Showing posts with label afro textured hair growth. Show all posts
Showing posts with label afro textured hair growth. Show all posts
source: Google Images
Lately, I cannot seem to get away from women commenting about other womens' hairline. It's quite annoying because *leans in* NOT EVERYONE HAS A THICK HAIRLINE!!!
When lace fronts were really popular around 2006-08, people were learning to "thin hairlines" on their wigs so that they resembled a natural hairline. I was born with a thick hairline, but it came with the 4 Z very coiled, wig like hair. I hated it, and thinned it as much as possible. If I didn't my hairline would blend into my eyebrows. I was thinking about my hairline the other day and wondered how many people think I have a love lorn possum or wig on my head. It's so thick it sometimes feels like I look like those cut outs at theme parks that you put your face in the whole and take a photo as someone else. Like a painting of Popeye and Olive Oil, but if you put your face in the hole it's you as the caricature. I walk around like that 24/7 so I have been looking into laser hair removal. It's expensive, but I'm so insecure because of the rise in sensitivity towards the care and density of women's hairline.
I understand the discussion about the supermodel with a balding hairline and I sympathize because her photos are splattered on social media, unlike when they used to put the black rectangle to hide the identity of the fashion, hair or whatever faux pas victim we just put people on blast.
There are things that can be done to regrow the hairline but if it's not in one's genetics, you're most likely buying snake oil.
Here are a few things that don't work. I would go so far as to say these are things that may be exacerbating the problem.
  1. Stop laying your edges! I know that it's the in thing to do, but why are all my naturals trying to have smooth relaxed looking edges? You see women tying their hair down to the point they cut the circulation. Leave them alone, stop putting products, brushing, and tying them down.
  2. Baby hair! We are bringing back 2009, and obsessed with baby hair again. I know of a few women who relax their edges to get the baby hair but how can you have baby hair and thick hairlines? 
  3. Stop the braids! You need to ease up on the braids, this is called traction alopecia. If you must wear a protective style, then get a wig or wear a turban or wrap long enough to allow the circulation or you may cause follicular damage to your hairline and that's not easy to undo.
There are some things that are easy, inexpensive and will help to recharge your hairline and, with patience, a few suggestions, you can have a thicker hairline by next season.

  1.  Massage your scalp! Scalp massage will stimulate circulation and help the blood flow back in the areas that were obstructed. You can do this in the evening prior to going to bed and if you can't find or afford a massager, use your hands. I've known some people to get success buy putting their head down and massaging whilst upside down.
  2. Massage Oils! Tea tree oil is said to be good if you have any follicular damage, infections, or scalp issues; however, there are oils that stimulate circulation such as cinnamon, pumpkin, avocado and other oils. Do research oils for hair growth/stimulation and understand it's trial and error so what works for some may not work the same for you.
  3. See a dermatologist or trichologist. There's nothing worse than trying to fix something that is broken. It's like when someone has a headache and they take aspirin only to find out they have migraines, or other serious head trauma. It's wise to see a specialist rather than play doctor. I cannot stress that enough! All the tips and tricks won't work if there is a serious underlying issue.
  4. Get a full check up! Have some tests run. I am severely anemic and require iron transfusions and medical shots because supplements don't work for my levels. You may have an hormone imbalance or something that causes your hair to fall. In addition, you can catch any illness early on if you choose to have a check up, and your body and mind will thank you.
  5. Hydration and silk. Water, water and more water. If you drink coffee, you're depleting your body of water, so for every cup of coffee have two waters or double the amount of water to whatever diuretic such as beer, alcohol etc. Protect your hair with silk as you replenish your body with water.
The process may seem  futile and there will be days that seem hopeless, but the construction and rebuilding of any foundation should be strong, sturdy and short of quick fixes. You can go the Minoxidil or Nioxin route, or take supplements like B Complex, Biotin, or whatever vitamin cocktail popular on the hair forums, but you will still need to modify your current habits to preserve any repair/regrowth.

Please let me know how you get on, this is something I am quite passionate about. For centuries black women have been lead to believe our hair was inferior, nappy and won't grow; we've been fed a lot of fallacies, but our hair grows, it has various densities, curl patterns and growth rates, but it's good and when taken care of, it's beautiful!

