Good Hair Diaries

All Natural Hair Gel

2013-05-22T00:10:00.001+02:00

I get asked where to buy a great hair gel for natural hair almost everyday. My answer is I DON'T KNOW! I just don't know. I'm not a big hair gel user since I only use if I'm doing a wash-n-go, and I really don't do those too often.

Anyway, I decided to bring you guys a great homemade hair gel that is guaranteed to rock your world. Read below and thank me later!

• • • FLAXSEED GEL RECIPE • • •

INGREDIENTS :

• 1/4 cup flaxseeds (Found at your local health food store)

• 2 cups water

TOOLS :

• Medium Pot
• Wire Mesh Strainer
• Funnel
• Bowl
• Bottle or Jar To Store Gel In

DIRECTIONS :

1) Pour flaxseed and water into a medium size pot and heat on the stove.

2) Bring to a boil and then allow to boil for about 5 minutes; stir often.

3) Pay close attention during this time because you don't want it to overflow. Adjust heat as you see fit.

4) After 5 minutes turn heat down to low. Continue stirring until mixture thickens. It should be the consistency of egg whites.

5) Remove gell from the heat when it's reached desired consistency.

6) Strain the mixture to remove all the seeds.

7) Once gel has cooled slightly pour it into a bottle or jar of your choice. You will need a funnel for this part. Allow to finish cooling and then put it in the fridge.

** This must be kept in the fridge
*** Add essential oils or fragrance if you like

Will you be trying this flaxseed gel recipe? Let us know in the comment section below.

Have a Good Hair Day and remember to Love Your Hair!!!

It's Question Time! - Relaxers

2013-05-21T16:00:00.000+02:00

Hi GHD,

I was wondering if it's alright to apply oil to my hair before getting my hair relaxed at the salon.

- Anonymous

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Hi Anonymous!

Thank you for your question. Not only is it ok to apply oil to your hair before a relaxer, but it's actually something that I recommend to all of my clients! Gently apply a natural oil of your choice such as castor, coconut or olive oil to your scalp nightly. Do this starting from 7 days before your due to relax. Also, be sure to apply the oil to the already relaxed hair to prevent overprocessing. Keep it off the new growth though, you want this hair to get straight. Oil can prevent the relaxer from taking properly.

I hope this answers your quetions!

- GHD

Do you have a question for Good Hair Diaries? Send your question to goodhairdiaries@gmail.com with the subject "Question For GHD", and you may see your question and answer on Good Hair Diaries.

Have a Good Hair Day and remember to Love Your Hair!!!

Goapele's Natural Hair Interview With Essence Magazine

2013-05-21T15:30:00.000+02:00

By: Nicole Marie Melton

ESSENCE: How are you wearing your hair now?

GOAPELE: I'm going back natural now. Now I've tried dreads, I was flat ironing my hair and trying all different kinds of styles and it was fun doing up-does and pony tails and trying different kinds of styles that I couldn't do before and then I just felt like I was ready for a change again and that happens to me every now and then after I feel like I've done everything I can and now I'm ready for a change again. Also my hair was feeling like it wasn't as healthy when I flat ironed it all the time. I wanted it to be back to a state where it felt like it was thriving so I think that my hair's happiest natural and there's that hairstyle for everyone where you feel like my hair is agreeing with this, so I just cut it off recently again and I'm going back natural. I also wanted something funky that didn't feel too conservative, where I could still have my personality in it.

ESSENCE: What would you say is a part of your hair story or a turning point in your hair?

GOAPELE: My hair story has been unique because my mom's a German/ Jew so her hair is way different than my hair so she was learning on my hair growing up, but I would sit there for hours and she did learn how to braid hair. Early on it was a lot of tears while my mom was braiding my hair like I think most women can relate to when they were growing up. It was a lot of arguing and tears but I always love when I can look back at those pictures and my hair was tight. I can also look back at photos where my hair was wild because I was a mixed chick and mixed chicks can relate too if their hair was different than their moms. Some days it might have been looking a little out of control and that's one of those things I look back and think some days I think how did you have me looking like this and to her she was like I didn't even realize there was anything wrong with it. I just think you're beautiful and you were doing your thing. Until I started doing my hair or finding those consistent people who were doing my hair as a kid it was a little rocky. There are some parents who always have their daughter's hair whipped, mine wasn't always like that but I appreciate that both my parents were into me having natural hair so they did find Anota Scott, who I was going to for my cornrows and wrapping last year and a couple years before that. She used to do my hair when I was 10 years old in those wild, beautiful, traditional African styles and it was nice to come back full circle to her after I had had dreads and tried different things.

ESSENCE: In all your different hair phases, was there an emotional connection to your hair?

GOAPELE: I definitely feel an emotional connection to my hair just in terms of when I'm feeling good about my hair I'm feeling good about myself and when I feel better looking in the mirror it makes me feel more uplifted or more insecure. I feel like what that image has been has shifted in different ways and that's probably why I'm always changing because I start getting bored and I don't like feeling locked into anything or like people are connecting with an image that I have to uphold forever. I like to feel like people are growing with me, but for a long time I loved having locks. It's always liberating to feel like I'm changing my hair but people are supporting that. It feels good when people say that's beautiful because you feel appreciated and that's how I like to be in my music too. I like to feel like I'm really expressing myself and when people embrace it, it feels like an authentic connection.

ESSENCE: Do you have any memorable highlights from when you were wearing the braids?

GOAPELE: When I have my hair natural I feel like I'm reflecting other women who have natural hair out there but I'm happy when I see women even with straight hair who are like you're inspiring me to be bold and cut my hair off and try something totally new, or when I've worn my hair straight, other women with natural hair I felt like I couldn't go there because it almost turns into a political stance. When we're wearing our hair natural it feels like we're championing in a certain way that we can't let down our guard so I was showing that you can just do anything you want to do when you feel like doing it. So relating to different women and seeing myself reflected and being inspired by other people's hair dos is what I take from it.

ESSENCE: Was there ever a connection between your hair and your music?

GOAPELE: When I first stopped braiding my hair a little over a year ago and was wearing it straight, it was to do a "Tears on My Pillow" video. It was a song that had an old school feel and I wanted a retro look in the video so I couldn't picture any braided style that would look like that and that was my original motivation. I thought, I'm just going to have to go with it for this video. Preceding that, I was in Sparkle and they had all us wear these crazy wings with these beehive up dos and so I looked in the mirror shocked and I said 'why not, I could go for that too.' So I think that's what originally inspired me to go for it and was just going to be temporary and then I ended up rocking the style for longer than I expected to.

