Hair Care Weblog

I have had bad experiences with perms my entire life. My hair is
very thick and sometimes very hard to manage. For most of my young
adult life I've worn it in braids or the press and curl from back in
the day. Everytime I attempt to put a perm in my hair either
professionally or at home same result my hair would just fall out (in
clumps!!!!) So I've been wearing braids for about 1year straight
(different styles) Now my hair has grey strands and I want to color
them but not perm it. Can I color my hair and still thermal press
with out worry of breakage? And if so what color brand should I use
I have jet black hair so the grey stands out as if I were blond.
Please help!!!

Did anyone catch this weeks show? When I saw thepreviews for this
weeks show i just knew they were gonna try to get Yaya to straighten
her hair. I was so excited when they did not. She is such a pretty
girl and her hair is gorgeous. She is reppin for the nappy heads all
over the land. I just had to share my excitement.

The new issue of Naturally You! is coming soon with an exciting line
up of new articles, photos, and more!
Here's what you can expect in this issue:
Features:
The Majesty of Locs
An awe inspiring pictorial celebration of our regal crowns.
The 12 Days of Naturally You!
12 great tips for keeping your hair soft, manageable, and beautiful
for the holidays!
Napptural Novelists
Curl up with a good book for fall. Two great choices from two
dynamic napptural ladies.
Wellness:
Women's Gold
Known in West Africa as women's gold or karite(life), shea butter
has healing and moisturizing properties unmatched by other products.
See why not all shea butter is created equal before you buy.
Battling the Winter Blues
The days get shorter and the weather gets colder, which leaves many
of us longing for summer. Find out how to carry the sunshine with
you through the winter.
Making Peace with Yourself
What does yoga have to do with natural beauty? 5000 years of yoga
show us how to reconnect with our inner selves.
Fat's Where It's At
You've heard about good fat. Get the simple facts on how it can
improve your health.
Crown:
Is a Texturizer Right for You?
Are texturizers natural? Are they a good option for transitioners?
Get the scoop before you take the plunge.
Take Down them Locs!
Yes, you CAN remove locs without shaving your head! We promise! It
may be easier than you think.
PHHB - Demystifying the Pantyhose Headband
Pantyhose have a million and one uses. Did you know they make
perfect headbands and ponypuff holders? Learn how step by step.
You:
Bonded by Nature
One woman's remarkable experience with her family of 8 nappturals.
Reader Survey
What do you think of Naturally You!?
Reader Services
Where to find featured products and services.
Count On it:
Holiday Product Picks
A Note from the Publisher
Letters
Preorder your copy today!
http://tinyurl.com/6e5cn

Thank you for being a part of the Naturally You! Online Community. There are a
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most information, resources, and support from it.
This message will be sent out monthly to group members to remind us why we enjoy
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* Make things clear.
When replying to a message, delete everything except the specific text you are
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Also,and I promise not to suggest another book. Let's Talk Hair by Pamela Ferrell. It is excellent! Valerie

Meredith,
Thanks for the info. I wasn't looking to receive any info about my
questions that fast! I have another question though. What would be
the best way to clean my scalp without washing it. I have heard of no-
poo, but I have never actually learned the process. Is that what you
do?
Candice

win2ton,

Is your stylist actually palmrolling your hair done to the end of the loc? That could be it. Or it could be the product that he/she is using? Another problem could be that they're not uses the hair clips all the way down to the tip of the loc. That's one of the things I do for my clients in any stage before a year. It helps with the frizzes.
Don't complain about what you allow. Be Free.

Ditto! : ) I was contemplating doing the same over the weekend.

I'll have to check out thses sites. Thanks for sharing.
LILLIAN MOORE <llmoore929@...

THANK YOU VERY VERY MUCH FOR THIS EMAIL!!!!! I was starting to sink fast. I kept

contemplating getting the "touch up". But you pulled me out. Thanks again

I am a new member, and I am thinking about getting twists. What
specific kind and brand of hair is best recommended for this? I want
the twists to have a shiny luster instead of the dry look I see most
of the time. Would human hair best work for kinky twists? If so, what
brand? Help! Also, I want to keep them in for a while, so what steps
are recommended for keeping that fresh look?

I'm so glad I could be of help. I would suggest that you buy the book No Lye! by Tulani Kinard. The African American Woman's Guide To Natural Hair Care. It;s not expensive. It;s under $15. It is a wealth of information. I didn't even know if my hair was fine,medium,or course, until I read that book. You will love the hair styles! Valerie

I want to wish you all a great day.
and
I want to also thank you all for the great advice and referals.
I am trully trying to keep it natural and work with what I have.
It has been a long road. My sisters and I decided all to go natural
at different times. (I was the last to start). I dont have to tell
any of you I am sure how hard that is after being chemically
dependant for so long. Oh and lets not mention that i come from a
latin back ground, were women of color in my country make their own
relaxers just to be "straight" My sisters and I all have a different
texture of hair. Being a black latina my hair is still in what i
would call an african texture, just not as thick or course....which
leads to my hair being a bit disfuntional. it is thinner and softer
in texture and very curly ( extreemly curly)...which i love, my only
complaint is that it is not very versatile in a conservative way.
But i have hope and i am sure i am going to find a happy medium
soon.
So thank you for all the advise and support.
La Mayimba (Xixi)
Peace and Blessings

THANK YOU VERY VERY MUCH FOR THIS EMAIL!!!!! I was starting to sink fast. I kept

contemplating getting the "touch up". But you pulled me out. Thanks again

I deceided to loc up about 5 months ago. I started with twist and now have 5-7
inch
'baby' locs forming. My only issue it that the ends are very puffy and not
tight and hard
like the middle portion or the base after a retightning. does anyone have any
answers to
this for me?????
w
d/b/a puff daddy

XiXi -
A texturizer will break the bonds that make your hair coily, similar to the
way a relaxer works, only not as strong. When you use a texturizer, some of
your natural curl remains, instead of your hair going bone straight as it
would with a strong relaxer.
The rod set's purpose I presume would be to get a consistent curl to your
hair - texturizers often create uneven texture because of the already
varying textures on your head and the nature of the chemical process itself.
Seems like a roundabout way to do things - relax the curl, reset the curl -
why not just work with the curls/coils you already have?
There will be an article about texturizers in the upcoming issue of
Naturally You!
KC
On Tue, 28 Sep 2004 14:46:43 -0000, Xixi De La Rosa wrote

"Zee-Zee" or "Zi Zi"
Hello...

XiXi...If you don't mind me asking...how does one pronounce this name?...:)

aesha

Just wanted to let you know about these web sights. www.motowngirl.com This sister has posted many pictures of her hair in varius transistioning styles as well as her natural hair styles and how to achieve them. Also www.africanhair.com is another site worth looking through. Valerie

TAHT WAS SO NAET!!!!!!!
RO <queenli19@...

