Canadian Curlies

Pressed and Impressed

2013-04-18T07:14:00.003-07:00

So a couple weeks ago I decided to go to the salon, because my hair was in serious need of a trim. I was going to a stylist that I trusted, so I decided to let her press my hair.

Me pressed and going out.

Keep in mind a flat iron has not touched my hair in almost three years, since I stopped using mine from the moment I started transitioning. So I was freaking out, to put it mildly. The last thing I wanted was heat damage.

I washed my hair and deep conditioned with a mix of Tresemme Keratin Smooth Infusing Conditioner, Pantene Moisture Renewal Conditioner and coconut oil. I then lightly blow dried my hair after applying my Kinky Curly Not Today leave-in and Fantasia IC Heat Protector. Then I headed to the salon. I sorta of fibbed to my stylist and told her I did not add a heat protector, just because I wanted her to add more…hehehe.

My ends were in horrible shape. I’ve done mini-trims on my twists, but this was my first professional trim since my chop and there is nothing like it.

Back view - it's getting long. :-)

My stylist did an amazing job and I was really happy with the results. My hair has really grown and to be honest it’s the longest it has ever been in my LIFE! I can personally attest that the length and health of my hair is due to the fact that I no longer, use flatirons or curling irons on my hair anymore. For me it is ammunition as to why going natural was the best decision for the well-being of my hair.

On a side note, I missed my curls hours after it was pressed. I didn’t recognize myself and because my hair is so fine, it was super flat. I liked the new look, but I love the volume the curls give my hair. I could not relax my hair again. I will probably press it, once a year if that. With that said this was a great experience and I’m proud of the progress of my hair and to know that I can have the versatility with natural hair to be curly or straight.

Maintenance:

Through the week I wrapped my hair at night and slept with a silk scarf. By day three I craved waves and did a braid-out for some volume. I applied a bit of coconut oil in the morning to style. I did not use heat on my hair at all during the week.

Wash day:

I actually needed to use a sulfate shampoo because of the build up of silicones on my hair. I tried to use my TheraNeem shampoo, but it was not penetrating ... at any rate I deep conditioned with the same mixture I mentioned above and I experience no heat damage. THANK GOD!

Have you pressed your hair? How did it turn out?

Blessings and Curls,

B-Curlie

My Staple Products

2013-03-11T11:34:00.000-07:00

So as I mentioned in my previous post, my hair officially turned two years old. I thought I should mention a few of my staple products that have never failed me.

I’m not a hair-typer, but for those who do, I believe I have two textures in my hair. The back is 4A and the rest of it for the most part is 4B. I know these producs won't work for everyone, but hopefully some of them will.

Let’s get to it:

My go to shampoo is Scalp TherapeShampoo Organix South I buy it from well.ca (free shipping in Canada). I know some of you are avid cowashers, but I need to wash my hair every week with shampoo. It’s a natural product that does not give me a lot of lather. The scent is not amazing, but I love how it washes all of the residue from my hair and scalp, without irritation which is important for me.

My go to conditioner and deep conditioner is Tresemme Naturals. It’s just magical. I get great slip from this product and I find it makes my hair easier to finger detangle while in the shower. When using as a deep conditioner, I any natural oil on hand.

My go to leave-in is still the Kimmaytube Leave-in with Kinky Curly Knot Today. I know Kim Love now has her own product line, that I’ m sure it is wonderful, but I haven’t tried it yet and as of right now this leave-in mixture has been great for my hair. I’ve loved the Knot Today, ever since I began transitioning and it has done nothing but good things for my hair.

My go to styler is Jane Carter's Curl Defining Cream. I came across this product by chance at an iHeartmyHair event. I’ve experimented with others and they have been OK, but I always end up re-purchasing the Curl Defining Cream.

My go to gel is EcoStyler – Morrocan Argan Oil. I love this stuff. It slicks my hair back like no nobody’s business, especially after a misting of water. I often end up wearing a puff or updo, a few days before wash day, since my hair is not interested in doing anything else at that point.

My go to oil is Extra Virgin Coconut Oil. First of all I love the smell of coconut and the way it just melts in my hands. I use it to seal moisture in my hair and to even style flat twists when it’s too early in the week to use gel.

My go to butter is my Shea Butter mixture. There is something about making something nourishing for your tress. My hair loves it and I use it for everything from styling, sealing or even as a body cream. I will say, that I do not use it all the time, it really depends on how I feel and what my hair needs.

I'm looking for great protein conditioner. I need something mild. So if you have any suggestions, send them my way.

Blessings and Curls,

B-Curlie

Two Years Natural

2013-02-20T10:05:00.003-08:00

So its official I’ve been natural for two whole years. It feel like yesterday when I just decided to transition and grow my relaxed hair out. Sometimes the transition was tough, especially on those days when the roller set just didn’t look super cute or when I flattened my hair while sleeping on it. As much as I love my hair to look good, I will not sacrifice my rest for it!

My big chop after nine months of transitioning.

I also went through a traumatic, bout of seborrheic dermatitis last year that resulted in hair loss in the front of my head because I tried to treat it myself. The good news on that front is that my hair is resilient and is not holding any grudges. ;-) It’s growing back and I can’t even tell where the loss happened, except for the shorter hairs.

Today - two years of curliness, rocking a stretched twistout.

Now I’m looking forward to many years of natural glory and springy curls with personality. I guess what I’ve learned so far is that you have to take care of yourself, pay attention to the needs of your body and hair and most of all be proud of everything that makes you unique.

Where are you at in your journey? What has it been like for you?

Blessings and Curls,

B-Curlie

Salon Nightmare – Lesson Learned

2013-01-25T09:59:00.000-08:00

Over the holidays, I was in one of my very good friend’s wedding. It was a beautiful day and I’m overjoyed for them.

