Hair2Toe Beauty

China Glaze: Dorothy Who?

2012-02-06T10:11:00.000-06:00

China Glaze: Dorothy Who? (flash)

China Glaze: Dorothy Who? (no flash)

L.O.V.E.

The true color is closer to the flash pic, but in some inside lighting you can see greenish sea-green tint.

I swiped this lovely color at Sally's for $4.99 with a coupon. I believe the normal price was $5.99.

I did my toes in this color as well, saving myself a whopping $30 + tip had I gone to the nail shop.

This is like my 4th mani/pedi I have given myself. With practice and finding the best (not expensive) tools and products, I was able to give myself a pretty-darn-close to salon look! Pow!

I'll post on what I use soon. The cost of everything I use to do it is still less that a one-time mani-pedi.

Partial Sew In Weave

2012-01-26T14:26:00.000-06:00

It
Partial Sew In Weave

I've had this partial sew in weave for the last couple of weeks. I have plenty of random weave hair in a drawer that needed to be used. The only issues is that I'd spend the time and money getting a full weave done, only to take it out after a couple of weeks. I felt I needed to make baby steps in getting used to weaves.

I had 7 tracks sewn in only at the back of my head starting below the crown about eyebrow level. It does not come forward past my ears.

A row was braided across and the weft was sew on. In between each track, lies about 1 inch of my hair. Because my hair is out, I'm still able to get a very good wash in. I simply make sure to shampoo in between the tracks. I typically use a paddle brush for daily maintenance.

This isn't considered a protective style, but it's excellent for natural looking hair styling and adding length without looking "weave-y".

This weave was razored and adds just about 3 - 3.5 inches of length to my own hair. It's a great visual for reaching future lengths. It falls about 2 inches short of APL on me.

Had I not said this was a weave, could you tell?

Forum Closing

2012-01-21T11:39:00.001-06:00

Hair2Toe Beauty Supporters,

Thank you so much for your continued support of the Hair2Toe Beauty Forum! I truly appreciate you stopping in and sharing a bit of yourself with us on our forum.

Sadly and thoughtfully, I have decided to close the forum portion of Hair2Toe Beauty. Due to outside commitments, I simply cannot give this forum the attention it needs.

Thankfully, there are so many other wonderful hair-related forums out there, I'm sure you will or have found a great e-home for hair related goals.

Here are just a few that I know of:

Healthy Textures
Long Hair Care Forum
Black Hair Media
Keep It Simple Sista
Hairlista

The only portion of Hair2Toe Beauty that is being deactivated is the forum. YouTube, Twitter, and this Blog will remain active for postings and interactions.

Make sure to bookmark and subscribe!

The forum will be closing on February 20, 2012. Please make sure to save any pictures you need or any other bookmarks and information found on the site that you've found useful.

Again, THANK YOU for your support and I will "see" you at the blog, Twitter, and YouTube!

xoxo

2012 Hair Goals

2012-01-10T09:40:00.001-06:00

Because of being scissor happy for various reasons these past 3 years I've been taking care of my hair, I have yet to make significant length gains.

Now that I've been on cruise control comfortably with my hair, it's time to start actively growing it out. My goal for 2012 is to make Arm Pit Length. I may just barely miss it because of my need to trim, but I'm still optimistic.

I've never had hair that long and I'm excited to see what this next year brings.

As I mentioned before, I'm in the LHCF APL Challenge 2012. The check in times are as follows:
March 31
June 30
September 30
December 31

These dates happen to correspond with the week range I normally get relaxers. So, I may end up relaxing for these updates.

I'll keep you posted with plenty of comparison pictures and any changes in my regimen. For now, my regimen is still the same and posted here.

Removing Distrations for Success

2012-01-08T09:12:00.000-06:00

I don't know if anyone noticed, but my subscription to LHCF ran up a couple days ago. I did not get banned! :-) It was supposed to automatically renew, but it never does and I always have to email someone. This time, I just didn't bother to pursue it. I've been spending way too much time on there and needed to fall back anyway.

In keeping with my 2012 Goals I want to accomplish, I think it's best that I eliminate time consuming distractions. The most time consuming goal I have is to complete the MCITP certification for work. It's actually one of two certifications I want to complete.

*sidenote* Being in a field like Information Technology requires some self-study in your personal time when you're ready to move to the next level. My fitness goals are time consuming and even sitting down to read a book is time consuming.

So, in order for me not to feel overwhelmed while still having personal time and time to share with family and friends, some things just have to go.

I will definitely be back, because I'm participating in the 2012 APL Challenge. So, I hope to be back sometime between March and July (the 1st and second check in times). Either way, I'll be posting here on the blog.

