The Good Hair Blog

Captured Curls: Nykeba

2012-01-30T13:54:00.000-08:00

Please, introduce yourself!

Greetings Beautiful People! My name is Nykeba and I am 23 years old. I

recently graduated from Syracuse University with a B.A. in Anthropology and a minor in Global Enterprise Technologies. Sincere returning home to Maryland, I have been actively involved in community outreach promoting professional development within high schools. I have also helped to start, as well as fund, a scholarship for high school students to attend college. I love traveling, shooting with a Canon Rebel,
DJing, making headbands, event planning and volunteering.

What is your current hair care regimen?

Although I do not usually stick to a schedule, I typically co-wash and

detangle my hair every 7-10 days, occasionally using shampoo when

necessary. Using a hot cap, I deep condition twice a month. Like many

of us, my go-to style depends on the amount of time I have available.

Lately, I’ve been rockin chiney bumps (bantu knots), twist-outs or using

curlformers to stretch my curls.

What is your hair type and what works best for your texture?

My hair type has changed throughout my natural journey. Due to heat

damage, I was unable to recognize my hair type for some time. After two

dissatisfied haircuts and one trim, I can proudly say I have 4A and 4B type

hair. Using moisturizer daily works best for my previously damaged hair.

I love using a spray bottle (filled with H2O,

conditioner and oil) to freshen up my curls. I’ve also

noticed that by frequently sealing my ends, my hair styles last

longer than ever (gotta love trial and error)! Although my hair

stylist hates that I experimented with Henna, I love conditioning my hair

with it. Like Alex, my hair color remained the same, just stronger and

slightly tinted.

What reaction did you get when you first decided to go natural?

Most of my family and friends were initially shocked by my decision to

go natural. For months my mom and girlfriends figured I would relapse on

creamy crack O_o. Transitioning in the summer was a battle of its

own, as I tried to work with having straight ends and curls of new

growth. Throughout it all they were intrigued to see how I would pull it

off. Thankfully, my family and friends, as well as websites like the this one,

Kimmay Tube, naturalchica.com and curlynikki.com supported my natural

resolution. As time passed, reactions changed from “why??” to “wow!” - with

my mom and several of my girls deciding to become natural also.

Did you BC or transition, if so when or for how long?

I began my natural journey on March 21, 2010. From that day forward, I stopped chemically straightening my hair. During my transition, flexi-rods and my flat-iron (heat damage, yikes!) became my go-to styling tools. I decided to cut my permed ends after transitioning for a year.

What makes you love your kinks, curls and coils?

On March 21, 2011, I finally saw my natural hair for the first time

since elementary school and I’ve been in love ever since. I could not

believe how malleable my hair was, as my stylist cut my transitioning

hair, eventually converting it from a full curly fro to a voluminous blow

out. It’s amazing how resilient our hair is, in fact, earlier this month, I

pressed my hair for the first time and wore it straight for a few

days. Missing my curls, I decided to spice up what has now become

boring for me - straight hair. I achieved a wavy and curly look by

bantu knotting and pin curling it. Several days later, I looked

forward to washing my hair in hopes my kinks and coils would return.

Versatility at its finest!

Where can we find you on the web?

iTweet – @nykebacorinaldi

Tumblr – http://nevertooomuch.tumblr.com/

Anything EXTRA you want us to know?

Always remember that everyone’s mane is different, so what works for

you may not work for someone else. Embracing our unique roots is key. Be

patient with your hair and figure out what works best for you. I also

encourage visiting YouTube and healthy hair websites that continue to cultivate our growing community. Thank you very much for inspiring so many of us Alex!

GOOD HAIR KEY CHAINS!

2012-01-26T17:59:00.000-08:00

Click HERE to shop

$2.50/each

Captured Curls: Aziza

2012-01-24T09:15:00.000-08:00

I have had my eye on this natural beauty for a while now. Recently, I had the pleasure of meeting her at an event and she is such a lovely woman with AMAZING hair. Everyone, meet Aziza! Her looks are captivating and her hair is simply beautiful. If you want to learn more about the owner of these great curls, click the jump.

xoxo,

Alex

Please, introduce yourself!

Hello Beautiful! My name is Aziza Original. I’m an all-around artist and model from the DMV. You can always catch me directing photo shoots, videos, or being a part of one. As well a Tumblr blogger that inspires and delivers with a free spirit soul that’s that flows like a bottle in the sea.

What is your current hair care regimen?

Well I call it the get up and go, meaning I really don’t do much. I wash my hair every two weeks with Carols Daughter products and after that I let the steam from the shower do its job. The less I do, the better.

What is your hair type and what works best for your texture?

I have thick hair with fine texture so finding products for my hair is kind of hard. You win and lose in some situations. Sometimes I can find good products but it weighs my curls down or I can find the opposite, good product that don’t weigh my curls but it doesn’t really define nor moisturize my hair. Using Carols Daughter hair milk, gives me the results I adore, without using a lot of products.

What reaction did you get when you first decided to go natural?

I have always been natural for the most part. However, there was that time my mother put a texturizer in my hair; and I complained for DAYS because I was upset that I wasn’t natural anymore. Other than that I grew up maintaining my natural curls, then destroying it with color, may my hair from my younger years rest in peace…

Did you BC or transition, if so when or for how long?

Having the hair texture I do now, I did do the BC. My hair was damaged from all the coloring I did in the past, so my curls were very stringy and not healthy. So I decided to cut it all off to a low cut 3 years ago. Before the BC my hair was going through major chops to get all the damaged ends off. Having hair in the middle of my back, to shoulder length then all gone was the process. After the BC I was able to achieve healthy full lushes curl with no heat applied to them nor color.