During the preparations for the wedding, I actually decided not to do my own hair and have my friend’s stylist do it. As a bridesmaid, I wanted to participate in all the pampering including getting my hair done. Well, let me tell you that it was one of the biggest mistakes ever.

Although the stylists were black, they had no idea how to take care of natural hair, except to press or relax the hell out of it. I wanted a simple cornrow style in the front of my head and either twist or roller set on the rest. As some of you know, I’ve had trauma on my scalp from my dermatitis, but my hair is in a much better place now and can definitely withstand cornrows as long as they aren’t too tight.

After washing my hair, my hair was pulled and tugged in horrible directions with sometimes a small tooth comb. Let me tell you my hair is not used to being treated like that. No gentleness or care was applied.

When it was time to do the cornrows I was told, that extension hair was needed for a fuller braid. Needless to say I had cornrows in for Halloween and they were fine with only my hair.

Me as a leopard for Halloween - loving my cornrows :-)

I am allergic to extension hair and I would not let them use it. They didn’t like that. I ended up sitting in the chair for count’em FIVE hours only to have flat twists in my hair and bantu knots in the back. Throughout the nightmare, I got comments from the stylists like, “I can’t do it, because I only braid tight – I’m confused”, “since your hair is SO NATURAL, we can’t do this or that” and “because you have a curl pattern this it taking me longer to do” the best one was “if your hair was relaxed, I would be done by now”. CRAZY right. They made me feel like my hair was a nuisance for them and that is not how you should feel when your are paying customer and when they are providing a service. That was the hair prep day.

Needless to say, I finished my hair myself the next day and tried to put as much love as possible into it. I was not happy, especially since I know I could have done a better job myself, instead of paying someone to treat my hair like crap.

My wedding hair - not my favourite, definitely could have been better.

This experience made me realize that doing your research about a stylist is very important. You can’t just let any “black” person touch your hair. You cannot assume that because they look like you that they know how to respect your precious curls.

Lastly, even though the experience was traumatic, it made me realize how proud I am be natural and that it’s important for more black women to let their curls be free. We need to put the pressure on our people who are stylists to learn the proper way how to take care of the natural hair that grows out of our scalps, instead of focusing on learning ways to manipulate our natural hair.

Have you had a similar experience? Share your story ...

Blessings and Curls,
B-Curlie

New Year of Curls

2013-01-14T11:38:00.004-08:00

PHOTO: www.business2community.com

First of all, Happy New Year Everyone!

I took an extended blogging break, just to get my thoughts in order and to think about Canadian Curlie’s future. I realized that I still really enjoy writing and posting, but I will do so when I get the itch.

I am committed to this blog and speaking the truth about my personal natural hair experience along with others who want to share, but I am not going to post just for the sake of it. I want all my posts to mean something, interest others and hopefully help others, if it comes to that. So that is my outlook for 2013.

I’m really looking forward to sharing with you and as always please send me your feedback and let me know what’s up!

Blessings and Curls,
B-Curlie

Black Canadian Dolls - available

2012-12-11T11:51:00.000-08:00

I am so happy and proud of this news.

Some of you may remember one my posts Dolls Like Us. I talked about a letter I sent to Maplelea Girls about creating a doll that represented black girls. We know that growing up most of us did not have a doll that looked like us or that we could relate to. I know I would have loved to have a doll that looked like me when I was young.

I did a survey asking all of you what you thought a black doll should look like for skin tone to hair type. I submitted your opinions to Maplelea Girls and guess what … they listened and took your comments into consideration when creating the dolls.

The two black dolls from Maplelea Girls. Photo: www.maplelea.com

Here is what Kathryn Morton, President of Maplelea Girls said, “We have two black dolls available now. We did the curly hair, as your readers suggested, but we also wanted to offer an alternative so we also did one with “textured” hair. They are part of the Maplelea Friends collection where girls get to make up their own name and character for their doll, using the journal that comes with it. Thanks so much for your help with this.”

WHAT A VICTORY! Thanks so much for being wonderful readers and for helping to make a difference. I’m really PROUD - you should be too!!

Blessing and Curls,

B-Curlie

Product review - Curls Curl Soufflé

2012-11-29T12:08:00.000-08:00

I pulled out one of my product staples this morning and then I realized that I had not shared this with all of you … my amazing readers!

PHOTO: www.curls.biz

The product is Curls Curl Soufflé. I use it as a moisturizer. When I purchased it the first time, I tried to use it as a styler for my twist-outs. I mean the twist out was OK, but not something to write home about. My hair was soft and smelled great, but there was no real hold so my twist-out frizzed out within a day or two. For me the strength of this product is really its moisturizing properties. It is water-based and smells like cake and looks like pudding. Put it this way, if I was three years old, it would definitely be hard for me not to put it in my mouth.

What I love about this moisturizer is the fact that it’s great to use now that the colder weather is upon us. The Curl Soufflé provides an easy way to apply a form of water on your hair without making it soaking wet and avoiding a case of the winter snuffles. It cannot replace all the natural moisturizing qualities of water, but it’s convenient if you are not fortunate enough to live in a warm climate in the winter.

Ingredients

purified water, certified organic sunflower oil, octyl palmitate, certified organic aloe vera leaf juice, glyercin, glyceryl stearate, potassium stearate, panthenol, stearic acid, sodium carbomer, allantoin, cetearyl alcohol, certified organic sweet almond oil, shea butter, certified organic jojoba oil, soy tocopherols, phenoxyethanol, fragrance.

How do I use it?

Well I find myself putting it on my hair in addition to my leave-in after washing, followed by my styler, which is usually Jane Carter’s Curl Defining Cream. I also use Curl Soufflé in the morning when I’m trying to bounce some life into my curls, to get rid of the slept on look. I use a generous amount and distribute throughout my hair and then seal using coconut oil, shea butter or any other natural oil or butter on hand.

