Naturally Twisted

My Hair This Week: From Flattwists to a Bun

2015-12-15T08:45:00.000-05:00

I did that updo right before Thanksgiving, and I kept it for about 10 days. I redid the twists in the front every few days, so I could roll them with the flexirods, and the redid the twists on the side once because they were starting to look frayed. Otherwise, it was a pretty low maintenance style. I sprayed it with leave-in conditioner to keep it moisturized, and used a little oil in between my parts.

I finally decided to wash my hair, but I didn't want to take out the twists. Instead, I washed my hair in my twists and rolled the ends with the flexirods. This was the result:

I know I look crazy - forgive the lack of makeup....

I then undid the twists and fluffed my hair.

Still no makeup, but at least my hair looks better.

I left the flattwists in the back, they made my hair look shorter in the back.

It didn't last as an exercise hairstyle, despite my attempt at a pineapple, so it only lasted a day:

I don't know why I look mad - I'm not...

I then wore it up in a textured bun for the rest of the week:

My bun held up for the rest of the week.

I tried it: Flat Twist Updo

2015-12-09T12:43:00.002-05:00

Remember this hairstyle from my Instagram page? I said that I was going to try it just before Thanksgiving...and I did, but I didn't take good photos.

I can tell you how to recreate the style in a few simple steps.
Working with slightly damp, moisturized hair:

1. Separate the hair into three sections, with the parts going from ear to ear. Make the section closest to your forehead slightly smaller than the other two sections.

2. Pin up the first two sections (leaving the back loose) until you are ready to create twists.

3. In the back section, separate the hair into 4 sections in order to complete 4 flat twists going toward the crown of your head. Let the ends of the twist hang.

4. Add flexirods to the ends of each twist.

5. Repeat the action for the 2nd section, but try to part and twist the hair at an angle in order to make the style more visually interesting. Again, add flexirods to the ends of each twist.

6. Repeat for the front section, but recognize that you will be undoing the twists in the front section when styling the hair later.

7. When the hair is dry, remove the flexirods from the flat twists, and using slightly oiled hands, undo the ends of the twists in the 2nd and 3rd sections of hair. Undo the twists in the front of the head.

8. Pin the back of the hair up, and fluff the loose hair as desired.

It took me about 35 minutes to twist and roll my hair, and less than 5 to pin it as desired. I would say that it is a 3/5 in terms of difficulty.

Please forgive these photos - at various points during my Thanksgiving trip, I would realize that I hadn't taken any photos...and these were the result!

Let me know what you think!

Not Quite a Goddess Braid

2015-11-30T13:06:00.001-05:00

Another new day, and another new 'do. And yet another hairstyle born of the need for a simple and quick style to get me through at least a day (it ended up lasting a whole week!!!) of work and exercise.

Effort level: 2 of 5, Skill level: 2 of 5, Time: 35 minutes (including detangling)

I started with dry hair that had been detangled and parted down the middle. I sprayed my hair with leave-in conditioner, coated it with coconut oil and finally added a dollop of the Eco Curl 'n' Styling Cocktail that I've been using recently.

I then used about a 1/4 pack of uncut, rinsed Kanekalon braid hair (I've been rinsing my Kanekalon in Apple Cider Vinegar to avoid itching) and incorporated it into a single braid along the side of my head going from the crown of my head to the nape of my neck. I stopped braiding at about waist length, and burned the end of the braid. I repeated this action on the other side of my hair.

Finally I took the ends of both braids and cross-crossed them at the back of my head and again at the front of my head, resulting in the appearance of three (3) braids on each side of my head.

I pinned the braids in place, and was able to keep the style all week by tying it down at night and spraying it with leave-in conditioner.

Note that with typical goddess braids, braid the hair from back to front or nape to crown. Wrapping the braids around , will result in the more common goddess braid.

Do Special Occasions Require Straight Hair?

2015-11-23T21:23:00.000-05:00

Imagine your best friend's wedding day, or better yet, your own....how is your hair? Is it pressed or is it in your favorite textured style?

Image via Therighthairstyles.com

Now picture your daughter's school picture day. Same question. Is her hair pressed or is it in your favorite textured or kid-friendly (ponytails, braids, beaded) style?

What does that say about your thoughts on "special occasions"? I know that a lot of us naturals wear our hair in its textured state most of the time, but have you ever gone out of your way to wear your hair straight for an event or a photo? Why? If you did press it, did you think it would make a different impression than your textured hairstyle? A better impression?