ESSENCE: How many years did you wear the locs and the cornrows?

GOAPELE: I wore locs for 9 or 10 years and cornrows for a couple of years.

ESSENCE: What would you say your hair mantra would be today?

GOAPELE: My hair mantra is do you and liberation. Liberation is always my hair mantra because it's always scary to try something new and then I always feel free when I do.

Share your response in the comment section below.

Have a Good Hair Day and remember to Love Your Hair!!!

Seven Deadly Hair Sins

2013-05-17T06:00:00.000+02:00

By : Candice Wyatt-Minter, Wyatt Hairdressing via MarieClaire

When it comes to having healthy, strong, shiny locks, it’s all about how you care for your tresses. Avoid the following mistakes and you’ll see the difference in no time!

No. 1 Brushing your hair when it is wet.
One should always use an anti-static wide-tooth comb when wet and only use your brush when your hair is dry. This will prevent split ends and breakage.

No.2 Skipping on an after-colour treatment.
The benefits of a treatment after your hair colour always the outweigh the cost and time. Your colour will last much longer and your condition will allow for further colouring.

No.3 Cutting your fringe too short.
Never allow your stylist to cut your fringe shorter than it’s optimal length so that it can grow into style, rather ask your stylist if you can pop in for fringe trims! You don’t want to be looking like a dork for two weeks whilst it grows out.

No.4 Replacing your extensions without a having a break.
Always give your hair at least three months break per year from braids or hair extensions. Your hair needs time to recover from the traction and pulling. Hair-growth shampoos and treatments should be used continuously to counteract any traction alopecia.

No. 5 Exercising with your hair in a ponytail.
Whilst burning off those macarons at the gym, make sure you wear your hair in a tight bun. This will prevent your hair from swishing around and causing irreparable damage.

No.6 Making use of heat tools without heat protector.
Too many people make the mistake of using their heat-styling tools without the protection of a heat shield. Thermal tools can heat up to 230 degrees! If you are blowdrying, tonging or ironing your hair, always use a heat protector. Heat damage needs to be sniped off, no amount of treatments can mend.

No.7 Skipping trims when growing your hair.
Not having your regular eight-week trim when growing your hair won’t make your hair grow faster. If you don’t trust your stylist to only take off a little, find one who will because if you default on your regular trims you will grow out unhealthy looking hair with split ends and eventually have to have a giant cut to sort it out.

Tells us about your big hair no-no's in the comment section below.

Have a Good Hair Day and remember to Love Your Hair!!!

Straight To The Point - What is Porosity?

2013-05-16T06:00:00.000+02:00

Laymans terms? Porosity refers to how well your hair absorbs water or any other form of moisture or molecule.

Low Porosity Hair - The cuticle of your hair is much tighter and you may have difficulty getting your hair wet.

Normal Porosity Hair - The cuticle of the hair slightly lifted just enough to allow normal amounts of moisture in and out.

High Porosity Hair - The cuticle of the hair is very raised and has difficulty staying moisturized.

Porosity Test

Grab a strand and drop it into a glass of water.
If the strand immediately sinks to the bottom, then your hair is of high porosity.
If it floats somewhere in the middle with ease, then it’s of normal porosity.
If it seems to stay at the top, taking forever to sink downward, then your strands are of low porosity.

Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse

1/4 C. apple cider vinegar

2 C. water

After shampooing and conditioning your hair, use this mixture as a final rinse, then rinse your hair thoroughly with cool water. This acidity of the apple cider vinegar helps to improve hair porosity by contracting the cuticle scales. It will make your hair shinier and softer, eliminate tangles, increase manageability, and improve hair health overall.

**Note - If you use the rinse and your hair gets really tangled, you've used too much apple cider vinegar in the rinse. Simply decrease the amount you use, next time you clarify your hair. You only need to do a rinse about once every couple of months, unless you're a complete hair product junkie.

Do you know if your hair is porous or not? let us know in the comment section below.

Have a Good Hair Day and remember to Love Your Hair!!!

Transitioning - The Big Chop

2013-05-15T08:00:00.000+02:00

So you've been thinking about it for a while and you've decided that now is the time for you to take the big plunge into the queendom of natural hair. It's a big step but with these simple tips, you can move forward with confidence a little bit of knowledge regarding what's to come.

1. Scab Hair

This is the first six to eight months after you have chopped off your hair. The hair follicle and scalp are still adjusting and healing from a previous relaxed lifestyle. The texture of your hair during this time isn't the actual texture of your natural hair. My advice is to get regular trims and sport a awesome new haircut. This is a very new experience and it's important to keep expectations realistic.

2. Train Your Kinks, Curls & Waves

As your hair begins to grow, you may notice a curl or wave pattern forming. Chances are that it may not be a completely uniform pattern. Learning how to finger coil, using a Denman brush and twisting the hair are all techniques that can be used to train the hair to form a specific pattern. In time your hair will do this automatically. Patience is definitely key.

3. Keep It Moist

A dry curl is an unhappy curl. Combating dryness can be a daily battle for some naturals, but a great way of combating it is with co-washing (conditioner washing). You will decide whether it's necessary to co-wash daily or less frequently, but it will save your hair and give you peace of mind. Co-washing adds great moisture to the hair and allows an appropriate place to detangle with a wide tooth comb or Denman brush.

Do you have some questions for Good Hair Diaries regarding "The Big Chop"? Leave your question or comment in the section below and your question may be featured on the blog. Sound off below!

Have Good Hair Day and remember to Love Your Hair!!!

Kavuli's Simple Braid Regimen

2013-05-14T16:45:00.000+02:00

Here is another handy flashcard detailing how I care for my hair in braids.

How do you care for your hair while wearing braids? Let us know in the comment section below.

Have a Good Hair Day and remember to Love Your Hair!!!

Kavuli's Tips For Washing Natural Hair

2013-05-13T00:00:00.000+02:00

If you have a head full of natural hair like myself, wash day can be a bit intimidating if your new to the healthy natural hair scene. A bit of water touches your hair and you're instantly introduced to shrinkage, tangles and knots. Know how to wash your natural hair is priceless. I'm going to give you my top tips for getting through wash day with natural hair.