What water-based moisturizers are you using during the cold fall and winter months?

Blessings and Curls,

B-Curlie

PT 1: Dermatitis life-changing

2012-11-28T12:34:00.000-08:00

So I think I’ve reached a turning point in regards to the treatment of my dermatitis, thanks to my amazing dermatologist who came up with a great treatment plan.

I’ve written about my experience before in the Fighting Scalp Issues post. I honestly thought I could handle this outbreak by myself in the beginning. It was a mix of me wanting to do it 100% natural, or pick up products from the drug store and also because I thought to myself, I’ve been through this before, I can’t fix this.

Wow, was I wrong, by June of this year the irritation had not subsided and I was actually starting to lose hair in the front and top area of my crown. In terms of styling, I was confined to head bands and beanie hats. The panic sat in. This was definitely bigger than me. I needed some professional HELP!

I went to see my doctor, very good friends with one of my “sisters” who also happens to be a great dermatologist. Not only is she black and knows about what we as black women put our hair through, but she also has succeeded in keeping her own dermatitis at bay. That was very reassuring for me. A feeling of relief came over me.

She prescribed clobex to me and it is wonderful – it’s the truth! It started to heal the area on my scalp and my hair started to bounce back. She told me that oiling my scalp was out of the question, but my mainstays, shea butter and coconut oil are fine to use on my hair.

Even though things were looking good, she still wanted to test me scalp for follicle damage and to make sure her treatment was strong enough. The test show that I had minor scarring, that could spread if not addressed. Pretty scary stuff right! My doctor assured me that based on the fact that my hair was already growing in, she says my scarring is miniscule and treatable, as long as I continue a healthy regimen. HALLELUJAH, I’m one of the lucky ones!

This is part one of a mini-series I have planned. I really think these scalp and hair conditions are health issues that black women need to know about and take responsibility for.

Keep reading and checking in with me on Twitter @canadiancurlie for the upcoming posts or comment if this hits home for you or someone you know.

Blessings and Curls,

B-Curlie

Curly Canadians - New Product Line

2012-11-28T08:14:00.001-08:00

Recently I was in touch with Althea, from Curly Canadians^TM, you may also remember her from my post, when I featured her as a Curlie or maybe you are already one of Curly Canadian’s clients.

They started out as an online store that provided natural hair and skin beauty products to all Canadians. The site really reflects diversity in every sense of the word and still prides itself on this fact.

A week or so ago, I was on Twitter and chatted to Althea for a moment. She told me that they are in the process of creating their own product line and the tentative launch is early to mid-2013. They will be releasing the following:

· shampoo bar

· cleansing conditioner

· bentonite clay mask

· protein treatment

· deep conditioner

· styling wax

I’ve reviewed a couple of their products in the past and I love them, needless to say I’m super excited about Curly Canadian’s new line… I will keep you posted as soon as I have more news. Definitely something to look forward to in the New Year!

Blessings and Curls,

B-Curlie

Featured Big Chopper - Amanda Henry

2012-11-16T08:16:00.000-08:00

Hometown: Ajax, ON

How long were you relaxed:

I have been relaxed on and off for 20 years.

Do you remember your first perm and what was it like:

My first perm experience was back in 1992 when I was in grade 4. My mom was no longer able to style my hair for school due to her full-time job and decided that relaxing my hair would be the best option. She felt that I would now be able to manage my hair for myself on a daily basis. The first time I ran my hands through my hair I was in shock! I felt like I had the same flowing hair as the other girls in my class and that I finally fit in.

Amanda with relaxed hair.

What made you to decide to big chop:

I finally had enough of the relaxer life this past summer. I was tired of having to flat iron and curl my hair on a regular basis and had started to wear my hair slicked down. Also, I wanted the “wash and go” life for when I worked out at the gym and I resorted to putting my hair in Senegalese Twists to avoid having to deal with it. However, my scalp and hairline did not agree. It was after seeing some of my friends with natural hair that I felt that it was time to make the transition.

How do you feel now that you’ve taken the plunge:

I definitely think I made the right decision! I love how it is so easy to manage and have gained back a great deal of time when getting ready for events, to do other things.

What type of feedback did you get from your loved ones:

My close loved ones and friends have been nothing but supportive. I’ve received positive feedback from strangers and have been told that the cut really suits my overall look.

Amanda rocking her fresh and sassy big chop.

Although you are newly natural, do you have any favourite products or products you are looking forward to trying:

I’m still learning about what’s out there in the market, but I have invested in the Keracare line to start with. However, I am still looking for a product that meets my needs as a daily moisturizer.

The best part of being natural for me is:

The best part for me has to be the idea of knowing that I am 100% free of chemicals. Previously I had difficulty embracing my natural texture and now I have a greater appreciation.

Blessings and Curls,

B-Curlie

Featured Curlie - Brooke

2012-10-30T07:53:00.000-07:00

In early summer, I was fortunate enough to connect with a young Curlie, who is an up and coming, actress, model, entertainment correspondant and aspiring ROCK STAR … her name is Brooke of http://www.itsbrookesworld.blogspot.ca . She is very wise in her nine years and really a joy to meet and talk to. So it was my great pleasure to interview her and meet her parents. She is definitely on her way to stardom and a great inspiration to other young Curlies out there. Keep up the great work Brooke and Thanks for being a part of Canadian Curlies. See our interview below:

Let's keep our girls strong and self-aware of their beauty! What young curlies inspire you?

Blessing and Curls,

B-Curlie

Hair Support

2012-10-09T11:16:00.000-07:00

I was recently talking to a friend of mine who is natural and she mentioned that she almost broke down a got a relaxer the other day.

