New Products, New Leave In= Product Reviews!

Hey All!

For some time, I have wanted to try Aloe Vera Gel, after hearing all the wonderful benefits of using this natural gel. The gel comes from the Aloe Vera Plant, and the gel is harvested from the leaves. It can be drank to help promote a healthy digestive system, regularity, and help muscle and joint function. Also to soothe skin for those who experience sun burn. I do not use it for these reasons....but for my hair!

Aloe Vera Gel is awesome for use as a moisturizer, depends on the brand, but it is 99% natural, and can be cheap depending again on brand, and where you purchase. There are also two types, there is the, Inner Fillet, which is where they only use the middle or where the gel comes from in the leaf, whereas with Whole leaf, they use the whole leaf, where it is believed that it is better because you are getting all the properties of the leaf. I cannot attest to how true this is or not to be honest, nor can tell you what is the difference, as this is my first time using this gel. (Perhaps in the future I will buy Whole Leaf, and draw a comparison then.)

I purchased mine online, through Vitamin Shoppe, as it was on sale at the time (still is). The kind I got was, Lily of the Desert (brand) Inner Fillet 16oz bottle for $2.99 USD , excluding shipping.

(Aloe Vera Gel has to be refrigerated, once you open it/break the seal.)

 I have been using this stuff in a mix, which I will not be sharing until sometime this week, and in a leave in I made, and it is amazing.  It get's a 5/5 rating for me!

The only thing about this product is that it really does feel like gel, but not the thick stuff you and I are use to dealing with like Eco Styler Gel, or Jam, this gel is very watery and loose, so it is slippery. I did expect it to feel this way so it does not take away from it as a product, for me. So this is a heads up for those of you who do not know what to the texture to be like.

 I plan on using this stuff alone as well to be the basis of my wash n' go tomorrow, so I will be sharing that as well.

Moving along to today's topic, AVG in my leave in.Which I will call my Creamy Aloe Olive Mix. As you all know, I make my own products/leave in's when I can, to save money. Not to mention it is a great way 'to know' what you are putting in your hair, at least in my opinion. Don't get me wrong, I still suffer, being a product junkie and all, but we also know desires does not always coincide with out pockets!

The Ingredients of my Leave in, is pretty simple. Obviously, AVG, which is the only thing I measured (sort of) I added about 4oz's of that into my spray bottle, then added my conditioner of choice, which happened to be VO5 Moisturizing Milks Passion Fruit Smoothie(one of my favorite cowashing conditioners) I then, diluted the conditioner with some water, and then topped it off with a bit of Extra Virgin Olive Oil.

I tend to use spray bottles for leave in's as it makes it super easy to distribute the product evenly on your hair. So of course I had to go out and purchase another for this mix. I got it from Sally Beauty, for $2.89 USD.

It is Sprayco brand, it is a High Output Trigger Spray bottle, I did not pick this one because of that reason, though. I picked this bottle in particular because it felt sturdier than the other bottles they had in store, was reasonably priced (less than 3 bucks), and purple (my absolute favorite color)!

It holds 16oz of fluid, which I took up all of when making my mix.

 Here's how it looks

This mix is great! It leaves my hair feeling soft, and unlike my Super Moisturizing Coconut leave in, I can use it daily, as it is not protein based. ( I use my other mix weekly, or when I feel my hair needs a bit of a 'pick me up').

(Side Note: I have also made a new batch of my Super Moisturizing Coconut leave in, I will be refrigerating it this time around, so I will let you all know what is the difference, and how long it lasts)

Now here is what really sold me on this mix.

Mid week, my hair became really oily, as I had been using my JBCO (mixed with regular Castor Oil) on my scalp everyday, and sometimes night, for a challenge I have been participating in on BHP. So I  cowashed, using VO5 Herbal Escapes Clarifying Kiwi Lime Conditioner, (which does a great job of lightly stripping my hair of product) but this conditioner, can sometimes leave my hair feeling a bit dry, as it is suppose to strip the hair of products.

For that reason, I wanted to do a mini dc session, but did not want to use any of my actual deep conditioners, so I then the thought of using my new leave in as a deep conditioner came to mind.

I saturated my hair with the leave in, and then covered my hair with a plastic bag (as I do when I deep condition) and left it on while I showered. I would say I kept it on for no more than 15 minutes. It was drippy, which I did not like, but man oh man, did my hair come out feeling soft. It was really easy to comb through while rinsing too.

So this mix can be of double use! Which is why it will become one of my staple mixes. Like I said before, my only complaint is that it drips incessantly, which is a bit annoying, but the result definitely makes it bearable!

