AfroDeity

Protein & Moisture

2012-02-27T03:11:00.000-08:00

When I first started my hair journey, I just assumed that I would need both of these for my terribly damaged hair. I had never used a protein/ strengthening conditioner so I just alternated between the two.

Your Hair Needs both for healthy hair!
Protein and Moisture work together to produce healthy hair. They cannot work without each other. Keeping the hair balanced between these two is very important. Hair that has been properly treated with protein absorbs moisture more efficiently and effectively as the water molecules bind easily to a solid protein structure within the hair.

Too much of a Good Thing
I now know that there is a time to use a particular type of conditioner and also that you can have too much of a good thing. The key to protein and moisture is balance. You can use too much protein and not enough moisture and vice a versa. It is important to know when your hair has had enough or not enough moisture or protein.

Too much protein - I encountered this scenario often in the beginning of my hair journey. Once I discovered protein, I just ran with it. However I hadn't been using an effective moisture conditioner during the week. My hair started breaking again and was rough, coarse even, not quite like a scouring brush but I was using a lot of leave in conditioner every day. The more my hair broke the more protein I used. Seems sensible right? Wrong. All I was doing was overloading my hair with protein and not treating it with moisture at all. In this case your hair will become super stretchy but will break as it lacks solid protein structure.

Too much Moisture - This happened to me recently when I ran out of my strengthening conditioner and just carried on without that balance. Thus is probably more common as we buy conditioners in the Tesco or Sainsbury's with their snazzy titles Super Replenishing Moisturising Conditioner for Ultra Dry Hair. After a while Your hair looks dull, and is very weak. It feels extra stretchy when wet but is just limp and has no life. In this case Your hair will break easily whether wet or dry. Your hair needs elasticity or it becomes difficult to style hair and it will just break.

When to Use a Particular Type of Conditioner

OK! So how do I know when I need to use a particular conditioner.

Your hair is balanced if your hair stretches slightly and returns to its original length without breaking.

However add protein to your hair diet:

If your hair stretches a little more than normal then breaks.
Stretches quite a bit with no significant breakage yet
When your hair is wet it feels weak, gummy, mushy, or limp.

Add Moisture to your hair diet if:

Your hair doesn't stretch or stretches very little and simply snaps or breaks.
When dry your hair feels rough, tough, hard, dry, tangly, brittle, or any combination.

Are you still not sure?
Start with adding more moisture and see how you get on with your breakage from there.

I also know it take a lot of trial and error to get this right but you see your hair every day and know what it looks like so after a while you will get to know it better and hopefully treat it right.

Embrace Your Inner AfroDeity
Leilu

References:
The Science of Black Hair; http://blackhairscience.com/hair_breakage.html

My attempt at a single cornrow

2012-02-25T14:01:00.003-08:00

I have always wanted to do this my entire life but my hair has never been long enough. Its probably not that impressive to people who have always had well taken care of hair but this is the first time I have ever been able to do a single cornrow without tucking the end into the back of my hair.
I always take pics like this because it like a moment in my hair story that I can look back at in the future and see what how far I've come.

Pic of my hair Lara Croft style

Paraben Free Products for Afro Hair in the UK

2012-02-23T06:03:00.000-08:00

There is an ongoing scientific debate about parabens and they are very controversial at the moment hence the rise of paraben free products on the market.

What is a Paraben?

Parabens are a class of chemicals used as preservatives in cosmetics. they are mainly used because of their bacterial and fungicidal properties and are particulary popular because of their high efficacy and low cost. They are produced by the esterification of para-hydroybenzoic acid with an appropriate alcohol.

Why use Parabens as a Presevative?

They can be found in many cosmetic products from shampoos and shaving gels to makeup and spray tan. Preservatives are what stops microbes from spoiling your cosmetics and causing disease. Essentially parabens are a cheap, synthetic and effective way of stopping your cosmetics becoming full of microbes that can cause disease.

Are these preservative dangerous?

A danish study showed that when paraben cream was applied to the backs of healthy male volunteers that the chemical could be measured in their blood after a matter of hours. Parabens are known to be absorbed, metabolised and excreted quite quicken so this would make sense.

"Preservatives are designed to kill cells. That is why they are effective. Unfortunately, that is also why they are potentially hazardous. They do not easily discriminate between good human cells and bad microbial cells but ultimately, the risk from using preservatives is significantly lower than that of using unpreserved cosmetics"

(O'Lenick,, 2010).

However, so far there has been no link to the possible carcinogenicity of parabens and their continuous use, hence the ongoing scientific debate.