2012 Goals

2012-01-05T12:01:00.003-06:00

I really don't do New Year's resolutions, but here is a random list of things I'd like to accomplish this year.

~ Be able to do a full split
~ Make APL hair length
~ Complete the MCITP Certification from Microsoft.
~ Finish decorating my master bedroom suite
~ Train Peppermint (my dog) to play with toys. (She's a rescue and never had interest in toys and consequently does not get much exercise outside of her walks).
~ Learn to do my own sew in weaves.
~ Get down to 20% body fat.
~ Be able to do one chin up.
~ Learn how to paint my nails properly because I suck at it so bad!
~ Read 5 books (almost done with the first one)
~ Settle on an IT specialization and begin studying to further my career.

As you can see, I'm focusing on a healthy balance of career and personal pursuits. My goals may seem too simple to some, but for me, they're achievable. I won't over-commit myself, them burn out by February 1 because I was doing too much.

I think most people get overwhelmed with resolutions because they start out making promises to themselves that don't fit their personality, time availability, and desires. If you're a resolution maker, or simply have things you'd like to achieve, how do you choose what's achievable?

What are your 2012 goals?

How To Collect Money Owed By a Friend

2012-01-04T10:47:00.002-06:00

It's disheartening to learn that a loan you gave to a friend is not being repaid in the agreed upon time and terms. The loaner feels cheated and used and then starts to make assumptions on the borrowers situation. How it's handled will ultimately determine if your relationship survives.

There is nothing more annoying than to know you're owed money and to see the borrower all willy nilly on Facebook flossing their newest purchase. You stare at your Newsfeed with the blank face and feel the most offended, dismissed, and betrayed.

Priorities
In my past, I've always regarded friend loans as more important than commercial bills. When I say you will get all of your money back on this day and time, that's exactly what happens. If I have to pay my cable bill late to pay back a friend that trusted me, that's what just has to happen.

I do not find it unreasonable for the borrower to let go of a luxury to pay back a friend. Absolutely not. It's a big deal for someone to come off of their hard earned money to help out a friend. Keep in mind, they did not have to help in the first place. The loaner trusts this loan will be used to help their situation and trusts the friend's word that they will be paid back.

Keep your cool
Feelings of resentment may arise quickly over situations like this. But, you may not know if the borrower is still in a financial rut. Keep in touch with them, even if you feel them pulling back from you out of shame or guilt. Let them know you still care about their situation. Don't come at them as if you're a bank bill collector. Although they owe you money, don't feel like you have the right to attack their dignity just because.

Partial payments vs lump sum
Some borrowers feel if they don't have all of the money as agreed, that they'll just wait until they have it all. So, instead of showing hard proof that they're completely committed to paying back a friend by making a payment of what they can, they choose to go get a new hair do, new cell phone, or some other unnecessary purchase. This is a HUGE slap in the face to the loaner.

So, to start your collection efforts off, ask the borrower if they will be able to make a partial earnest payment. Let them know you're willing to take a partial payment if them coming up with the lump sum is too overwhelming. You don't have to pretend you need the money if you don't. Because if you read the first article, you know that you shouldn't be loaning out money you'll need in the first place.

Forgiving Repayment
Again, don't loan money to people you know who are already financially irresponsible. If you do, just go ahead and consider it a gift because your chances of recouping the money is slim to none.

But, if you find out after the fact that the borrower cannot honor the arrangement, you'll need to make a decision. Do you want to exhaust the energy to collect this money that will more than likely end the relationship? Or is the friendship more important than the principle?

If you choose friendship over repayment, here is a great option to settle the matter:

"I understand your circumstance hasn't improved and I value your friendship above anything else. Accept the money as a gift. But, understand if this comes up again, I prefer to not assist you financially so that financial matters do not affect our friendship."

You have now agreed to let go of the matter and move on. Do not ever bring it up again. You're also saying that because you've agreed to forgo payment due to the inability to pay as agreed, you will not allow another transaction to take place that will hinder the relationship.

Collecting Under Hostile Circumstances
If you find yourself dealing with someone who has no intention of paying you back and making that point very clear, you may find yourself in a fight. If you've documented the original loan, and kept track of any partial payments and dates, you may present these items and file a small claims case at your local courthouse.

But, first, attempt to make collection attempts in writing. Text messages and emails are preferable so that they may be kept as proof of attempted collection. Document dates and transactions. For example:

"I'm writing you to follow up on when to expect payment on the loan we initiated on 1/2/2009 for $500. I've only received $100 on 2/5/2009 and we agreed the full amount would be paid by the end of January. Please call or email me so we can make arrangements for repayment."