I'm not making any judgments, but I am curious. The thought crossed my mind because I had the pleasure of seeing Amandla Stenberg of the The Hunger Games and misappropriation of black culture fame wear her hair in what looked like a wash-n-go to the Mockingjay Part 2 premier. She looked lovely in her Phelan gown, and I found myself somewhat impressed that she didn't feel the need to stretch it out, press it out, or manipulate it to go to this event. I remembered seeing her a few years ago at red carpet events and seeing that she wore her hair pressed out, but realized that as she's grown older, she has worn a variety of styles. It could simply be that at 16, she now makes the final decision as to how she looks for special occasion events.

I recently attended an event with Mushiya from The Damn Salon and Cutting it in the ATL, and she was saying that when her children have big events like piano recitals or school photos, that she makes their hair bigger, and "wilder" than on a regular day.

It made me question whether I would do the same.

My answer: No. I don't think that my (imaginary) child's biggest hair would be their "best" hair, but I wouldn't press it either. It would probably be in 1-4 ponytails, or in some sort of braided style. I could even see myself going for a twistout with a sparkly headband.

For myself, I love an Updo for a formal event, but knowing the way I feel about hair, for me, my best hair is usually a twistout. It is an easy, reliable way to get beautiful hairstyle. And sometimes I will even make it big....

To each his own, and thank goodness that we live in a time where we can make our own choices on the matter. How do you style your hair for special occasions? Your children's'?

New Day, New Do: Directional Flat Twists

2015-11-23T20:50:00.002-05:00

The damp twists I wore to California turned into a very defined twist out the next day. It only took a moment to go from twisted to styled because of one fundamental change in my routine. Instead of parting my hair and twisting it all back, or even twisting it all from a point in the center of my head, I parted and twisted my hair in the direction that I ultimately wanted it styled. Simple, but effective!

I don't usually wear my twistouts with a part down the middle, but I generally twist them that way initially, then split and pin the hair so that I form the kind of bang that I generally like. the problem with that approach is that it sometimes makes the front of my hair frizzy, and messes up the curl pattern that I just spent time creating! In this instance, I finally realized that if I made a deep part between my eye and my ear, and formed all of my twists from that point, with some going back and at an angle and some being angled over towards the opposite side of my face, that I would end up with the style that I wanted, with a lot less fuss.

I was right!!! And I truly loved the results of my twistout. I immediately turned the front into a pompadour, and over the next few days, I wore a high bun/pineapple, a double pompadour, and several nice twistouts. I was able to manipulate my hair less, and in doing so, I think I preserved the style longer than I otherwise would have. And it lasted through fog, a trip to the beach, 3 exercise sessions, and normal daily activity.

Glamour Magazine's Annual Women of the Year Awards

2015-11-10T09:22:00.001-05:00

Last night, and for the 25th year in a row, Glamour Magazine selected and honored a group of women for their accomplishments. The event took place at Carnegie Hall, with comedien Amy Schumer serving as host. This year, for the first time, Mayor Bill deBlasio declared the day "Women of the Year Day" in New York City.

Honorees included Misty Copeland (prima ballerina), Elizabeth Holmes (tech entrepreneur), Victoria Becham (fashion designer), Caitlyn Jenner (LGBT activist), the US Women's soccer team, Cecile Richards (president, Planned Parenthood), and the survivors of the Emanuel AME Church massacre in Charleston, SC.

Jennifer Hudson performed, and Lupita Nyong'o presented Misty Copeland with her award.

DIY Recipe: Essential Oil Cleanser & Deodorizer

2015-11-05T08:43:00.001-05:00

Recently one of my fellow boxing students was kind enough to spray my new gloves with a fantastic deodorizing spray. He said that his wife, a Roller Derby racer, and her teammates used it on their skates to keep them smelling fresh. I read the ingredients and realized that I could make a similar spray from ingredients I had at home. I've used it to spray on my gloves and shoes, wiped down exercise mats, and it's been working well.

Ingredients:

4 oz - Witch Hazel

25 drops - Tea Tree Oil

12-15 drops - Lavender Oil

12-15 drops - Rose Oil (optional)

Pour 4 ounces of witch hazel into a plastic or glass container. Add tea tree, lavender and rose essential oils. Mix thoroughly and pour into a spray bottle. Shake before using. Double or triple recipe as needed.

Lavender essential oil is a natural disinfectant while tea tree oil has both disinfectant and anti-fungal properties. The tea tree oil leaves a distinctive but pleasant smell so feel free to substitute the rose oil for other scents that you enjoy. Rosemary, cinnamon, thyme and clove oils are known to have disinfectant qualities, and can also change the scent of the spray. This recipe can serve as a cleanser, deodorizing spray, sweat neutralizer or simple air freshener.