So if this information which should be looked at as objectively as it can be has scared you, here are some Paraben Free brands which are available in the UK:

Paraben Free Brands Available in the UK

Jane Carter Solution - A US company hoping to fill the need for natural hair products that work effectively on all hair types.
Bee Mine - natural & organic products that would help increase hair growth and assist in rebounding from conditions like Alopecia.
Afrocenchix - blending naturally sourced ingredients with know-how and a dash of creativity.
Mixed Chicks - whether you’re Black, white, or any other glorious mixture you can define, you’ll love the way these non-sticky, alcohol free and lightweight products really define your curls and lock in moisture at the same time.
Phyto Masks including Phytojojoba
Hand Made Naturals
AfroDeity Essential (coming soon!)

I have only tried a few of these brands and if I have made any mistakes with this list please do not hesitate to correct me. Please, Please, Please comment and add to this list it is by no means extensive. I hope to add more as I come by them.

Embrace Your Inner AfroDeity

Leilu

Resources:

Anthony J. O'Lenick, Jr., (2010) Siltech; Cosmetics and Toiletries; Comparatively Speaking: Cosmetic Preservatives; http://www.cosmeticsandtoiletries.com/formulating/ingredient/preservatives/91617569.html?page=3

Ready for the Chop! Help Nik Decide.

2012-02-16T22:40:00.006-08:00

Our resident model Nikki is thinking of transitioning?

Here is a picture of her natural hair. She has just removed her weave and after six months of weaving she can't decide. So we are asking you!

What are your views? Help Nik decide! What are the main things she will have to be aware of if she transitions? Post here and let us know what are the main things she will have to be aware of if she transitions? Are you transitioning, what helped you make the decision?

Black Hair Magazines UK

2012-02-15T15:47:00.001-08:00

Hi There,

If you don't live in a major city, you cant pop into your local boots or tesco and find a hair care magazine. Luckily with the advent of technology you can now read these online.

Here are a few UK Mags that I've found for info on hair trends and styles:

Natural Bloom - A Black Hair Magazine featuring all things natural, distributed by the Natural Haven.
Pride - A beauty magazine for black women.
SistazMag - An online magazine created by women for women and the men who love to know about them
Precious - An online magazine, network and resource for women of colour. Hair Tips too!
Tiya - Hair, beauty and fashion for creative people,
The AfroWomans Ezine - I guess the name says it all. A website giving afro-women beauty products news, recipes and articles to boost their self-esteem.
Black Beauty and Hair - One of the big brands when it comes to black hair mags here in the UK
Black Hair - Another big UK hair magazine

Let us know of any more!

Embrace Your Inner AfroDeity
Leilu

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GTD your hair journey

2012-02-11T09:07:00.000-08:00

GTD or getting things done is a organisational method created by David Allen. I have followed this method of getting tasks done in every aspect of my life except of course in my hair and skin care regimes.

I mean why would I apply these methods here. But I have found that here is another place that I can truly GTD in my life.

Principles of GTD:

Identify
Remove
Create
Prioritise
Do

Before you even start GTDing you need to do two things 1) Tidy Up - Remove all the things in your hair life which you feel are harmful rather than helpful. 2) Mindset - Change your mindset. Your long hair journey or just your hair journey is possible you just have to change that negative mindset that keeps telling you its is not.

How to apply this to your hair, GTDing your hair:

1. Identify:

What in your hair life isn't in the right place.
Do you have the right tools for your type of hair or lots of the wrong ones.
Do you stress and pull your hair out.
Are you using the correct relaxer or natural hair care products
Why do you have dandruff? dry scalp? breakage?

2. Remove

Get rid of stuff that isn't appropriate for your hair type.
Get rid of stuff you dont use anymore - why are you keeping it?

3. Create

Create a hair care diary or picture vault to record your journey
Join forums or groups that will help support you on your journey

4.Prioritise

What does you hair need most, a trim?, moisture?, protein?
Put your head in the right place for your journey
Start at the top of your list of hair needs and work through them one by one

5. Do

Just Do It
If you dont at least try, you will never know your try hair potential
Start your journey and do those things on your list now

This is my interpretation of GTDing your hair. Anyone else GTD? Have I got it right? Anything else you want to add?

Answers on a postcard

Embrace Your Inner AfroDeity

Leilu

Do I have a Hair Obsession?

2012-02-11T08:49:00.000-08:00

Family and friends constantly laugh at my 'hair obsession' as they call it. I am a little confused by this as I would never laugh at someone who is on a diet and tell them they were weight obsessed. Just because I have decided to change the way that I care for my hair doesn't make me obsessed, just mindful. I set my self a goal and I made my way towards changing something about myself.

So I dont really see this as an obsession but as a positive change.

I started washing my hair more frequently.We bathe everyday and yet some think it is acceptable to keep our hair and scalp dirty for days or weeks on end.
I now keep a hair diary and a picture vault. How can I keep on complaining about my hair not growing, if I dont know where I was a year ago and if the products I am using are any good. Also I have set myself a goal to work towards
I now find time for my hair. I have always found time for my skin( I guess I must have a skin obsession too) because of my eczema. I wash my skin and moisturise it daily. I guess I have just extended this chore to my hair and scalp as well.

