PhenomenalhairCare

Eleventh Sisterlocks Anniversary

2023-07-29T21:28:00.000-07:00

Yes, It has been Eleven years since my Sisterlocks establishment. July 25, 2012. OMG. Can you believe the prices have almost doubled? I still self maintain. I never do the whole head at one time. I'm waiting to take a topless photo with full Loc coverage but I still need another year to gain another three inches of play room. I don't want any wardrobe malfunctions. LOL

Happy Loc-versary to me!

Pubic Hair Q and A

2023-01-02T12:04:00.000-08:00

Photo credit: Instagram

Q: Is the full body hair removal trend for everyone?

A: No, Absolutely not. Certain hair textures do not respond well to being shaved down or balded. Barbers can probably share more insight on this. Ingrown hairs come to mind when it comes to certain hair types. If skin problems can occur on your head above your neck, then skin care problems can definitely occur below the belt.

Try it once. If you don't feel hair removal works for you then don't feel pressured. Sometimes the person performing the hair removal can make the difference in the pain level and minor bleeding from a waxing perspective.

If you choose to be modest in hair removal, then swimwear would need to be conservative to hide pubic hair. Hair removal around a bikini line is definitely necessary in regards to social norms. Some pubic hair removal is considered grooming. Full hair removal is landscaping/manscaping (for men). Full hair removal is a trend.

Q: Does pubic hair come in different textures?

A: Yes, the hair on top of your head does not always match what is below the belt. If you are tenderheaded by nature, then having someone "playing in your hair" below the belt may not be a turn-on.

As far as textures, all hair textures exist in pubic hair including "no texture." Yes, some people have bone straight pubic hair.

Q: Does pubic hair carry odor?

A: If the hair above your neck can carry odor then yes, all hair can carry odor. You just shampoo or wash it. There are feminine wipes that can be stuffed back into the "to go" package and tossed in the feminine waste bags. Flushing wipes will clog the plumbing.

You don't shave your head because you sweat so don't feel like you have to go to extremes below the belt.

Q: Does pubic hair have health benefits?

A: Hair typically alerts your skin when adverse conditions are present. Hair also typically diverts and absorbs sweat away from important areas. A nurse can advise more about the benefits of pubic hair.

Q: Are vajacials beneficial?

A: If you are stressing out your skin with regular hair removal, then facials for the private areas would be beneficial for toning and perfection.

Hair removal brings more focus to skin care versus "hair care." Choose your battles wisely.

Happy New Year 🎉🎉🎉

Crochet Hair: Nami Locs

2022-12-29T14:18:00.000-08:00

I literally had to back up and do a double take when I saw these locs in the beauty supply store.

The Nami Locs look like my own Sisterlocks. I was blown away. I never thought that I would find faux locs that looked like my own texture. This crochet hair would happily serve as Loc extensions for a special occasion. The brand is Laude & Co. I feel that they would be too heavy to complete a full head of crochet braids based on the amount to make sure the roots get enough coverage. This is just my opinion.

Steam Therapy for Locs

2022-12-15T23:15:00.000-08:00

Winter can be brutal on the skin as well as the hair. When my Sisterlocks look distressed, I pull out my distilled water and my pro facial steamer.

The steam opens up the cuticles and hydrates. It is a great way to revitalize the hair without a full shampoo service. Sometimes an event can come up too fast, and you just don't have the full 3 or 4 days for a shampoo service and allowing the natural hair to resettle. The steam therapy allows you to have a good hair day until you can do a full shampoo reset.

Below is before and after steam therapy.

Thanksgiving 2022

2022-11-24T15:14:00.000-08:00

Black Panther Wakanda Forever Fan Artistry

Happy Thanksgiving!

I am thankful for you my followers and supporters. This blog has been receiving traffic for over a decade now. Wow!

Sometimes I use my own articles to refresh my memory banks. Truth stands the test of time.

My Sisterlocks articles get the most traffic. People have to remember - it's not where you start, it is about where you finish.

Social media platforms are precious when you feed your soul with inspiration, fantasy, and a full dose of reality. It is all a balancing act.