xoxo
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It pains me to see people being counterproductive. For example, there are women natural and relaxed that are feeling bad about their edges. It's all well and good when we joke about having our "edges snatched" but take it from me, when your hairline has density behind your ears, it's quite humbling.
Let me share a few things so others can learn from my trials and tribulations.
  1. Stop laying the edges down. When you Spackle your hair down and brush it so it's intertwined with your skull and then tie a wrap around it so tight your brain is seeping through your ears, you are cutting off circulation. It's very hard for the blood to flow from your heart to your head when it's so constricted. Try getting one of those hand massagers
    for massaging temples!
    you can find them in the skincare aisle or any chemist/drugstore.
  2. Stop with the heavy pomades on your edges. The hair at your nape is softer and breaks easily. Much like the skin on your face, it gets clogged. Be gentle and use a lighter oil. Pumpkin oil is good for hair loss. There's also Castor, Coconut and several other oils. Use what's best for you.
  3. Be aware of the cleansers you use on your face. We aren't born with a perfect circle for a face so it is worth noting that our temples are subjected to the harsh ingredients used to wash our face. This doesn't require a regimen of concealing your hair with a shower cap to wash your makeup off or cleanse your face, just be aware and look for dryness or brittle spots that may be a result.
  4. Be patient! Watching and stressing about your thin hairline will only cause you stress. Watching grass grow would be faster because we get very obsessed and anxious about our hair. Protective hairstyles, hydration, circulation, nutrition, and a few weeks of tlc and your edges will grow. If mine can, so can yours and I was a hot mess. I still have a long way to go, but straight edges and kinky hair? Right.
    I have baby hair and side burns....oy!
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I love love ♥ when I get good service.  This place is my new best friend.  I found Ugly N Beauty when my regular distributor flaked on me.  *boo hiss* I have to have Emergencee.  It is one of my "must have" products for my Afro textured hair.  It has been fundamental in my hair journey and, while I could find an alternative it doesn't have the same effect.  It's called Aloxxi now, but my hair reacts the same to this formula and I only see one difference and that is the amount of water in the ingredients.  I don't recommend this product for all hair types, especially fine hair, but if you have long Afro textured hair that tangles easily, this should be in your stash somewhere.  Most etailers sell this one 16.9 oz bottle for $50 or more.  I got two for less than $65 including shipping.  Great price, great service, and fast shipping.  They included beauty products as well.
Sadly, I am not sponsored, nor am I a "common name" in the blogosphere, therefore, when companies give me good service, I'm shouting from the rooftops since it seems you have to "be someone" in order to get good service these days.  I tried to call and thank them, but was too lazy to stay on hold, so I'm posting this instead.  I will do a review of this product in full, and indicate why I love it so much and how I use this.
see how matted? meh!

Cheers!
xoxo
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OMG! LOL! GTFOWTBS!  Really?  RLY? Yes, this is how many people communicate nowadays.  Can't blame them, you can only fit so many characters into a text or tweet.  It's only frustrating when you are trying to research something and cannot understand what is being said, what it means, and are too embarrassed to post questions.
Someone was kind enough to ask about some acronyms used on many hair boards.  I have been using them, hearing them for so long, I forgot they were still used.  By now, I reckoned there would be a new category of short cuts.  I must admit, I haven't been on too many hair forums since I found my holy grail products.  I am too vulnerable to relapse.  I still buy things to try and review, but it's nothing like it used to be. 
So, let's sort a few out and I'll attempt to explain each one:

  • Pre-poo:  Pre-shampoo, is the step you take prior to shampooing your hair.  In the past, a hot oil treatment would be the epitome of "pre-poo" but this can be anything.  People are doing a lot more "in depth" things to their hair than V05 could even fathom.
  • Poo:  Shampoo, is pretty self explanatory.  I guess the sham is a bit too much.  That would take two syllables.
  • Con:  Two definitions for this one.  It's either short for conditioner, or in some cases, it stands for Cream of Nature, a brand of hair products.
  • DC:  Deep Condition, and this is usually done with a moisturising or protein infused reconstructive agent.  There may be a bit of each but usually a "DC" is done no more than once a week.
  • BC:  Big Chop took a while for me to understand why everyone was doing a BC.  It's when you cut your hair to the root or shorter.  Some people vary, but the goal it to get rid of the damaged, chemically treated, split hair and start over. 
  • TWA:  Elmer Fudd must have created this.  Tiny whittle Afro is the result of a BC.  Yep, the big chop.  Many women going from relaxed to natural choose to BC creating the TWA rather than transition.