I just sent off my information/money order for my subscription to
NYMAG! I have two issues and waiting for more!
Can you read this?
As long as the brain can see the first and last letter it can
unscramble a word even if the ones in the middle are messed up..I
knew spelling wasnt all that important..Can you read this?
cdnuolt blveiee taht I cluod aulaclty uesdnatnrd waht I was rdgnieg
The phaonmneal pweor of the hmuan mnid Aoccdrnig to a rscheearch at
Cmabrigde Uinervtisy, it deosn't mttaer inwaht oredr the ltteers in a
wrod are, the olny iprmoatnt tihng is taht the frist and lsat ltteer
be in the rghit pclae. The rset can be a taotl mses and you can sitll
raed it wouthit a porbelm. Tihs is bcuseae the huamn mnid deos not
raed ervey lteter by istlef, but the wrod as a wlohe. Amzanig huh?
yaeh and I awlyas thought slpeling was ipmorantt

Hey Twisted Sister,
I have used the Aphogee protein conditioner on my natural hair and I
liked the results. While our natural hair is stronger than
chemically altered hair, many of us put additional stress on our
hair through comb outs, styles that are pulled tightly, etc. For
me, Aphogee added the additional strength that I enjoyed.
Just be sure to follow with a good moisturizing conditioner.
Good Luck, HTH!!
TC

Yep,
I raed erevy wrod of it! ;-)
Sauda

I just sent off my information/money order for my subscription to
NYMAG! I have two issues and waiting for more!
Can you read this?
As long as the brain can see the first and last letter it can
unscramble a word even if the ones in the middle are messed up..I
knew spelling wasnt all that important..Can you read this?
cdnuolt blveiee taht I cluod aulaclty uesdnatnrd waht I was rdgnieg
The phaonmneal pweor of the hmuan mnid Aoccdrnig to a rscheearch at
Cmabrigde Uinervtisy, it deosn't mttaer inwaht oredr the ltteers in a
wrod are, the olny iprmoatnt tihng is taht the frist and lsat ltteer
be in the rghit pclae. The rset can be a taotl mses and you can sitll
raed it wouthit a porbelm. Tihs is bcuseae the huamn mnid deos not
raed ervey lteter by istlef, but the wrod as a wlohe. Amzanig huh?
yaeh and I awlyas thought slpeling was ipmorantt

Hello...

XiXi...If you don't mind me asking...how does one pronounce this name?...:)

aesha

You're right Aesha that is Funny.
It is because of these 'ink pen springs' I can always tell when my
hubby been using my brush on his beard.
I have real loose curly hair, and his has tight curly hair.
Though he is sometimes in denial about using my personal items, I am
thinking about getting him his own hair brush.
Peace
Sauda

Well I can tell you that Aveda has really nice colors. I go to the
Aveda salon and let the graduates color my hair for a $35 single
process and I LOVE THEM !!! Single process meaning, they just lift
my natural color as high as it will go without a double process,
which one would need if they were going blond. I'm in NYC and I
learned about this service when I went to the salon in Soho. Aveda
colors are 97 98% plant derived, which is something I was
interested in learning more about (www.aveda.com).
Like you, I've been wearing braids and I've opted for the occasional
wig or weave. When I took my braids out and I had that knot residue
as you called it (LOL), I merely took the hair by the residue part
and started separating the strands with my fingers. Once the cluster
was free, I gently combed it out and move to the next knot. DO NOT
TUG OR PULL. You'll be made at yourself in the end if your hair pops
off. Take your time and separate the strands within the cluster.
Just gently pull them apart.
Hope this helps,
amf360

Awww, that's funny! [INLINE] But to me, it sounds like pretty hair! I looooooove me some coils!! [INLINE]

Tanya

Bet,

I started my locs with coil twists back in October of 98. They were started by a professional. At the time, I only had enough hair for 1 coil twist. I literally started with about an inch of hair. I would get it maintained professionally once a month and I twisted it myself in the breaks every two weeks. My hair HATED THAT. It took my hair a full 6 months just to begin the locking process and my hair is quite naturally nappy. Once I realized what my hair was trying to tell me, I moved my maintenance schedule out to every two months and that really worked wonders for my hair. It started to lock quickly at the six month mark and by a year my hair was a couple of inches long and completely locked. Now this story won't be the same for everyone, but for my hair, it really liked to be left alone to lock. I had to let my hair do the work rather than trying to force it to lock on my schedule.

What else happened with my hair during that period... Well I noticed that the nice manicured look I had lasted for shorter periods. And as my locks got longer they used to stick straight out. They definitely had their own personality and I just loved that development period of my hair. I can honestly say I had a lot of good days, but I had my bad hair days as well. Days when I just wanted to cut my hair off and go back to processed hair. But I am so glad that I let those feelings pass. Good luck with you hair and be sure to post some pictures so that we can see your progress.

LeAnne
"Harris, Bettinita" <bharris@...

hi:

i just began the process of locking my hair -- with coils -- on july 28. i would like to hear from someone out there of what i can expect in the coming months. for example, what evidence should i look for to know that my hair is beginning to lock? as my hair grows, how will that affect the density of the the locs. i am really looking for specific details. still, i know that each person's experience is different. thanks.

bet

Peace and Love Sistahs,
May I share something silly...:)
I was looking in the mirror one morning and I was wondering how in the heck did an "ink pen spring get caught up in my hair. (you know the little spring inside the ink pen that causes the point to click up and down). It was right in the front just above my forehead. I'm looking like...what the?. LOL I reached up to take it out and ...yep, you guessed it...it was one coil of my hair...LOL LOL LOL... I pulled it and it stretched out about 6 inches long...LOL. I was so tickled. I thought about when I was growing up people always had something to say about my hair, how rough, how tough, how "bad", they would even say..."See, you got that funny hair"...meaning strange, I guess. Well, when I pulled the coil out and realized it was my hair I thought...NOW THAT'S FUNNY HAIR!!!...LOL
I love my hair!
aesha

sounds like you are about 2 months in. in another 2 months or so,
you will see the budding begin - the process of the hair beginning
to mat up. the hair will start matting first at the ends and work
its way up to the roots. you will notice your ends getting less
spongy, "harder". if you squeeze your twists/coils/braids now, they
probably go flat between your fingers. as they mature, there will be
more resistance to the touch - they will not just give way and go
flat if you squeeze them. if you're into cooking, it's like the
difference between raw/rare and well done.
they will become more dense. depending on how your locs were started
and what your hair texture is, the locs could become fatter or
skinnier. since i started with puffy soft double strand twists, my
locs are thinner. as they matted up and started to take shape
they "hold together" more, which makes them thinner. if you start
with coils, which are normally relatively thin, they may expand(get
fatter) as the mesh develops in the core of the loc.
hth,
KC

http://www.nedjetti.com/

hi:

i just began the process of locking my hair -- with coils -- on july 28. i would like to hear from someone out there of what i can expect in the coming months. for example, what evidence should i look for to know that my hair is beginning to lock? as my hair grows, how will that affect the density of the the locs. i am really looking for specific details. still, i know that each person's experience is different. thanks.

bet

A Lot of Questions posted on the list are in the Naturally You Magazine. www.naturallyyoumagazine.com

Get a subscription if you don't have one already.

Hello Ms. Sumrall!

I have used the no-poo method and that was usually my most frequent choice of washing my hair when I first did the "big chop". My hair was about 2 inches then. As my hair got longer, I noticed more residue with my hair doing the no-poo method everyday, so I opted to do the no-poo maybe a couple of times a week and then shampoo at least once a week, and now that works best for me.