Blog Post: Damp Flat Twists - Simple Styles as they Dry

2015-11-03T09:41:00.001-05:00

I didn't plan to do this post, but I had a long layover, and I thought it could be helpful

My flat twists were still soaking wet when I left the house this morning. I know we've all experienced it...and it sucks. Sometimes I've just chalked it up to the game and realized that it was time to have a textured puff, but I digress.

In this scenario my twists are wet and I know it. Fortunately I've been trying to create neater flat twists so that just in case my hair doesn't dry, I can walk out in the street with my parts showing.

Today I found 3 simple styles for my wet flat twists.

1. Braided flat twists

2. Pinned up flat twists

3. Flat twists in a low bun

4. Ponytail with tucked under ends

Braided Flat Twists

I took the hanging end of my twists and braided them around my hairline. I could have created a halo, had I had less space between my twists.

Pinned up flat twists

I left the twists hanging in the back, but twisted up the front and sides, and pinned the ends together.

Low Bun

I also put the ends of my twists in a low bun.

Finally, I tucked the ends into a ponytail, tucked the ends under and pinned them under.

These Twists

2015-07-24T04:04:00.001-04:00

So it was time. I've been really lazy about my hair for the past few months and it's started to show. My ends, which had held up pretty well through last year's experiments with color, "suddenly" started to thin out. It wasn't sudden. I've let my hair be a tangled, dried out mess that I kept in sad little buns. I stopped taking my vitamins. I stopped rubbing it down with coconut oil after steaming in the shower...in short, I stopped doing even the bare minimum.

Anyway my hair needed to be protected. Last week I did some large flat twists

Which ended up as:

I knew that I was supposed to TWIST it, but I didn't want to take the time. I had tv shows to binge watch and sleep to get and other important type stuff to do. But I woke up at 1:56am on Tuesday and gave myself until until 5:30am to finish my hair. I'm work better when I have a deadline..

Step 1. Wash and condition with SheaMoisture's 10-in-1 complex line. I have my hair a quick squeeze, but left it wet.

Step2. Coated my wet hair with coconut oil.

Step 3. Separated my hair into 4 sections and using a large-toothed comb, I did a quick detangle. I then formed 1 big twist per section.

2:20am

Step 4. I started in section 1, and I used my fingers to part my hair, 1 row at a time. Before two-strand twisting, I used my favorite twisting product (after raw shea butter)...Shea Moisture's Cocnut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie. I did all 4 sections the same way, and I dampened section 4 with leave-in conditioner before I started, because my hair had started to dry by then...

Halfway done at 3:47am

I remember thinking that I was done at about 5:20, but then I redid a few twists in the front...the final pic was taken at 5:39am.

My goal is to leave these in without any re twisting until sometime next week. Then I will likely redo all of the edges, and hopefully leave the twists in for at least the next 3-4 weeks.

Maintainence will be steaming in the shower, rubbing coconut oil into the twists, sleeping in a bonnet, and co-washing as needed.

Black Beauty - August Issue of W Magazine

2015-07-22T18:00:00.001-04:00

It's funny, I've seen so many all white advertisements in magazines that I don't even think twice about it. I don't wonder why no one has hired a black, Asian or Latina models to bring some spirit to the shoot. And I don't question a spread where there are 5 white models and 1 meant to be just ambiguously featured enough that all of us women known as "other" can feel included...or even when a beautiful dark chocolate women is thrown into the mix to startle us with her "unique" beauty.

But when I saw this shoot in a major high-fashion American magazine and the women there represent only shades of brown...I actually got a little testy-eyed. These are natural-haired, beautiful black women. Is this the work of a defiance? Or could the definitions of beauty actually be expanding? I don't know, but I'm glad to see that W Magazine's August issue has these images and more.

Photographer - Emma Summerton

Stylist - Edward Enninful

Models -

Amilna Estevao, Anais Mali, Ajak Deng, Aya Jones, Binx Walton and Tami Williams

I love the retro-70's feel of these fall looks. Check out W Magazine for more details and photos!

My Hair This Week....Exercise Hair

2015-07-16T05:02:00.001-04:00

My hair hasn't been the same since I bleached it last year, and through no fault of its own. I've allowed it to be mediocre at best. I've treated it badly. Gone are the days where I would coat my hair in coconut oil and steam my hair, deep condition then spend hours twisting or braiding. Lately my hair has been different. I don't only mean the color, it is also the thickness (I've noticed that my ends haven't survived the transition as well as I originally thought) and the texture. The combination of recent neglect and almost daily exercise (www.instagram.com/BLTWorkout) has taken a toll on my hair. I'd decided that I couldn't have good looking hair and exercise as much as I wanted to. I'd traded hair maintenance time for gym time.