1. Prepoo With Oil

If you need to familiarize yourself with the details of prepooing click here. I try to do a prepoo before every single shampoo, especially my clarifying shampoos since the entire process of washing can be very rough on the hair. Applying a natural oil to the hair from root to tip about 30 minutes before a shampoo can be nourishing and give a protective shield to the hair. I recently found out that coconut oil applied to the hair at least 20 minutes before shampooing can reduce stress known as hygral fatigue on the hair. So prepoo with coconut oil before hand to give your hair a fighting chance.

2. Lather Once With A Sulphate Free Shampoo

Shampoo is for cleaning the scalp, and the run off of water and suds work to clean the length of hair. If you get the scalp and hair sufficiently wet, you should be able to get shampoo right to the scalp and work a good lather. Rinse well with lukewarm water and your hair should be clean. If you feel like you need another wash, opt for a conditioner wash (co-wash) instead.

3. Section And Wash

If you have 6 inches or more of natural hair length, washing the whole head of hair loose may not be the best way to do things. Try sectioning your hair into 4 or 6 sections that twisted or braided. Remove one braid or twist at a time and wash that particular section only. Re-twist or braid the section when the section is washed. This process takes a lot longer, but fewer tangles, knots and breakage is totally worth it.

4. Dry Hair With A Microfiber Towel or T-shirt

Traditional cotton towels can really tangle and break hair due to the structure. Try a microfiber towel or plain t-shirt to dry the hair instead. Be sure to squeeze and blot the water out of the hair and avoid rubbing.

Just remember that a little bit of breakage while washing or doing anything to the hair is inevitable, but be sure to keep an eye out for excessive breakage. Give yourself a good protein treatment, balance your hair out with moisture and assess your diet in this case. When all else fails...consult a physician. Doctors (sometimes) know best!

How do you wash your natural hair? Let us know in the comment section below.

Have a Good Hair Day and remember to Love Your Hair!!!

Michelle Obama's New Hairstyle Debuts For Prince Harry's Visit

2013-05-11T16:52:00.000+02:00

Ok, Michelle Obama's fringe made their first appearance earlier this year, but these bangs seem to be fuller, grazing her eyes and giving me life!

Earlier this year (old fringe)

And now ( new fringe)

The shine, layers and feathering is giving me life!

Who's the ginger standing behind her? Just kidding *wink*

Are you loving the way Michelle Obama's hair is growing out? Let us know in the comment section below.

Have a Good Hair Day and remember to Love Your Hair!!!

A Little Bit of Yogurt Could Save The Day!

2013-05-08T00:00:00.001+02:00

I love yogurt, especially Greek Double Cream Yogurt! The live cultures keep your gut in order with digestive bacteria and all that good stuff. But did you know that yogurt could be amazing for your hair?

Why Yogurt is Good for Your Hair?

It softens dry and brittle hair
Full of proteins to strengthen hair
Enzymes fight against dandruff and itchy scalp
Gives hair an amazing shine!

Tips For Using Yogurt On Your Hair

Have an itchy scalp? Apply the yogurt straight to your scalp for relief. Rinse and wash as usual.
Dry and thirsty ends your issue? Apply the yogurt directly the the ends and wrap with cling wrap for 30 minutes. Rinse and wash and usual.
Add a bit of cocoa powder and honey to your yogurt for a wonderful hair darkening mask. Gives you rich brown hues and shiny hair! Add lemon juice to the mixture for blonde highlights!

Yogurt, Honey & Cocoa Powder Hair Darkening Mask

1 cup of plain yogurt (Greek yogurt is my favorite!)
2 tbsp cocoa powder
2 tbsp honey

Directions

Mix all the ingredients together in a glass bowl
Apply the mixture all over the hair
Let the mixture sit on the hair for 30 minutes to and hour
Rinse, shampoo and condition if you choose

Yogurt, Honey, Lemon Juice & Cocoa Highlighting Mask

1 cup of plain yogurt
2 tbsp cocoa powder
2 tbsp honey
2 tbsp lemon juice

Directions

Mix all the ingredients together in a glass bowl
Apply the mixture all over the hair
Let the mixture sit on the hair for 30 minutes to and hour
Rinse, shampoo and condition as usual

Will you be adding yogurt into your hair regimen? Let us know in the comment section below.

Have a Good Hair Day and remember to Love Your Hair!!!

Breakthrough hair loss product works on stem cells

2013-05-07T00:00:00.000+02:00

By Andrew Hough via Telegraph

Scientists at cosmetic company L’Oreal claim to have invented the first product which can acually "reawaken" dormant hair cells and allow them to grow back.

It could offer hope to millions affected by male pattern baldness or just the thinning of hair through old age or for medical reasons.

Already demand for the new treatment has seen salons taking thousands of pre-orders even though the recomended three month treatement costs nearly £300.

After 90 days researchers claim that the liquid "Kérastase Densifique", when applied to the roots, can promote the growth of more than 1500 new hairs.

Patricia Pineau, the head of scientific affairs at L’Oréal, added: “We’ve known for 100 years that hair grows and falls out.

“We haven’t known what makes hair regenerate until now. It is all about hair stem cell environment. We have been able to develop a cosmetic product that respects the natural way hair regenerates.”

Scientists said the product, called Densifique, regenerated roots by targeting areas of the scalp prone to hair loss rather than actual fibres.

Experts say there are a variety of factors which can cause hair loss ranging from stress levels and a person’s diet, through to hormones and pregnancy.

Award winning hairdresser Luke Hersheson said: “Many women are really worried about the loss of their hair, the loss of volume, and the fact that they don’t have as luscious locks as they did when they were in their early twenties.

“Stress, diet, hormones and pregnancy are all factors that can affect the health of the hair and scalp.

“This new treatment is set to help alleviate this problem. It has an instant densifying action on the hair fiber, boosting the number of hairs on our head and the quality of these new hairs directly at scalp level. It’s set to be the holy grail for a lot of women – and men.”

The average human has on average between 100,000 and 150,000 individual hairs and the manufactures claim the new product “assists” natural growth rather than “disrupt” it.

Scientists, based in laboratories of L’Oréall in Paris, developed a molecule using a formula called Stemoxydine, which after testing was found to have increased hair density by up to four per cent.

Cass Coulston, Kérastase general manager, last night described it as an astonishing “technological breakthrough”, which led to improved hair density.