Tanya
Shamoral Sumrall <ms_shanelles@...

Hello,

I am new to the group and I decided to go natural 3 months ago. The more I search for information on natural hair I notice that alot of individuals note that they are not using shampoo. They are using conditioner only. Are any of you guys currently doing this and if so what have been the results? Are there any benefits from the no poo method?

Ms_Shanelle

Ms. Sumrall

Hello,
I've been lurking for awhile, but haven't posted. I'm also from NJ
(not far from Newark) and have been completely natural for about 3
months and have about 3 1/2 inches. I transitioned for about 8
months. I'd like to find a shop to care for my hair and suggest the
appropriate protective style. I'm not able to get to PA or NY; does
anyone have any suggestions? Any help would be appreciated.
Thank you,
KH

Mary,
It takes 4-6 months for most highly coiled hair to begin
matting/forming buds. Your hair will start locing from the tips to
the roots, so pay close attention to the ends. Basically your ends
will start to get to the point where you can't easily unravel them.
KC

Xixi,
Generally speaking, your hair is not going to go from tightly coiled
to loosely curled just by adding a certain product to it - unless
it's a relaxer or texturizer. The best way to highlight your natural
texture is to keep your hair hydrated. From within by drinking a lot
of water, and perhaps taking flaxseed oil, along with a healthy
diet. From without by using an oil that will penetrate, not just
coat, your hair. Leave in conditioners also help to separate
individual hairs/curls, and smooth the cuticle layer.
To get a different texture without chemicals, you will have to set
your hair, using braids, twists, or rollers. Twists usually create a
more curly look, versus the crinkly look of braid-outs. The longer
you leave your twists in (depending on your hair texture), the
longer your texture will last once you take them out. If you leave
your twists in for a week or two, your twist-out will last about as
long. Different sized twists will create different curl patterns.
There are several good stylists in Philly, one of whom posted her
info here recently. Are you close enough to Philly to make the trip?
KC

Sept. 24-26 @ Georgia World Congress Center The King and VP of Ghana
is in Atlanta, Ga. Come to the exhibit area for Afrikan Clothes,
Mask, Food, Jewelry, Furniture, Statues, Artwork, Real Estate, and
Bank Accts. For more information: 404-969-1206 and info@...

Hello,

I am new to the group and I decided to go natural 3 months ago. The more I search for information on natural hair I notice that alot of individuals note that they are not using shampoo. They are using conditioner only. Are any of you guys currently doing this and if so what have been the results? Are there any benefits from the no poo method?

Ms_Shanelle

Ms. Sumrall

Hi Nicole, do you know anyone out on long Island? Thanks
Angela

I started my locks two months ago. The top of my hair is very soft so my new locks will only last about 2 1/2 before it starts to really fuzz up. The back of my hair is very coarse. How long will it take for my hair to start to lock? I can't tell if it has started to lock. It feels a little hard but my loctician said it looks like some of it is starting to lock. How long will it be before I see the beginning of some real locks?

Mary

Hello:
My name is Xixi, I am new to the group. I am currently wearing my
hair in a curly fro. I have tried many products out there, but they
dry out my hair and frizz sets in. although the curly texture is
still visible I dont have thick hair texture. I would like my curls
to be a bit looser of more defined a bit Afroish. If i braid the hair
and let it dry, I somewhat get the affect that I am looking for. But
I dont want to have to braid my hair everynight. I stopped putting
chemicals in my hair to simply.
I would like to continue wearing my hair natural, but it is difficult
to find hair salons in NJ that trully deal with natural hair ( that
isnt locked or wants to be). I would like to wear my natural curls
but would like to consult with a professional on how to care for it
better and I would like my curls to be more loose and defined.
I use natural treatments at home to condition, but I still need help.
Can any one advise me or recommend some hair salons that wont brake
the bank and deal with natural hair in the NJ/NY area?
Thanks
Xixi

i am also interested in learning about it to, it kind of makes me
nervous...if you find out anything can you please share with me?
thanks
vee

Hi,

I am the one that posted the reply about my daughter's being pressed. I will find out what product she used on my daughter's hair and I will post it.

KL

thanks for your reply
well i dont have hair that unravels easily.. i am betweena 4a-4b
combination in my hair..and i dont have much of an active lifestyle,
which i wish that i did..but we will work on that one..
so is starting my locs with bradelocs..is that not a good idea? and
i dont have small braids either.. i was under the impression that
wants your hair locs..all locs are pretty much the same... so would
latching be the preferred method over palm rolling or twisting if you
have bradelocs?
thanks
vee

Hello All,
I need some help, a few days ago a lady sent a email about her little girl getting her hair pressed. What I was impressed about is that she mentioned about how the beautician used a third step to condition the childs hair. The conditioner was a very creamy/oil base type and once this third process was used the child was placed under the hair dryer again then the beautician pressed her hair . I have beening doing well every two weeks having my hair washed and conditioned (I do myself) then I press for a straight and long lasting braid work I use pure shea better but now Im using sulfur 8 because this became very costly after 2 years of doing it. And the final touch was to have my beautician (An African Braider) to braid my hair. But If anyone know about this third step please let me know asap I would like for it to be done to my hair or I would do it myself, I just need to know the product.
Thank You
QueofallQues

KC, what do you use when you want to tighten the loc at the root. I
have use those opaque products you have mentioned at times but what
shampoo would help take it out, or is it really that impossible to
take out. Angela

Peace,
My name is Nicole I am a Natural Haircare stylist/Braider/Loctician in Philadelphia I specialize in Loc Extensions & Loc Repair. If you would like a free consultation with me you can send me your contact info and we can chat further on the info you requested!
Nicole
Divess414@...

Does anyone know how to put in Loc Extensions? Also, how do you cut
down your time on Kinky Twists?

someone posted on the board not too long about about loc products. i
agree that the easiest rule of thumb is to avoid opaque products.
opaque products(those you cannot see through) are usually sticky,
and attract dust, lint, and dirt to your locs. they are also usually
impossible to wash out.
some people use shea butter and other shea based products on their
locs. this may be ok for some people because shea butter melts at
body temperature and will liquify when you rub it between your
hands. i still don't use it on my locs but it may work for you.
i stick to clear oils, and clear shampoos. i don't use conditioner
and don't seem to need it.
kc

Actually, I haven't used any from FNWL, but the company I meant to
post was Fruit of the Earth. Sorry for the confusion!
Tanya

BradeLocz are locs that are started with small braids. They are good
for hair that unravels easily, and for people who have active
lifestyles (working out, swimming) because they decrease unraveling.
They are usually maintained using latchin', which is done by weaving
the new growth into the loc using a latch hook. You can buy a latch
hook at Sally's Beauty Supply and probably other local beauty supply
stores.
Bradelocz can be maintained using twisting/palmrolling if desired,
but I don't recommend switching back and forth between the methods
over and over as it can create weak spots. You can start twisting
once you have some new growth, which will probably take about a
month. Your locs will not look like locs that are started with coils
for awhile, but eventually it will all look pretty much the same.
Bradelocz loc up completely over time just like locs started with
other methods.
For more info, look for the ebook on Bradelocz at HerSpecialHair.com.
kc

Hello All,
I have been wearing my hair natural for almost 2 yrs. I am trying to find a good leave-in conditioner for natural hair. Any suggestions?

