L.A.D.Y

Im trying to get a new camera!

noreply@blogger.com (Chosen1) — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 03:24:00 +0000

My hair is much longer now. But my camera is busted. Im in the process of buying a new one. I will try to get one as soon as possible.

Update Since My Setback!

noreply@blogger.com (Chosen1) — Thu, 06 Jan 2011 23:01:00 +0000

I relaxed on December 26, 2010. On December 30th I did an aphogee hard protein treatment, moisturized with Kera Care moisturizing conditioner. Then I did a trim. I trimmed with Split Ender. I love it . My ends are healthy and it did not take the length of my hair away.

Here's my before trim pic.

After trim:

Split ender is Wonderful. I ran it through my hair three times each section. Make sure you use small section. I will write an article about split ender in a few days.

Pre-Update after setback

noreply@blogger.com (Chosen1) — Fri, 17 Dec 2010 22:43:00 +0000

I really dont know what's going on with my hair. I haven't had time to maintain it. So it's been ponytails and wigs for me. Im very busy these days. I just washed and protein treated my hair in preparation to get a relaxer in the next week or so. I used Aphogee 2 min with heat. I let it stay for 15 minutes. I had no adverse effects. My hair feels great. So I plan on taking a picture after the relaxer. There's probably no change in the length or condition of my hair. But it seems that my hair has been shedding a lot lately. My hair shedded a lot last year around this same time. I plan to take some garlic pills. Garlic pills help to stop the shedding. I might go back to cornrowing my hair because I dont feel like being bothered with my hair. See ya soon.

Major Setback. I Need Encouragement

noreply@blogger.com (Chosen1) — Sat, 23 Oct 2010 05:58:00 +0000

I was and I stress was brastrap length. I decided to get a relaxer and a trim at a professional hair salon. It was suppose to be a trim. But the women cut about 3 or 4 inches. I'm so mad that I want to scream. Then when I went home I noticed my hair was uneven. So guess what? I had to cut more. Why Lord?! Why?! I thank God for salvation because if I wasn't I would have punched her.

I went to this same person before and had no issues. But all I can say is....Why?

So I will never get another relaxer or trim with her again. And Im gonna figure out how to trim my own hair for now own. I guess that's my new project.

I can't write anymore. I'm still disgusted. Im back to the shoulder. But here's a picture of the setback.

WHY?!

Im Bra Strap Length!

noreply@blogger.com (Chosen1) — Sun, 22 Aug 2010 17:33:00 +0000

Yeah! My hair has reached bra strap length. But only when wet. Now I need to get my hair that long when it's completely dry and flat ironed.

A little update on my hair.... It's still growing. I'm still able to retain growth surprisingly. I have not been keeping up with my hair regimen. Im no longer braiding. Im no longer washing my hair every 4 days. I don't have the time. Between my job, church and my daughter; I barely have time to sleep. So until I can get a grip on my schedule; I am washing once a week. I keep my hair wet with Wave Nouveau moisturizing spray and I seal the ends with coconut oil. I also keep my hair ends protected with protective styles.

I will not be going back to cornrows for a while. They did work but I dont have time to braid. I plan to go back to washing my hair every 4 days because I'm starting an exercise regimen and refuse to have stinky, funky hair.

I plan to take pictures in a few weeks of my current hair length then I will get a hair trim. I need a good trim. My hair ends are looking quite raggedy since it's been over a year since I trimmed. So I will give you some before and after pictures.

Keep up the healthy hair growth!

1 Year Hairniversary Progress Pictures

noreply@blogger.com (Chosen1) — Wed, 02 Jun 2010 18:18:00 +0000

It's been 1 year since I started this hair journey. I cant believe I didnt cut it again like I usually do. I'm determined to keep going and growing. Thanks everyone for your support and encouragement.

My hair has made some progress. I have no split ends but I do need a trim to even out the ends. Currently may hair is arm pit length when wet but that's not good enough. I want it to be arm pit length when its dry. So I'll keep trying.

I'm having and issue with the front of my hair. It's not as thick and long as I want it to be. So I will be focusing on that for the next 6 months. So enough of the blah blah blah. Here are the pics.

I'm still using my cornrow regimen to continue to grow my hair. I started using this regimen in January 2010. It's working well. I am not receiving more growth than usual but it's helping during this busy time in my life.

How's your hair journey going. Still growing?