This blog still keeps me relevant so thank you for sharing and stopping through.

Be safe out there.

Hugs and Kisses ❤️ Happy Holidays 2022

No shade. Native American vibe.

A Christmas story leg lamp acrylic painting by Benita Blocker.

Rhovember 2022

2022-11-20T09:41:00.001-08:00

Happy Centennial

Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc

Please enjoy 20% off of

100+ products with my textile designs by using the code EARLY20 thru 11/23/2022

At storefront www.legaleriste.com/en/benita.blocker

This tote is my most popular item.

Ten Years Sisterlocks Anniversary

2022-07-22T21:56:00.005-07:00

The ten year journey of self maintenance by hand interlocking.

Thank you for continuing to support my blog on hair. I have returned back to the corporate America track. I still work part-time in the salon. I still primarily provide relaxer and crochet braids services.

My Sisterlocks articles from the beginning of my loc journey get a lot of views.

Now, it's ten years later, and it's one of the leading edge decisions that I made. Some feel that my Sisterlocks should be longer. To those people, I say "mind your business." I am not in competition. It's àlways been me against me. Many people always have had me twisted. I was doing protective styling before it was called "protective styling."

Sisterlocks have become a polished acceptable look to even sit on the Supreme Court of the United States. I see all types of professional women who hàve followed my lead directly or indirectly.

Sisterlocks and self maintenance is about freedom and beauty. I still had to learn my natural hair needs that is unique to me. I keep the Wave Nouveau finishing mist around as needed. Usually, I spray daily.

I try to self tighten as many locs as I can before each shampoo service to keep the water weight down.

I also keep any locs that I may lose. I have learned to reuse my own hair to extend locs that may be shorter for whatever the reason. I also make Loc extension units. Sometimes seven extra locs attached using invisible thread can be enough to deliver a thicker look in the crown area. Because Sisterlocks recommend different sizing based on the different sections of the head- the Sisterlocks do not need the same frequency of tightening. The smaller ones may need four weeks but the medium or larger ones can stretch tightenings to 7 weeks. Who schedules a partial head of tightenings? Most people don't. It is too much of a hassle to find a good Sisterlocks professional. I stand by self maintenance for my length. People can not tell that you have inconsistent new growth that needs tightening.

Overall, my Loc journey was one helluva ride but I own it and look forward to my 15 years anniversary. Thanks for being a part of my journey.

~Benita, 2022, 10 year locversary!

June 2022 Thank you

2022-06-23T14:27:00.000-07:00

My Sister locks will be 10 years old July 2022. Thanks for continuing to support this blog! I'm on Instagram. Over 1k followers.

Check back in July for Anniversary post!

Holiday edition 2020: Sisterlocks Anniversary

2021-01-12T18:29:00.006-08:00

Time flies fast. I didn't post my favorites for hair products this year. No one noticed anyway. LOL Also, Christmas 2020 marked my eight years and five months Sisterlocks Anniversary.

I have been boutique shopping and enjoying modeling.

I think that I look like Mrs. Claus here! I hope everyone's Holidays were bright. God has a Master plan.

Exciting news coming soon!!!!

Sisterlocks Anniversary: Selah Boutique Styling

2020-12-05T06:01:00.000-08:00

It's my Eight years and four months Sisterlocks anniversary. I needed to revamp my wardrobe on a "CitiTrends" budget.

Selah Boutique offers curvy fashion and clubwear. Because I am short-waisted, I don't need baggy clothes as a curvy model.

I'm also engineering outfits to work with my body needs including reversing ties.

I'm enjoying different bursts of color.

I'm enjoying mixing the pieces.

I'm definitely trying to work out/exercise more.

Some outfits are more lounge wear.

Some outfits are more formal.

My Selah Boutique selections may not last past a year, but they are a lot of fun. I

watch closely for limited time deals.

Sisterlocks Anniversary: 8 years 3 months

2020-10-31T22:22:00.001-07:00

So Eight years and 3 months have passed since my Sisterlocks were first established. The time did not fly. Yet, I still embrace my Loc journey.