Be prepared that these actions may not be well received, but documentation is most important if you plan on recouping your money via legal means. Check your local small claims court for more information before proceeding with legal collections.

Friends + Money = Disaster

2011-12-27T09:30:00.000-06:00

We've seen it many times of the small claims court television shows. Friends and family relationships have been tested over money issues. I had an unofficial and rarely enforced policy of not loaning friends money, but I never seem to stick to it. It's the ones I know will pay me back that don't ever need money. See the correlation?

It's usually our most responsible friends who we'd loan money to in a heartbeat that don't ever have financial issues. It's because...well, they're more responsible. But, the real problem is not the money. The problem that people run into is not having a clear understanding of the terms of the loan and the awkardness of enforcing repayment. So, I'll share a few tips to help you maintain a friendship with someone you've loaned money to.

1. Do not loan money that you will need back.
I have an understanding with myself that if I am in need of the money for my own livelihood, I will not make a loan. There is always a possibility that your friend will not pay you back as agreed - if at all. If you have bills to pay next week, you may want to pass on loaning your friend that $100.

2. Document all loans.
Although slightly awkard, document your financial transactions with your friends and have them sign in agreement. An email, text message, or paper is sufficient. Just have it in writing. This is in case they start singing, "it was a gift" tune. This also helps to keep track of how much has been paid back and when.

3. Do not loan money to any and everybody.
You are not Bank of America. Do not feel bad about saying no to a loan proposal. If the person makes you feel bad for not loaning them the money, they are not your friend. That also tells me that you're less likely to pay me back if you start popping off because I won't loan you money. Tsk, tsk!

When asked, simply tell your friend that you're sorry, but you're unable to help them out and offer support in another way you're comfortable with. That's all the explanation you owe.

4. Know your friends.
Privately, acknowledge the type of people your friends are. If they always have some sort of financial issue going on and can't keep a job, keep that in mind. If their cell phone gets cut off every other month, but their hair is done weekly or they tore up a mall copping those new Jordan's (eye roll), keep that in mind. As much as you like them, you need to separate their ability and desire to pay you back from your friendship.

Next, we'll discuss how to handle yourself if you've been burned by a friend on a money matter.

Stay tuned!

YouTube: Shit Black Girls Say

2011-12-23T10:45:00.001-06:00

L. O. L.

Corrective Relaxer & End of the Year Hair

2011-12-18T16:56:00.000-06:00

I was pretty much over my hair not looking like a relaxer touched it from my November relaxer, that I felt it was safe enough to to a touch up.

I did it myself after not having relaxed my own hair in 2 years. I was a bit nervous, but it came out great.

I used Mizani (regular formula) Sesitive Scalp. I did a protein treatment with ApHogee 2 Minute Keratin Reconstructor, neutralized, and deep condtiioned with KeraCare Humecto.

I towel dried, applied One 'N Only Argan Oil serum, blowdried and curled my hair with a flat iron in medium sections.

I'm very pleased at the movement, length, and volume!

You know I love comparison pics, so let's revisit April (my virgin relaxer) one more time.

Woot!

Seborrheic Dermatitis: Update

2011-12-13T13:46:00.001-06:00

It's barely been two weeks since my posting about my self-diagnored scalp condition. I'm happy to say that I haven't needed to use Psoriasin on my scalp in about 5 days. About 8 days ago, I didn't need it on my face anymore.

You would be able to see redness and patches around my nose and in my eyebrows. That's gone! You would also be able to see white flakes around my front hairline. There is still some ashiness left, but only a fraction of what once was.

I have been keeping my scalp in check by using Head & Shoulders shampoo during my wash day. I've been keeping my scalp in check by cleansing my face with Cetaphil cleanser and moisturizing with the cream (which I love).

My skin looks great and there aren't any scabs or marks left from the rash. I even started wearing a bit of makeup (gasp!) since my skin looks so good.

Once again, I'm thankful to you ladies who recommended those two products to me. And to anyone reading this, I pass on the recommendation to you!

Cooking: Healthy Chicken Enchiladas

2011-12-13T13:21:00.002-06:00

P90x Chicken Enchiladas

I found a great website for P90x followers who wish to find more variety in their diets while keeping their nutrition in check. The P90x program has a very detailed recipe guide, but those recipes can be a bit expensive to make only a few servings. The ingredients are normally things I wouldn't use, so it almost wasn't worth the effort. BUT, I'm not that creative on how to combine the Portion Guide part of the meal plan into yummy meals.

Anywho, I stumbled across this website and I was ecstatic!! I saw Chicken Enchiladas and I was like, there is NO WAY, I can have my favorite Mexican dish and still be within the rules!