McDonald's Drive-thru On Foot?

noreply@blogger.com (Chosen1) — Fri, 28 May 2010 23:30:00 +0000

Yes. Ok. Pictures this. May 25, 2010, Crystal and I had just finished choir rehearsal. She had requested that we stop at McDonald's. She didnt cook and it was 10 pm. She was not going to cook anything that late. Yeah I know, eating that late and even worse McDonald's is not the healthiest but that's what we did. But anywho, we used the drive-thru to complete our order. We made the order and drove around the other side to pick up the order. We saw a car at the pick up window and two men on foot standing behind the car. I assumed that the men were from the car in front of them and that maybe something happened or they had to get something from the trunk. But the car at the window drove off. The two men on foot walked up to the window. That's when it struck me. These two guys decided to order McDonald's from the drive-thru by foot. Well Crystal and I looked at each other and laughed. We laughed so loud that the two men turned around. We laughed so hard that I had tears strolling down my face. I couldn't believe it. Then, then, then I saw one of the gentlemen lean over towards the checkout window. Ladies you know the "lean in" that men do when they are trying to get wit ya (Get their mack or playa playa on). So of course we laughed more. So they received their order and trotted off on foot. (giggle)

When we pulled up to the window, I asked the drive-thru check out employee about the two guys. Well she was already laughing and stated that she was just as surprised as we were. They usual don't complete drive-thru orders unless there is a car but when they placed the order through the speaker, she assumed they were in a car. I inquired about him "leaning in". And she confirmed that he was trying to get her phone number. My natural reaction was..."How was he going to take you out with no car?" She replied, "He might try to pick me up on his bicycle." More laughing form McDonald's employees, Crystal and I took place for a while. I dont know what possessed them to do that but I enjoyed the laugh. This is the real funny part, McDonald's was still open to receive walk in customers. LOL!

This is not an article about hair or skin but I had to share this with you guys. Hope you find it amusing. You had to have been there. Im laughing while writing this post.

1 year Hairniversary!

noreply@blogger.com (Chosen1) — Fri, 21 May 2010 06:09:00 +0000

Yup, its my 1 year hairniversary. I started growing out my hair by changing some techniques and products in May 2009. And guess what? I totally forgot about it until I reviewed my calendar. I didn't take any pictures. Sorry. I do apologize. I apologize to myself also because I want to see how far I've come.

Since I am now on a cornrow/braid regimen, I will do an update with pictures on June 2, 2010.

Tell me how's your hair coming along. Do you have any new tips and styles?

Natural DHT Blocker

noreply@blogger.com (Chosen1) — Wed, 05 May 2010 05:43:00 +0000

What is DHT?
In short, testosterone converts to DHT with the aid of the enzyme Type II 5-alpha reductase, which is held in a hair follicle's oil glands. Scientists now believe that it's not the amount of circulating testosterone that's the problem but the level of DHT binding to receptors in scalp follicles. DHT shrinks hair follicles, making it impossible for healthy hair to survive. The hormonal process of testosterone converting to DHT, which then harms hair follicles, happens in both men and women. Under normal conditions, women have a minute fraction of the level of testosterone that men have, but even a lower level can cause DHT- triggered hair loss in women.
http://www.americanhairloss.org/women_hair_loss/causes_of_hair_loss.asp

How does DHT effect hair growth?

When DHT reaches the hair follicles and dermal papilla, it prevents proteins, vitamins and minerals from providing the needed nourishment to sustain life in the hair of these follicles.
The hair follicles reproduce at a slower rate and shortens the growing phase of the hair follicles or lengthens its resting stage.
DHT is responsible for shrinking hair follicle with which the hair follicle gets smaller and finer. This is how DHT is responsible for about 95% of hair loss. The men or women who lose more hair are those who are genetically pre-disposed in producing more DHT than others.
DHT tends to create a wax like substance around the hair roots; the accumulation of DHT in the hair follicles and roots that gives rise to male and female pattern hair loss.

Now that we know what dht is; let's find out how to block them. Come on DHT blocker's.
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/68082.php

Natural DHT Blockers

There is Type 1 5-alpha reductase and Type 2 5-alpha reductase. Type 2 is the hair killer. There are two forms of 5a-reductase, and type I is the enzyme in higher amounts around the body, but it is the type II enzyme, which is thought to be responsible for most of the DHT formed in the hair follicle. Some studies show that both type 1 and 2 have negative effects on hair growth.

Green Tea
Green tea is a natural dht blocker that many are using successfully to solve hair growth problems. An infusion that's made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis bush, which are rushed from the field to the processing plant as soon as they are plucked. There the leaves are steamed or pan-fired immediately to prevent them from fermenting. These unfermented tea leaves contain large amounts of catechins, which are powerful disease fighters and potent antioxidants. And green tea is the only natural source of large amounts of catechins (substances found in green tea which have powerful antioxidant and disease-fighting properties. They belong to the flavonoid family which, in turn, belongs to the larger family of the polyphenols.).
Researchers from Seoul National University College of Medicine in Korea decided to try to find out. For a study published in Phytomedicine in 2006, they measured the effects of green tea’s EGCg on the growth of human hair follicles in a test-tube environment.1 They also looked at what happened when EGCg was applied to dermal papilla cells (DPCs), cells that live in the hair follicle itself and play a key part in hair growth. EGCg not only stimulated the growth of DPCs in both test tube cultures and the human scalp, it also promoted the growth of the hair follicles. The researchers concluded that EGCg stimulates human hair growth by increasing DPC proliferation and slowing the rate of cell-programmed death. In my opinion, Green Tea looks like an effective natural DHT blocker.
http://www.greentealibrary.com/Green%20Tea%20&%20Hair%20Growth%20-%20Article.htm

Other Benefits of Green Tea

May prevent alzheimers
May extend your years of life
May prevent certain cancers (lung, breast, colon etc)
May increase cardiovascular health
May prevent tooth decay
May regulate sugar and stop diabetes
May help with obesity
No known sides effects (except for not being able to sleep due to caffeine)

There are studies that prove some of the above benefits.