PHOTO: www.kewlgraphics.com

I was in shock and tried to encourage her not to. The thing is, after thinking about it, I do not think it is right to judge others and try to tell people what to do. It’s never been my nature so why start now? Another thing I would like to mention is that I know I will probably be natural for the rest of my life, now that I’m here and have fallen head over heels in love with my curls.

Don’t get me wrong there are days when feel like shaving it off into a buzz cut or pressing the hell out of it, but there are also days when my curls reflect my personality the way nothing else can.

The bottom line is, yes I would love for my friend to stay natural and for us to continue our CURLY journey together, but I know this life is not for everyone, so I have to respect that.

This brings me to another point that those of us of African descent need to embrace each other whether we are straight, wavy, curly or reppin’ dreads in our hair.

Yes, some styles are healthier than others, but at the end of the day it’s a personal decision and we should not let how people wear their hair change the way we treat them and we should also respect their decision. The truth is we should not even have to consider these thoughts and just be who we want to be and what feels right.

Blessings and Curls,

B-Curlie

Review - Lulu Life Body Butter

2012-09-25T07:50:00.001-07:00

So it has been a while since my last post, but I would like to tell you, that my hair was still receiving love during that time. More specifically from Lulu Life Body Butter, that is available at Curly Canadians.

Lulu Life Body Butter is made and produced by the Lulu Life Trust in Sudan. This organization helps families in Sudan who are trying to bounce back from the tragedies of civil war. So with every purchase of Lulu Life products you can guarantee that your dollar is going to help Sudanese families, which is cool.

PHOTO: Curly Canadians

Many of you know about my love affair with shea butter, well I can tell you that Lulu Life Body Butter, did not disappoint.

Although it says it is a body butter, I used it on my hair as a styler and sealer. I did my usual twist out on freshly washed hair and even to do a semi-dry twist out from time-to-time. Unlike other shea butters, that need friction to melt into a creamy texture, Lulu melts into a lovely consistency upon contact. The Lulu Life Butter, left my hair feeling super soft and healthy. The only thing I did not like about butter is that it’s virtually scent-free. I like my products to have a little sweet smell, probably because I’m too girly. On the other hand this would be the perfect product for those who have scent allergies or those who do not like strong smelling products.

So the question is, would I use and recommend this product? ABSOLUTELY! Not only are you helping those in need in Sudan, but you are also getting an amazing natural product that is good for you hair and skin. You can’t go wrong!

Blessings and Curls,

B-Curlie

Swimming ... ah natural

2012-09-10T06:37:00.001-07:00

It’s been awhile and my life has been crazy busy over the last couple months. So apologize for not posting on a regular basis.

I have decided to take swimming lessons again. Yes I said again, because I’ve taken lessons numerous times before and made great progress but never got to the place where I feel 100% comfortable jumping into a pool, ocean, or lake. In retrospect, there are a couple of the reasons why I didn’t learn as a child was, first of all neither of my parents swam and I also believe that dealing with a little girl’s chlorine-filled hair once or twice a week was not something my mother was interested in dealing with. I can understand that, I had a lot of hair back then and it was super thick.

At any rate, I’m here in my 30s, I’m taking swimming lessons for the first time with natural hair. I’ve done a little research and found a great video from Naptural85 (one of my favourite youtubers) on how to protect your tress while swimming. The key seems to be filling your hair with water and conditioner to keep it moisturized, but also if your strands are already full of goodness, the chlorine will have a harder time penetrating them. I plan to try Napturals85 steps and hopefully my hair will survive my swimming adventures. :-) I’ll keep you all posted.

Do you have swimming with natural hair tips? I’d love to hear them.

Blessings and Curls,

B-Curlie

Curlies that make me PROUD!

2012-08-16T12:26:00.001-07:00

I was recently talking to one of my really good friends (she is caucasian), who happened to read my blog for the first time this week. I often refer to each other as sisters from other mothers, since we are so in sync and usually say things in-stereo.

She read my post: Straight Up and she was really struck by it after reading about the chemicals black woman use just for so-called beauty.

She then said imagine if Michelle Obama and her daughters were to go natural. They could not only influence black woman in North America, but all over the world.

The Obama family

I totally agree with her and it would be wonderful if someone like Michelle Obama would go natural and show her true beauty to the world.

I do however want to mention that I’m honoured to be a Canadian Curlie and see that our former Governor General of Canada the Rt. Honourable Michaëlle Jean has rocked her curls on many different occasions. It was really great to see and makes me feel proud.

Rt. Honourable Michaëlle Jean PHOTO: www.nsb.com

Here are a few others that make me proud, not only because of their beautiful crown and glory, but also because of their accomplishments as African Canadian women – GO ON WITH YOUR BAD SELF!!!

Measha Brueggergosman - opera singer

Jemini – G98.7 FM radio personality PHOTO: www.fullcc.com

Rosey Edeh – ET Canada correspondent - PHOTO: www.postcity.com

Trey Anthony – creator of Da Kink in my Hair - PHOTO: www.nsb.com

What other African Canadian public figures make you feel proud to be curlie???

Blessings and Curls,

B-Curlie

Living Relaxer-Free

2012-08-07T07:25:00.001-07:00

Tap, Tap Tap … If you ever had a relaxer, you should remember those days approaching your touch-up, when your scalp was super itchy, but you couldn’t scratch it. I was reminded of this, one morning while driving to work. I was driving behind a woman, who was briskly tapping her head with her hand. It was quite a sight. The funny thing about it is that I knew exactly what she was doing. Her scalp was really itchy, but she didn’t want to scratch it, because she was probably going to get her touch-up done that day and knew the relaxer would irritate her scalp, especially if she scratched it. I’m sure others who seen her, thought she was crazy…LOL!