What makes you love your kinks, curls and coils?

The fact that I can say I’m fully natural makes me love my curls. Waking up in the morning not having to worry about styling is a plus! I just hop in the shower and start my day. The fullness and how defined my curls are make my hair special to me, not to mention bringing back the afro that many enjoy.

Where can we find you on the web?

www.AzizaOriginal.tumblr.com

Anything EXTRA you want us to know?

Once you go natural, the process is so beautiful. You learn so much about yourself. Overtime you come to realize that you’re not looking at it as “oh it’s just hair” but you start to pay attention to what you put in it, who touches it, and how you treat it. It’s your love that you grow with and put so much dedication into. That’s why being natural is so beautiful because of the person you do become during your journey.

How to Wrap Your Crown...

2012-01-23T21:31:00.000-08:00

Want to learn how to wrap yours? Click the jump...

xoxo,

Alex

A Protected Crown is a Sacred One...

2012-01-20T17:00:00.000-08:00

I love my hair. I adore every coil, curl and kink that swims from my roots. The attention I get, that almost all naturals get, can be nice, fun and GREAT conversations starters but sometimes, I just don't want to be bothered. Not to sound rude but I think it's OK for me not to want to talk "hair" with strangers when I am out and about trying to have coffee or while enjoying a nice meal at my favorite restaurant. No? Don't get me wrong, nine times out of ten I eat, sleep, a dream natural hair but every so often I want a break. A break from the stares of admiration (or disgust). A break from the "Ohhhh, how'd you get your hair like that?" and the occasional hand in hair (that isn't mine), with out permission episodes (has that ever happened to you?!). So with that being said, today, I decided to wrap my crown. I call my hair my crown because for so long I didn't wear it with pride or at least know how to. When I wasn't wearing my hair long, it was cut short, weaved, dye, fried and some more nonsense but now since I know how to wear my crown, I protect it.

To some, hair might not be "that deep" but to others, especially after going through ups and downs, trials and errors with relaxers and breakage; you learn to appreciate the fact that black women can grow long (big), healthy hair. While wearing my hair wrapped today I felt so regal and queen like! I wasn't hiding behind my hair or worrying about my puff being smooshed or cocked to the side or my arch enemy, shrinkage! My mom also loves when my hair is "off my face," she says I look beautiful and the world can see my whole face. I agree! When I see women with their hair wrapped or shaved, I immediately think she's stunning and bold. Today was a good hair day and keep in mind that wearing wraps is a SUPER great protective style. I know you all are going to want to know how I achieved this style, a tutorial is in the works and coming soon!

xoxo,

Alex

Good Hair Magnet x Pin sets!

2012-01-20T16:25:00.000-08:00

Hey beauties! I wanted to let you all know that the Good Hair pins have been restocked and magnets have been added to the package. You can buy your magnet x pin set HERE for $8.50 (FREE SHIPPING to the USA). A lot of you wanted magnets, which was a GREAT idea. I have a Good Hair mug that is super cute, those will be available soon once I find an affordable custom item printer.

I hope your week was fabulous!

xoxo,

Alex

Captured Curls: Aquia

2012-01-15T09:39:00.000-08:00

I came across this beauty and her amazing head of hair, randomly on InstaGram! Immediately I wanted to feature her so she could share her story and some hairspiration with us all. Want to learn more about Aquia and her beautiful mane? Keep reading...

xoxo,

Alex

Please, introduce yourself!

My name is Aquia Francisco, I'm from San Antonio by way of Dallas, TX. I'm a PR girl by day and a socialite by night, a foodie and a recovering retail addict. I've been completely natural for a little over two years and doing so was probably one of the best decisions I've made to date.

What is your current hair care regimen?

I'm honestly a horrible natural (please don't stone me). I don't really have a "regimen." I used to do PR for a major haircare brand and I faithfully read blogs so I know that one should have a regimen but doing my hair is usually an all day affair that I have to mentally prepare myself for. Every two weeks or so I wash with my handsdown favorite sulfate-free shampoo (Creme of Nature with Argan Oil Moisture & Shine Shampoo) and follow with a deep conditioning treatment (when I have time). I usually do three-strand twist-outs and sometimes wear them for a week or so under a turban or baret before taking them down. I trim my own ends (usually while twisted) every two-three months and in the last year, I straightened my hair maybe twice. My hair also loves coconut oil, so I use it as a prepoo and concentrate on my ends.

What is your hair type and what works best for your texture?

I've never gotten into the "hair typing" fiasco. I never really cared. I don't believe my hair can be stuck into one category nor do I think it's like anyone else's... Similar, maybe, but not enough to call myself a "type a" or whatever. What does that even mean? Lol however, for my hair texture, I use a lot of cream-based products. They hold my hair best -- particularly with twist outs. My two staples are Creme of Nature Lemongrass Leave-in and Cantu Shea butter Moisturizing & Repairing Cream. I don't really do wash-and-go's because my texture varies so much across my head that they never really turn out cute...for lack of better words.

What reaction did you get when you first decided to go natural?

Luckily, the people closest to me were very supportive and that's all that really mattered. One of my best friends and I did it around the same time so we leaned on each other for support. Of course you run into ignorant people who make ignorant comments, but at the end of the day, I'm no better than them if I believe their comments to be true. I think going natural allows you to find a comfort and a confidence within yourself that you may not have ever known you had until you make that decision. The same people who threw slugs when my hair was two inches long are probably the same folks trying to put their hands all in it now that it's longer than their mom's.