Check out LADY STORE for green tea and other dht blockers. Click here.

New Hair Moisturizer

noreply@blogger.com (Chosen1) — Thu, 15 Apr 2010 19:25:00 +0000

I have been on a search for a new hair moisturizer for the longest time. I was using UBH (Ultra Black Hair Lotion Creme Moisturizer. I love this moistuizer. It is so good to and for my hair. UBH Lotion Creme Moisturizer leaves my hair soft and moisturized all day long. No frizzies or crunchy hair. But it is expensive. I usually buy 16 oz for $14.00 dollars. But don't forget that you have to pay shipping and handling which costs me an additional $9.03 to ship to my area. So $23.00 for a Moisturizer.....NOT AGAIN! What was I thinking. It's not like the moisturizer has magical powers to grow your hair to your bottom. But I do love the product. It does not contain any petroleum, mineral oil or alcohol. It does have dimethicone, which some are opposed to. UBH contains dimethicone copolyol; which is water soluble. Which it will wash out in you next shampoo. But I like cones in my products. Cones leave my hair soft and unfrizzy.

So I went on a search for a water-based moisturizing leave in cream. One that will give me some of the same benefits as UBH Lotion Creme Moisturizer. I think I found it. Drum Roll.......

Softsheen-Carson Roots of Nature Shea Butter Green Tea Strengthening Oil Moisturizer. It left my hair soft and bouncy. Just a little dab goes a long way. Just a dab now because it can be oily. My hair wasn't crunchy and no frizzies. I bought an 8.5 fl oz bottle at Sally's for $6.79.

Here are the ingredients: Aqua/Water , Glycine Soja Oil/Soybean Oil , Cocos Nucifera Oil/Coconut Oil , Glycerin , Isopropyl Palmitate , Polyacrylamide , Isoceteth-20 , Disodium Cocoamphodipropionate , Fragrance , C13-14 Isoparaffin , Lecithin , Methylparaben , Laureth-7 , Hexyl Cinnamal , Sorbic Acid , Ethylparaben , Xylose , Citric Acid , Persea Gratissima Oil/Avocado Oil , Butyrospermum Parkii Butter/Shea Butter , Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil/Sunflower Seed Oil , Dimethicone , VP/Dimethylaminoethylmethacrylate Copolymer , Geraniol , Benzyl Benzoate , Limonene , Citral , Camellia Sinensis Extract/Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract (Green Tea) , Methylisothiazolinone , Linalool , Laureth-4 , Laureth-23 , Benzyl Alcohol , 2-Oleamido-1,3-Octadecanedio , CI 19140/Yellow 5 , CI 14700/Red 4 , CI 17200/Red 33 , CI 42090/Blue 1

Try it for yourself here.

Cornrow Regimen Is Working!

noreply@blogger.com (Chosen1) — Mon, 12 Apr 2010 18:37:00 +0000

I have started this new hair regimen in the beginning of 2010. The cornrow regimen. And the new regimen is working. I call it the leave my hair alone regimen. Basically I keep cornrows in my hair for 3 weeks at at time. I spray them down everyday with moisturizing spray and apply a homemade tonic to my scalp every other day.

I am pleased with my results my is still growing and I am almost almost bra strap length. And the sides of my hair is catching up to the back. The best thing is that I did not lose any progress.

Benefits:

I dont wash my hair while in cornrows. I wipe the braids and scalp with a clothe with a little witch hazel to keep them clean.
Huge time saver. Just put on a wig and go.
Less stress on me and hair.

Now my old regimen works just as well. I was able to grow my hair from neck length to shoulder length from May 2009 to December 2009. That's just 7 months. So old regimen is still good.

It's necessary to shampoo often to keep your hair clean. But is it necessary to achieve hair growth. So far with this new regimen; I would say no. But I have to wipe my scalp with a clothe using witch hazel because I dont want to be dirty. Gives me the itchies. But the one thing that is staying consistent is applying a water-based moisturizer to my hair and sealing the ends with oil.

I am glad my new regimen is working because I am busy and dont have the time to put into my hair like I use to.

Cornrow Regimen

noreply@blogger.com (Chosen1) — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 07:19:00 +0000

In 2009 I received healthy and increased hair growth. Basically, washing my hair every four days. Conditioning after every wash. No heat. Air dry. Also, using protective hair styles. Mainly just buns, wigs and head wraps. I had not split ends or breakage. I went from neck length to shoulder length. But now its time to leave my hair alone and start a cornrow regimen.

At the end of 2009 I put my hair in cornrows for two weeks. I had a lot of shedding after i took down the cornrows. I never had a lot of shedding after cornrowing my hair before, so I was a little concerced. It was shedding because the hairs had a little white bulb at the end. But I did have longer hair. Someone suggested that it had to do with my annual large hair shed. I tried it again in January 2010 for three weeks and had no shedding. I guess she was right. I really liked the results. I had awesome growth especially on my sides that I'm trying to get to shoulder length along with the back of my hair. Oh yeah, I'm also using my own recipe for a growth aid. I think I'm on to something.... It's working great for me. Im trying it on my friends and family to make sure.