I raaaaan (well, I drove rather expeditiously) to the grocery story to pick up some chicken breasts and whole wheat tortillas. Everything else needed, I already had.

As I followed the recipe, I got more excited! But, I was a bit skeptical because of the wheat tortillas. I was expecting them to be grainy, fragile, and gross. But, I pushed on anyway.

When I finished, I tasted one and it was deelish! I'm at work right now, but I cannot wait to get home, do my workout and eat 2 of those yummy creations.

For the recipe, check out CJ over at My P90x Nutrition Plan.

By the way, you do not have to be P90x to enjoy this healthier version of the Chicken Enchilada. Enjoy!

:-)

Cooking: Fruit Pizza

2011-12-10T15:38:00.000-06:00

Fruit Pizza

This dessert has been my fav since I was a kid. Anytime I mention "fruit pizza", people look at me like.."Um, what?"

Depending on the fruit you use, it's a medley of tastes and textures that are just delectably sweet and savory. I made this fruit pizza for my coworkers who DEVOURED it in 30 minutes. I almost didn't get a piece for myself. It got rave reviews, so I want to share it with you!

This dessert takes about 2.5-3 hours of constant preparations, so make sure you have the time. It will need to chill overnight, as well.

The hardest part is stopping yourself from eating the ingredients before it's done!

Supplies:

Do yourself a favor and get extra colanders. I just scooped a few from the Dollar Store. You will also need a medium cookie sheet. I got mine from Kroger. To spread and apply toppings, a tablespoon will do. I use the back of it to spread ingredients.

Ingredients: (You can use other fruits, but these are my staples.)

Fruit Pizza Ingredients

Pizza:

2 regular roll size sugar cookie dough (Pillsbury)

16 oz cream cheese (Philadelphia) - room temperature

3/4 cup sugar

1 1/4 tsp. vanilla

1 20 oz. can and 1 small can crushed pineapple in own juice (drained a long time)

3 16 oz cans of peaches in light syrup (drained)

1 Container of fresh strawberries (sliced and drained)

1 large can of mandarin oranges (drained)

4 or 5 kiwi (peeled and sliced)

1 medium jar marachino cherries (cut and drained)

Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar

3 tsp. cornstarch

1 cup orange juice

1/3 c. lemon juice

Let's Get Started.....

Drain all of the canned fruit into colanders.

With damp hands, mash cookie dough evenly onto cookie sheet. When the dough sticks to your fingers, wet them again.

Bake @ 350 until golden brown (but not crispy or burned). My oven takes about 35 minutes. Cool completely.

While the cookie is baking, cut your fruit. Half the cherries, slice strawberries, kiwis, and peaches (along the length). Do not slice the mandarin oranges. You will use them in tact. Continue to let them drain.

Prepare the cream cheese mixture. (So yum!) Combine cream cheese, vanilla extract, and sugar. You may use a spoon, but I just use a hand mixer.

Yummmmmm!

After the cookie has completely cooled, spread the cream cheese thickly and evenly with the back of the tablespoon.

Now the fun begins! Let your creativity shine, here!

I always start with the crushed pineapple.

Continue layering on fruit. You can use patterns. Make it pretty!

Prepare the glaze by combining the ingredients and boiling on medium - med/high. Constantly stir to prevent clumping.

Start

Continue until it looks like this:

Pour over fruit pizza and spread with the back of the spoon. You will have JUST enough to cover the pizza so spread it evenly.

Voila!

Cover your pizza. I make a dome out of foil so that it doesn't ruin your masterpiece. Chill 8 hours and serve!

Enjoy! Let me know your results!!!

My U-Part Wig and I Learned How To Cornrow Pics

2011-12-08T10:55:00.002-06:00

U Part Wig

I FINALLY finished my U-part wig. I learned about it purely by accident while surfing BHM and YouTube. I came to realize I just don't have the attention span for a sew in longer than a couple of weeks. Combine that with my scalp issues and it's just not happening.

So, a u-part wig (or removable sew-in) is a great alternative. It's a great protective style and offers versatlity without looking "wig-gy".

I admit, I rigged this wig to high heavens because I had learning curves to get over. I didn't know how to sew on tracks and I didn't know how to cornrow. So, this has been quite a journey.

Sewing on Tracks

I had to find tutorials on how to sew on tracks and practice that. This is the method I used. I'd tried the underhand sewing, but I couldn't get a secure hold. But the time I was done with the wig (the first time), half of my tracks were slipping out. UGH! So, I searched for a better way. This one worked much better for me.