(I will not be refrigerating this mix, although it contains AVG, because it is diluted and contains oil, and conditioner.)

Yes this is my own creation, but I'm giving it a 4/5. I like it as it is, and will not add anything to make it thicker, as it will be mainly used as a leave in.

Anyway, I just wanted to share my new concoction with you all!


~Naomi

Ultimate Deep Conditioning Challenge 2011

Hey all!

As you all know, I am a member of many hair forums, but Black Hair Planet has to be my favorite. I am running an Ultimate Deep Conditioning Challenge for 20ll (until Dec.10th, 2011).

The purpose of the challenge is to help enforce healthy hair habits for the new year. Deep conditioning is a vital part of healthy hair care, as it helps restore moisture into the hair, or protein, depending on the type of the conditioner you use. (Tip: Conditioners like Hair Mayonnaise, or contains eggs are considered hard protein)

Protein based treatment/conditioner should not be used on a weekly basis, or you may experience protein overload. Protein overload results in excessive shedding/breakage. Too much moisture results in limp, gummy, hair, so you really have to make sure you do not have too much of moisture or protein in your regimen. As well as what is in your leave in's.

Like for instance, my 'Super Moisturizing Homemade Coconut Leave In' can be considered protein based because of the coconut oil. It is okay to use, and alternate between a purely moisturizing leave in. Which is something I learned, I did not realize that my conditioner was protein based, and could not figure out why my hair would sometimes feel hard.

For now I will be alternating between my coconut leave in, and diluted VO5 Moisturizing Milks mixed with Home Health Castor Oil.

( Look out for Soy/Silk/Wheat Proteins, they're not bad by any means, it just means your product contains a bit of protein)

Anyway, getting to the point, the challenge is mainly about just that, finding YOUR balance. Although I think it is best for people to do a hard protein treatment, once every 4-6 weeks, it depends on the person. (Tip: A quick homemade recipe for a hard treatment... Eggs and Mayo, how much of each depends on you, you can also add a bit of conditioner for a thicker consistency) Some people cannot take hard protein, so they will do a light protein instead, or twice a month.

Moisturizing Deep Conditioners
Alter Ego Energizing and Rebalancing Cream
Alter Ego Nourishing Rebalancing Conditioner
Aubrey Organics White Camellia Conditioner
Aubrey Organics GPB Balancing Conditioner
Aubrey Organics Green Algae Hair Rescue Conditioning Mask 
Aubrey Organic Honeysuckle Rose Conditioner Aubrey Organis Isand naturals Conditioner
Aveda Sap Moss Conditioning detangler
Biolage Hydrating and Ultra Hydrating Conditioning Balm
Carols Daughter Black Vanilla Smoothie
Creme Of Nature Nourishing ConditionerFederic Fekai Hair Mask with Shea Butter J/A/S/O/N/ Sea Kelp Conditioner
Freeman's mango Papaya Conditioner
GVP Conditioning Balm (from Sally's)
Hairveda Sitrinillah Deep Conditioning Mask
ICON Inner Home Moisture Mask
Jason Natural Biotin Conditioner 
Jason Natural Jojoba Conditioner
Jason Natural Thin to Thick hair &Scalp Therapy Extra Volume Conditioner
Jessicurl Weekly Deep Treatment
Joico K Pak Intensive Hydrator Conditioner Joico Moisture Recovery Treatment Balm
Kenra Moisturizing Conditioner
Keracare Humecto
Loreal Nature's Therapy Mega Moisture ConditionerLustrasilk Shea Butter Cholesterol Plus Mango
Mizani Microfusion Conditioner
Mizani Moisturefuse
Mizani Thermasmooth
MOP C-System ConditionerNeutragena Triple Moisture Mask
Nioxin Intensive Therapy Weightless Reconstructive Masque
Nioxin Scalp Therapy
Ojon Ultra Hydrating Conditioner
Pantene Relaxed & Natural Breakage Defense Hair Conditioning Mask Pantene Restoratives Time Renewal Replenishing Mask
Phytojojoba
Redken All Soft Heavy Cream
Shapely's Mane N Tail
Shescentit Banana Brulee  
Silicon Mix Conditioner
Silk Elements Megasilk Moisturizing Treatment
Silk Elements Megasilk Olive Moisturizing Treatment
Tresemme Natural Conditioner
Ultra Black Hair Deep Conditioner (by Cathy Howse)
Ultra Sheen Duo Tex Protein Conditioner

Light Protein/Moisturizing Deep Conditioners
Biolage Fortetherapie Cera-Repair Treatment
Biolage Hydratherapie Cera-Repair treatment
Elucence Extended Moisture Repair Treatment
Elucence Moisture Balancing Conditioner Mizani Fulfyl Conditioning Treatment
Organic Root Stimulator Replenising Pak/Conditioner
Queen Helene Cholesterol