Nikki,

Does this happen often or occassionally?

Peppermint works well to relieve dry and flaky scalp, you can try Dr. Bronners Peppermint Shampoo. You can use the Sulfur 8 Medicated Shampoo if you think this a scalp disorder. You can also go to a dermetologist to have them check it out for you.

Myriam

What is a braid loc?

Peace
I wanted to know when can you start palm rolling bradelocs? i have
had them for one week now..
and when is a good time to start adding back conditioner to your locs?
thanks
viergela

I do not have extensions. Thanks for the helpful information.

Peace

Frances

frances,
are you wearing twist extensions, or natural twists? natural hair
usually starts getting fuzzy, depending on your hair
texture/lifestyle within 1 week. it is normal for this to happen.
for twistie/baby loc wearers, i remembered a couple of things i used
to do in those stages:
1) before bed, spray on gel mixed with water and a little oil,
either EO or olive oil
2) use bobby pins, the flat kind, to pin down twists/locs in the
direction you want them to go (toward the back, parted, etc)
3) tie on a satin scarf, loosely
when you wake up in the morning, your hair with be soft and
hydrated, and some of the fuzzies will be tamed down. your
twists/locs will be laying down in a more organized pattern.
hth,
kc

Hello all,

I have a question!!! My scalp is very flaky - VERY, VERY, VERY!!!! I do oil it with grapeseed oil or whatever natural oil I have at the time, however, my scalp is not dry, but it is flaky!!! What is that? And, what can I do to eliminate that? I thought about getting some Sulfur 8 medicated shampoo and shampoo it. Any thoughts or suggestions?

Loctician services provided in the Rocky Mount, Wilson, Greenville,
and Tarboro areas.......Reasonable prices.....17 years experience,
warm and family oriented environment.....
Kinky Twists $55 and up
Starter locs $35
Loc Maintenance $25 (if I start them) $35 (if someone else starts
them)
Braids without extensions $25
Braids with extensions $35 and up
Pixie Braids $60 and up
Cornrows $20 and up
Nappy Designs by Trina
208 River Run Rd.
Rocky Mount, NC 27804
kjohnson376@...
252-442-9802
252-314-7920
Peace & Blessings :rainfro

greetings,

my stylist/colorist is on bedrest in ARIZONA for the remainder of her pregnancy & i have NEVER had anyone else color my hair. she normally doesn't style it except to do a twist set. i do two strand twists, bantu knots, etc. or let her straighten it 1-2 times per year for a trim. she recently (this summer) put highlights in it and i'm really weary to allow someone else in my hair. my normal hairdresser had 'celebrity' clientele & is a color expert. . .she talked me into color 1 1/2 years ago when i was very hesitant to put any chemicals in my hair for fear of damage after being natural (low fro) for 10 years. she's taken me through slight color changes and growing my hair from 1/2 inch to past my shoulders in this last year or two. even through pregnancy & hormonal changes (and the effects on my hair). if you all know someone in atlanta that has EXTREME talent, and is reliable i'd love to hear your referrals.

peace & blessings,

mika smith-webb
marketing communications specialist
wishingwell media
404-522-wish

promoting your vision. . .

that will thicken my locs?
Help me out.
I just got my locs done last weekend. I know I have to be patient,
but during that process I'd like to shampoo my hair with something
that will make my locs thicker and stronger.
Any suggestions??????
Newly loc'd
and loving it

i use lily of the desert 99% aloe vera gelly.
kc

I use a brand called Aloe Life. It is organic. You can purchase it on the web . You can also buy a good brand in any natural food store. Get the one that has had the water removed.It won't be so runny. Valerie

Does anyone use aloe vera gel from the plant on their hair? If there is a compnay that makes any could you suggest the best brands.

Never think that God's delays are God's denials. Hold on; hold fast; hold out. Patience is genius.

Hi Meredith,

My daughter went this passed weekend and got her hair pressed, and it turned out beautiful. The hair care professional only does natural hair and presses it. My daughter is five and by the time she was done (which didn't take her long at all) my daughters hair was soft and it felt silky and not greasy. What she did was washed it really good, and while she was shampooing it, she used some type of extra soft (almost like the kind you used on baby's hair) scrubber brush (while the shampoo was on it) to pull up any dandruff, lint, or dirt, as well as detangle it. Then she put a conditioner on and set her under the hair dryer for about 30 minutes. Then she rinsed her for a long time. I'm not sure what she put on her hair, it wasn't a creme, I'm guessing it may have been some type of pressing oil. But it was really thick. She sectioned her hair and put that stuff on it, and twisted it and pinned it with like a duckbill pin, and set her under the hair dryer for about 20
minutes. When she pressed her hair she didn't put anything on it, I guess because the stuff she put on it had penetrated into her hair. But her hair was so soft and beautiful. I was so suprised that it was not greasy, and oily. I've been maintaining it by putting her hair in sponge rollers with those white tissue type papers on the ends and putting it in a satin scarf at night. Her hair is fully of body and bounce and curls during the day.

Pressing your hair yourself:

After washing your hair I would recommend doing a deep conditioning treatment (sitting under a hooded dryer or leaving treatment in for a long duration). I would also apply a leave in conditioner (Infusium or Ashea) or you can use a spray on heat protectant like Themrasilk as most of these are leave in conditioners too. Apply your leave in before blow-drying. You will need to use a comb attachment or brush when blow-drying. If you are not experienced with using the stove pressing combs I would purchase and electric pressing comb that has a dial that allows you to control the temp. A flat iron can work as well but it takes more time. Buy a pressing crème like UltraSheen "Crème Satin Press". This works well, it has wax in it to help maintain the press against heat and humidity. It has instructions on the jar for pressing hair. It's good to apply some when you are blow-drying your hair. You will want to press your hair in small sections. This will take some time if
you are doing it yourself. I would pincurl the hair at night to maintain the curl so you are not hot curling your hair everyday. Be sure to wear a satin or silk scarf. During cool dry weather you can get a good week out of a home press.

Another option is to roller set the hair and sit under the dryer and then blow dry the hair using a comb attachment. Still using the conditioning methods mentioned above.

Pressed by hair care professional:

A good salon will roller set the hair first and then blow dry it. This is known to be the least damaging method of straightening the hair. Or have the stylist blow dry and then flat iron the hair. You may be able to find an old school hair salon or stylist that only does press and curls. There are a few of them around. They would use the hot comb method. Sometimes the old school stylist are the safest way to go because salons that are not used to dealing with natural hair may apply too much heat or not enough, or too much product (oil in particular). Consult with the stylist/salon before spending your money.

Tia

Greetings, I have been natural for sometime now and would like to press my hair or get it pressed by a hair care professional. Does anyone have any tips?

Dionna Matlock <candi6@...

Thank you for the advice. I have just natural hair. It's getting pretty long and I'm trying to maintain good hair care for my hair. The suggestion you gave for oiling the hair and going under the hair dryer sounds perfect for me because my scalp tends to become really dry and flaky. Again thanks for the advice.

