Bun #5

I just realized I forgot to post this weeks bun. I found this bun while stalking Serenity Breeze's album years ago. As my hair gets bigger, this bun looks more funky. This is one that I am going to have to give up, I think. What do you think? Does it still look okay?

Anyway, here a video from the author of the blog maneandchic.com by way of youtube:

Hibiscus Petal Powder

This is another Ayurvedic powder that I have come across. It sounds great and it seems to be compatible with the other powders that I already use. Here is the info in it:

Hibiscus petals, also known as jaswand, were used in Ayurvedic medicine to stimulate thicker hair growth and to prevent premature graying, hair loss and scalp disorders. The petals act as a natural, emollient hair conditioner. Hibiscus petal powder can be used in Ayurvedic hair washes, oil infusion treatments and vinegar rinses for the hair. Use hibiscus petal powder in combination with brahmi and amla powders. (Fromnaturewithlove.com)

I will use this in my next Ayurvedic Powder mix. I also have to get a bigger tea strainer, hmmm.

Hiarcare 101: Relaxer Preparation

So I will relax this weekend. Before I do that I have to be sure that my hair is in prime condition so that the relaxer does not kill the already processed hair. The ONLY time you should apply a relaxer is when the hair is in good shape. If it is shedding, breaking, etc. relaxing is not the key to stopping damage from continuing. So, to begin yesterday I did a light Aphogee Protein treatment. I washed my hair with Suave Humectant and then I applied the Aphogee Treatment for 5 minutes. Simple, I just gave my hair a little shot of protein so that it would be strong enough to withstand relaxing. The day before I relax I will coat my hair in coconut oil to give the already processed hair a protective layer against the relaxer runoff.

Here's the link to a great article that I found awhile ago about preparing the hair for a relaxer:
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/278572/getting_ready_to_relax_preparing_your.html?cat=69

I can't start Oil Washing

I forgot that I was on a No Changes to my regimen challenge. That means that I have to stick to what I already know works. That is why I joined that challenge, so that I wouldn't experiment. So, here's my reminder and I will continue with what works. As the saying goes, if it ain't broke don't fix it.

Coming Soon

Progress Pics: March 1

I've Figured it Out

So, I have stated that my beloved ORS has been changed and that has been confirmed. It is not the same and I will not buy everyone out of the product in an attempt to hang on for dear life, instead I will just move on.

The only other conditioner that I remember using that had the same effect just without nearly as much slip as the ORS is Aveda Dry Remedy Moisturizing Treatment Masque.

Also, to be sure that I am getting that light protein boost that ORS gave me every week I am also going to use the Aphogee 2 minute Keratin Treatment as well.

I will rotate the two conditioners by using the Aphogee one week and the Aveda the other. However, this will not commence until I am out of my current bottle of ORS.

The No Direct Heat Lifestyle

The no direct heat thing take's a while to get used to, but it is worth it. I try to only use direct heat three times a year. January to trim, July to check length, December to check length and assess the year's progress. Otherwise I rollerset, bun, braid and more.

If I want to retain all of my length I know that I cannot use direct heat, but as I have stated, once I reach my goal I will use more direct heat. However if you master the rollerset you won't have to. There are ladies that can rollerset in 30 minutes or less. That is definitely my goal. Right now it takes me at least an hour, but that is a lot better than my starting two hours, lol. I am going to rollerset for the month of March once a week in an attempt to do just that.

Also, you have to fall in LOVE with protective styles. They are your friend. I do a month of buns every four months. I find that this variety works best for me. My track record for the four months is usually braid-outs/twist-outs, buns, rollersets, and braids (on my hair). Next month (April) I will do braids and show the various types I have learned.

There are so many more styles out there than I realized. I usually rollerset after relaxing because I don't want to blow dry the roots (direct heat).

I see the no direct heat lifestyle as a challenge that needs to be conquered. Why is it that people turn to the easy option of just using the flat iron? I personally love the body that rollersets give the hair.

• For smooth hair in protective styles wet hair, apply a serum or gel, put a satin scarf on for at least 15 minutes and you're good to go.

• For hair with a little more texture try doing a braid-out and then styling the hair.

• For straight hair, rollerset a mowhawk/ponytail, wrap hair, apply sawran wrap, and go back under the dry for 10 minutes. When done you will have silky straight hair. The key to light bouncy hair is less product; a leave-in with serum is more than enough.

• Also, use youtube. There are tons of great videos on styling the hair. Just be sure to look at a person's whole regimen and videos for the hint of practices or products that you already know that you should never use on your hair.
  

I've said it before and I'll say it Again!

Do not become Hair Obsessed. Your hair is just another accessory. Yes, I want long hair just as much as every one else, but that is not the most important thing in life. Do what you can and let your hair grow. Don't do constant length checks, don't constantly go out and buy new products, and don't become a hair snob.

If people are afraid to touch your hair because you might snap at them, then you are hair obsessed. If people accidentally brush up against your hair and you are ready to fight them, then you are hair obsessed. If your significant other/children use one of your hair products/appliances/tools and you are ready to slap them upside their head, you are hair obsessed. If you go home every night and the absolute first thing you do is think about your hair, you are hair obsessed.