But I've decided that I can have both! I'm trying to be more disciplined. I'm going back to my old friend, twists. And I'm going to wear more of the styles from my book, One Hairstyle, Thirty-one Ways. (http://www.amazon.com/One-Hairstyle-Thirty-one-Ways-2nd-ebook/dp/B00ARMVYYM)

Since it's going to take me a few hours to twist my hair, I decided to do a quicker, interim style...a curly twist out, angled to the side. I threw in some twists and rollers to wear to the gym (and only the gym) but the plan changed when my ends were soaking wet at the end of my workout. I couldn't undo my hair, so I rolled with it. It is now day 3 of this protective style. I don't love the way I parted my hair, but at least I'll have a gorgeous twist out when I finally undo these flat twists!

Are you Summertime Fine?

2015-06-04T20:55:00.001-04:00

First of all - the answer is yes! Love the body you are in. There is no point in doing anything else because this is where you live. For now. If and when you want to make changes - you can and you will.

Secondly, know that the only thing that can instantly change is your attitude. Your body will take a little more time. Consistent effort and a change in eating habits will provide you with the results you seek, but they won't necessarily be seen immediately. Most health and fitness programs state that a 1-2lb weight loss per week is a consistently achievable goal.

Thirdly, take some time to figure out your motivations - why do you seek change? If you've started this journey previously, what stopped you from continuing? Are you aware of your roadblocks? Temptations? Stressors? Do you have a plan to manage these issues?

Fourthly, have you found support for your goals? While I believe that willpower alone can push you to achieve almost anything, it is more likely that you will succeed when you have a partner to provide encouragement, support and a sympathetic ear if you need one. That partner can be a trainer, the other members of an exercise class or workout group, an online community, a nutritionist or even that person you see at the gym every time you go in.

And whether you have a partner or not - don't forget to appreciate your achievements. Feeling good is its own reward, but there is nothing wrong with acknowledging that you can fit into an old pair of pants, that your waist is smaller or that the scale moved more than you expected. Take pictures, plan rewards for your milestones because the thought of those future rewards may help you fight off immediate temptation.

Finally, even though the summer is halfway over, make the most of the time you have left! Eat some of the delicious fruits and veggies of the season, and try some fun outdoor activities. Try rafting, a running group, kayaking, an outdoor bootcamp, hiking, and paddle boarding - now. It is warm outside and the days are long. Use the body you've got, and eventually you'll get the body you want.

Follow my @BLTWorkout on Instagram (I'm trying to get my numbers up) and contact me via Skype (BLTWorkout and 404.994.2258) if you would like to work out with me. I have 2 morning sessions every Monday - Friday, 5:45 - 6:30, and 6:45 - 7:30. And if you are in Metro Atlanta, a free workout on Saturday mornings at 8:00a at Stone Mountain park.

Birthday Tripping Part 2

2015-06-04T20:11:00.001-04:00

Here are more photos from the trip...

I loved the fountains at this pool...

We went to the Estuary, a beautiful marshy area where people go to kayak and observe a variety of birds and animals. I took some fuzzy photos of these sunbathing birds and turtles, and a gorgeous little multi-hued bird.

Here is a close up (as found on trip advisor)

And there were many moments walking the beach and watching the waves

And before we left, I did something that I never planned to do...

But at least the scenery was gorgeous...

And I got to wear and take pics in one of my favorite bathing suits...

I thought I looked pretty decent, despite days of too much food and too many of these....

Bob Marley/Miami Vice...

I thought I took a lot of pictures, but I didn't get nearly as many as I should have. I missed a ton of beautiful moments, but thanks for sharing my birthday with me!!!

Birthday Tripping

2015-06-03T22:27:00.001-04:00

I had a birthday over the weekend. 🎉🎂🎊🎁🎉 I celebrated the way I like to celebrate...with a trip!!! I went to Los Cabos, Mexico. And I apologize if you sent me a text and I didn't respond; I forgot to turn on my international plan and some of your texts did not come through.

Hair

I started off with a very quick version of the twists from a few weeks ago.

They looked fine -until I decided to hot water the ends instead of burning them. The steam made my hair look terrible.

But I thought that it would be fine for a week......it wasn't.

I eventually took them out and did a french braid...

Cabo is really two cities Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo. They are about 20 minutes apart on the tip of the Baja Peninsula. On one side of the peninsula is the Sea of Cortez and on the other is the Pacific Ocean. It's amazing, beautiful and with waves so strong that it is deadly to swim on the majority of beaches out there.

Here is the Pacific Window...

Water from the Pacific goes through to the Sea of Cortez...

Here are is the famous arch...