Making the U-Part Wig

I watched many, many tutorials. From my experience, it's a lot easier than it is, but definitely not impossible. If you can do your own sew ins, you can make this wig with ease. The videos I saw of those whose first try it was did struggle, but they made it work. Anyway, here's the one I followed.

I didn't use the same wig cap and I didn't sew mine on, but as far as making it goes, this was the best tutorial.

My Results

Again, this was my first U-part, so please excuse the jerry-rigging.

Hair used is Halley's Curls Gentle Wave Relaxed (airdried)

I love this hair. It is so easy to maintain. It's doesn't tangle and is slippery smooth when washing. It air dries just like this with a wave to it. It needs only a tiny bit of serum for styling and heat protecting. I wouldn't recommend it for stick straight styles, though. It has lots of volume and movement. It's perfect for curly and wavy styling.

I'm kind of "eh" about the right side. I called myself trying to add some layers and that didn't work out how I imagined it. But, it's good enough. I'll trim it up more after I watch more cutting tutorials.

Braided Base

So, yeah, I had to learn how to cornrow. You want to know who the worst braider is in the history of black folk?? ME.

I watched tutorial after tutorial until I ran across this website: Cornrows.uk I literally had to get the remedial version of cornrowing and practice, practice, practice. After a week of practicing almost daily, here's what I got:

DO NOT LAUGH. -____-

Actually, I was super proud of this. I mean, I literally could not do this a week ago. I secured the ends with rubber bands and just tucked them under the wig. I didn't bother sewing them down since I wasn't sure how the wig was going to look. (And plus, I can't sew down braids yet, LOL).

Maintenance

I take the wig off daily. Installing it literally takes 45 seconds in the morning. I wash and style the wig while it's pinned on the foam mannequin. It's super easy! I'm thinking I'll also be able to wear it longer because of the barrier of the cap between the weave hair and my scalp. That means less scalp oils and whatnot building up on the hair.

Having my hair braided underneath gives me easy access to my scalp. I've started back on Megatek this week and hope to use this whole bottle. I'm imagining that I can wash my hair in the cornrows, but we'll see how that goes.

Lessons Learned

Here are a few things I'll take from this experience and hopefully will help you if you're interested in trying one. (DO IT!)

I will use the overhand sewing method in the video I linked.
I will use a dome cap instead of mesh weaving cap. (I think it holds the tracks in place more securely.
I will braid and anchor braid around my leave out to "hang" my wig on with wig clips.
I will try using less leave out hair, for easier blending.
I will learn how to secure my braided base a little better.

Soooo, I hope you've enjoyed this long post and I hope it helps you out. If you have any tips you'd like to share, please post in the comments!

I'll definitely be making another wig and will keep you posted on my improvements.

:-)

How To Identify Toxic Relationships

2011-12-04T17:45:00.000-06:00

Let's discuss!

My Seborrheic Dermatitis Treatment Regimen

2011-12-02T08:01:00.000-06:00

THANK YA!!

I want to start by saying a big 'ole, country, Mr. Brown "THANK YA" to Deb and MonnieJ who read my previous post yesterday about Seborrheic Dermatitis.

Deb sugggested Head & Shoulders shampoo and Monnie J. suggested Psoriasin. So, I skipped my flaky and itchy headed self to Walgreens and picked up both.

This product is more like a serum with a light medicinal smell to it. A tiny bit goes a long way and is ideal for applying to the face and scalp. It has an amber tint to it, but goes on clear and dries almost immediately that way. You are to apply it 1-4 times daily.

I wiped of the existing flakes (ew!), washed my hands, read the directions, and applied it to a small area on my hairline. It tingled for a hot second and that was it. I waited a few minutes to see if there was any reaction. There wasn't.

I continued applying it to affected areas on my face and all around my hairline up into the crown of my head. I PROMISE that was the LAST flake and itch I saw the rest of the evening. I was about ready to shout like I'm in church!

Well, I needed to wash my hair anyway, so I grabbed the Head & Shoulders Itchy Scalp Care Dandruff Shampoo.

I admit, I wasn't expecting much from a $4 shampoo. I mean, why would it work when Neutrogena T-Gel did absolutely nothing for me and it's supposed to be specialized? Right? WRONG!

I lathered first with Herbal Essence None of Your Friziness, then followed with H&S. I let it sit for 5 minutes. It had a tingly, cooling effect that was much welcomed on my irritated and itchy scalp. The shampoo can be drying, but it didn't tangle my hair or cause any issues.

I rinsed and massaged my scalp thoroughly to loosen the flakes. I followed with Herbal Essense Hello Hydration. I let that sit for about 7-10 minutes with a cap. I rinsed, towel dried, applied serum, and blow dried.