How much do you really want to change your hair habits? I suppose you actually have to want to change, as with anything weight loss, education, damaged skin. There is no point continuing on the present course and expecting change, You have to want it and work towards it.

So how you get started:

1. Take a picture, today, tomorrow, whenever you feel you need to start and ask yourself am I happy with my hair ?

2. Throw out al those haf bottles of product that dont work have never worked but yet you keep buying. I suppose I am not saying through out the stuff you used your hard earned cash to buy, but at least take a good look at it and decided if it will actually help you on your new journey.

3. The internet is a great resource. Quite a lot of inspiration to be found here.

4. Start washing your hair weekly. Water is good for your hair. You will see a change.

5. Set a goal, What length hair would you realistically be happy with.

6. Dont expect your hair to grow to MBL in a month or even a year, if you dedicate yourself to this journey, you will see change and growth in time. Everyones hair growth is different and so is everyones journey.

I hope this helps you get started.

Embrace Your Inner AfroDeity

Leilu

How I Blow Dry and Straighten my hair

2012-02-11T08:32:00.000-08:00

Hi again,

As I said in my last post about air drying I do sometimes use a blow dryer, I just do it in moderation, maybe once a month or every two months and on special occasions and i also use a heat protector. At the moment it is the GHD heat protector for dry hair but I have also been know to use the Jane Carter Solution Leave In Revitalising Spray, which is also a great detangler.

Here is my step by step hair drying routine

1. Detangle hair in the shower - gently with a wide toothed comb, or just fingers, go through hair, please bear in mind it is fragile when it is wet so BE VERY GENTLE. Fingers are probably best. Slowly detangle your hair and bring it back in one direction on the head.

2. As I get out of the shower I wrap my hair in a muslin square or t-shirt ( as with Hairlicious T-shirt method). I leave along with wringing or rubbing my hair for 5 - 7 minutes.

3. I apply Jane Carter Solution Wrap & Roll to my hair , followed by the GHD heat protectant and my usually daily moisturiser. Then I seal the ends of my hair with an oil. Usually Coconut Oil or Castor Oil. The oil molecules are larger than the water molecules and as such keep the moisture in your hair. This is an important step as the blow dryer and/or straighteners pull moisture out of your hair.

4. I then part the hair in four sections and blow dry each section.

5. After I have blow dried and before I striaghten. I apply a very small amount of moisturiser. Just a little as if your hair is to wet it will sizzle under the straighteners, so make sure you have dries it properly.

6. I then straighten my hair.

Other tips: moisturise and oil your scalp before blow drying in the same way as you di your hair to avoid drying the scalp.

Embrace Your Inner AfroDeity

Leilu

The Sock Bun

2012-02-11T08:29:00.000-08:00

Okay maybe everyone else has already seen this and as usual I am late to the party, but I had to post about it.

I bun my hair quite alot and I do get quite nice waves after a bun but nothing like in this video. The first video is about how to do a sock and the second about the waves you get after the sock bun.
I so have to try this.

Awesome!!!

Then the Waves

What did you think. I loved it but I am easily pleased. Anyone think they have seen better?

Embrace Your Inner AfroDeity

Leilu

How I Air Dry My Hair

2012-02-11T08:24:00.000-08:00

So this air drying thing, how does it work?

Quite a few people ask me this. I mean if you air dry your hair doesn't it just go back to curly how you keep it straight and neat and not frizzy and fly away, isn't that why a blow dryer should be used?

I am not saying I never use a blow dryer, I just do it in moderation, maybe once a month or every two months and on special occasions and I also use a heat protector. At the moment it is the GHD heat protector for dry hair but I have also been know to use the Jane Carter Solution Leave In Revitalising Spray, which is also a great detangler.

Here is my step by step hair drying routine

2. As I get out of the shower I wrap my hair in a muslin square or t-shirt (as with Hairlicious T-shirt method). I leave along with wringing or rubbing my hair for 5 - 7 minutes.

3. I apply Jane Carter Solution Wrap & Roll to my hair, followed by my usually daily moisturiser. Then I seal the ends of my hair with an oil. Usually Coconut Oil or Castor Oil. The oil molecules are larger than the water molecules and as such keep the moisture in your hair. This is an important step as the blow dryer and/or straighteners pull moisture out of your hair.

4. I then part the hair in four sections slowly comb through with a wide tooth comb. If your hair is particular damaged I might avoid this step.

5. I then decide how I am going to wear my hair for the next 3 days, side parting, middle parting, no parting and I manipulate my hair gently in that direction, leaving the parting where I would like it.

6. A head band to wrap the front is great way to keep the front straight and gently pulled held in the style you decided on. The hair will then keep its shape or you could tie a scarf around the front of your hair. Leave the back out and that way your ends can dry.