Cornrows are working well for me. I used it as a protective style under my wigs or head wraps. It's more convenient for me, since I'm a little more busy this year. And I loved the results. Now my other regimen worked fine. I received great results. Look at my progress pics from 2009. But there is more than one way to skin a cat.

Cornrow Regimen details for 2010:

Relax every 12-14 weeks
Wash and condition weekly for 2 weeks. Making sure 2nd wash I use a protein conditioner.
After two weeks cornrow my hair 6-8 corn cornrows. Tuck under ends.
Using wig over cornrows.
Moisturize with wave nouveau and seal ends with oil every other day. Use Aphogee provitamin leave in once a week.
Use my special growth aid every other day on scalp only. Massage.
No I will not be washing my hair while in braids.
Take down braids after 3 weeks. Then wash and protien condition.
Rest hair for 2 weeks. (Wash and condition weekly. Using buns, french roll, and head wraps or wig with no cornrows.)
After 2 weeks. Go back to cornrows.
Relax my hair every 14 weeks. Making sure cornrows have been out of my hair for at least 2 weeks before I relax.

Note: Make sure you spray down your hair with a moisturizer. Please gently detangle your hair before shampooing. And use a moisturizing shampoo. This helps me to avoid tangles and knots during the shampoo process.

This is my low hair maintenance, low hair manipulation regimen.
I will be doing this until.........just until.

Don't Bully Me About My Hair!

noreply@blogger.com (Chosen1) — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 05:36:00 +0000

I have been wearing wigs and head wraps for 6-8 months now. I do this for low manipulation. I guess people are tired of seeing my wigs and head wraps because they keep commenting; "We want to see your natural hair and blah blah blah." (Imitating a whiney girly voice.) Some good friends tried to bully me with words. If you know me, persuasion by bullying or guilt trip never works on me. Ask my mother. Especially if I have my mind set. So, Don't bully me about my hair. Bullying me by repeatedly asking me to wear my hair down or say stupid stuff like "men love to see women with their hair down." (Imitating a high-pitched silly woman who lives her life trying to catch a man.) Actually it's not men who are giving me the problem, it's the ladies. Shoot, Im cute and I receive a lot of compliments from gentlemen. Wig or no wig. Sorry for being a little haughty but just trying to make a point. To my friends who are acting like frenemies, back off! I already told them I was going to blast them on my blog today. Love ya, anywho. I am keeping my hair in a protective style via buns, wigs, headwraps until I reach 1 inch past bra strap and that's final.

Morale of the story is never let anyone get you off of your path. Especially if you know you are on the right road. Being Consistent will always produce rewards. Consistently doing wrong in any area of your life will give bad results. Consistently doing right in any area of your life will give good results. So whatever it is you are going after; find the right path to it and consistently go for it with all of your might.

So back off, Don't bully me about my hair.

Hair Growth Aids

noreply@blogger.com (Chosen1) — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 07:08:00 +0000

The fantasy world of hair growth aids and what they will do for you has fooled many of us. Growth aids do have their place. Some hair products do stimulate the scalp and hair follicles to produce growth. Products that contain minoxidil like Rogaine have been proven by the FDA to grow hair where hair follicles have been dormant. Recent university studies of Emu Oil has shown to produce hair growth. Also, studies for apple polyphenols have been shown to grow hair. Now for your more underground growth aids that hair forum people claim to have received astounding resuts such as: miconazole nitrate, Mega Tek, castor oil and a few others. Even though miconazole nitrate, Megat Tek and castor oil have not been fully researched; I believe the women are getting the results they are claiming. But a simple regular scalp massage with your finger tips can achieve growth for some women. Hair growth aids do stimulate the scalp and follicles by getting the blood to circulate more in the scalp to receive optimal hair growth. That's Great!

Here where we have been fooled. Dependency on hair growth aids without any knowledge on how to maintain length as it grows. You can put all the oils and chemical on your scalp to stimulate your follicles to produce growth but it won't mean anything if you have the same unhealthy hair maintenace habits that keep your hair constantly damaged and breaking. I'm just speaking from experience. I use to constantly get hair breakage during shampooing. I would bunch my hair when washing, then I would have a tangled mess on top of my head, then breakage and hair on the floor while I attempted to detangle. You can't prevent all hair breakage and shedding, but you can prevent most.

I know what your thinking, I must buy this and that. I can give you sites of women who have booty length hair and they do not use anything special. They use mostly regular sometimes cheap products that do contain mineral oil and they showed progress with growth on a continuous basis.

What are we doing to maintain hair:

Shampoo properly so that your scalp is clean but your hair isn't tangled. Try putting your hair in 4-6 loose braids and wash in sections. Don't bunch your hair. Use a moisturizing shampoo.
Condition your hair after washing. I condition my hair at least once a week with a plastic cap and under a hooded dryer for at least 15-30 minutes. Alternating between a protein conditioner and moisturizing conditioner.
Moisturizing hair everyday (if you have dry hair). Focus on ends.
Low maintainance hair styles. Anything that will protect the ends of your hair and to keep you from combing and styling everyday. Style like buns, french rolls, roller sets, braids, cornrows, even wigs.
Less heat. Try to air dry. Use flat iron on low setting.