Protein Deep Conditoners/Treatments
 Affirm 5 in 1 Reconstructor
Alter Ego Garlic Treatment Oil Conditioner
Aphogee Keratin 2 Minute Reconstructor
Creme Of Nature Conditioning Reconstructor 
Jason Natural Lavender Strengthening Conditioner
Joico K Pak Deep Penetrating Reconstructor 
Kenra Platinum Shea Butter Reconstructor
LeKair Cholesterol 
Mills Creek Keratin Conditioner
Miss Key 10 in 1 ConditionerNature's Gate Biotin Strengthening Conditioner
Nexxus Emergencee
NuNaat Keratin Conditioner
Organics Africa's Best Hair Mayonnaise Treatment for Damaged Hair 
Organic Root Stimulator Hair Mayaonnaise
Rene Furtere Karite Intense Nourishing Mask
Salerm 21 Wheat Germ Mask
(Credit for list due to Godiva)

Those are just examples (and suggestions) of what conditioners provide what kind of treatment for your hair. You can also create your own deep conditioners from scratch, or use one of your cowashing conditioners as a base for a dc.

Here are the rules of the challenge
The DC challenge is back in full effect for the new year! The Ultimate Deep Conditioning Challenge 2011, will Begin Monday, January 10th, 2011.

To Join: Please post a starting picture if you can, or just list the two deep conditioners (protein & moisturizing) that you will be using. You have the option of switching any of your two main dc's, until Monday, January 24th, 2011. Please just be sure to post what you will be switching two, so I can update the list.

Also while signing up, let us know a few things about your hair, ie. whether you are relaxed, texlaxed, transitioning, or natural. Also your hair length, and whether you will be deep conditioning with/without heat, or using a cap. Again, listing conditioners that you will be using is mandatory.


Check In dates will be the 10th of every 3rd month.
Thursday March 10th, 2011
Friday June 10th, 2011
Saturday September 10th, 2011
Saturday December 10th, 2011

RULES

1. You are required to deep condition for at least once a week!
2. You can deep condition on wet or dry hair (whatever your preference)
3. Deep condition with heat for at least 30 minutes
4. If deep conditioning without heat, leave it in for at least 1-2 hours
5. You can make any additions to your deep conditioner, just post what you added(Oils, honey, eggs, or any ingredient of your choosing)
6. You can also make your own deep conditioners
7. Passes are to be used when you do not use one of the two conditioners you listed to be your main conditioners for this challenge
8. You are allowed 2 passes a month.
9. Please post when a Pass is used

You can join on BHP from the link provided above, or simply just comment that you will be participating.


For now my main Dc's for this challenge will be LUSH Retread & Tropical Isle Jamaican Black Castor Oil Hair Mayonnaise Protein Conditioner. I may be changing again by the 24th, we'll see.


I will have to use a pass this week, because of my braids, but I will be able to start participating next week, as I plan to start taking down my braids next Friday (Jan. 21st), which I am super excited about, but also nervous. I will also be doing a strand test to see if I have gained any growth in the past two months.

I hope you all will consider deep conditioning at least once a week, if you are not already!

~Naomi

The Mother of all Single Strand Knots!

You guys, a couple of days ago I did the unimaginable...I tried to detangle my dry hair! Now if you know anything about healthy hair care, you know that is one of the hugest no-no's. It is because your hair is more susceptible to breakage or splits in it's dry state, as well as knotting!

Single strand knots are caused when a strand of hair rubs against itself and forms a ball at the end of the strand. (Click link for more descriptive definition on how SSK are formed, and how to avoid and fix!)

It had been a while since combing my hair, as I have been putting my hair in a ponytail, and tucking my ends, so I wanted to use my fingers to detangle a little bit. that was a huge mistake, I found myself forming knots my trying to pull my hair apart, and in doing so, I found a THREE strand knot.

It was three separate strands of hair, all connected at the end, so it was strand of hair, then a knot connecting the next strand of hair at the end, then another strand connected by a knot at the end. (I tried taking a picture but the flash on my camera made it so you couldn't see the strand, I didn't think to hold a piece of paper behind it)

I have not gotten down to the bottom of it just yet, but I think I will be stepping up my moisture intake, so we'll see.


Until Next Time, Naomi~

Never Use Shea Butter In your DC!

I purchased pure unrefined Shea Butter not too long ago, and to be honest I have not found much use for it, in terms of hair, I know it is a great sealant, but I don't really need it for that right now, so I thought, why not add it to my preoo, but using it in a dc, on clean hair, not a good idea!