A stately sea lion

Pelican Beach...

Part 1...I'll do another post soon

I Did My Hair...

2015-04-19T16:18:00.001-04:00

Ok I try to do my hair regularly, it's just that last night/this morning I did something that I haven't done in 7 or 8 years and something that I haven't done regularly for more than 10.

And I'm acting like I did something amazing, and no it wasn't AMAZING, but it was definitely kind of cool. I braided my hair! Specifically I installed large Senegalese twists using kanekolon. Here are my steps as I remember them...

1. Choose a style

Friday I was inspired by this photo from my beloved Instagram:

I loved it!!!!

2. Choose hair

Fast forward to yesterday evening. As I was driving home, I decided that I would try to braid my hair. I went to the local beauty supply - looked at the picture again, and tried to figure out how much hair I would need and what kind of hair to buy. After a quick consultation with Pintrest and Google, I realized that for silkier twists I could use kanekolon and for twists with more texture, I should use Marley hair.

3. Have your tools handy

I bought 6 packs of kanekolon, an aluminum comb, a lighter and used some clips to hold back your sectioned off hair.

4. Prep your hair

I recommend that you braid on freshly washed, moisturized and stretched hair.

Since I washed, styled and stretched my hair on Friday, I didn't do much to prepare.

5. Braid

I started by section ing off the sides and doing 4 flat twists. I tried to cornrow them - but it was not turning out right, so I twisted. I then did big blocks from the front to the back of my hair. I did 2-3 braid rotations then twisted the hair to the ends. I ended up using 4 packs of hair. After I was done, I could have used hot water but I wanted the twists to be shorter so I burned the ends.

All in all it took about 5 hours to complete. And I expect it to last 2-3 weeks.

C is for...Crochet Wig!

2015-01-16T03:12:00.001-05:00

Image via africandiamond.com

I've seen everyone's crotchet braids. I've seen some videos. I've seen your photos on Instagram. I think you look great. The styles looks beautiful. I LOVE the crochet braid extensions!!! But it isn't for me, right now...

Why not? To tell the truth, I'm really not sure. It could be in part because I sometimes need to hype myself up to try something new, and in part because the thought of doing it myself makes me want to take a nap instead. And finally, I might be allergic to kanekolon and/or Marley hair, so I've been getting more and more itchy and uncomfortable whenever I've worn protective styles with added hair.

But I may have come up with a solution...

The crochet wig!!! I can wear my own hair braided or flat twisted, and have the crochet look without the itchy side effects. I'm also excited about the idea because I'd like to be able to make a custom wig...my head shape/hairline is such that the fee time I've tried to buy wigs, they were too big - even the ones with the adjustable strap. I figure I can make several kinds and have a curly crochet, a kinky crochet, and maybe even a straight crochet wig. The possibilities seem endless.

I've found a ton of tutorials on YouTube:

One even promise that it can be done in thirty minutes. To tell the truth, I wil be happy with anything less than 2 hours. It seems like with clear enough instructions, I can make a decent looking wig. This may be perfect!

If DIY is not your thing, there are also people out in the world willing to make you a wig.

@empresschrissy (Instagram) will make you a crochet wig for $85.

They are available for sale here: http://m.ebay.com/sch/misschrissy1290/m.html?isRefine=true&_nkw=&_armrs=1&_ipg=&_from=&_mwBanner=1

Have you worn crochet braids? If not, why not? Does the wig seem like a good alternative?

[UPDATE] New Movie Alert: CREED Starring Michael B. Jordan and Tessa Thompson & Review

2014-12-17T16:09:00.001-05:00

Did you grow up on the Rocky franchise? I did...and I can say that I am excited about this upcoming spin-off. Apparently Michael B. Jordan (Fruitvale Station) will play Apollo Creed's grandson, and Tessa Thompson (Dear White People, Selma, Copper, Veronica Mars) will play his love interest. Sylvester Stallone will apparently be in the film as Jordan's mentor/trainer.

If you remember Apollo Creed as Rocky's nemesis from Rocky I & II, you've forgotten (like I had) that Apollo served as Rocky's trainer in Rocky III, and died in Rocky IV (by the hands of the evil Russian that Rocky then fought and defeated...), anyway the point is that a beautiful natural is being featured as a female lead!

Here are some photos of Tessa Thompson:

As Bianca in Creed

Dear White People

Selma - by award winning director, Ava DuVernay, and writer, Paul Webb.
Major release on Christmas Day

Looks like a roller set...

From the TV show, Copper - set in 19th C NYC

With her on-screen husband

Veronica Mars circa 2005

Featured in Hype Hair

Lucky Magazine - I love the side pony...

via Lady Gunn

Drop curls!