I'm enjoying my fashion again. There were many phases of my life that I truly was in fashionista mode. Using Selah Boutique is allowing me to refresh my wardrobe at an affordable price for 2020. I even purchased my first Brazilian scrunch butt leggings.

Doing the Census enumeration work actually helped shed some inches off my body.

I am estranged from my birth family. There is a lot of toxicity and family secrets. I struggle with losing my parents, but in recent years, the interaction yielded more misery than comfort. I supposed my worth had deteriorated long before now. Self worth will always have to be a woman's foundation.

Fresh curls always require a fresh picture.

I'm over the hill, but age is nothing but a number.

Sisterlocks Anniversary: Eight years and 2 months

2020-10-04T08:28:00.000-07:00

Trying to support Sistahs with Boutiques!

(Dress ensemble from Blaque Diamond Boutique in Aiken, SC)

My Sisterlocks are at Eight years and two months old. I am a little late posting for this anniversary. Parts of me wondered if anyone benefits from my monthly Sisterlocks check-in's, but then I realized that I benefit from this journaling effort.

Waist beads from RyandZoebeads

I still self maintain my Sisterlocks tightenings. I figured out about four weeks equal one full four point rotation.

I made it over the hill! (50 club)

I closed out my #round2mark3 campaign on 9/11 - a good Memorial date.

I used the Colorproof SuperRich Shampoo for my loc maintenance. My promo code: BENITA10 will get you ten percent off of your purchase at the www.colorproof.com

Eight years and one month Loc-versary

2020-08-30T02:15:00.004-07:00

This blogger interface has changed, and I upgraded my phone. So it took me a little longer to pull this article together. It is eight years and one month Loc-versary.

I am still Fighting for justice for my younger self in my #round2mark3 campaign.

So close to the finishing line. I need closure. I need justice. No one gets to drop the ball this time.

I am a queen, and I am forever a princess according to my Heavenly Father.

As a Sigma Gamma Rho, I enjoy sporting my sorority colors.

As a Census Bureau enumerator, I am getting my walking in. Get counted! You survived a pandemic! That's history in itself! Your information is confidential!

Sisterlocks: Eight Years Later

2020-07-26T07:17:00.000-07:00

Eight years ago, I started my Sisterlocks journey. It was a great Hair Solution for me!

I found some Liquid color chalk in my stash and could not resist indulging in a color splash.

I keep my hair up in the salon, so that I can see what I am doing.

Love my summer hat!

I'm using Herbalife tea and supplements to slim down.

July 2020 Eight years. I reached the promise Land of my Loc journey.

Sisterlocks Truth or Fiction: Thinning Crowns?

2020-07-13T19:55:00.000-07:00

I have heard countless times, that the crowns of Sisterlocks wearers seem to thin out. People wonder if there is any truth to it.

There is no sure answer, but it is likely to happen and here is why and potentially how.

In my Sisterlocks training, we were taught to place "small" sizes in the front, "medium" sizes in the crown , and "large" sizes in the back of the head. All sizings are relative to Sisterlocks.

As a Master Loctician, over the years, I found the larger the loc reduces the amount of rotations. So the Sisterlocks in the front may need tightening every four weeks, but the crown area may need 6 weeks to get a full rotation without it being too tight.

So essentially, unless all your Sisterlocks are equal in size then they are not going to be equal in needs.

Just food for thought.

AppleBaum Hair Growth Club 2020 Update

2020-07-08T14:36:00.001-07:00

When you are ready to grow a new head of hair- "Who you gonna call?"

Benita Blocker with Applebaum Hair Growth Club is still educating and providing phenomenal hair care services.

I softly introduced my premium consultations last year (2019). I also had to take a hiatus to heal from a lot of trauma that I had not dealt with in decades. I also had to comply with government shutdowns due to the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020.

Well, all of this stress from the economy being shutdown, is definitely going to create some hair loss challenges by the Holidays. As a single woman, I am definitely about "my bag," but I am dedicated to restoring your hair and confidence for the right price.