(Solange with TWA) photosources
  •  Co-wash:  Conditioner Wash.  This is something along the line of Wen or At One hair but was years ahead.  Rather than shampoo your hair with the your regular ... well, shampoo, you use a conditioner instead.  The rationale is that the shampoo will dry or strip your hair, therefore, this is a better alternative for those with dry, coarse, thick hair and in order to clean the hair, say they work out and sweat a lot, a co-wash is an alternative.  Scary spice was the first person I heard of who did this.  Mel B had an article in Black Hair and she claimed to have stopped using shampoo.  To each their own *shrug*
  • Baggy method/Baggying:  This is a protective style where you wash, condition, etc. your hair and pull it all back into a pony tail, then apply massive moisturizer and wrap with cling wrap or a sandwich wrap, and make it into a bun.  Then you can place a fake bun on top.  Hard to explain, but it's really simple and can be easy to do if you are on a strict hair regimen.
  • Stretching:  This is the process of "stretching" the time between relaxer or BKT (Brazilian Keratin Treatment) processes.  If you normally touch up the new growth every six weeks, you "stretch" the time and either continue the process or you cut that hair off and keep the "virgin" hair to add length to your BC. 
I hope this has helped to clarify a lot of the jargon people are reading online.  I know it's overwhelming when you find all these acronyms whilst looking for how to save your hair as it's going doing the drain, "literally."  Relax, it's hair, it grows, and there are a lot of products that will help you get where you need to go.  Smile, it's not so bad.  I don't judge. ♥
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I won't even lie, this product scared me to no end, and I'm still waiting for cravings for a bale of hay, or red apples and carrots to happen.  I am floored at the things women do for hair, but I guess watching my mum iron her hair on an ironing board should have been a hint.
I heard about this product from hair boards, and posted my initial review.  It is safe for humans but I can't say I wasn't ready to lie and say I had a horse named "Swift Sally Sunday" in the stable who had bumped against the wall a few too many times and developed a bald spot.  I "borrowed" my co-workers story, so that's why I could create a story faster than you can say "what?"
I am impressed with this product so far. 
Pros:
Your hair will grow
Has a nice scent
Is safe for humans
Works as a leave in or can be rinsed out
Noticeable hair growth
Hair is stronger...
Cons:
Your head will itch like you have hives
It makes your hair hard albeit stronger
Price (this product isn't cheap)


Overall I would definitely recommend this product.  I hate that you will itch like a crack head when you use this as a leave in; I have never rinsed it out.  I'm not sure I'm using it properly, but for me, I have a regimen for deep condition, and this leave in is perfect if you are hiding your hair.  At first, I was thinking my hair had not grown but that this stuff was striping my hair thus the new growth.  Whilst stretching, it's quite difficult to delineate where the change begins.  Right now I've got a new perm and will be able to ascertain how much growth I've achieved.  In addition I will have photos of the start of finish as I'm using the stretch, hide and Crown and Glory method.

xoxo
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I don't know what to think about this product, but I'm giving it a try.  Why?  Because I am a product junkie and I like to experiment with products. 
I first heard of this product on one of my hair boards several years ago, but I was really not interested.  First, I had tried the Mane n Tail product line, and it didn't impress me, and secondly, it's for horses!  I don't like to put things on my hair that I don't know how my body will react.  I have quite sensitive skin, and I've had my share of eczema and don't wish to revisit that. 
This product is sold near me for $37.00 USD!  If you are interested in the 16 oz bottle, I suggest trying here for a lot less.  The price has gone up over the past several years and it may be do to the huge market for hair products which will grow hair.
I'm on day one of this, and I have not cut my hair and it's approximately waist length.  I'm going to do journal the progress of this over the course of six months and review it for: amount of hair growth, shedding, strength, elasticity, thickness and texture. 
I have read some reviews by other users who have reported both good and not so good results.  I think it depends on everyone's individual hair and how it's taken care of.  I am going to remain with my current regimen of how I protect my hair, what I eat, my nutrition and supplements for accuracy.  I won't be adding anything different.  Can't wait to let you know what happens and post photos as I go.

xoxo
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It's too cold to do these pics, but there are so many unbelievers in the world.  Newsflash:  African girl grows her 4c hair (with chemicals) and defies her naysayers.  This is what I call my "trill talk" true and real.  I have never had long hair.  Yes, I went through a phase of wanting long hair.  But, I had it ingrained that "black hair doesn't grow."  Even white people believed black people hair grows to a certain length and stops.  Well, at that time, I hadn't known what I didn't know.  There were no forums, hair boards, and wealth of information like there is currently.  But, I promise you you can grow your hair to great "lengths" if you take care of your hair regardless of whether it is relaxed, natural, texlaxed, etc.  The rules:  You must be patient, you must be informed, you must learn YOUR hair, and you must have faith.  In the process of getting my hair to this length, I have been through many a sad day.  The last one was the day I took this photo, which was Sunday (wash day).  I wanted to shave it off and start over as a natural again. I miss having the fro, but what I remembered was, I didn't take the time for my hair in it's natural state.  It was a lot easier, but I got lazy.  There is a myth that natural hair is easier to care for than relaxed.  For me, that's false.  My natural hair may have been stronger, but it was a spiritual process and I had fewer people who supported my journey.  I could tell you how I had to wear a wig that looked like a hat on my head to my job and not one lawyer would take my case.  I could tell you I didn't get rude comments and the side eye at least twice a day.  People talked about me, my sexuality, my ... let's not give negative energy to the past and accept people are ignorant and when you don't know something, you use humor to hide your lack of understanding.  Well, the economy went on a free fall, I'd been terminated (there I said it) and needed a job so I texlaxed.  It was scary.  I felt bald, I thought I would open my eyes and have nothing on my head.  What's more, I had so much face!  Woah, who is that girl looking back at me.  Still have those days. 
So, here I am with my current waist length hair, and you know what?  I'm still the same me.  I don't get more dates, I don't feel more "black"  and I don't feel like I sold out either.  I feel like I learnt about my hair in one texture, and now know it in another.  I care for it, but there are still those days where I want to give up, but when those days happen, I post on the boards, write about makeup, watch something inspirational, THANK GOD for his mercy and continue to "do me."  I have had scalp burns, alopecia, psoriasis, burns from hot combs, flat irons, stress related hair loss and more, but let me encourage you to believe in yourself.  Hair is not who you are, but it's fun.  It's an accessory like everything else we don't need to survive, but I have learnt so much from so many strong women of ALL colors and I continue...that's my hairstory.
xoxo
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Cheap? Maybe.  Frugal? Abso*bl**dy*lutely!  have a habit of not just tossing out bottles of hair products.  If a conditioner doesn't suit my own hair, if it won't work for my dog (certain chemicals not compatible) then I will donate, swap, or use it on a weave, wig, whatever fake nest I choose to rock.  So this morning when I was slamming the bottle to get the last bits out, I decided to use my brain.  I took a pearing knife, and sliced the bottle in half and surprise!  No more banging, but enough product for two more uses.  Believe me when I say, I bang the bottles hard, in fact, I used to be so bad, I would add water and shake to ensure I got every penny out.  It's terrible that packaging for most cosmetics is so that we can't squeeze it out like toothpaste, but as you can see at the left, tons of product is still in tact even though I had shook what I could get out.  I can usually stick my finger and swirl it out, but this works better.  I suggest you use a knife you don't mind getting dull in time.  You can get one at the dollar stores or even a thrift store may have some nicer ones which won't go dull.  Good luck!