My hair came out super soft, and smooth. Althought my new growth didn't look like it'd just been relaxed a week ago, it felt like it. My scalp was FLAKE FREE!. After blow drying, I re-applied the Psoriasin. I checked my face and scalp out several times the rest of the evening. NOTHING. WOOT!!!!

I woke up the next morning to NO FLAKES. (We like to Par-TAAAAY!!) Can you tell I'm excited!

So, once again, a biiiiig THANK YA! goes out to Deb and Monnie J. I hope I can continue to control my situation with these two products!

:-D

Seborrheic Dermatitis

2011-12-01T08:14:00.000-06:00

I've just about self diagnosed myself with Seborrheic Dermatitis. I have every single symptom. I have noticed over the years, my scalp is most dry in the winter months. Couple that with a relaxer and all hell breaks loose.

That's what I'm going through right now. I thought I had common dry scalp, so I'd begun oiling my scalp with Doo Grow oil. Well, that didn't help. It just camoflauged the flakes, but also ended up contributing to more. :-(

First off, I wasn't even sure I wanted to relax my hair again in the first place since my stretch was going so well. But, I made a last minute decision to go ahead and do it. Then, the stylist did not give me the relaxer I asked for (twice) and now half of my hair feels like I never got a relaxer in the first place.

Next, within 2 days, my scalp is itchy and covered with thick, white, flaking patches attached to red, irritated skin. They're peeking around my entire hairline permiter and it's quite embarassing. So, I'm really not even enjoying a fresh relaxer.

When I was natural, I still had dry scalp, but nothing like this. It was just the rare occurrence of a little flaking. But, I washed my hair so often that that is probably why I didn't notice it much. With this condition, the more often you wash your hair, the better. It removed the buildup of sebum and flakes.

What causes Seborrheic Dermatitis?

Medical professionals really don't know what causes the condition. It can (and has) occur on the sebacceous areas of the face, like around my nose and in the eyebrow area. It's not severe on my face, but it's pretty ratchet on my scalp.

Again, I've only self diagnosed, but I'm 99% sure, this is my situation. It's not contagious or dangerous to my health, it's just gross and embarrassing.

It's known that seborrheic dermatitis can be irritated in winter months which is absolutely true for me. I just happened to relax my hair at the wrong time of year. Noted.

It's also irritated by immune system deficiencies such as HIV/AIDS, stress & fatigue, excessive yeast and sebum production, and neurological conditions such as Parkinson's disease.

How am I treating Seborrheic Dermatitis?

There are natural treatments out there that are supposed to be antifungal, such as rhassoul clay, neem, and tea tree oil. I have just started using tea tree oil, and so far that does not seem to help. But, I haven't been using it enough to tell.

Medical professionals recommend and prescribe corticosteroids (hydrocortisones), antifungal agents (Lamisil or Ketoconazole), or shampoos with active agents such as coal tar or zinc pyrithione. This is not an all-inclusive list.)

I'm trying out Neutrgena T-Gel right now, but it requires use 2-3 times a week. So, I'm working on my next protective style to allow me to shampoo my hair 3 times a week (yikes). It's a U-Part wig I made last night and will be styling today. I'll be wearing a braided base that will give me easy access to my scalp. More on that very shortly.

I really have my eye on Nizoral because of the great reviews, so I'll let you know how that goes.

I hope to review several over-the-counter treatments for Seborrheic Dermatitis to help anyone out there who may be dealing with this annoying condition.

90 Day Workout Challenge: DONE!

2011-11-23T12:27:00.000-06:00

Woohoo!! (Actually 3 days past due)!

Well, I really can't celebrate, because I can count on one hand how many times I worked out in the past three weeks. SMH.

My main goal was to get back to a size 6 which I have accomplished.

I started out being 30 years old & 5'8.5":
156lbs
27% body fat
Size 8

And finishing:
147lbs
23% body fat
Size 6

To say I haven't worked out on a consistent basis this past month, I maintained my stats from the second month. I'd have liked to develop more muscle and get down to 18% body fat.

I followed the Power 90 DVD which is basically the pre-P90x workout. It's a simple, effective workout regimen. It doesn't go past 36 minutes, which is awesome. But, it can get boring because you're just alternating videos.

The biggest thing I've taken from the past 3 months is that weight loss happens in the kitchen. Find alternatives to food packed with sugars and you'll notice a difference. Couple that with a consistent workout schedule, and you'll transform your body in no time.

I'll keep you posted on the next leg of my fitness goals. I'll be cooking a bit more and sharing those recipes, too.

Relaxed at 19 Weeks Post

2011-11-21T12:57:00.007-06:00

November Relaxer

This stretch was pretty easy. I spent about 6 weeks of the stretch in sew ins. My hair has retained it's length througout the process and I'm pleased.