Did you BC or transition, if so when or for how long?

I transitioned for about nine months and then randomly decided to get my hair cut in a bob in September of 2009. When I washed it however, the back was so short that all of my permed ends were gone and I couldn't straighten it. Go figure. That same weekend I went and had the rest cut off. There were tears, but as cliche as it sounds, it was a very liberating experience.

What makes you love your kinks, curls and coils?

I love the versatility. I love standing out in a crowd. I love the handful of compliments I receive daily. I love motivating other women to find the confidence to make the decision to be relaxer-free. I love that even on a bad hairday, I never regret making the decision to go on this journey. I've NEVER regretted it. Ever.

Where can we find you on the web?

I've been telling myself I would update my blog but that's still in the works. So in the meantime, you can follow me on twitter @missaquia.

Natural Hair Tub/Loc Soc

2012-01-13T21:43:00.000-08:00

Click the jump for a better pic of me in the hair tube.

I love this thing!

All of the info on where to purchase is in the description box of the YouTube video.

xoxo,

Alex

Weekly Guest Blogger on CN.com

2012-01-10T09:58:00.000-08:00

Yo, yo, YO! Guess who's work you can find on Curly Nikki's site, weekly?! ....MINE, YAY! Ms. Nikki made my day when she offered me a guest blog spot on her site. Can you say honored? *dramatic faint* I almost fell out of my bed when I read that email. CN has had a huge influence on my curly girl journey thus far. I admire Nikki a lot so being given the opportunity to have my writing posted on CN.com means the world to me. You can find my first guest post, featuring my lovely Maiya boo (@MaiChickBad), HERE!

xoxo,

Alex

Captured Curls: Kris

2012-01-10T09:19:00.000-08:00

Please, introduce yourself!

Hello! My name is Kristin Brooks, a 23 year-old musician and blogger from Pennsylvania. I have a lifestyle blog known as “The Kris Bliss” where I blog about adventures in my life, my natural hair, and of course showcasing my sense of fashion!

What is your current hair care regimen?

I currently shampoo and condition my hair every 10-18 days. I know that’s a broad range, but it truly depends on what style I’m wearing and how much product I’m using to maintain that hairstyle. The more product build-up, the more often I’m going to wash & condition my hair, and vice versa. In between washes, I keep my strands moisturized with a leave-in conditioner, and use oil on my scalp on a weekly basis as well.

What is your hair type and what works best for your texture?

I’m not heavy into typing my hair honestly, but if I had to… I’d say I have type four hair. It’s really thick, and tightly coiled, but it is very soft. I get the thickness from my mom’s side, and the softness from my Dad’s side of the family.

What reaction did you get when you first decided to go natural?

My best friends were totally down for it, my dad didn’t really know what that meant at the time, and my Mom, woo chile, she was NOT a fan. Neither was her mother, my grandma. I told my mom I was going natural and she fussed, “Well, it’s not like you’re going to be able to just wear it out. You’re going to have to constantly be styling it… It’s not going to be curly or manageable…” etc. etc…. I OBVIOUSLY paid her no mind, and went for it anyway. I only grew my hair for a couple of months before chopping it all off, and it was GORGEOUS. Curls poppin’ all over the place, and was even softer than when it was relaxed (which I didn’t think could even be possible)! Three months later my Mom decided she wanted to go natural LOL (and her hair length is currently inches past her bra strap when stretched)!

My grandmother never became a fan, but she loved me either way, God rest her soul, but she loved it when it was straight! I made sure the to wear it nice and straight at her funeral J

Since going natural, I’ve gotten one of my best friends to go natural, and whilst in college, encouraged many, many sistahs to go natural, as well as a few women in my family.

Did you BC or transition, if so when or for how long?

I did the big chop. I went natural before it was popular, or before the “movement” started, and I didn’t have any of the information that is readily available today. I was in 10^th grade, back in ’03-’04, and one day decided that I didn’t want relaxers anymore. I grew my hair out for a couple months, until it was about 2 inches or so, and chopped it all off!

What makes you love your kinks, curls and coils?

I love everything about my hair. I love the thickness, my tight curl definition… I love how soft it is, and that it’s so versatile! I switch up my hairstyles very often too. In one week I will have worn a good 3-4 different doo’s. That’s what so fun about having natural hair. There are so many options! I love trying new smelly good products, and learning about what ingredients aid to my hair, to keep it healthy and growing to the sun! I love just lying down and using my big puffy hair as a pillow. I love rocking my big fro with confidence, and I even love (although I complain greatly) about how hard it can be to detangle sometimes (product is key!!)… At the end of the day, it’s just about being comfortable in your own skin, loving yourself, and accepting all that you are, which includes your crown!

Where can we find you on the web?

You can visit my blog at http://thekrisbliss.blogspot.com

Tumblr: http://krisbliss.tumblr.com

Facebook: http://facebook.com/thekrisbliss

Twitter: http://twitter.com/thekrisbliss

YouTube: http://youtube.com/kmbrooksberklee

Chictopia: http://chictopia.com/krisbliss

Anything EXTRA you want us to know?

Ladies who are debating going natural, or ladies who don’t think they can maintain their natural hair: Don’t give up! Just like any change, or new chapter in your life, it takes time to adjust. Know that you’re not the only one! There are so many forums, online support and consultations, how to & style videos, and blogs, (including this beautiful blog where I’m being featured)! Don’t be afraid to reach out!

Hairspiration: It's not curly, it's nappy.