xoxo

Before You Toss It!

by on 9:55 PM
Cheap? Maybe.  Frugal? Abso*bl**dy*lutely!  have a habit of not just tossing out bottles of hair products.  If a conditioner doesn't sui...
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Gah!  It was so freaking cold but how does one track their progress without a picture?  Ugh!  I guess my hair is ... waist length almost??? When it's dry it's to the lower part of the small of my back.  My hair is 4c, and it doesn't accept relaxers well.  I'd declare my hair as texlaxed because it's chemically altered but not straight.  For example, if I went to the hair dresser, she would not declare my hair relaxed because it isn't "bone" straight, but it's not natural.  *Note* This is not about the relaxed v. natural stuff that's going on in the black hair community.  Do and where your hair, but don't let it be who or what identifies you!  So, my goal for myself is to take care of my mind, body, and soul by eating better, getting some form of exercise, reducing stress, cutting back on sweets, adding more fun into my life and keeping a journal of my hair, weight, skin and overall well being.  Time to let of of toxic people, places and things.  If you would like to join me, I'm a great motivator and I've never had long hair in my life, my mother didn't know how to care for it, and neither did I.  If I'm honest, sometimes, I want to shave my head.  So, how did I grow it?  It wasn't easy, and protective styles will save you a lot of pain, frustration and get you through the tough times.
xoxo
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So, hanging around Sally's looking for acetone to get the New Year's Eve glitter off my nails (the only stuff that works) I saw this display for HairOne.  I thought it was for bikini wax or something because a) the display was near there and, b) the packaging.  The sales person came up and told me how great it was, blah, blah, blah.  I don't usually pay them any mind, as they are primarily useless, but they are just doing their job in trying to sell something for the day.  So, I listened to her mention something about this being a shampoo, conditioner, and deep conditioner all in one.  It was also on sale for $10.99 plus tax.  So, I picked the one for dry & damaged hair because it usually has more moisturizing properties.  It come's in a 12 oz bottle with a pump which is normally convenient.  The amount of pumps is listed and is based on the length of your hair.  I used this in the shower and started by wetting my hair first.  I applied the seven pumps evenly through my hair and didn't really notice any sort of change.  It wasn't as silky as my regular shampoo, but this didn't lather, and is quite a thick product.  That's sort of a drawback of the pump, the product is thick; therefore, it would be better if it had a cap or came in a tub.  HairOne is sulfate free and doesn't have any detergents or harsh chemicals.  At $10.99 for a 12-ounce pump bottle, HairOne is much more affordable. A 16-ounce bottle of Wen sells for about $28 on QVC and on Wen's estore.  If you've wanted to try Wen Cleansing Conditioners but are put off by the high price, try HairOne.  It's a great alternative and for those people who are into doing the pre-poo's between their regular hair regimen, this product is great.  I will repurchase this and also recommend this to others.
xoxo
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There is no one method for taming one's mane. What I have learned is that you have to really, I mean really know your hair. You have to know your hair like you know your skin.
Hair is made up of proteins (keratin) and it needs protein in conjunction with moisture in order to keep a balance of strength and elasticity. For me, I don't think my hair can ever have too much protein, but I know it doesn't get enough moisture. Unfortunately, I color the heck out of my hair. I don't do all the other rubbish, like heat, back combing etc, but when people ask me how I keep my hair looking so healthy or shiny, I have
to confess that if it were in it's natural color, it would look like a tumble weed. It's so bloomin dry! My niece, poor baby has the same problem. I tell her it's her father, my brother's, fault as her mother has thick, ridiculously long albeit straight hair. I love her mum's hair, but feel my niece's pain. Her hair is disgustingly thick, she has a lot of it, and it's so curly. She likes to wear it pulled back in a pony tail; however, it makes our hair draw up and turns into a "puff" if we don't plait it. It's quite curious since my boss has the same situation and what's more, we resemble each other when we both wear our hair down as we did today.
So, what I recommend is to experiment with your hair's texture and if you don't know what it is, ask! Alternate products and see how your hair responds. Conduct a test with your hair following the same regimen (wash, condition, style) but alternate products by ingredients. For instance, notice the difference in your hair when you use protein (usually reconstructors, or may indicate protein on the bottle), moisture, and so on. Be aware of your hair's growth to shed factor. Sometimes hair tends to grow faster in the summer due to warm climate, how you eat plays a vital role, as does your stress or any medications. Am I saying to change anything? No, I'm merely giving hints on what things may contribute to the dissatisfaction with your hair's current state.
Remember, whether you are natural, relaxed, texlaxed, extensions, color treated, etc. you must take care of your hair. There isn't an alternative other than going bald. You will have good days and bad days, but ultimately, your hair is a reflection of your genes and how you treat it.

