours, but to not exceed 5 1/2)

After it is done, you have to strain your oil, you can use Cheese Cloth, Coffee Filters, or a Knee Hi/Stocking. I used a Knee Hi.

You put whatever one of those over a cup, and pour your mixture into that cup, you can choose to let what's left strain or bottle it.

I strained mine for a extra few minutes, and I got about 10oz out of the batch.

She suggest that if you use a clear bottle, to keep it in the fridge to prevent direct light hitting the bottle, as that could ruin the potency of your "Potion". I used a regular plastic water bottle for my extra 2oz, and an old Africa's Best Ultimate Herbal Oil bottle, which is 8oz, so I am storing mine in the fridge. If you are storing in a dark bottle, or container, your "Potion" will not have to be refrigerated.

Here's how my variation of the "Potion" came out





A lot of ladies are using the GHE effect (Green House Effect, the act of applying an oil, and placing a plastic cap/or saran wrapping your hair, and then tying a scarf around the plastic cap or saran wrap. I also put a satin bonnet on top for added effect.

GHE is suppose to help the oil penetrate the scalp better.) for use of the oil, 7 days a week. I will not be using it that often, maybe 4 times a week.

Last night was my first time using it, did GHE, and I did get a nice itch/tingling feeling, and it smells like a everything bagel (lol), which I do not mind, too much.

I will be taking progress pics in between (June 30th- July 5th), probably the latter, since I started on the 4th of June.

Here is where I'm starting from.

Ignore the pieceyness of it, I only flat ironed a small section. (For those who do not know. I am natural, and have 4a texture hair)

I took this pic for the  The Six Inch Challenge over on BHP, on June 1st, so it really came in hand.

So look out for my progress, updates! Hopefully my progress will encourage you all to jump on board!

~Naomi


Wednesday, June 1, 2011

Nutiva Extra Virgin Coconut Oil Review

iherHey All!

I'm finally doing a review on this oil, as promised!



This oil is amazing! Coconut Oil is not exactly a protein, but it acts as one because of it's strengthening properties. So it may bother those who are protein sensitive.

This Extra Virgin Coconut Oil is light, and has a nice coconut scent, but what I really love about this oil is that it leaves my roots feeling so soft! So it is great for you (relaxer) stretchers out there!

If I can recall, I got similar results using Jarrows Expeller Pressed Coconut Oil. Though the scent of was really reminiscent of Gasoline, it was not as strong though.

Besides Nutiva having a better scent it also has a better consistency, and I am getting the full benefits of the Coconut Oil with it, as Extra Virgin Coconut Oil is extracted from fresh coconut, opposed to Expeller Pressed, which is extracted from dried coconut flesh.

  Though whatever brand you are using, EVCO is a Jack-of-All trades! It can be used alone as Prepoo, Oiling your scalp, Sealing, and it's great for your skin too! I have also found that is a great addition to any deep conditioner or treatment.

Please keep in mind that this oil changes form. It can be white colored solid that  melts to touch (as pictured) if in cooler climate, or turn into a clear liquid, in a warmer climate. So lets say it's summer and you do not have any air conditioning on, your EVCO will be a liquid and clear, but if you have air conditioning on, it while be a white colored solid. Get my drift? lol

You can find this oil from any Natural/Herbal shops, Whole Foods, Amazon, iHerb, Vitamin Shoppe, etc.

There are none of these kind of stores where I live, so I order mine online from Vitamin Shoppe. There are the 15oz size, which is what I tend to buy, for $8.99, the 29oz for $16.99, or the 54oz for $21.11. (All prices are in USD)

This oil lasts a long time, and I have used mine for all the things I have listed. Whether you are natural, texlaxed, or relaxed, EVCO is a MUST in your hair repertoire, but this brand in particular, gets a 5/5 from me!

~Naomi

Monday, May 30, 2011

Happy Memorial Day!

I hope you all are enjoying your Holiday!

Sunday, May 29, 2011

New Shealoe Batch (Whipped Method)

Hey All!

I have been out of Shealoe for a good month...or two, and I just decided to stop being lazy and make a new batch.

This batch is slightly different, as I used a blender this time around, so this is Whipped Shealoe, opposed to the Melt & Blend method.

I also opted to use an oil, in hopes that it would help give this batch a creamier texture. The oil I used is Africa's Best Ultimate Herbal Oil. I originally wanted to use Olive Oil, but I am all out!

The Shea Butter I had, was from Halo's Homemade Soaps, it was 1 pound (16oz) and came in a plastic baggy. I have ordered from them before, but through eBay. I know it's their Shea because it has their label on it.  The Shea is of good quality, at least in my own opinion. The texture is smooth, and smells nutty, as it should! I paid $5.50 USD, and the shipping was $5.00, so altogether I paid $10.50 USD. Here is  Where I buy my Shea Butter.

First I put the Shea Butter in the blender, I used maybe 8oz of that, let it mix a bit, stopped it, then added, my Aloe Vera Gel, which I used about 4oz of, stopped once more, and added my Africa's Best Ultimate Herbal Oil, I did not measure how much I used, but I would say I roughly used about 2oz.