UPDATE: I loved Creed! As you may know, I've been boxing (taking classes and sparring) for a few years now, and I thought it was an excellent movie. The story line was strong, and the acting much more nuanced than in the original Rocky series. The female lead, Bianca (Tessa Thomas) had an actual story line, and issues of her own. The training scenes were authentic, and reflective of the many skills needed to be a fighter. The trainers, the other fighters and the corner men in the film were not actors, but actual and real-life members of the boxing community. It showed.

Michael B. Jordan's character did not end up being Creed's grandson, but was his son, Adonis, with the lovely Phylicia Rashad playing Creed's widow and Adonis' de-facto mother figure. Finally, Michael B. Jordan looked AMAZING!!! Here are some pics:

Solange Wedding Video with Son Daniel

2014-11-17T15:41:00.003-05:00

We've already seen tons of photos from the weekeen wedding of one of our favorate naturals, Solange Knowles, as she tied the knot with her groom, Alan Ferguson, but I'm adding a few photos below and an ADORABLE video of Solange and Daniel dancing it up in honor of the occassion.

(via Daily Mail) Solange wore a long caped gown by Humberto Leon for Kenzo for the nuptials but arrived at the ceremony in a Stephane Rolland cream jump suit, having travelled there on a white-painted bicycle decorated with cream roses.

The couple tied the knot at the Holy Trinity Church in New Orleans in front of 100 friends and family, including Jay Z and her two-year-old niece Blue Ivy, and singer pal Janelle Monae. (If you look closely that's her on the far left).

via DailyMail

via Elle

via HollywoodLife

No Flex Zone!!!

And the Carters seemed to have fun as well.... Question: How do you feel about her wearing an Afro for her wedding day? Personally, it's none of my business - but I LOVE IT!!!!

I Hennaed! Color Chronicles

2014-10-23T10:00:00.001-04:00

I bleached and colored my hair back in June, and I've loved every shade and variation that my hair has turned since then. It was probably only its intended purple for a few days, and 20 shades between auburn, red and burgundy since then. And even with me rinsing it jet-grape two times over the last few months, it has never regained its purple glory.

But the bigger problem has been that the gray has been showing up in full force.

You can see it at the sides of my hair, but also at the front.

I was trying to figure out how to cover the gray without having to worry about the bleach in my hair...and I remembered that I had a few packs of henna. I remembered from all of my reading of posts about henna that I could use lemon juice, green tea, yogurt or some mix of the three to set my henna. Then I remembered that I was at my Dad's house. He had none of those things.

So I found recipes from a site called howtomixhenna.com, and mixed up what I could find.

The chamomile tea plus apple cider vinegar mix resulted in this:

After a few hours, I applied it to my hair, starting with the front and working my way back and coating each section as I went.

Next time I will mix more!!!! I only had time to leave it in for about 3 hours, but my gray was covered!

Wet

Dry

My grays didn't turn the deep vibrant red that I imagined, more like a copper, but again - at least it isn't gray.

Texture

Since henna is essentially a protein treatment, in that it bonds to the hair and fills in any gaps in the cuticle, it may change the texture of the hair. Some experience a loosening of their curl pattern. Results often include the hair feeling dryer, harder and rougher to the touch. In any event, a deep conditioning treatment is a must. I used my III Sisters of Nature Honeyrose Treatment as a leave-in, and rinsed it out later that day. I then did a twistout. Overall, it has been almost a week since the henna. The color has lasted, and although my hair has seemed slightly dryer, neither it nor the texture of my hair has changed significantly.

I will henna again - although next time I may change the ingredient mix, make more, allow it to sit longer, and apply it longer. Ok - so pretty much change everything!!! What has your henna experience been like?

Color Chronicles: Wiz Khalifa

2014-10-08T10:51:00.001-04:00

Love, and its end, can result in dramatic changes. In rapper Wiz Khalifa's case, his recent separation from his wife may have been the impetus for this new look. Or not. Maybe he just wanted a new look.

Bleach blonde

During

PURPLE!!!!

CURLFRIENDS: Lutisha!!!

2014-10-07T10:25:00.003-04:00

2014 crochet braids using kinky braid hair

Lutisha is a stylish natural that embraces the versatility of natural hair. I never know if she is going to rock braids, a twist-out, a new color, or have it pressed - but whatever the hairstyle, she always combines it with a cute outfit and a great attitude!

Why did you decide to go natural?

After moving to Atlanta in 2005 and enduring such harsh humidity, that I never experienced in the DMV area, I found that my relaxed hair would never behave as it did all my life while living in Virginia. In addition, I never found a stylist that styled my hair to my satisfaction and at REASONABLE prices. And who likes to sit around in the shop all day anyway?--not my style at all!