xoxo
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Recently I had a discussion with a friend regarding natural versus relaxed hair.  I won't go into the debate, that would take another post; however, I can tell you how I care for my hair.  I've posted pics of the length ad nausea so, I'll just get to the details.
I wash and deep condition my hair once a week. 
I wear my hair in a protected style and only massage my scalp.  No other manipulations are done to my hair.
I use a set of products which has taken me more than twenty years to "discover."
I state I have relaxed hair, but I have to admit, I am one of the small percentage of women, whose hair does not completely straighten.  I have accepted this, and know a few others whose hair is the same.  I can put a relaxer on my head, comb it from root to tip (coarse/super) and it won't get my hair bone straight, I've even applied heat.
I have done EVERYTHING with my hair, blonde, black, blue, bald (yep), natural, braids, weaves, wigs, lace fronts, "natural relaxers" et al.
I think I've spent a fortune on hair products; however, as a child my mother didn't know how to care for my hair, I abused it, I had poor health for a good long time, and I truly believe God is taking care of my hair and I'm just the person physically taking care of it.  I have never had hair past my shoulders, I've had to get shots to stop stress induced hair loss and seen a dermatologist for alopecia.  I got shots in my scalp and if you are interested in what they were I would be happy to provide that information.  Currently, I use a bit of cinnamon and peppermint oil to stimulate the blood circulation in my scalp.  It's what works for me.
Of the six products, the most important for my is the Affirm Fiberguard Sustenance: it gives me the BEST slip ever, better than I received with Nexxus, which I have as a backup.  Aphogee has stopped the breakage, it is vital to my regimen, and I have to use it more than the recommended six week intervals.  Keracare shampoo for dry and itch scalp is the only shampoo which cleanses my hair and scalp without tangling it in the process.  There may be better, but I've used a lot and none work as well as this.  I depend on Joico for the Cuticle Sealer to seal and normalize the pH levels in my hair (apple cider vinegar smells too strong), the Kid's Organic Moisturizer is a back up detangler if when detangling, my hair is having a bad go.  I  will give reviews for each product, but this is my "arsenal" and it is possible to grow afro textured hair to your waist if you learn what works and how to care for your hair. 
For those who wonder about shedding, here is how much I lost this past week.

 
Also, I neglected to mention I also monitor the hair in the shower to gauge if there is an excess there as well.  I keep a journal in order to discern what's working, the amount of growth achieved, and the products used.
Hope this helped someone!
xoxo
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I am a sucker for all things healthy.
Healthy hair, healthy skin, healthy body, but being a product junkie, sometimes products whisper my name from the shelves. I'm working on a zebra print set of ear muffs, but until then, enjoy!
These two are from the Deep Conditioning Treatments for the shampoo and conditioners of their respective hair types. I selected moisture and strength. The hair:


Claims:

Garnier Fructis Moisture Works
Drench your hair with moisture! Active Fruit Concentrate - an innovative combination of vitamins B3 and B6, fructose and glucose - helps restore moisture in dull, brittle or dry hair. Moisture is replenished and brilliant shine returns. Hair is up to 5x stronger, up to 5x smoother and so much shiner.* The result? You just have to touch it. Hair is so smooth, soft and supple that it feels like silk.

Garnier Fructis Moisture Works Instant Melting Conditioner is a breakthrough in conditioning technology. It instantly melts into the hair while Hydra-Replenishers deeply moisturize and strengthen hair without weighing it down.

How to use: After shampooing, apply the Instant Melting Conditioner to wet hair from root to tip. Rinse. For best results, use the Garnier Fructis Moisture Works System.

Results:

Didn't do much for my hair. It didn't detangle, it didn't make my hair feel like silk (wasn't expected) and it didn't seem to dry to a higher sheen.