Remember ladies, this is just a short term goal. You might achieve your goal and then six months later decide to chop it all off. I see nothing wrong with hair being a concern and something you need to learn about, but don't let it take over your life.

Bun #4

I learned this one from K.I.S.S as well. It looks better on hair that has been in a braid-out for awhile, but that really doesn't matter to me. Anyways, by way of youtube:

Hair Food

Let me start off by saying that I do not center what I eat based on promoting hair growth. I can never see myself doing that. I do eat a healthy diet and that does include some sugars. I exercise and I am conscious of what I eat regardless of the fact that I am not eating to grow my hair, but instead to stay healthy.

Incidentally, I have found that one of the best ways to insure ultimate growth potential is to eat certain hair foods. Of course as I have previously discussed, vitamin's and supplements work really well to keep the hair strong and growing soft and happy. However, one other way is to hair happy foods.

Fish promotes hair and nail growth and is excellent for the health of the teeth and the eyes (this is because it is an omega fatty acid along with dark green vegetables). Other meat proteins such as chicken and beef also help to stimulate growth.

Most vegetables are full of vitamin A and C which helps to create sebum. This sebum is the natural nourishment that the scalp provides the hair. Dark green vegetables also provide iron and calcium which are great for the health of the body.

Beans are wonderful because they promote hair growth through biotin along with iron and zinc. I have learned that taking a biotin supplement is one of the fastest ways to promote hair growth, unfortunately for me taking the supplement also causes increased acne. On the other hand the beans being a natural source of vitamin works with the body and thus causes no ill side effects for me.

Fruit is great because it contains lots of Vitamin C. Vitamin C helps with the absorption of iron which is vital in preventing hair loss.

Eggs are also one of the best protein sources in that it contains biotin and vitamin B-12. They're great! I just cannot stomach too many of them myself.

The foods that helps promote hair growth basically contains high amounts of protein, iron, omega-fatty acids, vitamin's A-C-B 12, and zinc. So, do some research and start eating more of which ever of these foods you enjoy most. They work!

Why am I trying to stretch forever AGAIN!

I remember saying that I wouldn't do that again and I remember why. I hate fooling with all of that new growth. My hair grows perfectly fine without never ending stretches. I just get inspired to do so by a lack of difficulty with my hair, but I need to stop, lol. I will relax as originally planned at the end of the month on March 2 at 10 weeks post.

Oil Wash Method 1

So, last night I did the oil wash by following the method from the youtube video I found. I have to say that my hair loved it. Its soft, moisturized, and my new growth is very cooperative at the moment. I put my hair in one braid after washing and I will keep it that way until Sunday when I do the full regimen. I think if I choose this one as my method I will go under my dryer for 15 minutes and see what effect that has. Hmmm.....

Next Thursday I will try the second method.


PS: In two weeks I will do my first length check of the new year for the end of the 3 month Ayurveda Challenge on LHCF. I have no expectations, just curious.

Oil Wash/Rinse

So I think I mentioned that I was going to start doing an oil rinse/wash at least once a week. If not, there's the announcement, lol. This is an ayurvedic practice that is suppose to add moisture to the hair while cleansing at the same time. So, I'm trying to figure out which method I prefer and how they will affect my hair.

*This is not a hot oil treatment*

Here are a couple ways.

1.
She applies the oil to damp hair and washes out with water or natural shampoo (I will just use water)

2. Oil Rinsing 1
Apply lots and lots of oil to the hair and scalp squeezing all the dirt and product buildup down. Do this over the tub or in it because lots will be squeezed down. That's it!

3. Oil Wash/Rinse 2

1. Rinse (or shampoo) your hair
2. Coat in your favorite oil
   
3. Rinse with warm/hot water
4. Apply conditioner
5. Rinse with cool/cold water
6. Apply leave-in
7. Seal

4. Oil Rinse/Wash 3
Apply oil to dry hair, put on shower cap and let sit overnight or all day and rinse.

Most of these methods are a product of Long Hair Care Forum.

Okay, so I am going to try them in that order, 1-4. Starting Thursday and every thursday after. I will update with my experience of course, but I hope they all work just in different ways.

Bun #3 Classic Bun

To do this one I have to let my hair hang down to dry for awhile so it remains straight and then the rest is history. I had to learn to do this one without tucking the hair in the band because its length makes that look weird. Here's the expertvillage video by way of youtube that I learned this bun from: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KuMavne80Zs

Breaking News

My beloved Organic Root Stimulator Replenishing Conditioner has changed! The look of the bottle and the ingredients have changed.

First I must say that I am devastated because I have been using this for about two years with much success.

What does this mean for me?
1. This means that I will be doing lots of research on my favorite fotki inspirations, on LHCF, and customer reviews.
2. I will be making a visit to either Wal-Mart, Sally's, or Trade Secret for a new conditioner
3. I will go to sally's and buy another bottle of ORS before they run out.

Have any suggestions let me know. I'm looking for a conditioner that doesn't require any add in's to work wonderfully. I'm looking for it to leave my hair almost completely detangled, moisturized and soft. You may say that's asking alot, but that is what ORS did and I will not settle for less unless I absolutely have to.