I usually keep my hair in a bun to protect it so there is no need to straighten unless you were planning to leave your hair out. I also find that after an overnight bun I get great waves in the back and the front of my hair has been kept neat by the head band.

Also another tip: Never go to bed with wet hair. Make sure it dries before putting your silk scarf on for the night.

I hope to get a video up of this but if you have questions I am only an email away

Do you use this method or some other? Share it with us

Embrace YOur Inner AfroDeity

Leilu

My Winter Hair Wear

2012-02-09T03:14:00.001-08:00

Here are a few pictures of how I have been wearing my hair this winter. Including a protective bun and a few hats I picked up this season. I have a few more as I love hats.

How are you wearing your hair this season, protective styles? Wigs? Or hats?

Answers on a postcard
Embrace Your Inner AfroDeity
Leilu

Hair Update: February 2012

2012-02-09T02:45:00.001-08:00

I haven't updated about my hair growth for a while now.

Quite pleased this time around as I find that during the winter months, my hair grows a little less. This is possibly due to reduced circulation to the scalp during the cold months.Jamaican Black Castor Oil aids in restoring circulation to the scalp and had been quite helpful.
Here is a pics of my hair after washing.

The hair is wet so length might change slightly but I will upload some blow dried hair, trimmed when I do that again in a month or two.

Can anyone say MBL? Well APL approaching MBL

Embrace Your Inner AfroDeity
Leilu

Snow Snow Snow

2012-02-05T02:20:00.001-08:00

Snow all night here. 13cm. Of course as soon as Ruby (1) and Sebastian (4) were up they wanted to go out into it.

It was -3 this morning so wet hair is a big NoNo! So if you washed you hair last night or this morning make sure you dry it properly before venturing out. Wet hair can freeze and break off more easily.

With this type of weather I stick to a few simple rules. So here is my hair routine:

Apply leave in conditioner and seal in with a natural oil. Hair is moisturised and protected and oil keeps the moisture in.

Cover with a satin scarf. With the woollen hats and synthetic fibres you get on the high street, you'll want to protect your hair from damaged caused by snagging on these fibres and that awful drying effect they have. I hate touching my hair after a woollen hat has been in it so dry and therefore prone to break more easily.

Put winter hat over sarin scarf covering ears.

Simples!

Might seem short, but will keep your hair protected from the cold weather

Embrace Your Inner AfroDeity

Leilu

Swimming and Afro Hair - Part II

2012-02-04T00:30:00.000-08:00

I have been out swimming with Sebastian and Ruby again the last few month so her are a few helpful tips for all you ladies who love to swim.

Rule 1 : Wear a Swim Cap - seems obvious, i know, it may not keep all the chlorine out, but it will go a long way in helping. It may not look attractive but it will keep some water off your hair.

Rule 2: Plait or tie your hair up so that as little of your hair is exposed to the water as possible

Rule 3: Before going swimming, I use an oil on my hair, usually avocado oil, then I wash it out before entering the pool. The hair is then saturated with clean water and this should make it harder to become saturated with pool water.

Rule 4: After swimming, rinse your hair immediately. As soon as you are able shampoo and deep condition your hair.

Rule 5: Save washing with your weekly shampoo or 'Wash Day' for the day that you swim. Co-wash if you swim more than once a week.

Rule 6: Invest in a swimmers shampoo - now this is something I have not tried but have read a lot about. I tend to use a clarifying shampoo instead and only do this once a month. Most of those swimmers shampoos were probably not formulated for afro hair so I would check ingredients.

Rule 7: Invest in a good deep conditioning treatment - This is essential after you have shampooed your hair.

These are the rules I follow at the moment and I thought I would share with you. It would really be great to hear from other swimmer ladies, Especially if you have braids or natural hair. How do you care for your hair?

Have you given up swimming or do you have a set regime. Post. Email. Let us know

Embrace Your Inner AfroDeity

Leilu

Types of Conditioner

2012-02-03T23:59:00.000-08:00

There are several types of conditioner which you should be able to find in you local hair care store but what are they for?

Moisturising Conditioner

This is the type of conditioner you find most on the UK market which targets 'dry hair' usually the ones in Tesco or Boots, they usually gave snazzy names like 'Moisturising Nourishing Conditioner'. These conditioners are usually designed to replace the moisture that has been taken out of out of your hair. Hot weather, excessive heat styling can be the main culprits of this. Afro Hair in particular needs more moisture than other types of hair and should be used regularly. Moisturising your hair ensures it is less likely to get dry and brittle and break.