Dionna

Hello Everyone. This is just a broad question. Does anyone use pure Aloe Vera Gel from the plant or is there a brand of gel that is used onthe hair?

Never think that God's delays are God's denials. Hold on; hold fast; hold out. Patience is genius.

Trina,
I also do hair, and have a natural hair shop in Chesapeake Virginia. There are several ways to achieve the loc style with extensions. The method I use most often is Cosmic Locs. It requires using human kinky hair and wrapping the individuals hair. I use this process because human kinky hair within 6 months will mesh with an individuals hair and become one. After this period an individual would have to cut the kinky hair in order to remove it. I use this method for those who don't want to go through the coil stage of for those who have a perm and don't want to cut their hair. It also works for those who want to start off with a length that allows them to put their hair in a bun or ponytail. (unfortunately some still can't be convinced that locking your hair is a spiritual process which requires self discipline but if you can get a chance to get black people at least on the right track that's great too). I can give you more information perhaps on a one on one if your not too
far from me. I give instructional classes on different loc techniques. This method can be very profitable for anyone who is interested. You can easily pick up $300.00 for a 6 hour job and this is not including the hair.

I'm in the NC area and I do hair and I'm looking to up my skills a
bit. A friend and client of mine are looking to get loc extensions
and I've never done them before. Does anyone in the group know how
locticians attach and secure the human kinky hair onto the pre made
loc???? What tools, if any do they use? And how long can your hair
be, does it matter???? Thanks in advance....
Natgurl376 in NC

brownie,
it is absolutely normal for your locs to be fuzzy at this stage in
their development. this is called the baby loc stage, and your hair
is going about the process of forming what i call a matrix of hair
within each loc, which ultimately forms the basis.
to an extent, you cannot control this. this is how your hair mats up
and develops into mature locs. you can take a touch of aloe vera gel
and gently twist each one between your fingers. do not twist the loc
hard so that you see tension at the scalp. you are basically just
running your fingers over the loc to help lay down the stray hairs.
make sure you go in the same direction as your stylist did. other
than that, it is typical for baby locs to be fuzzy.
if this is really a problem for your job or something like that, you
can wear a headwrap. some people wear wigs as their locs find their
wings.
whatever you choose to do, remember this is the natural process of
locing. your hair looks exactly like it is supposed to at this stage.
kc

I have started my locks 2 months ago. I have noticed that one week have I have them retisted they unravel or become very fuzzy. At the 2nd to 3rd week in between they really look horrible. What could I do or use to keep my new locks looking presentable? The locks don't completly unravel but they still look bad?

Brownie

Sisterlocks are created using a patented method of intertwining the
hair, and are most well known for their small size and stylibility.
They should be done by a Sisterlocks consultant, in training or
certified.
Latchin' is a method of tightening locs using a latch hook. It
creates a woven look to the part that is tightened using this
method. Basically, it is done by creating a hole in the new growth
and pulling the entire loc through it, and repeating that process
over and over. This process is explained in more detail in the first
issue of Naturally You! magazine, and in an ebook by Cherie King at
herspecialhair.com.
I have switched between twisting and latchin since I have been
growing my locs, and see little difference in the locs themselves,
unless maybe you hold the loc up to the light and look at it
closely. Locs should not be maintained any more than every two
weeks, and every four weeks is a better idea. Using either method of
tightening more often can lead to weakening and ultimately breakage.
KC

Hello,
This email message is a notification to let you know that
a file has been uploaded to the Files area of the Naturally_You
group.
File : /NY! Community Conduct
Uploaded by : ny_magazine <Kaya@...
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Valerie,

Is latchhooking similar to or the same as the sisterlock method?

Myriam Muhammad

"Is anyone familar with the technique the hairdressers use on natural hair using straws, gel, etc and sitting you under the hair dryer? What kind of straws? can this be done at home using your own hairdryer?"

Myriam Muhammad

www.naturalhairvillage.com

Thank you. I thought it was very helpful.
Stephanie Nunn <snunn81@...

I am familiar with this technique, it is called a Straw Set. You do use actual drinking straws just cut to the size that you like. Here is my routine just in case you need to know how it is done.

-Use whatever setting lotion that you prefer (making sure that hair is wet)

-Roll small sections of hair onto the straw starting from the middle or end of the straw, rolling to the top as if you were making Shirley Temple Curls.

-I secure each straw with a bobby pin.

-You should start from the back of your head and work your way up. After doing this, I had about 100 straws in my head.

-You can either sit under a head dryer at home or let air dry (air drying will take a long time and the straws can be uncomfortable depending on the length).

-Determine how long you should stay under the dryer by the thickness of your hair (just be sure that hair is completely dry before removing straws)

-Some Tips: Use end papers (small thin rectangles from any beauty supply store) on the ends of your hair with each straw. This will protect the ends of your hair.

-The shorter you make the straws and roll the hair, the shorter your curls will be and the shorter your hair will look.

Sorry this is so long but I hope it will help someone. :)

You can put jojoba oil on your scalp.Actually jojoba oil is a misnomer. It is't an oil at all. It is the closest thing to the natural sebum in the scalp. I use it all the time . It should take the itch out of your scalp. Essential oils can be found in most natural food stores. They are used by drops. For instanced you would put 4 drops in a carrier oil like jojoba.and put that on your scalp.DO NOT USE THEM DIRECTLY ON YOUR SKIN. KEEP THEM AWAY FROM CHILDREN.. You can look them up on line. Just type in essential oils and you will get all the information you need. Valerie ps You can put it in your hair as well

I am familiar with this technique, it is called a Straw Set. You do use actual drinking straws just cut to the size that you like. Here is my routine just in case you need to know how it is done.

-Use whatever setting lotion that you prefer (making sure that hair is wet)

-Roll small sections of hair onto the straw starting from the middle or end of the straw, rolling to the top as if you were making Shirley Temple Curls.

-I secure each straw with a bobby pin.

-You should start from the back of your head and work your way up. After doing this, I had about 100 straws in my head.

-You can either sit under a head dryer at home or let air dry (air drying will take a long time and the straws can be uncomfortable depending on the length).

-Determine how long you should stay under the dryer by the thickness of your hair (just be sure that hair is completely dry before removing straws)

-Some Tips: Use end papers (small thin rectangles from any beauty supply store) on the ends of your hair with each straw. This will protect the ends of your hair.

-The shorter you make the straws and roll the hair, the shorter your curls will be and the shorter your hair will look.

Sorry this is so long but I hope it will help someone. :)

Thanks for the note Vincelle,
Good idea,
At the moment I am getting multiple emails with the same message
trail. It takes a while to trace who is responding to whom.
It would be good to receive just one copy of the original message
and go from there.
Pauline

Greetings all. This is an excellent forum and I've
enjoyed reading all of the posts.
Speaking of posts, I have a request. Can we all agree
to edit our posts for clarity and length before
posting? I've noticed a lot of typos and many of us
are replying without editing out information that just
doesn't need to be sent again (ie. the entire log of
posts when we're just replying to one). I'm sure we
all get tons of e-mail a day and having to scroll
through and read a long list of unnecessary stuff is
just a pain, don't you think?
Maybe we could all agree to include information
relative to the specific post we are responding to and
crop everything else out. Don't mean to sound
nit-picky. If this doesn't work for others, I'll
change my preferences - but I'd hate to miss out on
getting the daily log of posts.
Thanks,
Vincelle

Hello everyone,

I'm new to the group so I'd like to send greetings first off. Now, I have 3-year old locs that have recently been highlighted. My problem is I don't think I've been using the right products. I've been using the "Loc-a-Fella" product line. In the beginning stages of my locs, the products seemed fine but now my scalp gets very itchy all the time. I want to adopt a good regimen for my hair that will soothe my scalp and give sheen to my locs. I've been reading a lot about "essential oils" but I don't know where to start and where to buy them. Could I use them as daily moisturizers? I'm about to start a swimming class with my 10-month old son and I don't what my locs to become dry and brittle with all the hairwashings it'll soon go through.