2012-01-09T21:04:00.000-08:00

(source)

My first and most important words of advice to those transitioning or wanting to go natural is this--> don't expect a certain texture. Your hair may not be like the next woman's hair so be prepared to love your God given strands unconditionally. So many women jump head first into going natural without being informed. I think that many curly girls have had the "oh, my curls aren't her curls moments." Personally, I have been there. Keep in mind that this is my THIRD time going natural. The first time, I was home taking out some micro braids when the impulse of "cut your bra strap length hair OFF" hit me, so, I did. Two days later I got a perm because my father had a fit and I hated my texture. I remember feeling like a liberated 14 year old girl until my parents saw the "damage" I had done. The "gasp, why did you do that to you hair" comments got to me in less than 72 hours--imagine that. I remember how my confidence plummeted after cutting long hair to a considerably shorter kinky bush. My hair drama started then and so did my self esteem issues. I was my hair, so I thought. I tried going natural again in high school and that lasted for a while but I retained hardly any length. Mainly because I was uninformed about healthy hair care and I my hands were always in my hair, ALWAYS. Newly naturals and transitioning curly girls, research is important! If I knew then what I know now my hair would not only be waist length but I would have never retracted back to the creamy crack, two times over.

I often hear from transitioners, "my hair is growing in nappy not curly, I'm going to get a perm" or "what can I do to loosen my curls?" Those types of comments are red flags that you are not ready to go natural, in my opinion. That "my hair is going to be nappy" mindset will make your journey to natural much harder. A lot of younger women come into this journey after seeing a friend with a certain hair type or a celebrity with a particular curl pattern and think, "my hair will be "good" like her's" versus thinking "my hair will be great like mine, regardless of the texture." When embarking on this journey you really have to be aware of yourself. You also have to be in tune with what you can mentally handle. Let's be serious, some women's lives revolve around their hair and length. So when deciding whether or not to go natural you will have to consider a lot. For example, to BC or transition? If you choose to transition, how long will you grow out your relaxer? What products will you use to manage your new TWA or to maintain your transitioning tresses. It's a lot to consider but with hard work, patience and a lot of YouTube/blog browsing you will get the hang of it.

Just keep in mind that your natural is beautiful whether it be type 2 or type 4! You can't live life comparing what God gave you to what he gave your neighbor. What's meant for you is and will be yours. Embrace it and cherish it because you never know who maybe looking at you and wanting what you have.

xoxo,

Alex

A Man's P.O.V: Marco

2012-01-02T10:07:00.000-08:00

Marco, 28

How important is a woman’s hair to you? Especially if you are dating her, does she have to wear her hair a certain way to keep grab your interest? Important but not strongly the main factor of our relationship, I have dated both natural & weave – me personally I’m more attracted to a woman that can wear her hair at any length & texture and be proud of it; whether it is a ponytail, dreads, short, long or even bald. Long as she is not ashamed to wear that particular style.

Do you think that there is a ‘Natural Hair Movement’ or trend going on these days? Why do you think so many women are choosing to go natural now, do you think it’s a fad?

There is definitely a movement, I see the seminar flyers of awareness and I think that is strongly needed as advertisements & commercials tend to sway a certain way when it comes to glamour, I find it very beneficial to reach out to those that are not necessarily “media typical.”

Would you support your partner or family members (i.e. mother, sister, daughter) if she decided to become natural?

Of course - naturally I’m always supportive for anyone that is close to me but particularly my family and any decision they choose - I support 100percent; even if it’s taking your hair out and wearing an afro for the day.

How important is hair texture to you? If your significant other were to go natural, would the texture of her hair affect your opinions on whether she should remain natural or not?

Hair texture is not a main factor - more so the upkeep of your hair matters to me - I know because I grew up with all woman and I know how a bathroom closet looks with all the products so if maintenance is key with her and her hair then that’s cool with me

What is your definition of “Good Hair” and how do you feel about the word “Nappy?”

Good hair should be used in the sense of a woman knowing she is beautiful in any type hair format. It’s the confidence in a woman that I find attractive and what I think she be considered as good hair - not just the look. The nappy may be touchy for some as it can hold the same weight as calling someone a racial slur, some woman may take it kind of serious.

Would you rather your partner wear their hair natural or weaved?

Honestly natural because at the end of the day weave has to be taken out & your left with your “natural” hair - it’s the embrace that most

Most have a hard time adjusting too - appealing to others is kind of way I look at it. Not knocking any woman that wear weaves - but honestly when you go home and it’s just you - the weave comes off like a mask - used to cover up

If you are involved with a woman do you think she should consult with you when it comes to making changes to her hair?

Yes & no because that’s her choice not mine but if it’s a type of relationship where values are acknowledged then it don’t hurt to consult with your spouse, just like if a woman falls in love with a guy with dreads and that’s what she finds attracted and then one day he decides to cut off his hair to bald, I’m sure she would feel a certain way if he did it without checking with her.

Why does it seem like some men are “hung up” on hair length? Does it matter to you?

Does not to me, but I think it just goes with the security of a man, most men look at woman as trophies, ( sad to say ) and in addition a woman with hair that is mainly portrayed in mainstream media as the perfect kind of hair , he would look as the prized possession - not labeling but for some guys, they depths of shallowness can go really deep depending on what he perceives as beauty.

Would you be supportive in your partner’s journey to go natural?

Without a doubt, whether she chooses to chop it off - start from scratch or just add on, I would support my partner’s decision 200 percent. For better or hope not too worse - Ha

What makes black women and their hair unique and beautiful to you?