I cannot tell you how much I do not miss those days. Even though as of late, I have been recovering from my dermatitis and haven’t had a lot of time for my hair, I wanted to do a post about WHY I LOVE MY CURLS. Seeing that lady really got me to thinking about how blessed I am to have my curls and why I made the decision to go natural.

Here are a few reasons to love your CURLS or NATURAL TRESS:

· No more relaxers and scalp burns

Photo: VisualPhoto.com

· No need to run from the rain

· Save money, unless you are a product junkie J

· Curls have personality

· Style versatility

· Can wrap up the blow dryer and flat iron

· Harsh chemicals can be thrown out

MOST IMPORTANTLY CURLS
ALLOW YOU TO BE YOU!

What do you love most about being curlie?

Belssings and Curls,

B-Curlie

Featured Curlie - Crystal L.

2012-07-18T05:14:00.000-07:00

Name: Crystal L.

Hometown: Toronto, Canada

First year of curlieness: September 2010 is when I had my last relaxer. April 2012 is when I consider my hair journey began.

Why I went curlie: Back in September 2010 when I had my last relaxer, I didn't have any plan to go natural--in fact the idea came much later on. I had a chin-length bob cut that I would get relaxed and reshaped at an expensive downtown salon every six weeks. When it came time to get my next relaxer I was dreading the high cost for a 'master stylist', the long salon wait, and the eventual disappointment that many women experience--when they leave the salon with a fabulous look that they can't recreate after they wash their hair at home. As a temporary solution to my frizzy roots I put my hair in braids with the intention of giving myself a month break from relaxing. But as time went on, I loved the easy maintenance of the braids and would have them re-braided time and time again. After five to six months of braiding I was able to see enough of my new hair growth to appreciate the texture and thickness and decided that I would just transition my hair using braids.

Transitioning with braids.

By this time I had turned 30 and having had relaxers since I was nine years old, I realized that my hair was the one part of my being, where I felt I had little control over and knew even less about. I also didn't like the idea of being dependent on a chemical process to feel comfortable about my appearance (even though I was constantly trying to treat split ends and hair damage from the relaxer). I wanted to nurture a relationship with my tresses and knew that it would be a long road to get to a length that I was comfortable with. After growing my hair through braids for a year and a half I made the decision to do chop off my relaxed ends and start my new hair journey.

Regime and products: Since I'm a newbie to natural hair care, I am experimenting with a wide-range of products and regimens. Products that I'm using and love are: pure cocoa-shea butter, pure argan oil, ApHogee Pro-Vitamin Leave-In Conditioner, and Taliah Waajid's CurlyCurl Cream. These days I'm wearing braid-outs more often than twist-outs. I find braids take a longer time to do but they define and hold my curls longer. I like to co-wash at least once per week and re-braid my dampened hair before bed.

Rocking a stunning braid-out.

The best part of being curlie for me is: The best part of being curlie for me is to be able to look in the mirror, see my freshly done hair, and know that I did it myself and that it's all 100% Crystal. Yes, the unpredictability of my hair can be quite the challenge (oh no frizz!!), but I love knowing that my hair's beauty comes from being imperfectly perfect--just like me!

Is there anything else you'd like to add:

My advice for those thinking about going natural, but don't know if they can make the commitment, is to focus on the POSITIVES of wearing natural hair and capitalize on them. For example, I like style diversity and length (I'm not crazy about 'fros) and I needed a way to grow out my hair without having to worry about maintaining two hair textures-- so braiding was a great transitional hairstyle for me. Finding an experienced braider who is attentive and creative can mean that you can wear a new braided hairstyle every month until you are ready to take on the day-to-day maintenance of curly hair. Cornrows (especially thicker ones) can protect your new growth as long as you re-braid your hair and trim it regularly, in addition to moisturizing your braids every day (using store-bought or home-made braid spray).

Thanks for sharing Crystal!

Find out how to be a Featured Curlie, email me at canadiancurlie2010@gmail.com

Blessings and Curls,
B-Curlie

Review: The Little Book of GREEN Minutes

2012-07-10T08:31:00.001-07:00

One of my dearest friends and gorgeous Curlie, Natashia Jefferies has recently released her first book: The Little Book of GREEN Minutes. Some people call her Tash, but to me she will always be Tashia and I’m so excited to have the privilege to review her book.

It’s an inspirational self-help book for those who want to live a wholesome and empowering, green/natural lifestyle, by taking baby steps and in the end reaching a goal.

Not only does the book give great day-day tips on how to live well, but Tashia also gives insight on how she has personally changed her life for the better. So you are reading an actual case study as well as learning along the way.

There are a few unique things about this book that you will not find in other self-help books. First of all it is only 83 pages, a very easy read, she has included helpful resources, recipes and a journal to help readers on their way to living a healthy green lifestyle. It’s important to note that all of the products or services Tashia mentions in her book, she has personally tried or has had experience with. Lastly, The Little Book of GREEN Minutes is not preachy. Tashia has written it in a way that is educational and intuitive, you do not feel obligated to do anything, but without a doubt after reading it, your perspective on life and the things that you use and consume everyday will be re-evaluated.

I definitely recommend this book if you are looking for something new and exciting. If nothing else pick-up the book and perhaps take a few tips to apply to your everyday life, I’m sure you won’t regret it. The Little Book of GREEN Minutes can be purchased at and the book can be purchased on www.amazon.ca or www.amazon.com $19.97 plus tax. Feel free to check out Tashia's website at: www.GreenMinutes.ca or to check out her road to curliness as a past Featured Curlie.

Blessing and Curls,

B-Curlie

Product frustrations

2012-06-25T10:33:00.000-07:00

So a while ago I asked you guys for your favourite natural hair resources. I got a few replies and also started to do my own research, because I think it’s important that we have a myriad of places to go that cater to us and our hair needs across Canada. I have noticed that Walmart, Walgreens and Target have caught on in the States, that the natural hair market is a lucrative one. I wish our Canadian department store would too. On the flip-side, there is nothing wrong with giving some of the independent manufactures and distributors some support as well.