I went back to Janea for my first relaxer from her. I'd requested Mizani Sensitive Scalp, but she must have thought I meant that I wanted Mizani FOR a sensitive scalp. She used Butter Blends which left me very underprocessed. I was slightly irritated that I specifically requested the relaxer I wanted, but was given another. Eh, no biggie because I flat iron anyway.

Once she told me that it was Butter Blends, I told her I didn't want that one and why. So, she knows now my future relaxers will be with Mizani Sensitive Scalp. My scalp didn't burn, but now I'm going to have to deal with three textures when I get into my stretch.

My pics aren't anything spectacular. I'm on Day 3 hair because I was too ~~hungover~~ tired to take pics right after it was styled on Saturday. I still have that flat, fresh relaxer hair. But, I'm sure I'll update pics after a couple of washes.

July Relaxer

When DIY Goes Wrong: The Bikini Wax from HELL

2011-11-18T10:13:00.000-06:00

Can you guess what I'm about to tell you??

A few years ago, I decided that I could do my own bikini wax. Well, ish got real VERY quickly.

I ordered a kit off of Folica.com that looked simple enough. I don't remember the name. As I was beginning to read the instructions, the little voice in my head was screaming for me not to do this. But, I was feeling confident that if I can do my own hair, that I could "do my own hair". *side eye*

So, there I am spread eagle (I can't believe I'm sharing this) in my room on the floor about to make the worst decision of my life.

Now, it wasn't the gold wax we're all used to. It was some green stuff that hardens and you can rip that off instead of using strips. Basically, once you put the stuff on, you HAVE to rip it off. Yikes!

As soon as I applied the wax, I immediately regretted it. As my life hung in the balance, I dreaded the pain that was about to come. After counting down from 10 about 50 times, I finally ripped it off. It was the scream heard around the world "FUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU...............!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

Was I done? Of course not. I still had a lot of wax left and not enough courage and pain tolerance to complete my mission. So, I spent the next two hours soaking and slowly chipping and cutting wax out of my nether regions.

You're welcome for your Friday dose of giggles.
:-)

BodyRock.TV 15 minute Turbo Fat Blaster Workout

2011-11-10T08:56:00.003-06:00

I double-dog dare you to do this workout! It kicked me square in the ass after 13 minutes. It's 8:57pm as I write this and my happy butt is in the bed. I'm tired, but I feel great.

Go to the full post to read the details on the workout before you do it.

I suggest making a short list of the exercises and the required amount of reps for quick reference. Then watch the short video on how to do each exercise. The key is to push at maximum effort with no breaks so you will have no time to go back to see how the exercise is done.

Make sure to take a protein shake right after!

Let me know how you feel after! It's only 15 minutes!

:-)

SNL Kardashian Wedding Skit

2011-11-09T10:21:00.000-06:00

O.M.F.G.

Anti-Lace Front PSA

2011-11-09T09:49:00.000-06:00

I. Hollered.

I've never been a fan of lace wigs until I realized that it's the poor choice and application of lace wigs that really bother me. They can be a great protective style, but sometimes folks just do the absolute most and end up looking crazy.

Fun fact: If your lace wig looks like the hairline of a cabbage patch doll, you are not winning at life. :-)

Happy Hump Day

Does Your Man's Opinion Affect Your Appearance?

2011-11-07T14:11:00.004-06:00

(Stock photo)

I've seen a few blogs and forum threads in regard to a man's influence (or not) over his lady's hair that I have to speak on it.

I experienced the silent disapproval of my natural hair from my significant other (SO). Initially, he had no problem with my going natural. I'd begun transitioning early on in our dating, but I'd had a relaxer when we met.

After expressing my desire to be natural, I showed him the pictures of a few bloggers with big natural hair. He said it was fine. I wasn't asking permission, but I was just letting him know that change is on the horizon.

He only had on request: "Just don't go short with it." At the time I was not even considering a big chop until well after 1 year of transitioning. I all but promised that a short twa would not be an option. So, I had his support.

Well, life happened and I came home a big chopped at 23 weeks post. At barely 5 months of transitioning, I had about 2 inches of hair. Fast forward two months after immediately getting kinky twists, I debuted my natural hair. He kept silent, but it was painfully obvious he wasn't feeling it. When I pressed the issue, my normally mild-mannered SO just said "I don't like your hair."

I pretty much told him to get over it and it's my hair and I'll do what I want. I firmly believed that if he cared for me, this shouldn't be an issue. It wasn't really that at all and I came to realize this later.