Now, your consultation includes several Herbalife supplements including probiotics, Vitamin C support and more. No shakes are included; so no worries about dairy concerns.

Your consultation also includes at least two Colorproof haircare products.

Hollywood Hairstylist: Benita Blocker

Virtual or In person, I have over 15 years in hair care, loc care, and product knowledge. I believe in diversity. All lives matter.

You can purchase the initial consultation at https://www.etsy.com/shop/ApplebaumStudio Look for Hair Growth Club Consultation.

Or if you are not ready to purchase online, please feel free to contact me by FREE registration at my Herbalife website so that I can make sure your shipping information is accurate. www.getset.goherbalife.com

Then on my follow-up with you, we will discuss the consultation fee and payment options unrelated to Herbalife. (Herbalife requires documentation to who is using their products). Your registration saves me extra paperwork.

Thank you in advance. You will also get other supplements shipped from various brands according to individual needs.

At your service soon . . . ~Benita

Crochet braids 101 for 2020

2020-07-08T11:16:00.000-07:00

River Locs 14" Crochet braids by Benita Blocker

Crochet braids are my number one recommendation for those needing a change from their usual natural hair routine.

Passion Twists/Bomb Twists Crochet braids by Benita Blocker.

I highly recommend removal after four to seven weeks since you can not shampoo the crochet braids. Going months can cause your braids to dreadlock especially if you are sweating a lot. Removal gets more and more difficult after seven weeks.

Crochet braids updo by Benita Blocker.

Crochet Braids (Valley Wave) by Benita Blocker.

I customize each client with a braiding pattern based on how they want to wear their look.

Barbicide Concerns

2020-07-04T20:20:00.000-07:00

The 2020 Pandemic has everyone at a heightened concern about sanitation. I have always practiced universal precautions as to not spread disease. I have always kept disinfecting stations next to the sanitation stations.

These areas are NOT at a styling station unless the styling station has running water.

So I didn't have Barbicide at my styling station before the pandemic, and you will not find it at my current styling station.

Why?

Barbicide is corrosive. It eventually weakens combs and styling implements causing them to break apart especially if they stay immersed longer than the ten minutes that is required.

And if it destroys the integrity of combs, then can you imagine the damage to your hair?

Combs or implements removed from Barbicide should be rinsed or sprayed off with a water bottle prior to contact with someone's hair.

I personally prefer to use a spray disinfectant after thoroughly cleaning my implements in lieu of Barbicide immersion. I also keep plenty of implements ready for single use!

Due to social distancing measures, there is less client overlap and more time to clean implements for repetitive use.

I personally have several years experience working in the healthcare industry. I totally understand the need to remain in compliance with all healthcare guidelines put in place.

Anyone who has special concerns, please discuss at the time the appointment is being scheduled. Elderly, immune compromised, or those with loved ones in their immediate care that are in fragile in health should definitely discuss with their stylist upfront of their delicate situation.

Review: Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay

2020-07-01T07:52:00.000-07:00

Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay

I can not count the number of recommendations about using the "clay mask" for the hair. Finally, I have tried this product and researched the concept of clay masks.

First of all, this mask is NOT a conditioner. Some people reported that clay masks dry their hair out. That is probably correct. This mask is a clarifier. In other words, it is a deep cleanser. If you have a lot of product built-up from dimethicones or waxes and you have loose hair (no locs) then this mask treatment will help reset the hair.

Be mindful that dimethicones seal Moisture in, AND they can block Moisture from getting into the hair. You have to learn when and how to use dimethicones. You also must strip or clarify them out periodically.

This clay mask works great on skin which is its recommended use. Face and body. Non-metal bowls and non-metal stirring utensil is highly recommended for preparing this mask to be used.

I felt a need to educate about this particular pictured clay mask because it had been on my wish list for awhile to see what the hype was about.

If you have scalp issues and you don't have locs, then the scalp is a skin so this mask can assist with clarifying the scalp.

Whether you use distilled water, apple cider vinegar, oils, etc. is up to you, but you need to mix as a separate step. This clay clumps easy and will not mix in your hands. I already tried.