When knowing when a woman is confident with it. Whatever hairstyle may be - far as details, I can’t get specific on the different hairstyles and proper terminology but confidence makes a person

Who is your favorite “curly girl?” (i.e. celebrity, actress, friend, ect.)

I won’t say any specific names but a particular lady in my life that I feel is beyond sexy with any hairstyle she wears, whether it be natural or weave or whatever, even if her hair looked like the top of a pineapple, Ha, she would still be my favorite curly girl

Captured Curls: Alice of Alice in Nappyland

2012-01-02T00:20:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year beautiful people! I am pleased to introduce this year's FIRST Captured Curls feature. Meet Alice, a fellow natural hair blogger with a great head of hair, enjoy her curly girl story below.

Please, introduce yourself!

Hi! I’m Alice and I run the natural hair care/beauty blog Alice in Nappyland. I’m also a student getting a degree in computer science and studio art.

What is your current hair care regimen?

I co-wash with Aussie Moist or lightly shampoo my hair with Shea Moisture’s Raw Shea Butter Moisture Retention Shampoo, which is probably one of the gentlest shampoos I’ve ever used, once a week. Every other week I use a “real” shampoo to get ALL the build up, I’m currently testing one by Herbal Essence but I’m not ready to say if I like it or not. On the weeks I use “real” shampoo I deep condition with Shea Moisture’s Organic Raw Shea Butter Deep Treatment Hair Masque. After all of that, I set my hair with flat twist or twists Shea Butter, Qhemet Biologics Burdock Root Cream and IC Fantasia’s clear gel. After about 2-3 days, the flat twists/twists come out and I rock a loose style for the rest of the week.

What is your hair type and what works best for your texture?

I’d say a combination of 3c, 4a and 4b. My hair is fine but I have a lot of it. So I like to wear loose styles because most protective styles look a little sparse. I love to dye my hair (henna red, black, brown, pink, red…) so even though I’m color free now, protein treatments are my best friend in terms of keeping my strands happy.

What reaction did you get when you first decided to go natural?

I got a lot of positive reactions! I went natural my first year of college when I was away from a lot potential negativity (family, close friends, etc.). But when I sent them pictures they all LOVED my TWA with the exception of one aunt. But since I don’t see her too often it wasn’t a huge issue.

Did you BC or transition, if so when or for how long?

I Big Chopped after about 3 months of transitioning. I couldn’t deal with the different textures!

What makes you love your kinks, curls and coils?

I’m a style chameleon and I love changing my hair to reflect how I’m feeling on a particular day. I’ve never had this kind of versatility with texturized or straight hair!

Where can we find you on the web?

I blog at aliceinnappyland.blogspot.com, tweet at Alice_Nappland and tumble at aliceinnappyland.tumblr.com. I hope to see you at one of them ^_^

Anything EXTRA you want us to know?

Thank you so much for having me Alex!

My BEST Bantu Knot Out

2011-12-25T12:47:00.000-08:00

In my last post I mentioned that I gave myself a much needed trim, well thank goodness I finally came to my senses and snipped those terrible ends off. My hair feel great and my styles are coming out much better! I achieved my first decent looking Bantu knot out after trimming and OMG, I was shocked at the results. Like, seriously! I have never achieved a good Bantu knot out, ever! I credit that to my trim because I would try BNOs when my ends weren't quite up to par. Bad ends = bad Bantu knot out, I'm convinced.

So, here is what I did. I blew my hair out to prep for the trim, I used a higher heat setting this time, versus my cool/warm setting because I needed my hair "straight" enough to trim. Grape seed oil was my heat protectant of choice, as always. Now before some of y'all ask, no my hair was not bone straight. See the below picture for an idea of what I was working with.

Before the trim. My ends were in bad shape.

I usually trim in the order: blow out, twist, trim twist ends and repeat. I couldn't do that this time around. Instead I blew out, trimmed and then twisted to prep for the Bantu knots. I actually had to hold my hair between two finger like the stylist do to trim. Yes, they were that bad. Oh and sidenote: I went to cosmetology school in high school so I know a little something, something ;o).

You can buy the above product by clicking *HERE*

I used Sweet Ohm's pudding to style and my Safi Hair Care's Pumpkin Puddin' to seal. My hair smells GREAT and feels like soft cotton, I love it. It was so good to take the Bantu knots down and have big soft hair with movement. I will make a YT video on how I Bantu knot soon! It's pretty easy once you get the hang of it. Below you can see more pics of my BNO and how I decided to style it for Christmas Eve dinner. Oh and before I forget, MERRY CHRISTMAS BEAUTIFULS!

Yes, of course I threw my hair up in a bun... LOL

Hair Color Care

2011-12-22T21:56:00.000-08:00

If your hair is chemically treated it is very important that you take EXTRA care of your strands. Hair color is fun and fabulous until your hair starts breaking off in your sink due to lack of attention, NO BUENO! Since my hair is dyed now, many of you want to know if my regimen has changed. No, it hasn't but the products I use to wash my hair have shifted. I also try and be VERY gentle with my strands. I actually just gave myself a nice little trim today, that was WAY overdue. My ends were gross! Even though the TGHBPSC has ended protective styling has REALLY been my best friend these days. Length retention, when your hair is colored can be hard so I try to keep my hair in styles that don't need to be manipulated much, i.e. the bun.

(I used the grapeseed oil as a heat protectant for my blow out so that I could trim my ends.)