Oil Treatments

Natural oils which penetrate the strand and stimulate the blood flow to the scalp are great conditioners to use on a regular basis because they keep the strands nourished from inside out. They are able to penetrate the strands where other store bought conditioners can sit on the outer layer of the hair. Mother Nature knows best. A good prepoo or just using as a deep conditioner can be a good way to revive dull lifeless hair. A good steam treatment with the right oils can help to maintain supple, strong hair.

Coconut Oil
Keratase Elixir Ultime
Morrocan Oil Treatment
Phytospecific Revitalising Oil
Jamaican Black Castor Oil
Jojoba Oil
Grapeseed Oil

Strengthening/ Protein Conditioners

Excessive chemical processing, causes hair to lose much of its outer layer leaving it thin and unable to lock in the necessary moisture it needs to stay long and healthy. A strengthen conditioner helps to build back that outer layer, temporarily. The stronger your strands are the better it is able to withstand the daily manipulation of styling. Strengthening conditioners do not need to be used as often as the moisturising conditioners, perhaps only once a month or even once a week for severely damaged hair in order to build up your hair.

PhytoSpecific Vital Force Cream Bath
Beauticurls Strengthening Conditioner

Embrace Your Inner AfroDeity

Leilu

Body Shop Macadamia Straightening Balm

2012-01-02T12:17:00.000-08:00

My new best friend is the Body Shop's Macademia Straightening Balm. Now hold your horses I know what you are thinking. First of all there is no miracle wonder potion that will make your hair straight and this... is definitely not it. However I will say this is definitely a product for you transitioners.

The Speil:

This lightweight, humidity-resistant balm relaxes wavy and curly hair and reduces frizz.

Ingredients:

aqua (water) (solvent/diluent), cetyl alcohol (emulsifier), cyclopentasiloxane (skin-conditioning agent/emollient), propylene glycol (humectant), glyceryl stearate (emulsifier), peg-100 stearate (surfactant), phenoxyethanol (preservative), tocopheryl acetate (antioxidant), cetyl esters (emollient), dimethicone (skin conditioning agent), octyl methoxycinnamate (sunscreen), sodium polyacrylate (film former/viscosity increasing agent), hydrogenated polydecene (skin conditioning agent), hydrolysed wheat protein pg-propyl silanetriol (hair & skin conditioning agent), macadamia ternifolia (macadamia nut oil) (emollient), orbignya oleifera (babassu oil) (emollient), hydroxypropyltrimonium hydrolysed maize starch (hair conditioning agent), parfum (fragrance), methylparaben (preservative), cetrimonium chloride (hair conditioner), butylparaben (preservative), ethylparaben (preservative), ppg-5 laureth-5 (skin conditioning agent), laureth-4 (emulsifier/surfactant), isobutylparaben (preservative), propylparaben (preservative), laureth-23 (emulsifier), benzyl benzoate (solvent), limonene (fragrance ingredient), linalool (fragrance ingredient), geraniol (fragrance ingredient), anisyl alcohol (fragrance ingredient), benzyl salicylate (fragrance ingredient), benzyl alcohol (preservative), citral (fragrance ingredient), citronellol (fragrance ingredient).

Price: £7 at the Body Shop

My 2pence:

I bought this a couple of weeks ago when the BodyShop had a one day sale that I spotted through VocherCodes.co.uk. I had never bought hair product from the Body Shop before but I love hearing about new products, so I decided to check it out. The ingredients list is dizzying but nothing out of the ordinary and the BodyShop pride themselves on an all natural image.

So I applied after washing and just before I was about to blow dry on my semi wet, air dried hair. Once the blow dryer (on a cool setting) had done its job, I applied some more as a leave in as it smelled so good and was a nice creamy consistency. Totally loved it... smoothed down all the fly aways and my now 10 weeks post relaxer roots were calm and tangle free. I dont blow dry my roots or scalp so I was surprised at how easy it was to put my hands through my curls. So I kept using this as a leave in and as a heat protectant and I really love the way it makes my hair feel. Both the straight ends and the curly roots are so soft now and even without blowdrying this cream is a great moisturiser. A little does go a long way so I didnt have to use loads, I am sure this will last me a while.

Embrace Your Inner AfroDeity

Leilu

Excellent Oils for Winter

2012-01-01T04:01:00.000-08:00

Hopefully you are all enjoying the festive season or at least enjoying the time off work!