Second, what is the "latchhook method" and is it better than retwisting?

Thanks so much,

Desperately seeking in Central New York

I have a lot of questions that I hope the group is able to answer
for me. Like for instance,what is hair milk?
hair. Moisturizes, softens, perhaps provides some styling/setting
properties. I haven't used it so I can't vouch for its effectiveness.
How in the world do you do a finger coil twist (I've tried and they
the strands never stay).
way you have the maximum coil to work with. Twist the section of
hair in one direction between your thumb and forefinger, and you can
hold it with a metal clip until dry.
I have very, VERY thick hair and my hair grade has changed textures,
so now it's really curly after I wash it. After it dries, however,
it gets pretty tangled and I just usually end up wearing a small
afro puff pulled back by a head wrap.
toothed comb and some leave in conditioner to reduce tangling.
I'm using jojoba oil for weekly hot oil treatment, and olive oil
based products hair sheen and conditioner. I would really appreciate
some response from the group as most of you all's reply seem to be
really helpful.
kc

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Deniece,
you could try henna in your hair, it is said to thicken the hair as
well as make it stronger (less breakage). I can testify to this.
Sauda

How in the world do you do a finger coil twist (I've tried and they the strands never stay).

Try twisting it using the palm roll method. That method is used to retwist locs but it can work for coiling your hair in the desired strands.

After it dries, however, it gets pretty tangled and I just usually end up wearing a small afro puff pulled back by a head wrap.

To remove tangles in your hair, comb hair while its wet with conditioner in it. Also to prevent your hair from tangling after washing, separate hair into sections with twists or plaits until your ready to style it. :-)

Myriam

Hey Denice,

"Recently I've been having problems with my twists as they untwist completely after about 4 days. They used to last about two weeks. My hair texture seems to have become less wavy. Can someone explain this?"

Are you using a different product than what your use to to twist your hair?

"My hair is very curly after I untwist it but if I left it like that I would be unable to comb it out as it would tangle. I'd like to try a new style. Is there something you could recommend that would minimize the tangling?"

Hair usually tangles in our sleep because of the movement of our head. Try tying your hair at night. You may also want to try sectioning the hair off into sections at night to reduce tangling. The sectioning usually works at preventing tangles.

"Finally, both my parents and my brother have had afros but my hair
has never "stood up". My mom says it's because it's so fine."

After washing your hair, air dry your hair and see if that makes it stand up.

Hopes this helps. Let the group know if you have any more questions and how you are doing.

It looks like she has Human Hair instead of synthetic there are some that has a silky touch to it and some kinky.

Have a lovely day
Nina

Hello to everyone.

If you could go to this website http://www.madaboutblackhair.co.uk/ and click on braids and twists, can anyone tell me what type of the hair the second girl has (next to www.akosbraids.com), the first girl's hair looks dry and the last girl's hair looks dry, but the second girl's hair looks like it is used with a different hair and it has lustre. I know the typical afro hair is dry looking and kinky, does anyone know what type of hair that is?

KL

Hello All, as I cannot style my hair (and there's no one else to do
it for me),I wear my hair in two strand twists or two cornrows when
I'm too lazy to twist it(it takes 3 hours). I've used a shampoo and
conditioner called "white rain" for the past 8 years and "african
pride" preparations to moisturize. Recently I've been having
problems with my twists as they untwist completely after about 4
days. They used to last about two weeks. My hair texture seems to
have become less wavy. Can someone explain this?
On the napturality board I've come across the styles "braid out"
and "twist out". My hair is very curly after I untwist it but if I
left it like that I would be unable to comb it out as it would
tangle. I'd like to try a new style. Is there something you could
recommend that would minimize the tangling?
Finally, both my parents and my brother have had afros but my hair
has never "stood up". My mom says it's because it's so fine. I also
have problems with breaking. Is there something that could thicken
hair?
Thank-you,
Deniece.

Hello,

I'm pretty new to the group, and I've been hearing some of the stories you guys have been sharing about your natural styles. I've been natural for over a year now and my hair has really changed for the better. I too, however, am having problems with styling my hair and wanting to wear different styles. Now, I live in Dallas, TX and unlike up north, there's not a lot of sistas rockin the natural style. So occasionally I get second glances and lot's of questions about my hair.

I have a lot of questions that I hope the group is able to answer for me. Like for instance,what is hair milk? How in the world do you do a finger coil twist (I've tried and they the strands never stay). I have very, VERY thick hair and my hair grade has changed textures, so now it's really curly after I wash it. After it dries, however, it gets pretty tangled and I just usually end up wearing a small afro puff pulled back by a head wrap. I'm using jojoba oil for weekly hot oil treatment, and olive oil based products hair sheen and conditioner. I would really appreciate some response from the group as most of you all's reply seem to be really helpful.

Sincerely,

Struggling in the Dirty South

Thanks for your response. I think it may be the hair that I bought.
The tokyolon mixed with the kankelon is NOT the kind to use. In the
future I'll be sure to buy straight up kankelon kinky only &
hopefully others will learn from my mistake. Thanks again for your
feedback, I appreciate it!

Hi, I also had the kinky twist for about 9 months so that I could grow out the perm that I have had in my hair. My stylist or hair braider used just the plain kankelon (spelling?) kinky hair in my hair. After she finished twisting my hair she too used hot water to seal the ends. My ends did not untwist. The style lasted 3 months with no problems.

Mary B.

Hello All,
First, let me say that I absolutely love this board! Thanks to all
that post & respond as I am gaining so much information.
I look the look of well kept locs. Right now, I am wearing two stand
twists with afro kinky extensions because they kinda look like locs
and I haven't completely made up my mind to take the plunge and loc
my hair up. I'm also trying to get some length too. My first issue
is the extension hair that I bought was a mixture of kankelon and
tokyolon (spelling?)and for some reason when the ends were dipped in
hot water to seal them - they stayed straight! I have no idea why
this happened as this is not the result that I was seeking. I
purchased this particular mixture of hair because I read that this
was the best to use for kinky twists. Obviously that statement isn't
true or I did something wrong. Because I am currently unemployed, I
can't afford to pay to have my hair done over or go to a salon - so I
have to deal with what I have. Has anyone had this or a similar
experience? Can you tell me how to avoid it in the future? Is there
a different hair I should buy?
Second issue, eventually I would love to loc up my hair. When I
mention this to people (stylists included), I'm always warned to be
careful as locs can thin the hair & cause baldness. Just the other
day I saw a brotha with beautiful locs, however, one of them looked
like it had broken off about a quarter of the way down the strand.
Unfortunately, it was right in the front of his head so there was no
way to hide it. The statements about thinning & baldness & the
brotha's broken loc now has me wondering and feeling like I need to
ask questions & do research before I attempt to go to loc land. Can
anybody help me with these issues and questions? I appreciate any
and all info that you can send my way. Thanks!

keep you hair hydrated. Braids, ponytails, etc.. break off and tear doen your edges. If you can try EMU oil!