As far as washing goes, I think I've washed my hair maybe 3x since having it dyed red. I started off using Garnier's shampoo/condish for colored hair but found that it was way too harsh for my curls. My hair felt clean after washing but it also felt like straw! I ended up switching to Desert Essence's Italian Red Grape products which are much better and gentler on my hair. I am able to purchase my DE products on the ground at Roots Market but you can probably find them a tad cheaper online. Each product is close to $7 a tube versus the $4 I was paying for the drugstore brand. In this case I am paying for quality and I don't mind.

Side note: DE's products are sulfate free, paraben free and VEGAN! Just an FYI for my vegetarian/vegan readers.

As you all know, I don't wash my hair much. It's stressful *insert dramatic voice here* but I do co-wash from time to time. I don't think washing with shampoo, at least for my hair, is needed more than twice a month. Since being dyed I have DCd almost twice a week with Miss. Jessie's Super Sweetback Treatment. That stuff is AMAZEBALLS and gives me the best slip in the universe. No exaggeration. Deep conditioning when your hair is color treated is essential to maintaining a healthy head of hair. Keeping your hair moisturized to prevent excess breakage or splitting of the ends is a big part in color care. I would also recommend doing a protein treatment 1 or 2 times a month to help aide in your overall hair strength.

If you have color treated hair like me and you do your hair yourself the majority of the time, I would suggest investing in a good shampoo and conditioner set that is formulated for dyed hair. Overtime (naturally) hair color can fade and start to look ashy so you want to make sure that you are using products that won't contribute to that issue. Keeping your hair's color vibrant and beautiful all comes down to maintenance. Desert Essentials has a great line of products! Not only are they made without those extra "not so good" chemicals but they are eco friendly. You can click here to find DE's products at a discounted cost. Clearly, I should have ordered online and saved a few bucks but *shrugs* oh, well!

Is your hair color treated?

If so and you have any tricks and tips on how you care for your colored curls, please leave

a comment below.

xoxo,

Alex

Blowout Regimen

2011-12-17T13:37:00.000-08:00

A lot of you want to know the steps I take to blow out my hair. I get the question often so I decided it was time to dedicate a post to it. My blow out process is fairly easy but kind of time consuming since I don't use high heat. My setting is on cool/warm air and does take quite sometime to dry but I rather the process take forever versus getting heat damage.

Under the jump you can find the tools and products I use to achieve my blow out.

Enjoy!

Alex

What I use

HanaAir Blow Dryer

Dryer Comb Attachment or Paddle Brush

Denman Brush

Butterfly Clips (4)

Carol's Daughter Black Vanilla Leave-in

Grapeseed Oil (Natural Heat Protectant)

How I do it

1. Start with freshly washed hair, towel dry until damp.

2. Section damp hair into 4 sections and secure each section with a butterfly clip.

3. Apply your leave in of choice.

I like to use CD's BVLI because it's light and doesn't weigh

my hair down.

4. Detangle each section with a denman and then apply Grapeseed Oil to protect your hair from any potential heat damage.

5. Use the cool/warm setting on your blow dryer and slowly start stretching each section of your hair from the root with a dryer comb or paddle brush.

I pay close attention to my roots when I am stretching/blowing out my hair because it's important that they are dry to prevent any shrinkage. Please be sure to use a heat protectant, heat damage is irreversible ladies! All in all this process can take up to an 1 1/2 hours. Yes, that is very time consuming, especially on a wash day. It takes me about an hour (on a good day) to wash my hair. That doesn't include conditioning and de-tangling. Maybe that's why I don't blow my hair out often? When I dedicate a day to my hair is takes about 4 hours in total to get the job done *gasp* crazy, right?

Any who, I hope this post helped those who wanted to know my blow out regimen. If you have a different method, please leave it in the comment box below so other naturals can get other tips and tricks, versatility is good! What may work for one curly girl may not work for another.

xoxo,

Alex

Wash and Go Fail

2011-12-16T11:52:00.000-08:00

*peeks around curtain, slowly* Please don't shoot! LOL I know I have been M.I.A for a week or so but let me explain. Finals, studying, more finals and shopALS orders have had me extremely swamped but class is over and I am on a mini vacay to Brooklyn, NY! Well I'm not there yet, I'm headed there.

Side note: exciting news, I am blogging from the Bolt bus. Thank goodness the WiFi is working. Last time it wasn't.

Anyways, let's talk hair. I have been extremely satisfied with my curls lately. Y'all know that my bush does what she wants but I have been keeping her well behaved in a bun for quite sometime now. Since finding out that my hair can be bunned, I have worn this style faithfully for weeks. My bang area has been twisted and untwisted for a T.O. every night, which was working quite nice for me. Then I decided to switch it up but that wasn't such a good idea.

Instead of twisting like I normally do, a few nights ago I decided to try a wash and go for my bang area. I am not sure what prompted a WNG of all things because since my hair has been past ear length, I normally LOATHE my results but I went for it anyway. Initially I was pleased with the outcome. My curls were stretched and elongated but I knew that wouldn't last. Curly kinky hair, like mine, shrinks like no other. The joys of being blessed and highly textured, my shrinkage is INSANE! I used the products below.