 I  know the title is a bit harsh, but guys, I had the worst experience last night!

For my prepoo I used Melted Shea Butter, Castor Oil, a little Africa's Best Ultimate Herbal Oil, mixed with Herbal Essence Hydralicious Self Targeting Conditioner- which reeks of Alcohol, I'm not sure if I didn't notice it before, but It is definitely noticeable, which I do not like, will be using out, and not repurchasing, anyway that was not my problem.

It came out nice after shampooing, and since it worked so well in my prepoo, I said, why not add some to you DC. Boy was I wrong. I added all the same ingredients excluding the Hydralicious, and mixed it with my Hollywood Beauty Olive Cholesterol, applied and put on a shower cap.

I would say I left it on for close  2 hours, and I went to rinse. Now here is where my problem lies, I rinsed with water, and used my wide tooth comb to detangle, like always, and I put my towel on my head and head to the bathroom- I wash my hair in the kitchen sink, and my hair was coated! It was thick and slick feeling, I could use my nail to scrape the Shea butter off my strands of hair!


I immediately went to cowash, I used my VO5 Herbal Escapes Clarifying Conditioner Kiwi Lime, and my hair went back to normal.

I don't know if I added too much , or it was the combination of Shea and Castor Oil, but my hair did not like it, at least not if I'm not going to wash it out.

So for those of you out there who are Do It Yourself-ers, or 'Chemists' as I like to call myself, be careful of the ingredients you add, and what you add them to, I did not get any adverse results, just slick hair, but I sure didn't like it. However, I did like it in my prepoo! Shea Butter is a sealant too, so that could be why my hair felt coated.

Just wanted to share my experience with you all! Happy Product Mixing!


Until Next Time, Naomi~

Taking Down Braids & Mini Review- Suave Shea & Almond Conditoner

After having my hair in pixie braids for the past two weeks, today was the day I decided to start the process of taking them down, and boy was it a process! I really started Saturday night, did not take a lot out, I'd say a quarter or a little less than that. All in all, I'd say it took 7 hours give or take. I coated my hair in Castor oil, and conditioner, to soften my hair, so I'd have less of a chance of my hair knotting up on me, plus it gave my hair a little slip (easy to run through) which was well needed.


I also started to miss my hair, I started to forget what it was like to have 'loose' hair. I took some quick pics so you guys could see how big my hair looked! I think it is because it was stretched.

I went about my regular wash day routine, which I had to forgo last Sunday (my wash days are always on Sunday) because I did not want to get my braids frizzy, so I mainly just rinsed and sealed my ends during those two weeks. I'm trying to finish up my VO5 Moisturizing Milks Strawberries & Cream, because I'd like to try Suave Shea & Almond Shampoo, and I don't want to feel guilty for buying something I don't necessarily need. I'm going to get it soon though, probably some time this week.

Anyway, I do have Suave Shea & Almond conditioner, I've had it for a couple of weeks now, so I decided to give it it's debut today, I've only used it once, but I'm in love! It's the perfect combination of VO5 Moisturizing Milks Strawberries & Cream Conditioner or Herbal Escapes Free Me Freesia, and Suave Naturals Tropical Coconut Conditioner.

Mind you I have not ran a comb through my hair in nearly two weeks, when I cowash I use a wide tooth comb to detangle, I generously applied Suave Shea & Almond to my hair, of course wet hair, because I just finished shampooing, put my hair under water, and went to work, of course there were a couple of kinks, but it detangled them beautifully. I was literally able to run my fingers through my hair afterwards, so that is a major plus! Pleas remember that what my hair likes, yours may not!

I do find that 'testing' products are the best way for you to figure out your hair's likes/dislikes

I also love the ingredients! Of course it's not completely natural, but the majority of it is good stuff.

Suave Shea & Almond Ingredients:
Water (Aqua), Cetearyl Alcohol, Cyclopentasiloxane, Stearamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil*, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter)*, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil*, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice [Aloe Vera]*, Cymbopogon Schoenanthus Oil [Lemongrass]*, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil*, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower/Leaf Extract*, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower Extract*, Dimethiconol, Behentrimonium Chloride, Fragrance (Parfum), Dipropylene Glycol, Potassium Chloride, Lactic Acid, Disodium EDTA, TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate, PEG-150 Distearate, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone

This is only based on one use, but this condition is great for cowashing! it has a creamy texture, and has a nice light scent! I will definitely continue to purchase. It's also very fairly prices. Depending on where you purchase you can find it anywhere from $1.80 USD, $4.00 USD. I find that Wal Mart has the better deal, as you get more bang for you buck, as you can get a 32 ounce for $2.49, whereas if you buy at, lets say, Rite Aid, you have to pay $3.49 for a 14.5 ounce bottle.