She added: “Hair thinning is not just associated with ageing, it can happen as a result of a poor diet, hormones, stress, post pregnancy and over processing hair.”

Kérastase Densifique will be available in salons within the next fortnight.

Book A Email Consultation With Good Hair Diaries

2013-05-06T02:00:00.000+02:00

Have you decided to start a healthy hair journey, but your not quite sure where to begin? Are you struggling with the current state of your hair or your child's hair? Perhaps you are suffering from a massive amount of breakage or thinning edges. Whatever your dilemma is, I am here to help.

HOW DOES A EMAIL HAIR CONSULTATION WORK?

For R200 you can send Good Hair Diaries all of your hair questions and receive a quickly and thorough response. The following subjects will be tackled along with your specific hair concerns:

Building a Hair Regimen

Specific hair Issues (Breakage, Dry Scalp, Thinning Hairlines, etc.)

Protective Styling

Length Retention

S.M.A.R.T. Hair Goals

Banking Details:

First National Bank (FNB)

Account #: 62335373312

Branch Code: 250655

Reference: Your Name

Receive product recommendations for your particular hair type along with tried a tested methods for caring for your hair. Reach your personal hair goals and empower yourself with knowledge.

All hair types are welcome to a consultation

(Kinky, Curly, Wavy, Weaved, Braided, Loc'd etc.)

Have a Good Hair Day and remember to Love Your Hair!!!

Kavuli's Top 5 Winter Hair Care Tips

2013-05-03T00:00:00.000+02:00

1. Rethink Protective Styling

Your best bet is to keep your hair completely covered if possible during the winter. If you can't do the entire head, just focus on the ends of your hair which are the oldest and most fragile part of your hair. Wear buns, phony ponytails, braids and waves to protect those ends. be sure to take care of your hair while wearing these styles.

2. Use Heat Even Less

So you have the heater on in the house, and that sucks the moisture out of your hair and skin. Don't make matters worse by running the flat iron, blow drying and curling iron through your hair as well. Start practicing braid-outs, twist-outs and twist and curls that are completely heatless styles.

3. Wet Your Hair Less Often

It's no fun leaving the house on a frosty morning with wet or damp hair. If you live in a freezing climate, your hair may actually freeze and break if you step outside with wet hair. Even if a wash n' go was your go-to style in the spring and summer, winter requires less shampooing and daily wetting. You should still shampoo and condition about once a week, but since you aren't swimming often, you don't need to wet and/or conditioner wash as much.

4. Say No To Humectants

Humectants such as glycerin and honey are amazingly moisturizing for the hair during the warm monhs. They draw moisture from the atmosphere and keep your tresses happy. Unfortunately, during the winter humectants do the complete opposite for your hair. Since there isn't much moisture in the atmosphere, it draws the moisture from your hair drying your situation out. No one likes a dry situation. Keep it moist, boo.

5. Don't Use Coconut Oil As A Sealant

No, I'm not going crazy! I love coconut oil, and I recommend adding it to your deep conditioners and using it in your hot oil treatments. Just don't use coconut oil as a sealant after moisturizing. Coconut oil is liguid when ward and solid when you cold, it will still change it's structure while in your hair. It's not a good look or feeling. You may trying mixing one part coconut oil with 2 to 3 parts of another oil and see if it makes a difference. Thank me later :)

Have you got a few trusty winter hair tips to share? let us know in the comment section below.

Have a Good Hair Day and remember to Love Your Hair!!!

Is Your Hair Fried, Dyed And Laid To The Side?

2013-05-02T00:00:00.000+02:00

Fried, dyed and laid to the side = Over-processed hair

Over-processed hair can happen in the blink of an eye. A few days, weeks or months of consistent flat ironing. Maybe you colored your hair once or several times within a few months, or you get your relaxer touch-up incorrectly and too often. Whatever your culprit of choice, your hair is left dry, limp and screaming for some love.

What are the clear signs that your hair is over-processed?

Hair is brittle and breaks off very easily.
Hair lacks that natural shine and luster it once had.
Your hair is nearly impossible to style. It doesn't hold a curl for the life of you!
When your hair is wet, it stretches and stretches until it snaps off

Have one or more of these issues? Well, there may be a way to breathe life back into your hair with my trusty friend coconut oil. Coconut oil can restore shine, protect from protein loss which strengthens the hair. Here's how you use the coconut oil

Step 1 - Boil some water and put your container of coconut oil in the heated water. This will make it liquid and heat it up of course.

Step 2 - Apply the warm coconut oil to your hair in sections from root to tip. Hair does not need to be dripping with oil, a good coating is all you need.

Step 3 - Leave the oil on your hair for 30 minutes to an hour and be sure to massage the scalp. Feels freaking awesome!

Step 4 - Rinse, shampoo and deep condition as usual

This coconut oil treatment should be repeated once to twice a week for at least 1 month for the best results. I promise that your hair will thank you by looking and feeling amazing. Now don't go off and ruin it with more over-processing.

Do you suspect you may have over-processed hair? What is your plan to deal with it. let us know in the comment section below.

Have a Good Hair Day and remember to Love Your Hair!!!

Kavuli's Top 5 Tips For Keeping Your Weave Beautiful

2013-05-01T00:00:00.000+02:00

Anyone who follows this site knows that I have no issue wearing a sew-in weave. As a matter of fact, I am wearing one now as a protective style. There is honestly nothing worse than a weave that doesn't move, has a ton of new growth and visible tracks. I will stop you in the streets to tell you about the atrocity on top of your head. Have several seats!

I thought it was essential for me to share of my tips to keeping your weave looking fly. The first tip goes without saying but I'll say it anyway...Get Your Weave Done By A Professional! A properly installed weave is everything! You'll be able to put your hair in a ponytail, not be scared when the wind blows possible exposing your tracks and it will look realistic. What a concept?!

1. Wash your sew-in weave

Both your hair and your weave need to be cleaned with a mild (sulfate free) shampoo every 7 to 14 days. No excuses! Wet the hair with lukewarm water and smooth shampoo in the direction of the cuticle. Don't scrub the hair unless you like matting and knots. Rinse the hair well and proceed with the next steps.

2. Condition your situation

Our natural hair has natural oils that travel down the hair shaft (sometimes), but the weave doesn't have that luxury, so you need to put that moisture back in with a conditioner. Apply the conditioner in a downward motion, detangle with a wide tooth comb and rinse thoroughly. All ow your hair to air dry.