The other product I had not seen nor heard of and found it by a lark. It's thicker, comes out more like a cream than lotion in an off white to peach color and smells nice as well.


Claims:

Garnier Fructis Strength & Repair
Garnier Fructis introduces the Strength & Repair System to help reverse the signs of damage in one week,* leaving hair intensely nourished, repaired from the inside out, and more resistant to breakage. The formulas with Nutritive Fruit Micro-Oils - a combination of apricot and avocado oils - nourish hair, and Ceramide Reconstructor helps repair and fortify hair. The result? Up to 7x less breakage.*

Garnier Fructis Strength & Repair Instant Melting Conditioner is a breakthrough in conditioning technology. This formula with Ceramide Reconstructor instantly penetrates deep into over-processed, damaged hair to help repair and revive the hair on contact.

How to use: After shampooing, apply the Instant Melting Conditioner to wet hair from root to tip. Rinse. For best results, use the Garnier Fructis Strength & Repair System.

Results:

Loved it, I will definitely repurchase this when I finish my others. This product comes closer to melting into my hair than its predecessor; however, the thing about this product is the moisturizing ability. I don't put this above my HGs but it was really nice to finally get a product which delivered most of its claims.

Five paws bellas!
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Hey Felines and Tomcats,

If you are anything like moi, you have been reading so much about Moroccan oil. It's all over hair forums, beauty blogs, YouTube, etc. You may actually think this the answer to world peace at some point. I first heard of this product watching a Queen of Blending tutorial. Her hair is amazingly long, beautiful and healthy. I'm not daft, her hair grade and mine are completely different. My hair is more coiled and wiry, so I don't expect the same results she did. If you go to Beauty Choice it's out of stock usually because so many "gurus" are promoting their products, their videos are on their website. But, you might try cosmetic magic and get 3.4 oz bottle for $27.99.
This product claims it has the "unique" quality of instant absorption into the hair which creates a beautiful sheen sans oily residue. The reason this is so expensive is for it's properties, mainly the Argan oil. Argan oil comes from the kernels of Argan tree fruit which is only grown in a few regions, the main being Morocco. So much like a rare diamond is to gemstones, this is to hair oils. The Argan is good for every external agent on your body if you research.
Unfortunately, if you read the ingredients, you will find the truth. The first ingredient is water...yes, water in the oil. I digress. The next three ingredients are various forms of silicone and silicone agents. The next is fragrance. After the fragrance...drum roll...Argan oil followed by a few extracts. So, if you don't believe me, do as I always say when you are purchasing a product. Research!! You can get Argan oil for a lot cheaper than this, and what is the difference?
Glad you asked. I had Moroccan oil on half of my head and Jojoba on the other. I did not notice anything different in terms of health and appearance in my hair. The textures where different but I have 100% unrefined jojoba and the Moroccan oil has other agents.
Bottom line, unless you have money burning a hole in your hand, pass on this. For some reason, I think you already new this before reading, but now you can say Black Panther wasted her money so I don't have to. Then, if you're a skeptic, you can Google this product, look at the ingredients, scratch them down and research those, and tell me what you think.

Thanks for being you, God made you that way!


B.P.
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Happy Wednesday,

Don't you love to learn about products before you decide to buy them? I have spent far too much than I wish to admit on hair products in this long journey to hair health and length.
I don't want my hair just to be long, I want my mane to be healthy. What good is long hair if the ends are sparse, ragged and unhealthy looking? When I say healthy I must define that in my terms. The hair closest to my scalp should be the same density as my ends. If my hair is thick at the roots and frayed on the ends, I need a cut because there is obviously some breakage. I want my hair to shed a reasonable amount otherwise I have to look at what is going on with my body and health physiologically. Caffeine, stress, medications, can all contribute to hair loss, scalp massage and a balanced diet with supplements when necessary is essential to hair health. Products can make or break one's hair literally. For me, the beginning of my regimen begins with a good shampoo. I have used shampoo for kids, blondes, chemically treated, thinning, and horses by more lines than I can count. At one time Creme of Nature was the only shampoo I would use. I had beauticians and friends get me to buy every "new and improved" product and things you would swear was made from acient egyptians during rare eclipses, as well as products used by Native American and/or women from Sri Lanka and other countries known for long, silky hair and none of them worked.
I bought Keracare's shampoo for dry, itchy scalp a few months ago and was impressed, but of course the more browsing I did on other forums, I was lured into other brands and wound up with sub par results.
What I like about this shampoo is that when I'm in the shower, I can feel it tingling and the cooling sensation is euphoric if you have the itchies as I refer to them. My scalp constantly itches to the point of embarassment. I also have dry hair, so I can't wash it everyday but I want my scalp to feel clean. I have tried co washing, but it's like I'm adding product on top of my hair for the sake of conditioning my hair. For me, I need to have a clean scalp and the occasional clarifying of my hair for any conditioner to work effectively. As a result, I am limited to weekly intensive regimens.
When I use this shampoo, I am able to comb it through to the ends. Yes, you are supposed to start with the ends, but this shampoo gave me what I expected UAN's to do, which was melt through the tangles. Unfortunately, it's quite costly but I have decided I will spend the money to have a small set of items that truly work for my hair than to nickle and dime myself until I find things that work with my hair. It makes sense, and I wish I had come to this conclusion years ago while I was buying things from health food stores, pet stores and every beauty supply store in the heart of the ghetto and wasting money down the drain.
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Hello Kittens,
I'm back from my mini break and want to give and update on the UANS Crema Plus Intensive Reconstructor.
Some time ago I watched a YouTube tutorial from DRBrooklyn who was raving about this product. Being the junkie I am, I got on every hair forum regardless of the type, Longhaircare, BlackHairMedia, Makeupalley, Specktra, the whole lot and began investigating and searching for reviews. Well, I could not come up with anything conclusive, mixed reviews so I took the plunge. Not only did I take the plunge, I went for the biggest size they had. My mane is a hot mess to handle and I want to have an arsenal I can call tried and true and stop throwing good money after bad. So, I bought the 32 oz pump jar for $107.95!!!! Yes, I went big, but if this stuff was really going to have "voodo" capabilities at detangling MY hair, it was worth every cent. " Intensive reconstructor for dry, damaged or processed hair