When I first went natural these products helped me achieve some of the best WNG ever! Now that my hair is longer I am noticing that my holy grail Eco styler isn't cutting it. My shrinkage is 10x worse when I use it now. Even when I am bunning, my roots shrink up like no other. I have been playing with a few other gels that I find work better for my length and doesn't cause as much shrinkage but I am still testing them out. Whichever one works best will earn a review. Coconut oil will forever be a staple, my hair loves it. For those of you who are unaware, coconut oil is one of the few oils that can penetrate and moisturize the hair shaft. It's super light weight and I love applying it under my Shea butter, which I use to seal. I used the Oyin Greg Juice to keep my hair wet. Not for any particular reason besides the fact that I love the scent and ingredients. Below you can find pics of my hair wet with product and of my beloved shrinkage :)

xoxo,

Alex

Today's Hair: Beautiful Bun

2011-12-08T19:44:00.000-08:00

So, I am hooked on buns and I plan on wearing this style until it's PLAYED OUT, get used to it! No but seriously, I really think this is the easiest protective style on the planet if your hair is "bun'able" (collar bone length or longer). Today, I decided to spruce up my bun by wearing it a little higher than normal, lately I've been wearing it fairly low with the my bangs twisted or tucked. I wanted something a little more sassy today so I two strand twisted the bang area with a spritz of water and some of Original Moxie's "Just Gel" product. I will be doing an in depth review on that gel soon, I really liked my results.

See that definition?! To die for! The OM product gave me light hold while still keeping my strands soft and easy to manipulate if need be. I didn't experience any flaking, crunchiness or residue from it either, which is a huge plus. Get this, I only let the twists set for about 20 minutes or so... I am shocked at how neat my twist out looked. Through out the day, I experienced ZERO frizzies!

How did you wear your hair today?

xoxo,

Alex

PS. Read my full Original Moxie line review, from earlier this year, HERE.

Very Motivated Women Event: Come one, come ALL!

2011-12-08T13:33:00.000-08:00

I hope to see some of my DMV naturals at my first networking event that I will be hosting along with The GoldDiggers and MilaFireVintage! We would love to have you come out, support, network and party with us! Feel free to bring family, friends and significant others.

Click the jump for a short run down video.

xoxo,

Alex

Captured Curls: Danyelle

2011-12-05T20:15:00.000-08:00

I have been trying to get the gorgeous woman and her BEAUTIFUL curls on my blog for weeks now; I FINALLY caught up with her and I am super excited to share this feature with you all! Everyone, meet Danyelle, a super stylish natural with the BEST brows on the planet hands down. I really enjoyed reading about Ms. Danyelle's natural hair journey and I think you will too. Click the jump for more!

Please, introduce yourself!

Hi I’m Danyelle, a 25 year old Floridian. I’ve been natural all of my life and I’m loving it!

What is your current hair care regimen?

I don't always stick to a set schedule but usually I shampoo every 7-10 days with Shea Moisture Black Soap shampoo or Herbal Essence Hydraliscious Shampoo, then condition with Peter Coppola Almond Latte Protein conditioner (for my color & fine hair), and deep condition with whatever DC I have on hand (currently it’s Shea Moisture Anti Breakage Masque). Sometimes I’ll pre-poo with Castor/Grapeseed oil and Shea Moisture Purification Masque. Also, I conditioner wash every 2-3 days with either Andalou Naturals Moisture Rich Conditioner or Mill Creek Jojoba Conditioner.

No matter the style, I use Curl Junkie Beauticurl/Kinky Curly Knot today (+jojoba & castor oils) as a leave-in. My go to style are flat twists, either on wet/dry hair and the styler product may vary, but lately it's been Shea Moisture Curl & Style Milk or As I Am Double Butter cream. In addition to flat twists, I also do wet set buns with my leave-in and Eco Styler gel. Finally I seal my ends with a little shea butter.

Since I get my hair pressed almost every 2 months in the cooler season, I don’t do my curly hair routine. I just use a small amount of Aveda light elements smoothing fluid every 3-4 days if necessary, but for the most part I just leave it alone and my scalp will produce it’s own oils to add shine to my hair.

What is your hair type and what works best for your texture?

I have about three different textures, so I’m a mixture of 3c on the sides, 3b on the top, and 4a in the back of my head. Styles like flat twist outs and wet set pony’s work best for my hair type. Wash & go’s, twist-outs, and especially Bantu-knot outs are not my friend!

What reaction did you get when you first decided to go natural?

Actually, I’ve never had a relaxer so my family has always known me to have this hair. As a kid I wore cornrows the majority of the time and got my hair pressed on special occasions/holidays, then in undergrad I wore my hair straight most of the time. I didn’t start wearing natural styles like braid-outs and twist-outs until about 3 years ago. So my family and close friends enjoy seeing my hair in whatever style I choose to wear it in, curly or straight.

Did you BC or transition, if so when or for how long?

Even though I didn’t have a relaxer, I did transition out of my heat-damaged hair from my undergrad years. I had straight ends from the hard presses I would get and breakage, so about 3 years ago, I switched to a new hair dresser who encouraged me to let go of the pressing grease & hot comb, wear my natural texture by doing twist/braid outs, and opt for occasional blow-outs with light oils/serums. It took me about 1.5 years to get rid of the straight ends by doing gradual trims every 2 months.

What makes you love your kinks, curls and coils?

The texture, sweet clean smell from quality natural products, versatility, and my color are all reasons why I love my kinks, curls and coils.

Where can we find you on the web?

Twitter: @MsDanti

Tumblr: MsDanti.tumblr.com

YouTube: MsDanti1

Anything EXTRA you want us to know?

Having natural hair can be frustrating and time consuming, but the fulfillment of it comes when you finally get that bomb style after numerous product and technique fails. Then you realize that you have, good hair…. I love The Good Hair blog!

Natural Hair Style: Cinnabun Updo Tutorial

2011-12-04T14:43:00.000-08:00

Many of you all wanted to know how I achieved the above style yesterday after posting on Twitter. I made a super quick and easy video tutorial yesterday just for you! Click the jump to watch.

xoxo,

Alex

Essence.com Feature

2011-12-01T14:10:00.000-08:00

Today, myself and a few other AMAZING natural hair bloggers/vloggers were featured on Essence.com. Super exciting, right? If you haven't check our Ultimate Natural Hair Holiday Gift Guide, click HERE to check us out!