3. Serums are your weaves friend

Using a small amount of anti-frizz serum on the ends of your weave will keep it from tangling as the wind blows. It's a small step but it can make all the difference in the end. Try it!

4. Tea tree oil to keep the fungus away

I usually do a roller set under a hooded dryer on my wet hair, which dries my weave and my braids underneath at the same time. If there is a slight chance that I can't do that for some reason, I always put a few drops of tea tree oil on my tracks and braids underneath to keep bacteria from growing if my hair doesn't dry fast enough. A funky weave is not what's hot in the streets. Get your life together.

5. Night time routine

Always set your weave for bed. You may decide to braid it , twist it, pin curl it or use rollers. Whatever you decide make sure you set your hair and don't leave it loose. A satin or silk bonnet is your friend to top your situation off. When you awake your hair will be neat and looking amazing!

How do you take care of your sew-in hair weave? Let us know in the comment section below!

Have a Good Hair Day and remember to Love Your Hair!!!

4 THINGS TO DO WHEN YOUR LOCS “BREAK”

2013-04-30T00:00:00.000+02:00

By: SHERRELL DORSEY via Coco and Creme

Anyone who has grown locs for a significant amount of time can identify with the traumatic experience of loc breakage. When locs become dry and brittle (sometimes the side effect of color treatments or lack of moisture) or long and heavy, they have the tendency to “snap” or thin out and eventually break off.

Sometimes it’s simply a fact of life for people with locs. No matter how fierce and diligent your hair care routine you may encounter this problem.

In the event that your locs break, here’s a four-step back up plan to minimize the damage and repair your ego:

Discovery – Research your hair care routine and habits to get to the root of why your locs are breaking and/or snapping. Are you pulling your hair too tight when you style? Are you over-performing regular maintenance like palm-rolling or washing too often? Have you neglected adding daily moisture to your hair for regular hydration? By identifying the cause, you can work hard to prevent future breakage.
Re-attach – Take your fallen lock to your nearest loctician who can help you re-attach your loc and give you back your length. Use this time in the salon chair to learn how you can prevent future breakage. Sometimes you simply need a trim (recommended at least once per year) to reduce weight and pulling of your locs.
Prevention – Do you have any locs that are stretching, thinning in the center, or simply look as if they are surviving on just a few strands? Bingo! Prevent these babies from falling to their doom by having your stylist “repair” your loc in the trouble areas. You can also repair your locs at home by taking a small section of added hair (the kinky, curly human hair from the beauty supply store works best) and wrapping your loc with the added hair around any thin areas.
Protection – Even locs need a little bit of protection from environmental elements and constant manipulation. Think about protective styles like up dos, braids, twists, and buns that you can wear for at least a week, which will give your locs a break.

What are your tips for managing loc breakage? Let us know in the comment section below.

Have a Good Hair Day and remember to Love Your Hair!!!

Good Beauty Diaries Cinnamon Lip Scrub

2013-04-29T08:00:00.000+02:00

Dry and cracking lips are never on trend as far as I'm concerned. Once in a while it's important to give your lips a nice scrub to reveal soft skin. Why not whip up your own lip scrub that tastes and feels good?

Good Beauty Diaries Cinnamon Lip Scrub

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon fine-grain brown sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons of coconut oil
Dash of cinnamon (optional)

Beauty Review - Ponds Flawless Radiance BB Cream (Chocolate)

2013-04-26T08:00:00.000+02:00

THIS IS A SPONSORED PRODUCT REVIEW What does this mean? A cosmetics company has sent or given Good Hair Diaries products to do a HONEST review on. I have not been paid to write this review!

Product

Ponds Flawless Radiance BB Cream (Chocolate)

Product Ingredients

*Ingredients are not listed on website as of yet *

Product Description

A light, non-oily, multi-benefit cream. Experience instant, natural coverage that is specifically designed to match your African skin tone, whilst our GenActivTM COVER formula evens skin tone and reduces dark marks from within.

Key Benefits:

Instant natural coverage
Non-pore clogging
Light, non-oily texture
Reduces dark marks
Evens skin tone
Protects from UVA and UVB rays (SPF30++)

Product Directions

Use every morning. Smooth cream over entire face and gently spread it in until the colour blends well with your natural skin tone. Retouch as needed throughout the day. For best results use as part of the PONDS FLAWLESS RADIANCE skincare regime.

My Review

Creating Your Perfect Eyebrow

2013-04-25T08:00:00.000+02:00

They say that if you don't have time to put make-up on in the morning, the least you can do is make sure that your eyebrows are well manicured and framing your face. It's unacceptable to shave your brows off and draw them back in. Let me help you create the perfect brow with a few easy steps.

Tools:

* Tweezers - Make sure the tip is sharp and slanted so that you can get as close as possible to the root of the hair. Nobody wants to see stubble on the brow.

* Scissors - Get those extra long hairs out of the way with a pointy brow shaping scissor.

* Pencil - Get yourself a brow pencil that matches the color of your brows. If the hairs aren't black, toss the black pencil.

* Brush - Clean that mascara brush from that really old mascara you been holding on to. This is your new eyebrow brush. Thank me later ;)

Read More at Good Beauty Diaries - Click Here

Get Your Hair Through The Winter Season

2013-04-25T00:00:00.000+02:00

It's officially autumn in South Africa, and it's time to get ready for winter. Just as you would start rearranging your wardrobe to make room for winter clothing, it's also time to rearrange your hair regimen. The cold whipping winds can wreak serious havoc on those precious hair strands of yours, causing brittle and dry hair that breaks. I'm going to give you a few methods and treatments to add to your hair regimens so that your hair stays on the top of your head.

The Greenhouse Effect Method

The Greenhouse Effect Method is a growth and moisturizing technique that involves using a plastic cap on the hair after the scalp has been oiled and massaged and the hair has been oiled.

Oil the scalp with a growth serum or natural oil such as castor oil
Massage the scalp for a few minutes to increase blood flow
Apply serum or oil to the length of the hair paying special attention to the ends of the hair
Cover the hair with a plastic cap
Cover the plastic cap with a scarf or wool hat
Remove after a few hours

The Greenhouse Effect Method can increase moisture retention, length retention and in some cases increase growth.