I have three theories as to why we do not see our natural products everywhere.

1^st theory:

Many live in a hair product bubble

Photo: sxc.com

I truly think those who do not have our type of hair as our, live in a hair product bubble if you will. Not on purpose, but why should they care, if everything they need is at Shoppers Drug Mart, Walmart or even a local grocery store? They do not have to search for it as an entire aisle is devoted to their products, while black hair products take up less than a third of that space, and that space is usually for those with relaxed hair.

I also think many who do not have afro-textured, may think we can use the same hair products as them, and therefore would not understand why we need different products or tools.

2^nd theory:

We aren’t loud enough

In the words of James Brown, “Say it loud, I’m black and I’m proud.” We need to inquire about our product in the stores we go to, on a regular basis. I’m guilty of this as I’m sure the rest of you are, but the truth is if we do not ask about them, we will never have a chance to see or purchase them in the big brand stores. It is 2012 and it is time we are represented in the stores that we have been spending money in for all these years.

3^rd theory:

The Curlie Lifestyle is relatively new

I know rocking natural hair is not new for everyone, but over the last 5-10 years, I think it has really come into its own. In the past it was more so thought of as political statement, but now it’s a form of self-love and to maintain healthy hair without chemicals. So, if you think about it that way, the Curlie Lifestyle is really, just an adolescent. It needs to grow and be nurtured like anything else. We have to make it important in our lives and once we do that, hopefully others will follow our lead.

Researched and submitted resources:

So far below are the ones I found or knew of. Please note that it’s also important to check your local Black Beauty Supply stores or even Sally’s, you may be pleasantly surprised. I know there are plenty of other companies/salons in Canada that provide services and products for Curlies. Help me improve this list and send your resources to share!

Online:

Blended Beauty: www.blendedbeauty.ca Phone: 1.877.470.0634
Curly Canadians: www.curlycanadians.ca

Kynk Naturals: www.kynk.ca Phone: 519.841.7559

Hair by Eli: www.hairbyeli.ca

I Love My Curls: http://storefront.ilovemycurls.ca Phone: 902.802.2409

Love Thy Hns: http://www.lovethyhns.ca

Ontario:
Curl Ambassadors: www.curlambassadors.ca

Grace Hair Studio: www.gracehairstudios.com Phone: 416.284.8523

Honey Fig www.honeyfig.com Phone: 416.226.2100

Nanni’s Natural Hair Salon www.nannisnaturalhair.com Phone: 416.243.5151

Nova Scotia:

Hy-Style Beauty Care (stylist: Pauline Patten-Bailey): http://hy-stylebeautycare.yolasite.com Phone: 902.431.0556.

Featured Curlie - Angela

2012-06-22T06:39:00.001-07:00

Angela is an inspiration not only as a Curlie, but also spiritually and physically. She has a such positive attitude while living with her disability. It's my pleasure to feature her. Thanks for being a part of my blog Angela!!!

Name: Angela Njoku

Hometown: Halifax, Nova Scotia

First year of curlieness: 1996

Why I went curlie: When I was sixteen, my hair was straightened with a chemical relaxer. As I got older, I found the relaxer chemicals to be too harsh for my fine hair. By the time I was twenty-five, I noticed that the colour of my hair was changing to a coppery almost blonde colour at some parts. I figured that this was a sign of damage to the hair and possibly to my scalp. I decided to go natural. I waited until I grew about a centimeter of natural hair under the relaxed hair, and then went to a salon and had the relaxed hair chopped off. The hairstylist was tentative about cutting off my hair because my hair was shoulder length at the time. But when it was cut to an afro, I felt refreshed and rejuvenated. As time went by, I noticed that my hair became stronger and healthier.

I kept my hair in a very short style that framed my face (about half a centimeter in length) for about five years before deciding to grow it out. My biggest challenges with being natural were finding products for natural hair, finding a hairstylist who was skilled in handling natural hair, and figuring out different ways to style my hair.

Seven years ago, my health deteriorated to the point that I became disabled. I thank God that my hair was natural at the time because I became too sick to visit a salon or do my hair myself; if I still had the relaxed hair I would have had to cut it all off. But I receive home care, and my home support worker has been taking care of my hair for me among other things. For the last five years she has washed, combed, styled and occasionally trimmed my hair when I couldn’t do it myself. She visits twice a month, and I manage my hair the rest of the time. Thank God that my health is turning around now, so I am able to do a little more with my hair and occasionally get out to a salon for a trim and conditioning treatment. The reason why I mention this is to encourage anyone who is considering going natural. If I can keep my hair natural while dealing with a disability, you can do it!

Angela with a cornrow braidout.

Regime and products:
The frequency in which I wash my hair is based on its length and how my scalp feels. It’s a little bit longer than shoulder length now, so it is washed twice a month. (But when it was very short, I had to wash it every 2 days, and when it was chin length it had to be washed once a week.) If I wash it too often, it becomes dry and my scalp itches.

Presently, I am using a natural shampoo called Hygenic, made by local hairdresser, Pauline Patten-Bailey of Hy-Style Beauty Care here in Halifax (website coming soon; see below for more information). Pauline has developed a line of natural hair care products called Bailey Hair Care Products. When I became disabled, I could no longer comb my thick hair. But I discovered Bailey‘s Curl In Curl Out, which softens my hair so that it is a little easier for me to comb. I apply it every six months.

One of Angela's favourite products from her stylist Pauline Patten-Bailey.