Stay Tuned!

Product Push: Fantasia IC Serums

You know, serums are not often associated with black haircare, but they should be because they are perfect for our purposes. Its great to find all that you need in one product line. I have used/use:

Fantasia IC Olive Moisturing Shine Serum

This serum is great for adding moisture to the hair and for getting rid of the frizz. I have used it on wet hair for braidouts and buns. I have also used it for rollersets and my hair comes out light and frizzy after using this every time.

Fantasia IC Heat Proectant Serum

I use this serum on wet hair before flat ironing or blow drying. Its great because it doesn't leave any type of coating on the hair and it definitely protects the hair. I also use it on dry hair before straightening for added protection, but that is not part of the directions.

Fantasia IC Frizz Buster Serum




I have used this one specifically for rollersets. I bought this because Macheriamour uses this for her rollersets and I have to agree that it works. I apply to wet hair before setting and the hair comes out soft bouncy and frizz free. Its hard to choose between this and the Olive Oil Serum, so I just use this for rollersets and the Olive Oil Serum for other things.

Ayurvedic Tea Preservation

I was reminded by a comment (Thanks!) that I should tell you guys that the tea will go bad! You must refrigerate or freeze it to preserve it. I do not add any preservatives, so if I leave it out it will go bad in less than a week (in my experience). This also goes for pastes, once you mix these powders with water they have a limited shelf life when left out.

To use the tea again I take it out of the refrigerator, fill the sink with hot water and put the applicator bottle in there for about 30 minutes. Then its all back to liquid and ready to use.

Bun #2 Braided Bun

I washed yesterday and dried in two pig tails. Today I decided on the braided bun. Its really cure and simple. I learned to do this bun from a video by Traycee, keepitsimplesista.blogspot.com. She has a fun blog and she is the hair styling diva. Check it out! Anyways, here is a link to the video by way of youtube:

Exercise and Hair

People often wonder what to do with the hair when exercising and how this effects washing. I am an avid exerciser, when I started my journey I was going to aerobic classes 3 days a week and doing 30 minutes of cardio before them. I eventually started jogging 3 miles 5 days a week plus some weight training to keep the body tone. Now I practice yoga three days a week and bellydance once or twice a week.

Through all of this I have not changed my regimen for my hair. I find that it really doesn't matter if the dirt and sweat builds up as long as I wash my hair every five to seven days. However, I do spray a bit of Aveda Damage Control Spray and massage it around my scalp after exercise. Its more of a dry spray so my hair is not soaking wet and it doesn't mess up any hairstyle that I am maintaining that week. At the same time it helps to maintain the style by getting rid of some of that dirt.

As far as exercise hair styles go, I just try to keep the hair up in some shape or form. Whether it be pony tails, buns, wraps, pin-curls, etc. I sweat mostly in my hair so I just try to keep it out of my face. I have never been one to wear headbands specifically for exercise because I do exercise often and I am not sure what that would do to my hair. Otherwise I do not worry too much about my hair when exercising. I do not want my hair to become a constant bother, but instead something I enjoy doing.

Bun #1 Chignon

For these five days I chose the classic chignon. My sister said that it was really cute and I have to agree. I used only my hair, which is a confidence booster, but you can achive this same look by buying a hair donut from Sally's and covering the donut with your hair. I learned how to do this style awhile back from a video on Expertvillage.com. Here's the video by way of youtube:

Ayurvedic Tea

The tea worked wonderfully! It worked just as well as the paste and was so much easier to apply. Later that day I had my hair in a chignon and my sister said to me, so "Is that how the Ayurvedic stuff makes your hair look?" My new growth still looks non existent and I am now 6 weeks post! So here's the breakdown, I followed the method of kiesha8185, an lhcf member.

Materials:
Water
Brahmi Powder
Amla Powder
Henna Powder
Shikaka Powder
Aritha Powder
Amla Oil
Vatika Oil
Spoon
Sizeable Tupperware Container
Strainer
Applicator Bottle (s)

How to make the Tea:
To make the tea I put two tablespoons of each powder, except Brahmi and Amla which I added three tablespoons, into the tupperware container. I mixed them up and then I added 3 cups of water and mixed. I put the tupperware container's top on and let that sit overnight. In the morning I shook well and strained the tea (Use a strainer that will allow you to keep the water while getting rid of the really fine granuales of powder). I threw away the powder and mixed 2 cups of oil (I used one cup of amla oil and one cup of Vatika Oil) into the herb infused water. Shook and put into an applicator bottle. This makes a little over 24 ounces of tea.

How to Apply the Tea:
Pre-poo with Oil Overnight
Part the hair in four sections and apply the tea to each section (I apply like you would a relaxer)
Put on shower cap and fiddle around the house for 1 hour
Rinse for 5 minutes with warm water
Deep Condition
And Voila!

Simple as pie and I only used a little over 1 oz of tea on my hair! This is going to last me Awhile!!!!!!!!!! I am so happy that I decided to try the tea's, it is a lot less messy, get's the same result and goes a lot further. Woohoo!!!!!!!

ETA: So far I have used 8 ounces after 4 washes.