Hot Oil Treatments

What You Will Need:

Oil blend
Hot Water
Towel
Plastic Shower Cap or Plastic Cling Wrap or Plastic Bag

How To Apply Your Hot Oil Treatment

Put your oil in a heat safe plastic bottle or glass container
Place the container in a pot of very hot water for a minute or two
Apply oil to scalp, roots and length of hair
Massage oil into your scalp for about five minutes
Cover hair with a plastic cap
Dip towel in hot water to make it hot. Ring out the excess water and wrap towel around your head.
Allow the oil to sit on your hair for at least 30 minutes and up to overnight

Warming the oil and towel will allow the hair follicle to open up so that the oils can soak in all the goodness. It's ok if your towel doesn't stay warm for very long, the oils will soak in...trust me! Rinse the oil out of your hair in the shower and follow-up with a shampoo or conditioner. The end result should be soft and shiny hair. Not to mention whatever specific benefit the oil you chose has.

Coconut Oil: It stimulates hair growth, softens the hair and conditions the scalp. It also can also help eliminate dandruff!

Olive Oil: Olive oil is high in the antioxidants Vitamins A and E providing anti-aging properties and it has disinfectant properties, is moisturizing, soothing and healing.

Castor Oil: Adds strength to your hair, so those of you with thin hair that breaks easily, think about using castor oil in your hot oil hair pack.

Almond Oil: It helps condition, nourish, and soften hair while stimulating hair growth!

Jojoba Oil: It leaves your hair soft and light, without weighing it down.

May I Mix Several Oils Together?

Absolutely! Mix until you find your perfect oil blend. If you suffer from a dry and flaky scalp, you may want to mix coconut and castor oil together in a jar and put it away for those hectic flaky weeks. Do you want to thicken your hair and possibly boost hair growth? Mix almond and castor oil together and go wild.

NOTES

You hair does not need to be drenched in oil, so don't worry about going broke behind this.
You can do these treatments weekly if you want and have time.
Keep track of how certain oils make your hair look and feel, so that you can find a perfect oil blend.

The L.O.C Method

L – Liquid
O – Oil
C – Crème

Good old moisturizing and sealing is just not cutting it for a good number of kinky, curly and wavy people out there. The L.O.C. Method is a fairly new way of locking moisture into the hair for a longer period of time. You basically apply a liquid to the hair first and seal it in with a natural oil of your choice. The new step is sealing the oil in with a water based moisturizing crème to keep the hair soft and moist for longer period of time.

What liquid should I use?

The best moisturizing liquid to use on the hair is water. Nothing beats good old H2O! Using plain old water means that you can start The L.O.C. Method straight after washing and conditioning your hair. If you’re not someone who washes or co-washes their hair several times a week, you may decide to use a braid spray or a water based liquid leave in conditioner as your liquid option.

What oil is best to seal the liquid in?

You can go right ahead and use the same oils you’ve been using to seal in your moisture in the past. My favorites are still coconut oil, castor oil and extra virgin olive oil. Whatever you use, be sure it’s a natural oil that is able to penetrate the hair shaft in order to nourish the hair.

What sort of crème based moisturizer should be used?

I’m a big fan of water based crème moisturizers. I use quite a few in my regimen. Here are a list of my favorites.

JO’M Moisturiser Cream (Available in SA at CLICKS)
JO’M Dreadlocks Oil Cream (Available in SA at CLICKS)
Organics by Africa’s Best Carrot Oil Cream (Available in SA at DisChem)
PROFECTIVE Mega Growth Anti-Breakage Strengthener Crème (Available in SA at DisChem)
ORS HAIRepair Anti-Breakage Crème (Available in SA at CLICKS)
ORS HAIRepair Intense Moisture Crème (Available in SA at CLICKS)
ORS Hair Fertilizer (Available in SA at CLICKS)

Adding one or all of these tips to your winter hair regimen can make all of the difference this season.

Are you changing your hair regimen for winter? If so, let us know in the comment section below

Have a Good Hair Day & remember to Love Your Hair!!!

Product Review - Mizani True Textures

2013-04-24T00:00:00.001+02:00

THIS IS A SPONSORED PRODUCT REVIEW What does this mean? A cosmetics company has sent Good Hair Diaries products to do a HONEST review on. I have not been paid to write this review!

Product

True Textures Cleansing Cream Conditioning Curl Wash

Product Ingredients

AQUA / WATER, CETEARYL ALCOHOL, HYDROXYPROPYL STARCH PHOSPHATE, BEHENTRIMONIUM CHLORIDE, SODIUM COCOAMPHOPROPIONATE, AMODIMETHICONE, PROPYLENE GLYCOL, PARFUM / FRAGRANCE, METHYLPARABEN, SIMMONDSIA CHINENSIS OIL / JOJOBA SEED OIL, PRUNUS ARMENIACA KERNEL OIL / APRICOT KERNEL OIL, TOCOPHERYL ACETATE, INULIN, TRIDECETH-6, CHLORHEXIDINE DIHYDROCHLORIDE, CETRIMONIUM CHLORIDE
2-OLEAMIDO-1,3-OCTADECANEDIOL

Product Description 8.5 fl oz

Designed for frequent use, this creamy, low-lather sulfate-free cleanser gently refreshes hair and scalp with a mild foaming action while adding extra conditioning to soften and revitalize curls in between shampoos and deep conditioning treatments. This one-step product combines mild cleansing, detangling and moisture in one.

Product Directions

Use it to revitalize curls, banishing “bed head” between shampoos, or as a natural curl co-wash.
Remove styling product residue without stripping natural oils or fading hair color.
Designed for frequent use, it rinses clean, leaving hair manageable soft and ready to style.

My Review

Delight

This product is a little piece of heaven on my hair. I used it right after removing my braids that I had in my hair for 8 weeks, and I swear my hair quietly said thank you. It left my hair clean but not stripped. This is definitely a perfect product for people who like to co-wash their hair, but don't like the eventual product build-up that you will need to clarify. The scent is light and not memorable at all. Like really, I can't remember what it smells like and I'm not getting up to sniff it. I love this product and I would definitely purchase it for myself.

This product is perfect for natural and chemically treated hair.

Disappointment

The bottle is way to small for me. My hair and budget laughs at any 8.5 fl oz bottle of shampoo or conditioner. I use a decent amount of both every month, and I would be replacing this product every 4 to 6 weeks. That wouldnt work for me. I also don't like that I can only purchase it at select salons.