As my hair grew out, he began to get used to it. He didn't say anything about it, but would tell him I look nice as frequently as he normally would. In the back of my head, I wanted him to accept my hair, but at the end of the day, it was my hair and my choice.

Some time later, Valentine's Day rolled around. I thought I'd give him straight hair as a gift. What they hell, it was only one day. Well, my hair came out ridiculously poofy because I had no clue what I was doing. He loved it. I said, I looked like the mushroom man from Super Mario Bros., but he loved it.

Fast forward 9 months, I relaxed my hair for unrelated reasons. Now, almost a year later, it clicked to me. It was not my natural hair he was against. He was salty that I did not consider his opinion when it comes to my appearance. I'd told him one thing (virutally promising not to have a twa) and said to hell with you, I do what I want.

A while back, he'd joked that he was going to grow his hair out and put a Duke in it. I said, "Da hell you will! This will be a problem!" He looked at me straight faced and silent. It then clicked to me. I got it.

Him saying he didn't like my hair in the past was not a rejection of me and what we'd developed. He was simply saying what he'd said in the beginning: I don't like (short) hair. At the time, I attached his comment to say that he didn't like me anymore. That simply was not true.

Now, he asks my opinion on clothes, his haircut, his beard. My opinion has weight. We encourage each other to do what we're most comfortable with, but approaching it from a stand point of "you matter to me, your opinion matters" completely changed the game - for the better.

I love knowing he values my opinion of his appearance and I pay him back with that same respect. Even if what we chose is not what the end result is, it's the fact in knowing you cared enough about me to ask and value my opinion. Because, let's keep it real, we dress for other people more than ourselves. It's vanity at it's core.

If a guy met you looking one way and you change it up completely afterward, I think it is normal to be feel some kind of way about that. I almost had a heart attack when I thought SO was seriously considering a Duke. But, it's important to communicate those feelings with tact and respect.

It is my opinion that you do not lose your independence or become some submissive minion by allowing your better half to have an opinion in your appearance. As long as it's done with respect and admiration and not control and domination, it should be all good.

Do you think a man has a valid reason to feel salty if he met you while relaxed and you went natural after? What is your experience and opinion?

Worst Date EVER!

2011-11-03T08:42:00.000-05:00

I want to share with you guys my worst date ever. I remember it like it was yesterday.

In 2005, I made the mistake of accepting a date with a guy at my job who I had absolutely zero interest in. I only accepted because he asked me out every single day and I figured I'd go and be friendly. I'd give him the "I just got out of a relationship and I don't want to get involved with anyone right now" line. This was actually very true.

We agreed to the generic dinner and a movie. He offered to pick me up, I declined. We planned to meet at the job parking lot and go from there.

Strike 1: He wore colored contacts.

Strike 2: When we met in the parking lot, his car wouldn't start back up. So, I drove. This was actually ok with me because I didn't know him like that and didn't really want him to drive me.

We went to a nearby mall to look for movie showings. Once we decided on a movie, we walked around to the mall. He began asking me very personal questions about my past dating history. I politely told him that it's none of his concern at this point and jokingly (but seriously) to mind his business.

He then turned his attention to my feet. He kept complimenting them and saying he'd love to rub them for me one day. Ummmmmmm..................

He then suggested we settle on a restaurant, but I said I wasn't that hungry. I lied. I wanted this date to be over already, but I was starting. The feet talk totally sucked out any more cordiality I had left in me.

As we entered the movie theater, I gave him a strong warning. (I tell EVERYONE this, so don't think I was being bitchy)

Do not. I mean DO NOT talk to me during the previews and movie. The fastest way to piss me off is to talk during a movie. I'm a preview watcher as well, so when those lights go off, I'm going to need you to hush. :-)

So....

Strike m-f 3: What does he do? This negro begged me during the first half of the movie to rub my feet. I was sooooooooooooooooooo pissed!! "Are your feet cold?" "They look chilly" "Let me keep them warm". OMG. WTF.

Wait, I'm not done.

After the movie, I drove him straight back to his broken down car and wished him luck on getting home. He didn't live anywhere near me and I was not about to play taxi cab. As far as he knew I didn't have a problem with the date. I was never mean to him, I must note. I wasn't looking forward to the next day at work, though.

Suprisingly, he didn't show up for work the next few days. His roommate asked me had I heard from him. I said no and wondered why he was asking me.

A few days later, I got a call on my cell. Excuse me...I got a COLLECT call on my cell. It was him! This fool was in jail. All he told me was that he had some things catch up with him from his past so he's not going to be around for a while. We said our goodbyes and it was nice meeting you's and that was that.

I hope he didn't wear those color contacts in jail.

~~ What's your worst date experiences?~~