Thank you Essence and their awesome editor, Nicole Melton!

xoxo,

Alex

Play With It - a Coffee Table Book & Documentary by Vaughn Dabney

2011-11-29T13:27:00.000-08:00

Many of you have seen me tweet about the upcoming documentary and coffee table book by Vaughn Dabney called "Play with It." If you are not quite sure what I am talking about, let me give you the run down. A friend of mine put me in touch with Vaughn a few weeks ago and asked me to check out his Kickstarter page. At first I was kind of hesitant but then she mentioned that he would be writing a book and making a documentary on natural hair so, of course I was on board immediately after that. It's rare that you see a man taking initiative to spread the love and knowledge of natural hair, especially a man of color so I was beside myself after watching his video and reading up on his goals for the project.

From Play with It Kickstarter:

What is this project about?

"This project is about shedding light on the natural hair movement and why certain women either embrace or reject the notion of natural hair.

Using photography and film as my media, I will attempt to debunk myths, uncover hidden desires, and bring forth truths about women with natural hair."

Vaughn is actually from my neck of the woods but resides in Atlanta, GA. I had the pleasure of meeting him this past weekend to discuss the project and the fantastic giveaway that he will be hosting here on the Good Hair Blog. You may even see little ol' me in the book and documentary! What Vaughn is doing is spectacular and I really want you all to take the time out and support him. I've donated to his Kickstarter and I also have bookmarks (if anyone wants some let me know) that I have been mailing to fellow naturals across the country. Even if you don't have money to give share the word via Twitter with the hashtag #PlaywithIt to get more buzz going and be sure to follow him HERE. I have a feeling that this project is going to be beyond epic!

Vaughn's Links:

xoxo,

Alex

Hi, hair. High hair.

2011-11-29T12:51:00.000-08:00

I haven't had my hair blown out in a very long time. The other day I decided it was time for a length check so I stretched my hair on warm/cool air. Since I wasn't using high heat the process took a while but it was definitely worth it. I protected my strands with grapeseed oil and sealed with Shea butter. The end result was super big, hella soft hair. It was so great to see my hard work pay off. The length I retained during the challenge was awesome!

I tried to make a YT video of my progress and length but it didn't quite work so I ended up having to take pics of my progress. I retained almost all of my length and gained about 2.5 inches over the course of 3 months, not too shabby eh?

I know the pics aren't the best, my step dad wasn't home to help me get good shots BUT I will break it down for you.

Front: top of lip

Sides: collar bone

Back: past collar bone when stretched front ward

Overall I am pleased and will be hosting another PSC in the Spring. I hope you all come back and join me.

xoxo,

Alex

In Review: Belle Butters

2011-11-24T22:53:00.000-08:00

Shea and Matcha Green Tea Butter, $13.50/8oz

(All photos used are from BelleButters Online)

Recently I had the opportunity to receive some lovely products from Belle Butters to review. As you all know, I am a huge supporter of my fellow entrepreneurs and I cannot say no to YUMMY HAIR PRODUCTS that are made naturally! Yes, I know, I need self control. I was browsing Belle Butters site when I saw a few things I wanted to try. I tweeted the owner to see what she recommended, I was overwhelmed (in a good way) by all the choices I had in front of me. When I noticed she sold a face product that targeted oily skin, I knew I had to inquire about it. I ended up receiving the Shea and Matcha Green Tea Butter along with the Neutralizing Butter for Oil Skin. The quality of the butters are great and the owner was kind enough to send me full sized products, so I will have them for quite a while. Click the jump for the full review.

Shea and Match Green Tea Butter

Ingredients: Unrefined Shea butter, Matcha Green Tea butter, Avocado oil, Rosemary oil

My experience: When I first opened the jar I was expecting something soft and fluffy, instead I was greeted with a solid and firm butter. Honestly, I preferred that better than something super soft because I like emulsifying my butters in my hands to get them the texture I like. Over the past week or so the product has softened a lot and is now the perfect texture without me having to work it in my hands. I'd describe the butter as thick, smooth and easy to apply to my strands and body.

How I used it: I have been using this butter to seal or unravel my twists. After bathing Char and I have really liked using it on our bodies. It works great for her itchy eczema prone skin but it isn't too heavy where we feel like our skin is coated with something.

Overall: This product has been working well for me and CharBaby. I love the fact that I can use it on my hair and skin with no worries of clogged pores or heavy residue. When using this butter to take down my twists it adds shine to my strands and control frizz.

Neutralizing Butter for Oily Skin, $12/4oz

Ingredients: refined avocado butter, blueberry butter, activated charcoal powder, grapeseed oil, aloe vera gel, lavender oil, castor oil, jojoba oil, vitamin E

My Experience: When I first saw this product online I was praying that it would work for me. Sadly it didn't and I know it's because my skin is just a pain in the hind parts. I have very oily skin and the older I get, the oilier my face gets. I have been holding off on going to the dermatologist but I think it's time for me to make a visit. This product has some amazing ingredients and comes with a step by step note on how to use it. I followed the directions and have used the product 3x. For some reason my skin just doesn't react well to it, my face became even more oily as the day went after using this butter.

Overall: The product didn't work for me but I plan on trying it a few more times to see if I experience any change but I am pretty sure my skin is just being stubborn and won't my results will be the same. If anything should change I will come back with an update!

xoxo,

Alex