I am deep conditioning as we speak with Organic Root Stimulator (ORS) Replenishing conditioner, mixed with little Jarrows Formula brand Expeller Pressed Coconut Oil ( I am experimenting to see how this oil can be used best), with a cap, for a little over an hour.( I purchased this coconut oil because it was on sale, and I was always interested in using coconut oil. It also was on sale which made me purchase. However, it is not Extra Virgin Coconut Oil, and does not have a scent, but so far I do like it. It gives my hair shine, and it's good for sealing my ends.)

I have to go rinse, and I think I will put my hair in chunky twists, and use this new 'leave in' conditioner, I just created, I don't want to tell you all what it is until next post! I will let you know what's in it, and how I used it, and all that good stuff! I will also be sure to include pics!


Until Next Time, Naomi~
                

Suave Naturals Tropical Coconut Conditioner Review

Sometime last week I went to Walgreens on lunch break to get another bottle of VO5 Herbal Escapes Free Me Freesia, and the PJ (product junkie) got the best of me, I broke down and purchased Suave's Naturals Tropical Coconut Conditioner. Their 15 ounce was on sale for $1.00 USD, so I figured I was not loosing much if my hair did not like it, also I have been wanting to try this for myself since this conditioner is a staple for many natural and transitioning ladies.

I wore rod set curls all of last week, which has been the longest time I've ever kept a rod set. I believe I can contribute that to using  (Olive Oil Eco Styler) gel. I usually use Motions Foaming Wrap Lotion, which is great, and holds my curls well, does not leave my hair crunchy, but it does not give my hair sheen. The gel left a little crunch, but that could be because I did not use anything on top of the gel, but I like curls to be a little crunchy because I think the last longer that way, and my hair had nice sheen.

Anyway, back to the review. Since single strand knots usually decide to come along when I wet my hair and it has not been combed or moisturized in a few days, which was the case yesterday. So, I decided to use Suave Naturals Tropical Coconut Conditioner as a pre poo by saturating my hair in the conditioner, and wearing a shower cap, for a little over an hour. 


I would say it did a fairly well job at softening my hair, I also did not have to do much work in terms of detangling my hair, I think it would be better if you add an oil to it, for extra moisturizing properties!


I went about my regular wash day regimen...cayenne treatment, clarifying (1-2x a month). I conditioned with Suave again to see how it would  do after my hair had be clarified. Now it did not do so great hair, it was not horrible, but there was a few kinks I had to work out with my wide tooth comb. It could be how I washed my hair that affected how tangly it was, which I will have to try again to see if my theory is true.


So far I like the product, I think it will serve as a better prepoo, than a cowashing conditioner, but again, we'll see, it could be that I just have a bad shampooing method that causes tangles, I'll post again sometime soon to see if my experience differs next time.

Ingredients: Water , Cetyl Alcohol , Cetrimonium Chloride , Potassium Chloride , Fragrance , Distearyldimonium Chloride , Disodium EDTA , Glycerin , 2-Bromo-2-Nitropropane-1,3-Diol , Methylchloroisothiazolinone , Methylisothiazolinone , Propylene Glycol , Tocopheryl Acetate , Silk Amino Acids , Honey , Urtica Dioica Extract , Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract , Cocos Nucifera Extract


So far I'll rate this product: 3 maybe 3.5 out of 5


If you have any suggestions or recipes for or using this product, please share! I'd love to hear what you guys have to say.


Until Next Time, Naomi ~

DIY DC Mishap

As you all know, I am conducting a Deep Conditioning Challenge (you are more than welcome to join) on forum.blackhairplanet.com, which is the (which is the 4th one being held on BHP) anyway, this week I wanted to switch it up a bit, so instead of having everyone dc regularly (either with a protein or moisturizing conditioner), I gave everyone a chance to show their creative side, and create their own DC. No rules, the only requirement was for participants to post the mixtures they used and their experiences.( If you are looking for a for


I don't have much stuff laying around the house, I'm running low on products, so my 'dc' was simple. I planned on using my light protein dc before, so I thought it would be a good idea to try to make my own light dc. It consisted of Coconut Milk infused with Omega-3 Oil, VO5 Free Me Freesia Conditioner,  one beaten egg, JBCO, and Africa's Best Ultimate Herbal Oil (ABUHO)

I made the mixture the night before I planed to use it, so I stored it in the fridge. I clarified with VO5 Herbal Escapes Kiwi Lime, cowashed with matching conditioner, and then added the dc. It was runny so I tried adding a little bit more oil and VO5.