See also Thérapi Reconstructor

CREMA PLUS, designed to penetrate the outer cuticle layer of your hair, delivers exceptional manageability, silken softness and sheen. CREMA PLUS contains Hydrogranein®, a natural wheat protein to help build hair strength and thickness. Use as needed to treat dry, damaged & chemically treated hair.

intense protein reconstructor
does not weigh down the hair
repairs dry, damaged or processed hair – instantly
equalizes the porosity of the hair shaft and protects it prior to chemical treatments
unique self neutralizing alkaline formula designed to open the outer cuticle layer of the hair in order to penetrate – then closes it
use once a week or twice if hair is extremely damaged
contains Hydrogranein®, a natural wheat protein that bonds permanently to hair to help build strength and thickness
How to: Apply after shampoo on damp hair. Leave 2 to 5 min. and rinse. For an even deeper treatment, cover with a plastic cap, leave for 15 minutes and rinse. It is not necessary to use heat.

The science behind the beauty

Unlike many conditioning treatments, UAN’S® Treatments are water-based, and will not adversely affect or alter any chemical treatment. Crema and Crema Plus’ formulation gives it an initially alkaline pH, thus allowing it to open the cuticle and penetrate into the cortex. While the hair is drying, the treatment’s formula neutralizes itself to a normal pH. The now more acidic composition closes the cuticle, locking-in emollients."
That's what the product claims. I have used this for over a month and I have not found it to be impressive. In fact, I compared it to a few other products and found two products to be better at a smaller price tag. Terax Crema is similar to UAN's, and left my hair softer. Africa's Best Just for Kids Deep Penetrating treatment, beat them both as, like it's counter part the leave in lotion, it detangles very well and has a thicker consistency.
I will continue to use this product as part of my leave in mixture; however, I would not recommend this if you have long, 4a/b hair texture and your hair easily tangles. Overall, I give this product only 2 out of five paws.

Meow for now gorgeous!


B.P.
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Hi Kittens,

Hope your Easter Sunday was well. I took off from blogging in preparation for Good Friday and the Resurrection. It didn't seem right to go on about how beauty obsessed I am when it's not about me?
Well, I wrote about my search for a replacement product for Emergencee by Nexxus (details on that to come) and Sebastian's Penetraitt did not impress me. The only product I have tried which can claim the same results has been Aphogee's. I was really disappointed in that the consistency is not comparable at all, one is a cream the other is a liquid gel type substance which leaves a film. The film is what work for my hair, as it has the "slip" my hair needs to detangle without breakage.
In my quest, I found more reviews on UAN's Crema Plus Intensive Reconstructor, UANS is Urban Attitude Natural Science and you can read about the product here. I ordered the 32oz size (stupid since it may not work) and even though I ordered it a week ago, it won't arrive until tomorrow :( I got sucked in by DR Brooklyn's review on YouTube initially, then I researched on three other forums and decided to take the next step. It's supposed to be a miracle comparable to voodoo when it comes to detangling hair and that is the only item missing from my arsenal. The longer the hair, the more it detangles. But for those of you who do have hair you have to wrestle with, shampoo in the shower and always lather from the top down. Don't shampoo like in commercials with all your hair on top of your head, that is too much manipulation and creates tangles. Use a shampoo that has a conditioning agent like Keracare or Creme of Nature. Detangle hair with conditioner applied and begin from the tips working up. Take your time, add more conditioner if necessary and use a wide tooth comb. After detangling, apply a deep conditioner from root to tip, put on a plastic shower cap and sit under a dryer and read a book, do your nails, or whatever. I usually leave my conditioner on for longer, but that's what my hair requires. When I'm done, I rinse in the shower and towel blot excess water and apply moisturizer and oil to seal and wrap it, and that's my routine.