I also use Bailey‘s Bedew, a leave-in conditioner, after washing and as a daily moisturizer. I use natural Shea Butter as a scalp and hair moisturizer. It was given to me by a friend, but can be purchased in stores. The Shea Butter prevents my scalp from going dry and flaky during the winter months. It also produces fantastic results when my hair is flat ironed.

I try not to fuss with my hair with too much combing, heat or product. If it’s not dry or tangled but is soft and shiny, I know that all is well, so I leave it alone. If not, I add moisturizer, condition it or use less heat on my hair. (I try not to flat iron more than three times in one month.) I make sure to get it trimmed every two months to prevent hair breakage and tangling at the ends. I also maintain a healthy diet, and try to eat carrots regularly to encourage a healthy scalp and hair growth.

Angela's wash-n-go look.

The best part of being curlie for me is: I like variety, so I have been one to change my hairstyle frequently. I love curly hair, because of the fact that it can be styled in many different ways with relative ease. It can be in its natural state or afro, locked, twisted, flat twisted, braided, flat ironed, straightened with thread, corn-rowed, you can add extensions to it, and so on. Also, undoing a hairstyle (like twists or corn-rows) can create another hairstyle. An added bonus, I find, is that that curly hair (mine is quite curly) can hold a hairstyle for a long time, so it does not have to be changed every day if one wants to keep a style for a few days or weeks. My home support worker gives me a style that will last for two to four weeks.

One challenge about being curlie is that, no matter what style it is in, once my hair gets wet, damp or is exposed to humidity, it reverts to its natural curl. I’ve lost a few hair dos after sweating or taking a bath!

Maintaining my hair in its natural state has been considerably less expensive than in those days when I used a chemical straightener, which to me, is another big bonus and reason why I have stayed natural all of these years. Last, but not least, my hair is healthy, I am happy with it, and it looks better than ever! That is the reason why I wanted to go natural in the first place: to have healthy hair that I could feel good about.

For you Canadian Curlies in Halifax, Pauline’s hair salon is located at 349A Herring Cove Road, Halifax; telephone 902.431.0556.

Wonderful Shea

2012-06-07T12:41:00.001-07:00

First of all let me apologize for the hiatus. My husband and I have been crazy busy selling our house and buying a new one, not to mention upgrading furniture and trying to get rid of the gently used stuff. So as you can imagine, my life turned into a small zoo. I’m still in the mist of everything, but I had to give some props to me old stand-by RAW SHEA BUTTER!

One of my favourite brands of shea butter, found in most Black Beauty Supply stores.

As of late, I have been dealing with a flare up of dermatitis, which has not been fun, but I won’t get into that right now. Needless to say, I’ve taken a minimalist approach for three reasons:

- My hair needs some extra love;

- Lack of time;

- When dermatitis is lurking, my scalp/hair does not like new unknown products.

So I have been shampooing regularly, adding my leave-in and styling with raw shea butter only! I find people either love or hate shea butter. Well, I’m a LOVER. It seals in moisture like nobody’s business, in my opinion. Yes, there are other oils and butters that can do the trick, but for me shea butter works best. So I do not think it will ever be out of my regular rotation of products.

What are your thoughts about shea butter?

Straight Up

2012-05-17T11:33:00.000-07:00

In the 19^th century a law was passed to allow slaves to attend church and socialize with each other. It also became the day women used to take care of their tress. As mentioned in the previous entry The arrival of doom slave were starting to use axle grease and hot butter knives to straighten their hair. They began to envy the straight hair that their slave master’s wives had and although it was a form of self-hate, it also show how slave were ingenious and very creative.

The chemical lye, that was and still is in some cases used in hair relaxers.

The natural afro texture of their hair was being frowned upon and the slaves soon started mixing a concoction of lye (a toxin also known as sodium hydroxide) and potato. This was put directly on the scalp to straighten the hair shaft and then rinse with water and a neutralizing agent. Although the process gave the slaves the desired straight hair, it did not come without a price. The caustic solution burned the skin instantly and usually left the person with severe scabs and abrasions on their scalp.

Over the years, the market grew for those of African descent to straighten their hair, even though the process was extremely dangerous and sometimes painful. In fact, in the mid-19^th century it was against the law in New Orleans to be seen wearing their natural hair. It had to be hidden with a wig or wrapped in a scarf.

Madam C.J. Walker before and after using her product. I liked her puffy bangs. :-)

This new business was booming and in the beginning was dominated by whites, soon African Americans: Madam C.J. Walker, Garrett Augustus Morgan, Sara Spencer and others invented applications to remove or change the curl pattern of afro-textured hair. Although, I personally do not think the invention of hair relaxers was a positive one, I cannot ignore the great entrepreneurism that occurred. The determination is something we all should be proud of.

Your hairstyle also fit you into a social class that had developed in the 1800s and early 1900s. If you had straight hair you were considered to be classy and affluent and those who wore traditional African styles such as braids or cornrows were considered to be poor and low-class.

It’s interesting to note that although the first relaxers in the 19^th Century were much cruder than the ones now used in present day some of the side-effects still remain, scalp burns, scabs and in severe cases relaxers can cause dermatitis and alopecia.

If you could go back to the 1800s, do you think you would you straighten your hair to fit in?

Blessings and Curls,
B-Curlie

Product Review - Whip Coil Cream

2012-04-24T07:51:00.001-07:00

About a month ago, my husband and I started a major clean and decluttering as we prepared to stage our house for selling. In the process, my beloved electric mixer landed in storage. I was devastated and to be honest, I still am a little bit.

The main reason for my devastation was the fact that I was due to make my whipped shea butter, but it’s impossible to get the right consistency without a mixer…at least for me anyway.

I ended up at my neighbourhood Black Beauty Supply store (BBS), searching for a something to set and twist my hair with, since I had also ran out of my supply of Hair Love (need to re-order). I also thought of my readers, It’s was time for another product review.