A disposable cup and a coffee stir can be enough to spot treat the body or scalp. Happy clay masking!

Indian clay mask and a facial steamer.

If you wear makeup, then you need to also properly remove it to maintain youthful skin!

Sisterlocks: Seven years and eleven months

2020-06-25T12:40:00.000-07:00

The Queen celebrated Juneteenth 2020!

My Sisterlocks Anniversary is now at seven years and eleven months. I decided to do a little extra makeup in celebration of Juneteenth and Pride month.

The police brutality against George Floyd ( #GeorgeFloyd ) sparked global protests for justice, reform and equality. Other names: Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, Elijah McClain . . . the names go on and on and on. Murders swept under the rug at the hands of police nationwide. The world began screaming "enough is enough." "No justice No peace!" There should NOT be two justice systems.

Recognizing Pride month 2020 as a heterosexual female.

Wet Sisterlocks

I'm definitely back on my supplements: Matcha Green tea, Biotin, Collagen, etc. My hair is fuller again. The whole 2020 economy shutdown is definitely going to create some hair loss issues by Holiday time due to stress. My Herbalife Nutrition website is up and ready for supplement orders at getset.goherbalife.com Shop 24/7 online and it will ship directly to you.

My Sisterlocks are Around Bra Strap length when dry.

Enjoying my wings as an "Earth Angel"

Sisterlocks: 7 years and ten months

2020-05-31T18:34:00.002-07:00

At Seven years and 10 months, my length is long enough to wear a long side pony.

A fresh shampoo and curls last for a few days.

After a few weeks when all the curls drop out, a partial updo does the trick!

I renewed my Herbalife membership. My website is getset.goherbalife.com and three day trial packs are available there.

Sisterlocks 7yrs 9mos: Mask edition

2020-04-24T20:58:00.000-07:00

April 2020 was a "Stay at Home" month. Pandemic 2020. Covid 19 has the world on alert.

Mask fashion has arrived. I was gifted this red face mask. Sisterlocks are excellent for quarantine. My loc-versary is now at 7 years and 9 mos.

Rain or shine - Loc Updo for the Win!

Natural Hair Revitalization: KeraCare Overnight Moisturizing Treatment

2020-04-17T05:08:00.000-07:00

I had quite a few loose natural hair clients that swore by this product regardless of their hair texture. Since my Sisterlocks are getting so long, I don't think my super coily hair is staying hydrated on the ends. In addition, I have used some clarifying shampoos that may have dehydrated the ends without me adequately restoring the moisture back in.

In one of my previous articles, I extended my front locs with my own hair. However, I really don't want my hair dry and brittle anyway which is what causes breakage.

So, at night, I started using a quarter size amount emulsified into my hands and massaged through my whole head of locs focusing on the ends. Amazing hydration in the morning without added weight.

Whether locked natural or loose natural, the KeraCare Overnight Moisturizing Treatment is still a winner!

My 2020 Favorite Loc Palm Roll Gel: S'Curl

2020-04-09T21:05:00.000-07:00

The Scurl hair product line has been around for decades. They have expanded their line for Loc care.

This "Twist and Lock" Gel has superior hold and superior shine.

Even on the chunkiest locs, the gel holds the loc tight.

Using Loc Recycling to Extend Loc Lengths

2020-04-05T17:53:00.000-07:00

Between ponytail holders and having one's back resting on longer locs, the loc ends will break off. Some people trash their broken loc pieces. I don't. If it is an inch or longer then I collect them in a cosmetic bag.

I recycle my own Sisterlock pieces and decide where to extend my other loc lengths because I never really know where the loc broke off from originally. In my Sisterlocks training classes, the instructors strongly discouraged extending Sisterlocks. However, since I self maintain my own Sisterlocks, I know how to tighten with added ridges in the loc. In the picture above, I decided that I wanted to extend my bang area. It is sparse in the chin area. I want to change that.

It's my own hair, and I can do what I want to do with it.

Boom! More length in my chin area!

That's a solid inch of fullness restored!