Of course it was cold, that was not a problem, but man was this stuff runny! It would not stop dripping! I tried to combat it by putting on shower caps, I put on four, but it was still running down my neck and face. I originally planned on deep conditioning 1-2 hours, but I only kept it in for a half hour, because of how runny it was.
 I rinsed, and parts of my hair smelled like egg, and had bits and pieces, even though I rinsed with cool water, perhaps it was not cool enough.

I had to cowash again, but afterwards my hair felt great! I think next time I try making my own dc, I will use something thicker as a base, like Shea Butter. I  know my experience must sound like a horror story, but I encourage you all to try making your own dc's at home, there is nothing like knowing, and being able to pronounce all the ingredients in the things you use!

Until Next Time, HHG to All! Naomi

Single Strand Knots- A Natural's Nemesis

Lately I have been experiencing Single Strand Knots also called Fairy Knots. A single strand knot, is hair that has tangled itself into a ball on the end of a single strand of hair. (I have been getting rid of them though!)

This knot forming, is usually a sign of dry hair. When the hair is dry it rubs against itself. Another way is through shampooing. When Shampooing, you are suppose to add the shampoo to your scalp, and not pile the length of your hair on top of your head (I am guilty of this). Cotton Towels can also cause dryness in hair, however, I have heard of those using cotton T-shirts, which does not take as much moisture out of the hair, as a cotton towel would.

Hair accessories can also cause knots, if your hair becomes tangled in them. If you like to bun or wear pony tails often I suggest using Goody's Ouchless Hair Ties, or any brand of hair ties without metal.


To get rid of these troublesome knots, it is best to snip them off with hair shears, you want to make sure to use hair shears, as these are sharp and are made to cut hair, regular scissors can cause more damage due to the blade's bluntness (it can bend hair, and cut jagged/unevenly). You can try to untangle the knot possibly with a needle, or if you catch it before it tightens, otherwise, I would try the search (for single strand knots) and destroy (remove) method. I have been guilty myself of snagging knots, but that is not suggested! Remember, the ends of your hair is the oldest, and most delicate, you want to hold on the them! Of course not if damaged, it is not good to hold on to damaged ends, but if it can be salvaged, then so be it.


Ways to avoid getting Single Strand Knots, is Moisture! It is important to keep your scalp as well as your ends moisturized.

Make sure you are shampooing properly (not piling hair on top of head), if using a cotton towel to dry hair, try squeezing excess water out of hair instead of rubbing vigorously, or try the T-shirt method.

Cowash in between wash days, as this helps keep hair clean and moisturized, it is also important to detangle (using wide tooth comb, or paddle/denman brush) while cowashing.

Deep condition regularly.  Using moisturizing and protein based conditioners, as it is good to have a balance to avoid moisture or protein overload. (protein overload will result in shedding/ breakage, and moisture overload will result in limpness/loss of elasticity)



Seal & Moisturize. To seal means to lock in moisture from a water based conditioner with an oil. This helps hair to retain moisture. (It is not necessary to seal if your conditioner is oil based)


If you have a regimen, you should be doing these things on a daily/weekly basis, which means you should be knot free, congrats! If not, then just follow the tips listed, and it should prevent future knots. Hope that helps!

Until next time, HHG to All! Naomi ~

Deep Conditioning Challenge 4 Update

As you all know, my Deep Conditioning Challenge officially began yesterday May 16th, 2010, and will end September 16th, 2010, with official update posts from participants on the 16th of the month until September 16th, which is the ending date, rules are posted in the original Deep Conditioning Challenge 4 post , even though I am doing it on my home forum BHP you guys are more than welcome in joining the challenge!

I am using Organic Root Stimulator Replenishing Conditioner as my protein, and Hollywood Beauty Olive Cholesterol as my moisturizing deep conditioners, as the challenge requires participants to have both a moisture and protein deep conditioner.

I started off my wash day and the official first day of the challenge by doing a cayenne pepper treatment, water only paste, which I left on for a little over an hour with a cap. I then, washed my hair with VO5 Herbal Escapes Kiwi Lime which is a clarifying conditioner (which strips the hair and scalp of product build up and oils) I  did a quick cowash with VO5 Herbal Escapes Free Me Freesia, and then added my deep conditioner. I chose to use Organic Root Stimulator Replenishing Conditioner, and added coconut milk, mixed with a tiny bit of oil to my hair after applying the dc, by using a spray bottle.