I found Roots of Nature Remedies® for Natural Hair Butter Whip Coil Cream™. It was only $7.99 for a 6.1 oz jar. I figured it was pretty cheap not to contain drying alcohol, mineral oil, petrolatum or parabens. So I picked it up. Not to mention it also contains mango oil and cupuacu butter. I love everything mango, but the cupuacu was new to me.

Product description: With Mango Oil and Brazilian Cupuacu Butter (6.1 oz.) Found in the heart of the Amazon Rain Forest , moisturizing Cupuacu (coo-poo-wah-soo) Butter has for generations been the secret of Brazilians for beautiful hair. Combined with softening Mango Oil, our Butter Whip Coil Cream deeply nourishes and conditions to stretch and define each coil with just the right amount of hold for twists, braid-outs, and TWA’s (teeny weeny afros). Dull, shrunken coils are transformed into lasting, soft, elongated, shiny coils. Hair Types: Relaxed, Natural, Color Treated, and Over-Processed Hair

Ingredients: Aqua (Water) , Glycine Soja Oil (Soybean Oil) , Butyrospermum Parkii Butter (Shea Butter) , Cetearyl Alcohol , Glycerin , Polysorbate 20 , Cetyl Alcohol , Behentrimonium Methosulfate , BIS-Diglyceryl Polyacyladipate-2 , Butylene Glycol , Mangifera Indica Seed Oil , Mango Seed Oil , Theobroma Grandiflorum (Theobroma Grandiflorum Seed Butter) , Phenoxyethanol , Fragrance , Lecithin , Quaternium-33 , Hexyl Cinnamal , Sorbic Acid , VP , Dimethylaminoethylmethacrylate Copolymer , Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride , BHT , Geraniol , Limonene , Caramel , Methylisothiazolinone , Linalool , Benzyl Alcohol , 2-Oleamido-1 , 3-Octadecanediol

Here is the bottom line, it works pretty good on my 4A - 4B tress. I love the smell and the consistency is creamy. I used it on wet and dry twist outs and I liked the results on both styles. The twists were defined and my hair felt soft and moisturized. I will definitely continue to use this product and keep it as a go-to styler. It does not top my whipped shea butter or Hair Love, but when I want something that has a light texture and is inexpensive I will think of the Whip Coil Cream.

Have you tried this product? What are your thoughts or does something else work for you?

Blessings and Curls,

B-Curlie

Featured Curlie - Shereen South

2012-04-11T05:46:00.000-07:00

Name: Shereen South

Hometown: Jamaican (raised in Scarborough)

First year of curlieness: August 2011


Shereen with relaxed hair

Why I went curlie: Well to be honest I didn’t plan on going back to my natural state. About a year prior to embracing my natural hair, my permed hair was acting up. I was losing hair at a rate that was not normal, so I went under braids. After three months I took the braids out permed my hair again only to have the same issues happen...and this time worse! At that point I went back under the braids this time for a longer period. One August day I was looking at my braids and knew it was time for a redo ... but I was SICK of the braids...did I say SICK? MADD! Something lead me to call my sister girl who is natural and asked her who does her hair etc. She gave me her stylist contact information and I made the call. I was nervous about this new look that I haven't seen since I was 12 years old. I thought alot about what people would say how my workplace would react, but when I BC'd August 13^th, 2011, I fell in love with myself I believe for the first time ever - I couldn't believe how good I looked! I didn't care who didn't like it, but funny enough I was embraced by all. Even my Dad was all for me going natural. I can honestly say that I was unaware of how MANY naturals out there until after I chopped. I feel as though my going back to natural was a spiritual awakening for me!

Shereen rocking her braids

Regime and products: My hair regime and the products I use are simple. I learned very quickly that oils are one of the key products for healthy hair. Castor oil is an oil that I use in all that I do. I use it in my hot oil treatment which I mix with EVOO and Vatika coconut oil. I also use castor oil when I am sealing my hair. I wash my hair weekly and cowash once or twice a week. I use Kinky Curly Shampoo and Kinky Curly Not Today Leave-in Conditioner for my weekly washes. I use Hello Hydration from Herbal Essence to co-wash, I also use Giovanni Leave-in after I co-wash. I alternate weeks of either deep conditioning (a homemade mix of mayo egg and honey) or I will do a hot oil treatment. I always apply the LOC method after washing or co-washing, this method aids in retaining the moisture in my hair, as my hair is all type 4’s. I NEED as much moisture as I can get. I also use Henna once or twice a month for strengthening and conditioning and not to mention to cover up my greys. Every night I spritz my hair lightly with Rosewater & Glycerin and re-twist. At the end of the day I believe and follow the rule of do what works for your hair and LISTEN to your hair!

Shereen posing at the iHEARTmyHAIR photo shoot

The best part of being curlie for me is: Knowing that I am truly loving all that God gave me … NO LYE! One small change can impact your life going natural has also caused me to become more aware of what I am putting in my body. Natural hair truly ROCKS!

Blessings and Curls,

B-Curlie

iHEARTmyHAIR Photo Shoot

2012-03-30T10:47:00.000-07:00

I took part in a natural hair photo shoot last weekend with Añya Grant and a few more gorgeous ladies from the iHEARTmyHAIR crew.

I was honoured to be a part of the shoot and I had a lot of fun. Not only did I get a fun makeover, but I also had an opportunity to re-connect and also meet more Curlies and Naturals - which is always fun.

Me and Añya after the shoot. Photo: iHEARTmyHAIR

Añya, did my hair, Rita of Salon Beauty Mark did my makeup and Sean of Sean Anthony Photography took the photos. I have to say thanks to all of them for putting their time and energy into making everyone look beautiful.

Blessings and Curls,

B-Curlie