Accompanying this festive season is always the inevitable cold snap. So I thought I would give you a run down and description of some oils that can help maintain and moisturise your hair in the cold and dry months

Some Excellent Oils for Dry Environments:

Jojoba Oil - Another of my favourite sealers. Due to the tight coil pattern of our type of hair we produce very little sebum (the scalp's natural oil) resulting in the dryness and breakage which is very common. It is easily absorbed by the hair and scalp and provides excellent lubrication and smoothing. Natural Contents: Vitamin A, Vitamin B1, Vitamin B2, Vitamin B6, Vitamin E (RICH IN), Myristic Acid, Plant Wax (mimics skins collagen).
Avocado Oil - has regenerative and moisturising properties. Natural Contents: Vitamin A, B1, B2, D, and E, Rich in protein, linoleic acid, minerals.
Coconut Oil - Oh the heavenly smell. This oil is another moisture sealer leaving hair feeling soft and supple. Natural Contents: vitamins A, B and E as well as phosphorus, calcium, iron, manganese and magnesium.
Mint Oil - ph balancing and soothing properties help with the itching many of us with dry scalp experience. Pairs well with carrier oils such as almond, castor or olive oil. Stimulates your hair follicles and promotes hair growth. More@Ehow

Some Excellent Oils for Cold Environment

Macademia Nut Oil - A natural emollient, because of its similarity to sebum, it infuses into the hair and scalp and is absorbed very quickly. An excellnet protectant from chemical and heat damage and gives natural UV protection. My favorite blow dry cream at the momnet is the Body Shop Macademia Straightening Balm, great smell and leave my hair feeling silky and smooth even after blow drying. Natural Contents: Vitamin A, Vitamin B1, Vitamin B2, Vitamin B6, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, proteins and minerals
Safflower Oil - Softens and retain natural moisture. Natural Contents: Vitamin A, Vitamin B1, Vitamin B2, Vitamin B3, Vitamin B5, B6, Vitamin E, Rich in linoleic acid and minerals.
Castor Oil - Castor oil helps to seal in moisture.It is a humectant ie. attracts moisture to the hair. It also makes hair softer, promotes growth at the scalp and causes hair to become thicker with regular use. You already know that I am partial to the castor oil of the 'Jamaican Black' (JBCO) variety and I cannot recommend this enough.
Sweet Almond Oil - This oil is good for dry and dull hair. Lubicating but not penetrating Contains vitamins A, B1, B2, B6 and E, and essential fatty acids.
Neem Oil- natural antibacterial and soothing properties. Excellent for use on fungal infections. Natural Contents: Vitamin A, Vitamin B1, Vitamin B2, Vitamin B6, Vitamin D, Rich in protein, linoleic acid, minerals.
Apricot Kernel - The high content of Oleic acid gives Apricot greater affinity with the skin compared to some other oils which means that it is more easily absorbed. Natural Contents: Vitamin A Vitamin B1 Vitamin B2 Vitamin B6, B17 and Vitamin E.
Argan Oil - has some anti-ageing properties, due to high levels of Vitamin E and saponins (which soften the skin), these are well documented. It cools and soothes inflammation. Its ant-oxidant properties contribute to the neutralization of free radicals, particularly useful in the polluted Western hemisphere. Natural Contents: Vitamin A, Vitamin B1, Vitamin B2, Vitamin B6, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, proteins and minerals

Products with these oils are excellent for the winter months or I like to use some of these oils on their own as a prepoo or mixed with my deep conditioner.

Did I leave any out?

Embrace Your Inner AfroDeity

Leilu

My current regime

2011-12-30T15:19:00.000-08:00

Hi All,

I just finished my monthly cleanse routine.
My current routine now involves once a month using Bentonite clay to cleanse my hair and scalp.
Especially as I have chosen not to use a relaxer but keep a straight do, it requires being a bit creative and keeping my roots clean and moisturised so they do not tangle.

I have been trying out some slightly unconventional mixtures for my deep condition:

My current deep condition involves all or some of the following ingredients
5 x tbsp Olive Oil
1 x Egg
2 x tbsp Jamaican Black castor Oil
a handful of bentonite clay

I wash the bentonite mixture out then I co-wash with Jane Carter Nourishing conditioner so that I can detangle my hair in the shower. I find this more effective as with new growth my hair tangles considerably especially with the bentonite mixture in. (I wash out the clay mixture and then do an extra condition whilst I shave etc.)

At present I still wash my hair twice a week, with one co-wash and one deep condition at the end of the week.

I am planning to get some more mane and tail as I found this quite moisturising. So would like to use this again.
Embrace Your Inner AfroDeity
Leilu

Out with a Bang: 2011

2011-12-30T06:38:00.003-08:00

Hello All,

This year has been more than a roller coaster ride for us here at AfroDeity. Looking forward to beginning 2012 on a high.

This year saw the launch of the AfroDeity Online Store in March bringing products to the UK which were previously difficult to get hold of. Our new store prided itself on efficiency and great customer service. Our products included The Original Edgestick, Jamaican Black Castor Oil, Pendeza Tights and a selection of products from Jane Carter Solution.

We found a model, Nikki, for our first You Tube video describing the use of The Original Edgestick.

Our blogger Leilu laid herself bare and decided that it was not time to transition back to a curly fro as she has decided to use other methods to keep a straight do.

We launched our ranges on Amazon and eBay and Facebook/ Twitter and suppliers in London are now carrying Jamaican Black Castor Oil.