I have worn my hair naturally for about 10 years. Nothing fancy just in a knot,
basically wearing the do of "Peebles". It sustains itself with water, setting
gel and some hair grease. If I blow it out it is a soft nappy loo :-) which I
do not wear ..no style yet.
Anyway, i wore my hair braided FOREVER and it has suffered by thininng on the
top. Any suggestions.I have heard of cayenne powder with some peppermint oil.
Does anyone know if that Rogaine works or hair vitamins.
Any other suggestions.
Thanks.

K Li,

There's a shop called Dooney's on Camp Wisdom off of 20 that has barbers as well as hairdressers that specializes in natural hair. I personally go to the Barber by the name of Ski. He cuts me and my son's hair. I believe that this is the same salon that has done braids for Erykah Badu. The number is

(972) 780-2606. I also believe one of the stylists braided the guy who played Cole on the sitcom Martin hair. There is also an African shop by the name of Eva's braid off of Esters in Irving. I have been there several times to get my hair braided. They did a great job. I also was at the shop when two little girls were getting their hair braded. The little girls mother was being consulted on how the care for the girls hair in between visits and was told of different products that could be used on their hair. I don't have the number at this time. The salon sits off of 183 right off the exit for Esters behind the Denny's restaurant. There is a gas station on the corner of the shop and best buy is across the street in the shopping center. I hope this helps.

April freeman

Customer Service Rep

(800) 686-8384 Ext 3929

(214) 553-2960 Ext 3929

Hello to anyone who can help.

My five year old has natural hair and it is really dry. In addition to that, the color of her hair is a brown or a dirty brown. What I mean is it has sort of sandy hints to it, but it's not quite that light. It always looks dull, and it lack lustre. I read some books recently on taking care of natural hair, but it didn't really list many product to use. For instance it said to stay away from petrolatum and mineral oil but that's all I know is hair grease and water. So what can you put on natural hair that will have the same effects. I've tried Almond Oil on the scalp but there seems to be nothing that I have found that is like hair grease.

As she get's older she wants the hair style like the girls with perms, but her hair won't do that, and I don't hot comb her hair because it takes me long enough to do it with it natural. If I do press it, does anyone have any recommendations of what I could use that is healthy. Or the best recommendation if it does get pressed, since hair grease is out of the question.

Also, does anyone have any recommendation besides taking a multivitamin of anything that will help her hair to grow. Someone recommended "Organic Root Stimulator Fertilizing Serum" but I don't know if that really works. Has anyone tried that? Or does anyone know of anything that helped their hair grow? In addition to that does anyone have any good recommendation for products. My daughter and my son have natural hair (no chemical no nothing). What type of shampoo, and conditioner is good. I'm asking because I used to just buy anything. But I am now realizing that natural hair need to be maintained differently. I am also looking for a salon in the Dallas, Texas area that specializes in Natural hair. So far I have found none. Does anyone know of any? And if not, does anyone know of any magazines, or GOOD books centered on Natural Haircare?

Any suggestions?

KL

Thank you, that was beautiful.
DeWanna Jordan <dlj77@...

Woman to Woman Encouragement.

Someone will always be prettier. They will always be smarter. Their house will be bigger. They will drive a better car. Their children will do better in school. And their husband will fix more things around the house. So let it go, and love you and your circumstances. Think about it. The prettiest woman in the world can have hell in her heart. And the most highly favored woman on your job may be unable to have children. And the richest woman you know -- she's got the car, the house, the clothes --might be lonely. And the word says if I have not Love, I am nothing. So, again, love you. Love who you are right now and let God be your barometer. Mirror Him. Look in the mirror in the morning and see how much of God you see. He's the only standard and even when you come up short; he will not leave you or forsake you. Smile and may God continue to bless you.
"I am too blessed to be stressed and too anointed to be disappointed!"
The shortest distance between a problem and a solution is the distance between your knees and the floor.
"The one who kneels to God can stand up to anything."
"Winners make things happen. Losers let things happen."
Be Blessed ladies and pass this on to encourage another woman.
"To the world you might be one person, but to one person you just might be the world."

Never think that God's delays are God's denials. Hold on; hold fast; hold out. Patience is genius.

A lot of people don't know that straightening can permanently break the
bonds that make your hair coily. This usually happens after repeated
straightening/heat styling. Give your hair some time, but it may always be
straighter in the front.
ny
On Mon, 30 Aug 2004 11:02:47 -0700 (PDT), Dejenaba Gordon wrote

Woman to Woman Encouragement.

Someone will always be prettier. They will always be smarter. Their house will be bigger. They will drive a better car. Their children will do better in school. And their husband will fix more things around the house. So let it go, and love you and your circumstances. Think about it. The prettiest woman in the world can have hell in her heart. And the most highly favored woman on your job may be unable to have children. And the richest woman you know -- she's got the car, the house, the clothes --might be lonely. And the word says if I have not Love, I am nothing. So, again, love you. Love who you are right now and let God be your barometer. Mirror Him. Look in the mirror in the morning and see how much of God you see. He's the only standard and even when you come up short; he will not leave you or forsake you. Smile and may God continue to bless you.
"I am too blessed to be stressed and too anointed to be disappointed!"
The shortest distance between a problem and a solution is the distance between your knees and the floor.
"The one who kneels to God can stand up to anything."
"Winners make things happen. Losers let things happen."
Be Blessed ladies and pass this on to encourage another woman.
"To the world you might be one person, but to one person you just might be the world."

Never think that God's delays are God's denials. Hold on; hold fast; hold out. Patience is genius.

Walking is the best. Unfortunately, I can not find one friend who is wiling to take the time to do so. I walk on treadmill at the gym. But walking is the best form. You are less likely to tear or pull muscles as it can happen running, etc.