I have never used coconut milk, but I thought it would be cool to try something new. I put on two plastic caps, and also a towel around my neck, as the coconut milk made the dc very runny. I left that in for about an hour as well. My hair did not come out feeling as soft as usual, but it was not exactly rough either, it did feel stronger though.

I also used the coconut as a leave in, as sprayed coconut milk in my hair, again it was runny, I used Africa's Best Ultimate Herbal Oil to seal, and VO5 Free Me Freesia to add some softness to my hair, as well as to stop the coconut milk from running. I also put LJBCO on my spots and edges.

I parted my hair and did about 25 plaits in my hair, and left it alone. I still have them in and will probably take them down tomorrow. I will post the results then!

Until Next Time, HHG to All! Naomi <3

Deep Conditioning (4) Challenge

I am a loyal member of Black Hair Planet as I post daily! Absolutely love the forum, and the ladies on there, they are all very helpful, and many have come to be true friends.

One of my friends from BHP has created and been the leader of a Deep Conditioning Challenge. I'll tell you a little about it, and what the rules are, at least generally.

Each time the rules tweaked a bit, but for the most part the participants have to have two main conditioners, a protein and a moisturizing conditioner. Participants have to deep condition at least once a week, using one of their main conditioners, and are allowed to use other conditioners if they chose, after fufilling the use of both main conditioners for the month. They are also granted passes, if they do not want to use a main conditioner for one week or so on.

The last challenge, Deep Conditioning 3 Challenge included mini challenges, which were told ahead of time, and were things such as oil oil deep conditioning week, or add an ingredient to your deep conditioner, or use a specific ingredient, times like these the rules change a bit, but according to the leader. It's a lot of fun, and also gets you in the habit of deep conditioning, which can provide your hair with moisture, as well as protein, providing you use the proper conditioners, and know what is moisture and what is protein.

Anyway, I'm telling you all this, because the leader of the challenge is not able to do it this time around, so she has allowed me to take over until September 16th. The Challenge begins May 16th.

To Join: Please post a starting picture, if not possible, please post about your interest in joining, and the deep conditioners that you will be using.

So every 16th of the month to post progress, please post pics on check in day, if not please post as soon as possible. For those without camera's, you can simply just post about progress, and give us a detailed description of how things are going for you, in this challenge(progress/setbacks/ect). Please mark these dated in your calender's so you do not forget.

Also when signing up, again, please post pics, and let us know a few things about your hair, ie. whether you are relaxed, texlaxed, transitionining, or natural. Also your hair length, and whether you will be deep conditioning with/without heat, or using a cap. Again, listing conditioners that you will be using is mandatory. It is required for you to have Two Deep Conditioners: One Protein, One Moisturizing.

RULES
You are required to deep condition for at least once a week! (As Evanny has said before, cowashing does not count!)
You can deep condition on wet or dry hair (whatever your preference)
You can deep condition with heat for at least 30 minutes
If deep conditioning without heat, leave it in for at least 2 hours
You can make any additions to your deep conditioner if you like, just post what you added(Oils, honey, eggs, or any ingredient of your choosing)
Again, it is required for you to have 1 Moisturizing and 1 Protein Deep Conditioner, so that is 2 Main Conditioners
You may use other deep conditioners besides your main 2, two times out of the month.
If you would you would like another conditioner besides your main 2, for more than twice a month, you may be granted a pass.
You are allowed 2 passes a month.
Please post when a Pass is used.

First Pony!

I have been natural for close to 7 months now, and have never been able to catch it all in  pony tail.

Yesterday, I was in a rush to get ready, and had not done anything with my hair the night before but slap some LJBCO on my scalp. So I rinsed my hair in the shower yesterday morning, and made a side part, and put some Olive Oil Eco Styler Gel, throughout my hair, and brushed to slick it down and put it in a little pony, with the ends tucked! I am so pleased! 

The gel shows off my natural pattern!  It did dry hard, but that could be because I did not add any moisture to my hair before applying, but I like it because it lets me be able to wear it again without having to apply any gel or other products. All I did was put on a satin bonnet last night, and it looks the same as it did yesterday, will be rocking the pony again today!

I finally found a simple PROTECTIVE style. Before, the only protective styling I could do was wear individual/box braids (which I do myself) with extensions, and Kinky twists.

I Just wanted to share my good news with you all!

Until Next Time, HHG to All! Naomi <3

Review and Results of using Olive Oil Eco Styler Gel

I have tried shingling with cheap dollar store gel, and it left my hair a stiff mess. Now that I know I am to add moisture in my hair like an oil or a leave in, that could have then the reason it turned out crunchy, but it also turned out flaky, and I am sure it would have still turned out flaky.