In conclusion, by all means use hair growth aids if that's what you want to do. But you are going to have to change some of your habits that have been losing the growth you have gained. Hair growth aids wont do all of the work for you.

Hair Products Are Not Magic!

noreply@blogger.com (Chosen1) — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 05:48:00 +0000

No they are not! I use to think so. I thought if I have the right hair product, my hair will grow to phenomenal lengths. NOT! Well I haven't found a miracle in a bottle that did it for me.

Now dont get me wrong, using the wrong product will mess you up and give you a set back that may just make you cut all your hair off; but I havent found a product so great and glorious that will grow my hair without any effort at all.

There are some better products for my hair. Products that do not have alcohol of any kind are better than most for me. I stress, "for me". I was on this kick for a little while that all hair products with petroleum and mineral oil were the devil and trying to destroy my hair. I tried to do the organic hair product thing. Some were good. Some were not. I love just about any organic oil for my hair. My hair really responds well to coconut oil. (Oh my beloved coconut oil. I will never turn from thee. LOL!). Anywho, I dont have a problem with sulfate shampoo's. They do not break or dry out my hair. Mineral and petroleum products are not the devil. I use Kera Care and Silk elements conditioners; which contain mineral oil and I haven't any negative issues with these. I just avoid mineral and petroleum products that are not rinse out conditioners. When my hair was it's longest as a child my mom used water and Dax grease. That's it.

I contribute my growth to not using blow dryers and other heat appliances. I keep my hair in protective styles. Any style that will protect the ends of my hair and stay neat for at least four days. Styles like a bun, french twist or wigs. I moisturized my hair with a water based moisturizer and seal with coconut oil daily. Oh yeah, vitamins. The right vitamins and nutrition will help hair growth. Well at least it did for me. Great growth. I'm happy. No magic hair products.

2009 Progress Pictures

noreply@blogger.com (Chosen1) — Thu, 31 Dec 2009 09:10:00 +0000

I started my hair journey in May 2009. I learned a lot about my hair. I found that I need a protein treatment one time a week because of my relaxed tresses and I need plenty of moisture. It seems that if I spray my hair with a good moisturizing spray to dampen my hair, seal with oil and lastly protective styles; my hair grows with little breakage. I did have some shedding issues but I dont think I will be able to avoid that. It's apart of the cycle of life. Oh yeah, shampooing with a moisturizing shampoo and deep conditioning after two times a week is the best for my hair.

My goals for 2010 is to stick to what I know and add some thickness to my hair. So far I know that biotin and horsetail contribute to hair thickness. So I will be researching how to thicken up my hair. Well as much as possible.

Miconazole Nitrate (MN) Progress Pictures

noreply@blogger.com (Chosen1) — Thu, 31 Dec 2009 08:48:00 +0000

So here it is. My Miconazole Nitrate (MN) Progress Pictures. I have been using my MN Mix for approximately two months. I did get some growth but not signifanct growth. I believe that I would have achieved this growth even if I didnt use the MN Mix. But in all fairness to all MN users who claim significant growth; I did use a very "watered down" version compared to most other women. Most user use a whole tube of MN and just a little oil. I on the other hand used a lot of oil and a little MN. I was apprehensive to go full throttle with this. Come on. It's Vaggie cream for Pete's Sake. But I spoke to my physician and he said that I could have used more MN without any adverse effects. He also recommended to use antifungal cream for 2 months at a time only and taking breaks. Consult with your physician and ask him his advices. There is a more common antifungal cream used in hair products called ketoconazole. But I have no idea where to find it.

I wont be using this particular mix again. But I will be trying another type of mix real soon. Ingredients are secret for now. It's my special recipe. I've researched extensively and will see how this works. If it works out, I will let you know.

MSM TO Extend Anagen Growth Phase

noreply@blogger.com (Chosen1) — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 19:57:00 +0000

MSM is an abbreviation of methylsulfonylmethane, an organic form of sulfur. The chemical formula of MSM® is CH3SO2CH3. It is the form in which sulfur appears in nature in all living organisms, and in which it is biologically active. MSM is an odorless, white, crystalline powder that is highly soluble in hot water and in a wide range of organic solvents (1). Biologically active sulfur has unbelievable preventive and therapeutic properties. The medicinal activities of biological sulfur are so all-encompassing, and are based on such obvious principles, that its discovery is generally considered one of the biggest advances in orthomolecular medicine in the second half of this century.

The natural level of MSM in the circulatory system of an adult human male is about 0.2 mg/kg. Normal adults excrete 4 to 11 mg MSM per day in their urine. Several studies suggest, that the systemic concentration of Low concentrations of MSM in our bodies have been linked with unspecified complaints of fatigue, depression, high sensitivity to physical and psychological stress, and with a large number of degenerative diseases (5, 6). MSM is an important source of sulfur, but also has unique properties related to its chemical structure and biological activities. To understand the preventive and therapeutic properties of MSM, a distinction needs to be made between "why humans need sulfur" vs. "why humans need MSM".