Best Regards,

Joyce Burgess

Hilb Rogal & Hobbs

(203) 351-5619 (P)

(203) 355-0055 (F)

Growing up I was always chasing the image of beauty that others set. I never
was satisfied with my features. I never liked the girl that looked back at
me when I looked in the mirror. In high school, I began to experiment with
make-up. Using far too much than what I should have. I began doing my own
hair imitating the styles in the magazines in hopes that I would be
considered just as cute as the most popular girl in school. Not realizing
that I was beautiful in my own right. I didn't have anyone to say that your
are pretty even though so and so has this or that. Your thick mane is your
crown and you should be proud of it. So eventually everyone else's opinions
and thought on beauty became my own.
It wasn't until last year when I went to a poetry set at a place called
reciprocity, that I began to be comfortable with the woman that I was always
hiding. From the make-up, false eyelashes, highway long nails, etc. I saw a
room full of beautiful men and women of various skin tones, eye colors, and
hairstyles that were wearing there beauty of color as a crown. That night
would forever change my life, I began my transformation. Now I want both of
my children to be proud of who they are and not take on the views of society
and how society perceives we should be.
My son is light skinned with what I call cat eyes, because they change
colors. For the longest time he would try to get darker because he hated his
skin color. He was constantly asked if he was bi-racial and if he and his
sister had different fathers. There were many times I was questioned if I
was his mother. I have actually stood in the mirror with my son to let him
know that he is a good looking young man and that he needs to be proud of
his features. We have had discussions on how we come in different shapes,
sizes, and colors. I've given them the history as to why we are that way. By
the way that is the reason why so many of us grow up confused is because we
are not educated about where we derived from to become what we are. He now
likes himself and sees a nice looking young man.
I am dealing with both sides of the coin and what better way to deal with it
than to show both of my children that they are naturally beautiful in their
own rite. I constantly tell them they are handsome and beautiful. This is a
process that I want to go through with both of my children so that they will
be able to pass it on to their children and not be confused as I was for so
many years.
Sorry this is so long. I hope somebody can relate to what I am saying.
April freeman
Customer Service Rep
(800) 686-8384 Ext 3929
(214) 553-2960 Ext 3929

I will really appreciate that advice, because I was thrown back when I
called this hairdresser and she mentioned putting a texturizer in my
hair. I hung up the phone scratching my head and thinking wouldn't it
defeat the whole purpose. When you say cayenne, do you mean like the
pepper? What kind of peppermint and cayenne? I will purchase some
vitamins for hair.
Basically I run the warm comb threw my hair once after I wash it. I
blow dry it such a tad. Mine is not strong anyway so it will not harm
my hair. If I took the time and put extension rods in it and sat under
a hair dryer which I just got it wd probably set my hair. I must use a
setting gel to keep a curl. I have used Pre-Con Setting Gel and SWEAR
by it.
Then I put water, grease and setting gel on my hair and put it in a
knot. I am told I have good hair?? Which means I have a different
texture as other sisters I am sure. But I have seen these recent dos
coming out of NY. They are not dreads, but have curls and look sorta
like them, BUT clearly not. This sister said they put a couple of
extensions to her existing hair which I guess was short on the top, put
not braided.
I am in need of real assistance and just looking for a hairdresser who
can assist me and your recommendations, comments are really appreciated.
I need help. CT reaching out to NY to come and get a do. I realize I wd
have to come back every 3-4 weeks.
Pls Holler Back
Look forward to hearing from you.
Thanks.
Best Regards,
Joyce Burgess
Hilb Rogal & Hobbs
(203) 351-5619 (P)
(203) 355-0055 (F)

In a message dated 8/27/2004 12:08:37 PM Eastern Standard Time, Kaya@... writes:

What does it mean to you?

Hmmm...okay...to me it means..."unfooled around with"...have you seen that orange juice commercial...where they say "it's natural...100% unfooled around with?"...LOL Just you...flat out...like God made you, no additions, no subtractions. But I'm old school...where an afro was called a "nachel".

My son keeps telling me..."niggah" doesn't mean "nigger"...heck I guess "nachel" doesn't mean "natural...LOL

aesha...:)

Joyce-
I've never gone myself but a salon in NY that I hear a lot about is called
Khamit Kinks. I'm pretty sure it's in Manhattan. I don't have the phone number
but the website is www.khamitkinks.com.
Hope this helps.
Azure
Date: Thu, 26 Aug 2004 07:53:18 -0400
From: "Burgess, Joyce" <joyce.burgess@...
Subject: RE: Naturalversaries
Good Morning:
It is so nice to hear from you. I thought it was just me who celebrates
my "natural freedom" . ironically my month is June as well 1994 and the
day is the 28th. I celebrate on June 28th.
How do you wear your hair? I am still struggling with locating a
natural hairdresser in NY. I live in CT, but just 25-30 minutes away.
Recently I spoke with a hairdresser in my area and she mentioned putting
a texturizer in my hair, based upon a phone conversation.
Anyway, any recommendations? I am looking to wear my own hair with
tendrils, sorta like dreads, but not quite. I understand there is one
in Brooklyn and in the Bronx. Unfortunately, when I inquire individuals
tend to forget the number(s) or the address and they go to the shop :0)
I am sure there are so many a great deal of them in NY
My hair is a little thin in the top because of braiding hair and the
shop wd also have to put just a 2-4 couple of extensions to my existing
hair in the top, but that's it. I know a sister had it done and I wd
never have know it.
Wd you be able to give me a recommendation?
This site is simply "royal" as it continues to re-confirm the existence
of just beautiful and powerful "sisters".
Thanks again.
CT

April,
I totally agree that returning to natural is a process, and
everyone's is different. I respect that. I just wanted to throw my
experience out there in the hopes that it may be of help.
I got my first perm at 9 years old, and I wanted it. Wash days were
always traumatic for me, bc my mom did not have the experience to
deal with my super coarse hair. Now that I'm older I realize that my
mom never wanted to put a perm in my hair and probably never would
have if she had more information. Your daughter is very lucky that
you are going through this process with her. Power to you.
NY

In a message dated 8/25/2004 1:17:33 AM Eastern Standard Time, Valeriecarman@... writes:

If you want to loose weight increase your activity

Valerie...you know what?...it is amazing to me how sometimes somebody can say the simplest thing and it hit you like you didn't already know it...know what I mean? The above quote from you was an "Aha moment" for me. I think the absence of the dreaded word "exercise" is key. Recently, my car AND my husband's car broke down...yep, old girl had to get on the bus to work...three busses and alot of WALKING! I don't know how much but I know that I have lost some weight already and it has only been just over a week.

aesha...:)

CT,
I do not recommend texturizers. It will permanently change the
texture of your hair, then you can't really go back without cutting
off the texturized portion. If you like your hair short that won't
be a problem for you, but if you want to keep your length long term
I would think twice, and then think again. You will also have to
keep getting the roots done, just like when you had a perm. I'm not
sure what the texture of your hair is, but you could probably get
something close to the style you want without chemicals.
I also do not recommend putting extensions in thinning hair. You
don't need to add any additional stress to your scalp, but instead
treat that part of your head like a newbord child. You can apply
herbs/EO's - peppermint and cayenne have stimulating effects, and
calendula has healing properties. Drink lots of water, exercise, and
take your vitamins. If you decide to do extensions, make sure they
are not too tight, not too heavy, and not swinging around a lot. For
example, large cornrows, if put in correctly, can be good because
they don't move around and add stress to the scalp.
HTH,
NY

Aesha,
I think the meaning of natural varies from person to person.
To me it means the hair has its 100% unaltered natural texture.
To some it means having a texturizer instead of a perm.
To some it means having extensions with unprocessed hair underneath.
To some it means they have stopped perming, whether or not they have
cut the permed part off.
To some it means no dye, no perm, no texturizer, no extensions.
What does it mean to you?
NY

Wow, happy lociversary, what day is it?
I have heard about people marking the years on their locs. I have
always wanted to do it but never actually done it. The way the lady
I spoke to did it was to put a gold bead at the root of a loc and as
it grows out you will always have a marker