In 2012 we will be looking forward to the launch of the AfroDeity Essentials range and suppliers in Birmingham and Manchester. Also more hair updates from Leilu. Product Reviews and much much more.

Embrace Your Inner AfroDeity

Leilu and the AfroDeity Team
Happy New Year!

Nik in her modelling days

My Neem Oil Experience

2011-12-30T05:47:00.001-08:00

Neem Oil is a vegetable oil. In India is not used for cooking purposes but it was used for preparing cosmetics and it is often found in insecticides and lice shampoos. It has also been proved to be toxic and should not be ingested by pregnant women or children.

My experience with this oil was not pleasant, it is not that it was not moisturising or antibiotic. It was that awful smell that some describe as a peanut and garlic odour. Anyone that ever said Jamaican Black Castor Oil smells bad, has obviously never smelled Neem Oil.

The smell lingered for days. I used it combined with coconut and jojoba oil as a prepoo and because the container said a little goes a long way I only used a small amount. I washed with shampoo and deep conditioned. The smell remained after I blow dried. It was almost nauseating.
I had to wash my hair again the next morning. I also had to throw my satin scarf and pillowcases in the wash.
A whole week passed before I could get the smell out of my nose. Yetch!!!

This oil definitely did what it said on the tin, but will definitely mix with a better smelling oil. I have heard tell that Kemi oil is nice for mixing, so I may try this.

Embrace Your Inner AfroDeity
Leilu

Jamaican Black Castor Oil : TV Spot

2011-12-11T08:42:00.000-08:00

Just found this on You Tube, in case anyone was interested.

Sunny Isle Jamaican Black Castor Oil can be found over at AfroDeity's Online Store. This product is great for thickening up har but it can also be used for aches and pains, treating acne and as a pre shave balm. Also checkout the new range of AfroDeity Supporting products. The AfroDeity Peeps love to hear from you so email them with any questions or you can email me for my 6pence.

Embrace Your Inner AfroDeity
Leilu

Dear Father Christamas

2011-12-02T14:56:00.000-08:00

Dear Father Christmas,

Because I have been such a good goddess this year, could you please bring me:

MoroccanOil - Oil treatment for all hair types

Alterna Caviar Treatment Hair Masque

Amazonia Organics Hair and Body Butter

Keratase Elixir Ultime

Did you have anything in particular that you wanted Father Christmas to bring you this year.

Post a comment and let us know. You know we love to hear from you!

Embrace Your Inner AfroDeity
Leilu

Weekend Deal at AfroDeity

2011-12-02T08:46:00.000-08:00

Here at AfroDeity we are so excited about it being Friday, here is a weekend giveaway ending midnight (UK time) on Sunday Night. 10% off for all orders over £20 for Facebook and Twitter fans and followers. Use code FRI678. Tell your friends! Dont forget this ends on Sunday!

The Seduction of Straight Hair

2011-12-02T02:06:00.001-08:00

After much agonising about whether to transition or keep my hair straight. I have decided that I like my hair straight and it is the hair style that I have decided to go with and that is my choice. If there was ever pressure to straighten your hair when I was younger. I feel that recent arguments and events and made me feel pressured to transition and go natural.

It's not a desire to look white as many believe. I kind of feel insulted by that assumption. I haven't been seduced by the media and the 'pretty' young things on the telly. I have actually only worn my hair straight for the last 8 years, previous to that I rocked an Afro all through my teens and into my mid twenties against convention and frankly I got a little bored of rocking a 'fro and with a fat face like mine, a straight do really frames the face well.

As you can gather, I like to go against convention and now that everyone is going for a fro, I want to go straight. I will not necessarily be using relaxers, there are other ways. So I plan to be a bit more creative with my regime and it does mean I may have to use heat where previously I wouldn't have done.

Well we will see how it goes. Maybe I will get bored and shave it all off and dye it platinum blonde.

Have a good day and wrap up warm. It's so cold today!

Embrace Your Inner AfroDeity
Leilu

Jamaican Black Castor Oil : How to Use

2011-11-25T08:01:00.001-08:00

How To Use Sunny Isle Jamaican Black Castor oil for Hair Growth And As A Moisturiser.

Apply small amounts of high quality Sunny Isle Jamaican Black Castor Oil daily to your hair roots and scalp. Then massage the oil into your scalp using your fingertips. You may leave the oil on your scalp overnight. The oil will not soil your pillow as the Sunny Isle Jamaican Black Castor Oil is easily absorbed into your scalp. Make sure to adopt a good wash regime and was oil out of your hair at minimum every few days.
Once per week use Sunny Isle Jamaican Black Castor Oil as a Hot Oil Treatment preferably on the weekends. Use generous amounts of Sunny Isle Jamaican Black Castor Oil and really massage oil in scalp and hair.
After applying Jamaican Black Castor Oil to your scalp and hair, cover your hair with a plastic cap and go under the Dryer for 15 to 30 minutes.
After Hot Oil Treatment with Sunny Isle Jamaican Black Castor Oil you may shampoo with our Sunny Isle All Natural Lavender Jamaican Black Castor Shampoo and Conditioner.
You may now style and groom your hair on a daily basis with any one of Sunny Isle’s Jamaican Black Castor Oil all Natural Hair Pomades, lightly scented with your choice of fragrance, Lavender, Rosemary or Ylang Ylang essential oils.You will see results in two weeks after date of usage.