Rating - 4.5 out of 5 combs - The product is excellent, but the packaging doesn't work for me.

1/2

Product

True Texture Curl Replenish

Product Ingredients

AQUA / WATER, CETEARYL ALCOHOL, AMODIMETHICONE, BEHENTRIMONIUM CHLORIDE, CETYL ESTERS, PARFUM / FRAGRANCE, TRIDECETH-6, METHYLPARABEN, SORBIC ACID, SODIUM SALICYLATE, SIMMONDSIA CHINENSIS OIL / JOJOBA SEED OIL, PRUNUS ARMENIACA KERNEL OIL / APRICOT KERNEL OIL, TOCOPHERYL ACETATE, CETRIMONIUM CHLORIDE, CI 47005 / YELLOW 10, 2-OLEAMIDO-1,3-OCTADECANEDIOL, INULIN, COUMARIN, CI 14700 / RED 4

Product Description 8 Oz

This ultra-rich, deep penetrating treatment quickly absorbs into strands to revitalize and infuse hair with intense moisture. Perfect for dry, brittle hair, this formula includes essential nutrients to enhance shine, and definition for improved manageability and curl elasticity. Use as an express conditioner or as a weekly intense conditioning treatment.

Product Directions

Used weekly as an intense treatment or more frequently as a quick after-shampoo conditioner, it provides lasting softness without weighing hair down.
Infuses curls with intense moisture at every layer for enhanced elasticity and renewed bounce.
Gently de-tangles for touchable softness and a silky feel.

My Review

Delight

This conditioner is nourishing! It literally left my curls shiny and soft without weighing it down. When you leave this product sitting, you can see the oil rise to the top, and this really worried me at first but it was all worth it. Lovely stuff! A little goes a long way and I use it with heat in order to help it stretch and penetrate. I love this conditioner. Period.

Disappointment

Nothing! I can deal with the size of the jar. I've made peace with this!

Rating - 5 out of 5 combs

Product

True Textures Moisture Stretch

Product Ingredients

AQUA / WATER, PARAFFINUM LIQUIDUM / MINERAL OIL, CETEARYL ALCOHOL, PETROLATUM, BEHENTRIMONIUM CHLORIDE, GLYCERIN, CETYL ESTERS, AMODIMETHICONE, PARFUM / FRAGRANCE, METHYLPARABEN, VP/DIMETHYLAMINOETHYLMETHACRYLATE COPOLYMER, SIMMONDSIA CHINENSIS, OIL / JOJOBA SEED OIL, PRUNUS ARMENIACA KERNEL OIL / APRICOT KERNEL OIL, TOCOPHERYL ACETATE, INULIN, TRIDECETH-6, CETRIMONIUM CHLORIDE, METHYLISOTHIAZOLINONE, COUMARIN, 2-OLEAMIDO-1,3-OCTADECANEDIOL

Product Description 12 Oz

Designed for coiled to extremely tight styles, this moisturizing, curl-smoothing cream helps to loosen and elongate tight, unruly coils without weight or residue. Defines highly textured strands by reducing frizz and shrinkage and revealing flexible, individualized spirals with a clean, touchable finish. Perfect for curl set and finger twist techniques.

Product Directions

Specialized conditioners define individual curls, reducing frizz and bulk while helping prevent dryness.
Helps eliminate shrinkage and frizz halo.
Fully defines highly textured strands to reveal separation and individualized curls.

My Review

Delight

On it's own, this product didn't do much for my hair in terms of moisturizing or preventing shrinkage. It's very light. I decided to mix the product with the curl defining gel that I will review next to get really great results. This product did make my hair really soft, so I applied it every morning while spritzing my hair with water, and I have to save that my curls popped back to life. I was impressed with that aspect. I will use this product for a twist-out or braid-out in the future to see if I received better results.

Disappointment

I can't really say that I am disappointed with the product. I'm totally indifferent to be honest.

Rating - 3.5 out of 5 combs

1/2

Product

True Textures Perfect Curl

Product Ingredients

AQUA / WATER, DIMETHICONE, GLYCERIN, SORBITOL, PARAFFINUM LIQUIDUM /, MINERAL OIL, PROPYLENE GLYCOL, PEG/PPG-4/12 DIMETHICONE, GUAR HYDROXYPROPYLTRIMONIUM CHLORIDE, PHENOXYETHANOL, PARFUM / FRAGRANCE, POLYQUATERNIUM-3, PVP, METHYLPARABEN, VP/DIMETHYLAMINOETHYLMETHACRYLATE COPOLYMER, DISODIUM EDTA, SIMMONDSIA CHINENSIS OIL / JOJOBA SEED OIL, PRUNUS ARMENIACA KERNEL OIL /, APRICOT KERNEL OIL, TOCOPHERYL ACETATE, ETHYLPARABEN, INULIN, PPG-1 TRIDECETH-6, COUMARIN, 2-OLEAMIDO-1,3-OCTADECANEDIOL, TRIETHANOLAMINE, PHOSPHORIC ACID

Product Description 5 Oz

Designed for loose curls and waves, this lightweight crème-gel re-energizes natural spirals without build-up. Frizz-taming formula boosts natural “lift” to give lasting curl support, memory and control with a satiny finish. Combining the moisture of a styling cream and control of a gel, this pro-duct enhances manageability and separation to refresh curls.

Product Directions

Use it to add manageability, elasticity and shine any time, and make limp, droopy curls a thing of the past.
Boosts natural “lift” for extra curl support, memory and control.
Specialized, humidity defying ingredients deliver frizz-free definition with a satiny finish.

My Review

Delight

This product is EVERYTHING to my curls. Did you hear me? I said EVERYTHING damnit! Why haven't I heard about this stuff before. It gives my hair awesome slip and shine. A little goes a long way, so the size of the bottle doesn't really bother me. This product makes me totally excited about my curls!!!

Disappointment

Nothing! It's totally amazing :)

Rating - 5 out of 5 combs

Curl Definition

Final Look (AWESOME!)

Overall I loved this products and would recommend them to anyone who is interested in products that really serve curly textured hair. Well done MIZANI!

Have you tried Mizani's hair products? If so, let us know in the comment section below.

Have a Good Hair Day and remember to Love Your Hair!!!

The Basics - Healthy Nails & Cuticles

2013-04-24T00:00:00.000+02:00

Do You Know Your Nails?