I permed my own hair at home for a few years, moving to milder relaxers in efforts to combat the limp, lifeless hair I was experiencing. I noticed my naturally fine hair was thin and limp and would not hold curls with relaxers. I decided to go natural in 2008, after seeing so many other 'straight naturals' with beautiful and healthy hair. My plan was to go natural for thicker and healthier hair and for that beautiful straight natural texture that I saw on many women in Atlanta who had natural hair without relaxers. I was a long-term transitioner!

Twist-out in March 2011 prior to color

What stage of life were you in when you went natural?

I was in my mid-late 30s when I went natural. I was convinced that my hair disliked humidity and was becoming more thin due to age, so it was now or never! Additionally, I was a professional, working in a relaxed corporate setting. The setting made it easier to transition to natural, though my personal concerns regarding looking professional remained. Since I have always had a pretty conservative look in the workplace, however, I had no real problems looking professional or suffering from career backlash during my transition.

[In my personal life], I received mostly positive feedback concerning my transition and natural hair. Of course the bad hair days received some negativity, but I believe that was mostly due to being used to straight and perfectly coiffed hair. Those moments were outweighed by 'likes' and comments that my hair was so soft and other favorable comments on occasion. However since I transitioned to natural and never big chopped, I maintained a lot of versatility by wearing my hair straight, in twists, braids and an occasional weave, so there was never a drastic hair moment.

3rd day Twist-out with color-treated hair on ends 2013

What has been the best compliment you've received on your natural hair?

I've received compliments such as, "Your hair is so soft and curly" and general "I like your hair today" comments from friends and random strangers. Biggest compliments have come when on the 'black hair care/ethnic aisle' in stores and others ask what products I use, as if they are trying to achieve similar results. That means I must be doing something right or that they see something that I sometimes have difficulty embracing because I feel I'm having a bad hair day.

Straight hair may 2014--- all color cut out

What is the one tip you would give a new natural?

Learn to give it time and embrace your texture and curl or wave pattern. Your hair is like your fingerprint---No one's hair is just like yours! And find a good standard product and regimen and work with it, you shouldn't go broke being natural!

Do you feel like you are part of the natural hair community?

Go-to Puff!

Yes, I feel like I'm a part of the natural hair community and I'm proud of it! My hair is 100% natural! I've embraced the versatility and unpredicatability of natural hair. I'm an occasional hair video/ Youtube watcher and there are 2 or 3 standard blogs I go to daily or bi-weekly for tips, techniques, products to try, or to just crush on other naturalistas out there. I am not neurotic about this natural hair thing, though, and don't believe that one can't straighten or color their hair or use products with silicones or parabens or whatever and still be considered natural. To each her own.

Has your natural hair has influenced other parts of your life?

Natural hair is amazing!! As with most black women, I relaxed at an early age---11--and I had no idea what I was missing. My hair was never super difficult, I just wanted curls, straight hair without the straightening comb, and to be like my big sister. Since becoming natural again, I have seen the personality in my hair. It basically does whatever it wants whenever it wants! The unpredictability tries my patience, but on the other hand it has allowed me to be more expressive and trendy in my looks and to take more chances by installing braids and weaves and natural styles!

What are your top three hair products or tools?

Hands down:

- Coconut oil

- Shea Moisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie

- Leave in conditioner! - Giovanni Leave-in (but the sample of Miss Jessie's Condish was amazing on my puff WnGs!...sample because it's expensive!)

What is your go-to style?

Perfect twist-out using some glycerin product 2012

Twist-outs..but just when I think I have it mastered, my hair decides to do its own thing! Lol! By the way, Twist-outs from dry hair win over twist-outs from wet or damp hair for me!

Look It's...Danai Gurira!

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Last night at AMC's "The Walking Dead" Season 5 premiere, held at the AMC Universal City Walk, one of my favorite naturals, Danai Gurira, looked fabulous!

Although her character rocks locs, and apparently now has her own action figure, the actress wore her own signature twa with a taper and a cute part. She wore a Christian Siriano dress, Rauwolf clutch, and Giuseppe Zanotti pumps.

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Sources: dailymail.com, tomandlorenzo.com

October 2014 Exercise Challenge

2014-10-02T09:09:00.000-04:00

It's that time again! New exercise routine for October! September didn't quite work out as I planned, and I slacked at the end of Spartan September, but the past is the past and it's a new month and time for a new challenge. Phil of 48 Fitness and Decatur Boxing Club, said that October's challenge would be the same as last year this time so here we go:

I'm ready for the challenge! Are you? Here is a link to the Advanced Warrior Maker - sorry it wasn't up earlier, but I only got it this morning.