My experience with MSM is that I really think it increased my hair growth rate. There are some women who have experienced the same effect. It's not scientifically proven. Another experience is that MSM made my skin tight. I look like I had a face lift. I guess because MSM is a powerful antioxidant.

Perhaps the most remarkable discovery regarding MSM is, that MSM is an effective pain killer which works with many types of chronic pain. May help to reduce pain associated with arthritis, Fibromyalgia, Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. MSM is a strong antioxidant, capable of binding and inactivating free radicals.

Skin

Sulfur is called nature's "beauty mineral," because it keeps the skin smooth and youthful, and the hair glossy. Sulfur is necessary for production of collagen and keratin, protein necessary for health and maintenance of skin, nails and hair (6). Several experiments have shown, that all kinds of dermatological disorders which are often allergy-related, respond favorably to a diet supplemented by MSM. Oral dosages of MSM have shown to be effective against acne, Rosaceae and dry, scaly or itching skin(3). When used topically in the form of an ointment or lotion, MSM is helpful in treating skin disorders including acne, psoriasis, eczema, dermatitis, dandruff, scabies, diaper rash and certain fungal infections (1, 6). Scars resulting from operations and from burns also respond well to topical application. New scars can heal so perfectly, that they are almost invisible. Old scars, too, can improve markedly.

Hair

MSM has been reported to reverse graying of hair. It has also been reported that MSM increased the anagen phase/growth phase of the hair growth cycle. It will not speed up growth but keep your hair in a growth cycle for a longer period of time so that you can eventually have longer lengths. Anagen phase can last from 2 years to 6 years. If your hair anagen phase is 2 years, MSM may add another year or two to your growth phase.

Detoxification
What is detox?

MSM enables your cells and tissues to release toxins that have built up over the years. Apparently sulfur is a vital part of our waste management system, and if we have not had enough of it our bodies were not able to release some of the waste substances. If you take too much MSM, your body will release too much waste at one time for your kidneys and liver to handle. This waste in your blood stream can cause all kinds of problems ranging from flu-like symptoms to re-experiencing the effects of drugs that you have taken in the past. For example, heavy caffiene users may feel extra-jittery. The key to reducing or eliminating detox symptoms is to start on MSM slowly so that the waste in your tissues is released slowly and to drink lots of water so that the released toxins will be flushed out of your body quickly.

What do I do if detox symptoms happen anyway?

If the symptoms are not bad, you may just want to tough it out. They should go away in a few days. Be sure to increase your water intake--for most people this would be double the amount of water that they normally drink. If the symptoms are severe, cut back on the MSM and take baths with water hot enough to make you sweat, but not so hot that you might pass out. Limit the baths to 20 minutes in length. You may find it helpful to add ONE of the following to the bath water and perhaps alternating between these items for different baths: a cup of vinegar, a cup of baking soda, a cup of epsom salts, a half cup of chlorine bleach. These substances each help leach out diffent toxins through your skin.

How much MSM should I take and in what form?

You should take whatever form is convenient for you. You should always take the least possible amount of msm that gives you the relief you desire. Drink lots of water with msm. For first time users of MSM, it is better to take with meals to help prevent heartburn. First time users start at a low level and build up. Try 500-1000 mg (eighth to a quarter teaspoon) per day. Take it for that way for one week then increase it another a little more. Once you have taken it a long time you will be able to take it without food. The recommended dosage is 2,000 to 6,000 mg. per day.

I read in a few articles that you should make sure your MSM is made with OptiMSM. My vitaminshoppe brand is made with OptiMSM.

L.A.D.Y Store

Article Resources:
http://www.msm-info.com/
http://falconblanco.com/health/msm/faq.html

End of The Blessing Challenge

noreply@blogger.com (Chosen1) — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 23:06:00 +0000

The Blessing Challenge has ended and it has been a blessing. This challenge was to challenge you to bless others for 4 weeks. My list included Jesus, Myself, a person that I dont get along with, and four others. At first I was doing everybody on my text and email list. Then I narrowed it down to just seven people. It was hard to choose my "four others". I have so many good friends that deserve to hear kind words everday. But I chose my four eventually. It was three women and one man. The one male friend came to look forward to my kind comments. I would send my compliment in the morning and one day I didnt do it till late afternoon. Well he called to remind me and asked where is his compliment. Now that the challenge is over. He's upset. Because the compliments would give him a daily boost. He's too funny. The other three ladies were good associates but now I think we are actually good friends now.

As for the person I didnt get along with.... It wasn't hard to choose who I was gonna pick because this is the only person that I routinely dont get along with. But I tried my best to find some sort of compliment. I am gonna be honest, I had very few nice things I could come up with; so I went straight to the word on this one. I didnt accomplish to come up with anything nice the majority of days on this one. Pray for me.