Meow for now,



B.P.
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Hey Lovers,

I am really excited to try out Sebastian's Penetraitt reconstructor. I have been using Nexxus' Emergencee for as long as I can remember and I think that's more than 15 years. I tried and still use Aphogee, but something about Emergencee has me addicted and I would say it's my holy grail, since it has repaired so many of the disasters I have put it through (relaxers, balding, shedding, breakage, coloring, bleaching, etc.) and it ALWAYS whips my hair back in shape. I can honestly say my hair would not be waist length if Emergencee was not in my rotation.

Unfortunately Nexxus is no longer considered a professional line, per my research and calls to many salons and retailers. I have been given a host of products to use in lieu of Emergencee and if tonight does not bode well, I will try them.

I looked at a few forums, read reviews and decided to go with Sebastian's Penetraitt. It's supposed to be comparable, meaning some like it more than Emergencee and others less, but tonight will tell. I'm doing a touch up and I always follow that with Emergencee. I don't relax as often as I used to, but I have stretched my hair until the point I know is demarcation. Shout out to Ateya for being able to go beyond 16 weeks. Check her out at here and you'll see what healthy hair looks like. Not that my hair is not healthy, but I don't have a video. You can look at my post with my hair straight out of the shower for reference :)

I am aware Emergencee still exists under a new formulation and name, but it has more water in it, and to be honest, I don't like that it's not considered professional. Why start professional and then not? I understand not all professional products are good and that many drugstore/beauty supply store products work as well or better, but something is not making sense to me. I go with my gut when it comes to my hair. If you are legit and go unlegit, are you absolving yourself of responsibility of your products reputation? Because I'm not natural, I know I have to up my game that much more to have healthy hair, and as a result, I have to be cautious about what goes on my head as much as what's in it.

I will report back my initial findings and post my time tested, B.P. approved products next week. This weekend? A few makeovers and an audition, plus the quest for a new church...will it ever end.

Stay beautiful and thank you so much for subscribing. If you want a contest, please leave me a comment.

Cheers!


B.P.
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Hey Beautiful!

I know we all love product reviews, and I am a product junkie at heart but I don't want to review a product without using it thoroughly. I think it goes without saying we all want to save money and there are so many products on the market these days and I find it overwhelming and I've been doing this for a really, really long time.

I'll begin by saying I have relaxed, kinky textured African hair. I have posted a photo sometime back and my hair is almost to my waist. I preface by saying this because some people think it is not possible for Afro textured hair to grow beyond the shoulders. My hair didn't get to this length until I began researching products, and learning how to take care of my hair. Now that it's long, I'm not so concerned about my mane the way I was when I was younger as I am a lot my secure with myself and now my hair is just an extension of me. I'm blessed to have anything on my head after all I put it through. God really does have my back on this because I had bald spots from some of my "discoveries."

I have tried Terax Crema twice. The first time, I was using it in conjunction with a lot of other products so it was difficult to determine, which product worked.

Here's the skinny: Original Crema Ultra Moisturizing Daily Conditioner
What it is:
An ultra-moisturizing daily conditioner for all hair types.

What it is formulated to do:
Crema opens the cuticle to allow moisture to penetrate the hair, leaving it soft and silky. It also restores split ends, breakage, and dryness associated with chemical treatments and environmental damage and combats static electricity and frizziness.

What else you need to know:
Scented with rice flower, shea, bergamot, and juniper.

Here's what I found. It has a scent that is strong and not in a fragrancy, perfume type of way. It smells a bit rancid. You may even think of fish to be honest. I've read that the "animal fat" is what gives the aroma.

I cannot disagree with it's moisturizing abilities, as it does really seem to soften my hair and it does give the extra slip I need to detangle, without being heavy.

I bought this at here when they had their friend and family discount, and free shipping.

This is not quite my holy grail, or staple for deep conditioning, but it does work well and would get 3.5 of 5 paws. It's a bit pricey, but if your mane is brittle, it's a good product to give a go.

Stay lovely!


B.P.

Hair Review

by on 10:29 AM
Hey Beautiful! I know we all love product reviews, and I am a product junkie at heart but I don't want to review a product without using...
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Hello Kit Cat,

I forgot to post the style I usually wear as a protective style. This is it, sometimes I mix it up, but as soon as I wash, condition and add my products and oils, I twist it, and pull it to the top of my head and clip it with something to hold it in place and voila, that's it. The secret is to style while wet in order to keep it together so it will dry and I can put my hair wrap on it at night and it will maintain this shape.

Love, Laugh and LIVE!!!

B.P. (no paw here :()

Hair Story Part II

by on 9:56 AM
Hello Kit Cat, I forgot to post the style I usually wear as a protective style. This is it, sometimes I mix it up, but as soon as I wash, co...
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