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Carb de Light - 21 Days Have Passed & Sample Daily Menu

2014-10-02T07:59:00.003-04:00

So the 21 days of the lower carb lifestyle are up. I went 3 weeks without eating some of my favorite foods. No white carbs, no rice, no beef, no fried foods, etc. check out this link to find all of the guidelines.

I lost weight over the course of the past few weeks. In fact I lost so much weight in the first week (4lbs) that I tried to eat more often and include more protein in my meals and snacks. Overall, I ended up weighing 3lbs less than I did when I started [UPDATE - 5lbs down in 23 days], and considering that the challenge ended at a time when I tend to gain 2-3lbs, I know that the plan was effective for weight loss. The other participants have also sent in weight loss success stories.

And best of all (for me), my stomach is flatter! I am short and extremely short waisted, so I can't afford to have a lot of extra flesh around my midsection. I knew that my diet was working against me, so I hoped that this plan would make a difference.

These photos (r-l) were taken on the 1st, 11th, and 18th days of the 21 day challenge. That's what my abs look like when I haven't done a bunch of sit-ups before taking pics!

Me looking all pumped up on Day 4...

The best part about this plan is that it can be a real lifestyle change. I can eat without feeling like I'm on a perpetual diet, and I'm going to continue. Eventually I'll eat beef and I will have a real sandwich or a piece of cake [UPDATE - I had a piece of cake, wings and fries as my celebratory meal] likely once a week or so, but I can and will be more mindful of what I eat. These three weeks have also reminded me that food prep is essential. I did a lot of cooking and assembling at home, and I'm glad that it did because it saved me time and/or money every day over the past few weeks.

Here is an example of a typical menu for the day:

- Green smoothie with kale, chia/flax seeds, wheat grass, pineapple, grapes, ginger and lime

- 1-2 boiled eggs or almond pancakes (see recipe) with turkey bacon or chicken sausage

- quinoa stir fry with rotisserie chicken, cabbage, broccoli, carrots, snow peas

- snack of an apple, banana, trail mix, hummus and carrots, or another boiled egg

- turkey burger in a pita with cheese, avocado, and field greens with sweet potato fries

- watermelon for dessert

I know that the 21 days are up, but I'm going to continue, and I hope that you'll join me. [UPDATE: I wrote this a few days ago, and since then I have lost 2lbs, for a net loss of 5lbs in just over 3 weeks. I may add another photo....]

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B is for Biotin

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What is it?

It is a water soluable B vitamin commonly known as B7.

What is the recommended daily dosage?

It is rare to have a biotin deficiency, but daily recommended doses are 30 to 100 mcg or (.03 to .1 milligrams per day) for adults and teenagers. However, when using biotin for hair growth, dosage is usually much higher. A starting dosage may be between 500 and 700 micrograms of biotin per day (.5 to .7 milligrams per day), and sometimes as high as 1000 micrograms (1 milligram). Many biotin supplements come in capsules of 1000, 5000, or 10,000 micrograms, so be careful of the dosages being ingested.

Fortunately, biotin is safe even at very high doses, with extra biotin being included as waste and often resulting in a florescent yellow urine. Expect to take biotin consistently over a 2-6 month period in order to see results.

What does it do?

It helps in the production of hormones that improves cell metabolism (speeds up the growth cycle) and renews the follicles and roots of the hairs that are already growing.

Why do so many hair vitamins include it?

It has been known to increases the elasticity of the hair, and therefore helps prevent breakage, prevent hair loss (alopecia), make hair grow thicker and longer, protect against dryness, and increase the strength and length of one's nails. It has also been known to improve one's skin (after an initial adjustment period).

Which foods contain it?

Biotin is found in various foods, including egg yolks, cauliflower, salmon, liver, carrots, bananas, soy flour, cereals, and yeast. Biotin content of food is reduced by cooking and preserving.

Are there any side effects?

I've experienced a noticeable increase in breakouts and acne since taking the Biotin. Some people experience headaches, and expect ALL of the hair on your body to experience a growth spurt. Staying hydrated does help quell some of the side effects, and they will generally dissipate over time.

Is there a way to add it topically?

Yes, biotin can be absorbed through the skin, but this treatment is generally only used on individuals with skin conditions, not those seeking hair growth. Taking a supplement orally, and or increasing the ingestion of foods containing biotin, is a more effective way to ensure hair growth.

To read more about pre-natal vitamins for hair growth, click here.

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Sources: Mayo clinic.org, bestvitaminsforhairgrowth, and previous research.