I want to thank all of you that joined in. This was a hard challenge because it deals with emotions and getting the focus off of yourself and taking the time to compliment someone else. Please share your experience these four weeks with complimenting others. Even if you didnt do the whole four weeks, let us know how it went.

To really show my appreciation, I have decided to give a prize to one of the persons who have joined the challenge by November 16, 2009. So I put the names in a hat, shook it and pulled a name out.
AND THE WINNER IS......(DRUM ROLL).......Robin At A Balanced Life. SHE HAS WON A $25.00 GIFT CARD TO SALLY BEAUTY. I hope you get great use of it.

Thank you every one again and I hope that you have a wonderful and blessed Christmas.

The winner must contact me by December 14, 2009 at hairskinflick@yahoo.com with name and address to claim prize. If I am not contacted by December 14, 2009, I will choose another winner.

Omega 3 Nutrition for Hair, Skin and Health

noreply@blogger.com (Chosen1) — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 07:45:00 +0000

I started taking an Omega 3 supplement when I was pregnant. The benefits that I read were that it can help the brain development in fetus, stabalize blood pressure, prevent early term pregnancy and prevent post partum depression. Because my doctor advised me to limit the amount of fatty fish I could eat because of toxins in fish these days; I did my research and came across Carlson Norwegian Salmon Oil. This stament appears on the bottle: This product is regularly tested (using AOAC international protocols) for freshness, potency and purity by an independent, FDA-registered laboratory and has been determined to be fresh, fully-potent and free of detectable levels of mercury, cadmium, lead, PCB's and 28 other contaminants.
Read article about Omega 3 and pregnancy. http://www.expectantmothersguide.com/library/pittsburgh/omega-3.htm

I believe that my supplementation of Omega 3 contributed to the alertness of my daughter when she was born. My daughter immediately picked up her head by herself and stared at me in my eyes just a few minutes after birth. Most children can't control their bodies in that manner. Also my daughters intelligence is exceptional. But it is hereditary. We are a smart family. I am bragging.

I also heard that Omega 3 has great benefits for hair. Omega 3 deficiencies can lead to dry hair and skin. It provides the necessary nutrition to keep your hair with a great luster and may stimulate growth from feeding hair from the inside.

Dietary sources of omega-3 fatty acids include fish oil and certain plant/nut oils. Fish oil contains both docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), while some nuts (English walnuts) and vegetable oils (canola, soybean, flaxseed/linseed, olive) contain alpha-linolenic acid (ALA).

There is evidence from multiple studies supporting intake of recommended amounts of DHA and EPA in the form of dietary fish or fish oil supplements lowers triglycerides, reduces the risk of death, heart attack, dangerous abnormal heart rhythms, and strokes in people with known cardiovascular disease, slows the buildup of atherosclerotic plaques ("hardening of the arteries"), and lowers blood pressure slightly. However, high doses may have harmful effects, such as an increased risk of bleeding. Although similar benefits are proposed for alpha-linolenic acid, scientific evidence is less compelling, and beneficial effects may be less pronounced. http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/patient-fishoil.html#Background.

Dosing
Adults (18 years and older):

Average dietary intake of omega-3/omega-6 fatty acids: Average Americans consume approximately 1.6 grams of omega-3 fatty acids each day, of which about 1.4 grams (~90%) comes from α-linolenic acid, and only 0.1-0.2 grams (~10%) from EPA and DHA. In Western diets, people consume roughly 10 times more omega-6 fatty acids than omega-3 fatty acids. These large amounts of omega-6 fatty acids come from the common use of vegetable oils containing linoleic acid (for example: corn oil, evening primrose oil, pumpkin oil, safflower oil, sesame oil, soybean oil, sunflower oil, walnut oil, wheatgerm oil). Because omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids compete with each other to be converted to active metabolites in the body, benefits can be reached either by decreasing intake of omega-6 fatty acids, or by increasing omega-3 fatty acids.

Recommended daily intake of omega-3 fatty acids (healthy adults): For healthy adults with no history of heart disease, the American Heart Association recommends eating fish at least two times per week. In particular, fatty fish are recommended, such as anchovies, bluefish, carp, catfish, halibut, herring, lake trout, mackerel, pompano, salmon, striped sea bass, tuna (albacore), and whitefish. It is also recommended to consume plant-derived sources of α-linolenic acid, such as tofu/soybeans, walnuts, flaxseed oil, and canola oil. The World Health Organization and governmental health agencies of several countries recommend consuming 0.3-0.5 grams of daily EPA + DHA and 0.8-1.1 grams of daily α-linolenic acid. A doctor and pharmacist should be consulted for dosing for other conditions.

Supplement Facts For Carlson Norwegian Salmon Oil

Serving Size 2 Soft Gels (Each soft gel contain 1 gram of fish oil)
Amount Per Serving --% Daily Value
Calories 18
Calories From Fat 18
Total Fat 2 G -- 3%
Cholesterol 20 Mg --6%
VITAMIN E NATURAL (D-ALPHA TOCOPHEROL) 20 IU -- 67%
Omega-3 Fatty Acids (FROM SALMON OIL) 750 Mg
EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) 360 Mg
DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) 250 Mg
Other ingredients for Soft Gel Shell: Beef gelatin, glycerin, water.
Suggested Use: Take two or more soft gels daily, at mealtime.