Nail Diagram

Nails are formed largely from keratin, which is a protein found in the skin and the hair. Beneath the matrix– that's the part of the nail that looks like a half moon on your finger and toes the half -new skin cells are constantly being formed. The newly-formed skin cells push the older cells forward, where they harden and form a nail. They are always growing, but we aren't always able to retain the length due to improper care and use of the nails. And well who doesn't want long nails? An if you don't want long nails, you most certainly want them to be healthy and strong.

Signs That My Nails Are Healthy

Nails are uniform in color
Nail plate should be smooth with no evidence of ridges or grooves.
Vertical ridges running from the cuticle to the nail tip become more common with age and are not a cause for concern.

Click Here ---> To Read More on Good Beauty Diaries

Ponds Flawless Radiance BB Cream High Tea Launch

2013-04-23T17:01:00.001+02:00

Good Beauty Diaries had the privilege to attend the launch of Ponds Flawless Radiance BB Cream last week in Cape Town, and I must say that it was a wonderful and very girly experience. I entered into a room that was flooded with different shades of pink and tons of goodies to indulge in. Needless to say, my diet went right out the window for the day. It was totally worth it! Now if your not sure what a BB Cream is, go ahead and click here to quickly educate yourself.

The April issue of True Love Magazine was on our chair waiting for us :)

Lindt White & Dark Chocolate #BestofBothWorlds at my seat. YUM!

Macaroons, Scones and Chocolate Truffle oh my!

There was also a bottle of the new unreleased bottle of Ponds Flawless Radiance BB Cream at my place setting. This is what I was waiting for. Who doesn't love exclusive goodies?! You know I opened the bottle and tested it on my hand immediately. I don't play that coy "I don't like things" mess.

Click Here --> Read more at Good Beauty Diaries

What's BB Cream All About?

2013-04-23T16:53:00.000+02:00

BB Creams pictured here may not be available in South Africa

What does "BB" stand for?

The "BB" in BB Cream can stand for Blemish Balm or Beauty Balm

How did BB Creams begin?

It was created back in the 1950’s by a German dermatologist, Dr. Christine Schrammek.

What was the original purpose?

Its purpose was to provide a little coverage to patients with sensitive skin who had just undergone a cosmetic procedure.

When did BB Creams become popular?

Later, in the 80’s, the BB Cream was introduced to the East and was heavily endorsed by glamorous Korean celebrities as their big beauty secret. Today, however, BB Cream is popular throughout the world and can be found in most pharmacies and beauty counters.

Click here --> Read more at Good Beauty Diaries!!!

Don't pull your hair out to look good

2013-04-22T00:00:00.000+02:00

Via - Sunday World by MOSA MOKHEMA

IT is an unusually quiet and cold morning at one of the dozens of hair salons dotted around the noisy Randburg taxi rank.in My aim is to canvass both stylists and their clients on their thoughts about hair loss in women. Even though it is during office hours on a weekday, there are four ladies - the professional types - in the salon getting their hair done - from new weaves to maintenance and styling.

How to take good care of your hair

According to research by head of dermatology at Groote Schuur Hospital and University of Cape Town professor, Nonhlanhla Khumalo, at least 25% of black women have some form of baldness because of hair loss.

Though many studies have linked hair loss to a variety of hairstyles, there is a general perception among black women that weaves are the number one cause of the epidemic, commonly known as injibaba.

"Listen here, my sister, it is not weaves that mess up your hairline, it's braids," says hairdresser Helen Okpe, who is wearing a Brazilian weave.

"No, no, no," interrupts barber Hubert Eluemelem, "it's all these fancy hairstyles women do - weaves, braids and hair chemicals.

"Many come to me for a haircut once their hair gets damaged. It starts breaking and their hairline starts disappearing," he says.

All the while, the four customers, two of them with hairlines that look like they are beginning to recede, remain tight-lipped. Their silence is loud; it is a clear sign that the epidemic is indeed a touchy subject.

Typically, much has been written about some weave-loving South African celebrities such as Bonang Matheba and Dineo Ranaka who have been on the receiving end of banter about their so-called "vanishing" hairlines.

Matheba was not interested in discussing the subject while Ranaka failed to respond to queries sent to her.

Dr Larry Gershowitz of the Medical Hair Restoration Clinic in Cape Town says he has seen a surge in the number of black patients in recent years.

"An increasing number of mostly young, black, professional women are coming to me for surgical hair transplants as a last resort."

He says transplants are performed in his rooms using a local anaesthetic because they involve the removal of hair-bearing scalp from the back of the head, and then transplanting it into the hairless areas.

According to Gershowitz, women seeking this intervention come to him after years of using "relaxers, straighteners, braiding and weaving".

"They will try every lotion and potion to try to get their hairlines back but obviously you can't expect hair to grow where actual hair follicles have disappeared because of the trauma many of these hairstyles cause," Gershowitz says.

In 2010 Khumalo published the results of her study in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatologists. The study found a link between the use of chemical hair relaxers and central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia or "messy bald spots".

This, according to the research, is because relaxers break down the amino acids [building blocks] that make up a strand of hair.

Khumalo's study found that injibaba is a result of hair styles that pull the hair too tightly - such as tight ponytails, braids and weaves. Weaving or braiding of relaxed hair accelerates hair loss because further pressure is exerted on already weak strands.

"People are not going to reputable and professional hairstylists who know the science of hair," Mashishi says.

"It is a personal choice whether a person goes all natural, uses chemicals or extensions.

"What really matters is that they must invest in their own hair by regularly moisturising and conditioning it with products that contain natural oils such as olive, jojoba, coconut and marula," he says.

TIPS FROM MASHISHI

Minimise pulling back your hair too tight;
Apply natural butters or oils and then massage two to five times a week;
Don't sleep in a ponytail, bun, or updo;
Avoid wearing elastic headbands, bandanas and tight scarves too often;
Redo braids or twists along the edges weekly;
Don't make braids or twists too small and tight along the hairline.

HAIR LOSS TREATMENTS

Non-surgical:

According to the South African Hair Foundation, there are numerous lotions available for the supposed treatment of hair loss in women, but in reality there is only one medication that has an effect on female hair loss - and that is Minoxidil.

Prices at leading retailers range between R73 and R142

Surgical:

The cost of hair transplants depends on the extent of your hair loss and the texture and the amount of your donor hair.

It also varies from patient to patient. Prices range from R22000 to R40000.