Sunny Isle Jamaican Black Castor Oil for Eyelash and Eyebrow Growth

Sunny isle Jamaican Black Castor Oil will help your Eyelashes and Eyebrows to grow thicker and longer, and keep them from breaking. It also helps promote new growth in bare areas of your eyebrows caused by over-tweezing. Massaging a little Sunny Isle Jamaican Black Castor Oil over the base of your eyelashes before bed prevents thinning and promotes rapid growth, leading to thicker and fuller longer lashes. Only use the Regular and Extra dark for eyebrows. The essential oils in the fragrance JBCO could cause irritation.

How to Use Sunny isle Jamaican Black Castor Oil for Eyebrow and Eyelash Hair Growth

Wash your face with a mild soap preferably Sunny Isle Jamaican Black Castor Oil Soap and remove all traces of makeup from your eyelashes and eyebrows soap and remove all traces of makeup and dirt.
Dip the mascara wand or a Qtip into Sunny Isle Jamaican black Castor Oil, tapping off any excess oil. It is important to only apply a thin layer, so use a clean tissue to dab away drips from the wand/Qtip if necessary.
Brush the oil evenly through your eyebrows from inner to outer tip. Then use the wand/Qtip to apply the Sunny isle Jamaican Black Castor Oil to your eyelashes, just as you would mascara, from root to tip.

Leave the Sunny Isle Jamaican Black Castor Oil on overnight and rinse off with a mild soap, Sunny Isle Jamaican Black Castor Oil soap, in the morning before you apply your makeup/ moisturiser.

Treating Acne Using Sunny Isle Jamaican Black Castor Oil

Many people are unaware that Sunny Isle Jamaican Black Castor Oil has been used in many acne treatments. Sunny Isle Jamaican Black Castor Oil treats many kinds of skin problems without drying the skin. Many of the acne treatments bought in store dry out the skin a great deal, as this is a method of slowing down the skin’s production of sebum. While sebum has been linked to acne, drying out the skin actually leads to even more sebum being produced in the future, which forced the skin to become dependent on the treatment in order to stay clear. Sunny Isle Jamaican Black Castor Oil treatment, however, is able to prevent the skin from drying out, while still reducing the production of sebum.

Start by putting a large pot of water on the stove and bringing it to a boil.
Once the water is rapidly boiling, take it from the stove and put it on the counter. Make sure that it is in a very sturdy location and that nothing will fall on it.
Put a towel over the back of your head, covering both head and face, and allow the steam from the water to hit your face. This will open up your pores and will allow the Sunny Isle Jamaican Black Castor Oil to become a much more effective acne treatment.
Once this has been completed, rub your face with a washcloth to remove any excess dirt and put a small amount of the Sunny Isle Jamaican Black Castor oil onto the cloth. Any one of our Jamaican Black Castor Oils may be used, but we recommend the use of our Sunny Isle Jamaican Black Castor Oil with Ylang Ylang.It has a fabulous stimulating effect on the skin. The Ylang Ylang Essential oil helps to correct the production of sebum (Oil) in the body.
Rub this oil all over your face using circular motions and make sure that you get any areas that are giving you trouble. If any areas of your skin are giving you particular problems, make sure that you apply a little bit extra Sunny Isle Jamaican Black Castor oil, especially the one with Ylang Ylang, in order to ensure that you have properly taken care of the area.
Once the Sunny isle Jamaican Black Castor Oil is all over your face, keep it on for a few minutes so it can be absorbed into the skin then wash your face with warm water and make sure that all of the oil has been removed from your face.
Splash your face with cold water, as this will allow your pores to close up. This is essential for the next step of the Sunny isle Jamaican Black Castor oil Acne Treatment, as you will not want your pores to remain open all night, since they will clog.
Once you have washed your face with cold water, dry it off.
Apply more Sunny Isle Jamaican Black Castor Oil {Recommended Ylang Ylang} acne treatment on your face and let it sit there overnight.
Make sure that you put a bit of extra Sunny Isle Jamaican Black castor Oil on any areas that are causing you particular problems.
When you wake up, wash your face with a moisturizing soap preferable Sunny Isle Lavender Jamaican Black Castor Oil Moisturizing Soap to prevent the drying of skin.