Currently and when I was pregnant I took 2 soft gels daily.

Go to L.A.D.Y Store

My Vitamin/Supplement Regimen

noreply@blogger.com (Chosen1) — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 06:17:00 +0000

My detox is over and I am incorporating my vitamins back into my daily regimen. I currently take:
Carlson Norwegian Salmon Oil: 2000 mg a day. 1 soft gel in the morning and 1 soft gel at night
Nature's Bounty Stress B Complex with C & Zinc: 1 tablet at night
The Vitamin Shoppe MSM 1000(OptiMSM): 2000 mg a day. 1 capsule in the morning and 1 capsule at night.
The Vitamin Shoppe Super Chlorella 1000mg: 2000 mg a day. 2 tablets in the morning.
The Vitamin Shoppe California Grown Spirulina 500mg: 4 tablets in the morning.
Finest Biotin 5000 mcg: 1 tablet at night
Iron supplement: 1 tablet at night. I dont know the dosage but it provides 150% RDA
Last but not least 64 oz of water daily.

Now the above dosages I am working my way back up to. Especially for MSM, Super Chlorella and Spirulina. These supplements have detoxifying abilities and its best to ease your way to the optimal dosage you would like to take.

As of right now I am not taking Chlorella and Spirulina. I am still increasing my MSM Dosage.

This is my plan: Take 1 (1000 mg) capsule of MSM a day for a week while making sure I take B Comlex tablet, Salmon Oil, Biotin and Iron. Then after a week will increase MSM dosage to 2 (1000 mg) capsules of MSM a day for a weeks. The next week I will add 1 tablet of Chlorella. Next week will be 2 tablets of chlorella. Then 2 tablets of spirulina for one week. The last two tablets of spirulina the next week. This will go one until I can take my above full dosages every day.

The above Vitamins/Supplement have been chosen by me after I have conducted my own research. These dosages are what I am comfortable with to achieve my optimal health. Make sure you do your own full research and talk to a physician before you start popping any pills.

I will be discussing in my next few articles about these supplement and how they effect my hair and skin of coursce; but also my total health.

Full Body Detox Completed

noreply@blogger.com (Chosen1) — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 06:29:00 +0000

I began my full body detox on November 20, 2009. This continued for 10 days. What was I thinking? I did this during the holidays. Why do I make things hard form myself? Especially since my aunt made the good macaroni and cheese. With three kind of cheeses. Whoa. But I stayed away from the macaroni and chees, cornbread and dressing. But I ate some good turkey, orange glazed cornish hens, collard greens (with smoked turkyey not pork) and fresh green beans.

I didn't do so good on the exercising. I was suppose to exercise three times a week. That didnt happen. I exercised one time during these ten days. I was just too busy. But Im not giving up on the exercise. I have to get some muscle. I really want the nice six pack, toned arms and legs, and toned buttocks. Oh, by the way when I went on a exercising fit back in June 2009; I had a surge of hair growth. So I am back to the drawing board on the exercise thing. Here we go......

I just started incorporating my vitamins back into my daily regimen. I will be discussing the vitamins I am taking and why for the next few articles. Vitamins and supplements are important to take in order to have optimal health. Especially if your diet is lacking in certain areas. Since foods are processed, most of Americans diets are lacking in proper nutrition.

I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving and you really gave thanks for your loved ones.

noreply@blogger.com (Chosen1) — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 20:22:00 +0000

Happy Thanksgiving! Dont eat too much.

Do you have dry hair?

noreply@blogger.com (Chosen1) — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 05:20:00 +0000

I did. My hair was sooo dry. It did matter what moisture or how much I used, my hair was thirsty all the time. But that changed when I stopped used blow dryers and curling irons. I started do rollersets and protective syles like buns, headwraps and wigs. I can even rollerset without usinge a hooded blow dryer and get the same look. But in order to do that I have to use a moisturizer with dimethicone in it.

Of course sometimes I get the urge to blow dry my hair and flat iron it. But I make sure I blow dry or flat iron on medium or low setting. And I do this at most once every two months. If you can find a real cute hairstyle and the right products, you can do without the blow dryer and curling iron.

Limiting blow drying and flat irons have stopped hair dryness before I even found the right conditioners and moisturizers to use.

I'm coming to youtube soon to show you some good protective styles and rollersets without minimal heat soon. Look out for me.

Sleep to stop hair loss and premature aging

noreply@blogger.com (Chosen1) — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 02:11:00 +0000

Something as easy as going to bed and getting a good night rest can stop hair loss and keep premature aging from occuring.

Sleep deprivation can lead to stress. We all know that stress can give you weight problems, increase blood pressure and wrinkle the skin.

Stress can increase the telogen phase. Telogen phase is when your hair is in it's resting phase. After telogen phase your hair sheds and goes into anagen phase. Anagen phase is the growth phase. Also stress can increase the amound of hair that is shed.

So, make sure you get your 7-9 hours of sleep at night. I am