So if you have not caught that it's about..
8oz of Shea Butter
4oz of Aloe Vera Gel
2oz of Africa's Best Ultimate Herbal Oil


To ensure everything was getting mixed in I would stop the blender to mix with a fork, scrape the sides, and continue. This process was so quick, I was done in about 10 minutes.

Here's how it looked in the blender when finished
I already started scooping some of it out.


This batch gave me two 8oz batches, yes I said TWO, which I can say that I did not expect in the least. So I am super happy about it!

Here's how the batches came out

Close up of one of the batches


Comparison Melt & Blend- Whipped


So there is a difference in the coloring, as well as the texture. The Melt & Blend batch was a bit thicker, and I found myself having to reheat, and mixing before use. Since these new batches are blended, there is no need to heat or mix.

Another difference is that when using the Melt & Blend Shealoe, I found myself overusing it, and having white residue in my hair from Shea that had not fully blended.

I used new Whipped batch, and I did not get any residue. Though both resulted in soft defined hair.

One last thing that I like about this batch is that it smells nice, as it smells like the Africa's Best Ultimate Oil which smells like baby powder, so perhaps if I used oil when I did the Melt & Blend method, it may have smelled a bit better, and helped with the texture.

I think what also contributed to the last batch not smelling as nice, could have been that the Shealoe was not blended as well. The last batch had a funny smell, and started to go bad.

 I am not saying the Melt & Blend method does not work, it is just that you have to work harder to keep your ingredients blended (reheating & mixing) to get the texture that you desire.

What is great about Shealoe is that it is great for Low Manipulation styling, like Twist/Braid Outs, Bantu Knot Outs, or even Protective styling  like Buns, Two Strand Twists, etc. It also works great as a Moisturizer/Sealant.

I am undoubtedly a fan of Shealoe, especially because it's natural, and so easy to make. Try making your own batch, to see what all the rave is about!


~Naomi

Tuesday, May 24, 2011

Flat Twist & Pony (Protective Style)

Hey All!

I did a quick style using a couple of flat twists. I think it was a nice change from my usual side parted pony.

I did this style on freshly cowashed hair. I used one of my favorites, VO5 Moisturizing Milks. I then oiled my scalp with my Castor Oil infusion, and then followed with my Super Moisturizing Coconut Leave in. I sealed with EVCO.

 I did this pony without using my beloved Eco Styler Gel! I only used a bit to slick down my "baby hair" before tying on my satin scarf to flatten my hair.





It is cute and simple, so it will be added into my style repertoire. Especially since my goal is to reach APL this year, as protective styles are vital! I have also found out that I get better definition if I do the twist horizontally, instead of vertically, like you would do cornrows.

Flat twists can also double as a style in itself, so this is a great protective style. ( Flat twists are done like cornrows, except it is done with two strands.)


Just wanted to share with you guys!

~Naomi

Sunday, May 22, 2011

Update

Hey All!

So I have spent the weekend in my home city, New York, and it was quite an adventure! (Heading back home today) What I really want to share is my renewed love for my 'fro!

I blew my hair out Thursday night, for the purpose of my hair being stretched, to wear a braid out this weekend. Due to Friday's humidity, my braid out turned into a 'fro, by the time I left work. So I was rocking super big hair.

I felt a bit self conscious about it, but quickly got over it, after a few guys tried to "holla". Yes, I know I shouldn't look for validation, but catching a guys eye is an instant confidence boost...married or not!

So I rocked my fro with pride, I did braid it again to attempt another braid out for Saturday, but ironically, I made the plaits too small, so I did not get the definition I was looking for.

Though with this, I did a new style! Remember how I told you guys I learned how to do flat twists, well, I parted my hair in the middle, and did one flat twist on either side, and secured the twists with a bobby pin, and my flat twists served as a headband.

I want to do this style over, but my cheap dollar store hair dryer finally gave out. So now I can't put off buying a new one. I will still post the pictures of the flat twists, I will just ponytail it in the back. So stay tuned!

~Naomi

Tuesday, May 17, 2011

New Batch of my Creamy Aloe Olive Mix

Hey All!



I made a new batch of my Creamy Aloe Olive Mix, a day or two ago. I am still very much in love with this mixture, it leaves my hair feeling so soft, and moisturized. Now I have an idea of how much use I can get out of one batch. The last one lasted me for 3 1/2 months, which is pretty decent in my opinion.

The batch I made this time is a bit thicker, because I probably used more conditioner, but as I go along, I will dilute it with a bit more water, and maybe some more AVG to get a looser consistency. It will be great if I can stretch this batch for 4 months, but we will see!

I have chunky two strand twists in, that I installed Sunday night, which I will be moisturizing with my Creamy Aloe Olive Mix, and sealing with EVOO or my Africa's Best Ultimate Herbal Oil, after oiling my scalp with my new mix. I have yet to name my new oil mix, but for now,I will call it my Super Grow Potion.  be taking out in the morning for a twist out.

I will be taking out my twists in the morning and will wear my hair that way, and will restyle either Thursday or Friday night.


My camera is still on the fritz, so I will have to figure out what is going on with it, if I can I will post pics of my twist out!


~Naomi

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