Everyone has always compared Eco Styler Gel, with Kinky Curly Curing Custard, so I wanted to give it a try myself. I went out to CVS and purchased a 32 ounce tub of Eco Styler Olive Oil Gel, (for 4.99) because I felt that it would dry my hair out a bit less than one without it. I went to a Beauty Supply Store, and found  that the same one I had cost 3.49, so I would look around before buying it somewhere, because it is priced differently, depending where you go.

It does not have a very pungent scent, which is pleasant. It was thicker in texture/density, than I thought it would have been, but it was not very hard to distribute. It gave me great curl definition, but, not air drying could be the reason my hair came out slightly crunchy, and maybe not as elongated, or simply me not adding moisture to the top layer,  and drying with a blow dryer. I am going to try again sometime soon and test my theory.

I think Eco Styler Gel is an awesome alternative for those cannot afford KCCC, or are simply on a tight budget, (and people like me who cannot bring themselves to spend 20 dollars on one product) (lol). 

4.5/5- I am going to try it another time to see if I like it any better by air drying.

Until Next Time, HHG to All! Naomi <3

Wash Day/Regimen

I love wash day because it gives me a chance to feel pampered and baby my hair! To me it is like going to the Salon, because it takes hours to get to the results I want (by choice) but in the comfort of my own home, which is the best part! Who like sitting in a salon for 3-4 hours? Not Me! lol

 My wash day comes once per week, and that is the day my hair gets the works. Everybody does not have the same washing ritual, whether natural, relaxed, or texlaxed. Some people wash once a week like me, some people twice a month, or once a month, so it varies depending on the person an the hair type.

I decided on once a week because I found that after two weeks my scalp is dirty, and hair is limp, and packed with product I have been adding over the days. Plus it starts to itch then lol.

I start by prepooing. Prepooing is a lot like deep conditioning, except that it is done on dry hair before Shampooing. It depends on my mood, but I do oil only prepoo's, and conditioner prepoo's. For my oil only I use Home Health Castor Oil, and Africa's Best Organics Ultimate Herbal Oil. For my conditioner prepoo I use V05 Tea Therapy Calming Chamomile with a few drops of the same oils I use in my oil prepoo. I like to leave it overnight with a plastic cap, if not done that way I do my prepoo a couple of hours before I plan on shampooing, same method.

I then rinse, and then do my Cayenne Pepper Treatment for an hour or two, rinse, then shampoo. I clarify 1-2 times a month using V05 Herbal Escapes Clarifying Kiwi Lime, if I clarify I use the matching conditioner to cowash, if not I use V05 Moisturizing Milks Strawberries & Cream.  Cowashing can be done in between wash days, as it helps keep your hair moisturized and clean. When I am not using my clarifying shampoo, I am using my moisturizing shampoo, V05 Moisturizing Milks Shampoo Strawberries & Cream. I tend to wash my hair in one big bunch, some braid their hair in plaits and wash their hair in sections. 

I then deep condition using one of my three conditioners which I alternate, Africa's Best Hair Mayonnaise, which I use as my protein, Organic Root Stimulator Replenishing Conditioner as my in between, meaning it contains both protein and moisturizing ingredients, and Hollywood Beauty Olive Cholesterol, which I use as my moisturizing. I believe Mineral Oil is an ingredient in the (bolded) conditioners I use, but I does not bother me if it is far down in the list of ingredients. Many people try to stay away from mineral oil, and petroleum in products, because it is said to coats, and acts as a barrier, but it works fine for me. I have great results using all three of these conditioners.

After, I seal with my mix of Home Health Castor Oil, Africa's Best Ultimate Herbal Oil, and Lavender Jamaican Black Castor Oil. I put pure LJBCO on my balds spots and edges.

Sometimes I use V05 Moisturizing Milks as a leave in, and then I style!

I what is called low manipulation styling, which means to style without direct heat. Styles such some featured on my blog, and others such as braid/ braid outs, (two strand/flat) twist/ twist outs, bantu knot outs, puffs, pin curls, roller/rod sets, etc.

Every once in a while I may do a protective style, which is styling that keeps ends protected. Such as individuals, and kinky twists, but you can also do buns, pony tails, wigs/lace fronts, cornrows, etc. This type is styling is suppose to help in retaining length.

My low manipulation styles usually last me two to three days. Unless it is wash day, I then cowash, seal, and style again!

I find that it is good to have a regimen to know what products works for you, and to know what treatments your hair may need throughout the week. Remember it is different for everyone, and some products may work for others, may not work for you, so it is trial and error, but at least it gives you a chance to get to know your hair!

Until Next Time, HHG to All! Naomi <3