Blow Drying The Hair Using The Tension Method

How I blow dry my hair, this video was recorded WEEKS & WEEKS ago. I was 8 weeks post at the time. Finally sat down and edited it. I don't like long videos and try to keep them under 6 minutes. This one is under 4 minutes long & straight to the point. Enjoy!

Stretching Hair Without Heat - "Banding Method" Video

Want to be able to manage your child's natural hair? Especially when he/she has so much shrinkage? Here's a video on one of the ways I stretch my daughter's hair without using heat. The "Banding Method."

My daughter has major shrinkage and I think it shrinks about 75% when completely dry in it's natural state.  It is challenging and frustrating to manage at times.  Most of the time, I stretch her hair after washing it to make it more manageable to work with.

There are several was to stretch the natural hair without heat.  I share one of them in this video.  This video was also narrated by my daughter, MadiMel since it is about her hair.  Please support her, she wants to do her own videos with my help!  Hope this video is helpful!

Here are the items we used in the video.  You can get them at a local beauty supply store or Sally's.  There are also online websites to purchase hair accessories.

The hair bands were purchased at a local beauty supply store.  
They look like this: Hair Bands & Shower Comb

Thank you so much and God Bless! We'll chat soon!

I'm Transitioning to Natural!

It has been a very long time since I have posted anything here. Basically I have been tied up with my daughter's online schooling and preparing her for the standardized test. Those were priorities.
Now that it is over, I am back...

I am back with news too...

I am transitioning! Simple as that. Nothing out the ordinary, it is because I just want to try something different.  I have gone back and forth with it for a very long time. Wanted to cut my hair short, etc. But hey, why not do it now. And I have two of my "sisters" doing it too, Traycee of KISS and EbonyCPrincess of Longing4Length. We talked about it and had versatile reasons as to why.  For each of us, our reasons are valid, and to each of us, the other's reasons are valid because we totally understand.

I am transitioning because I want to try something new.  I am in that, "been there, done that" phase of my hair journey with relaxed hair. I am not doing this because it is "the thing" or that my hair is damaged. Natural hair, why not?
I am currently 6 weeks post relaxer, not much to show right now as far as transitioning ideas yet, but they are coming soon. And I will have some pictures of my hair texture from older photos when I did long stretches in my next post/video.
Watch my video below and also check out Traycee's and Ebony's video links listed below.

EbonyCPrincess' Video 

& 

Traycee's Video

 Thank you for your support, follow me, watch me or join the ride! Take care and God bless!

Merry Christmas Lovelies!

I want to wish you and your loved ones a wonderful and happy holiday!  I was going to do a dinner party over at my place since I do love to cook, but I changed my mind. Going to just cook for my little family, watch movies, have wine and relax. I need it.

This year, I didn't feel like wrapping each individual gift, so I did something I thought was awesome. Each child was given a big gift wrapped box with several gifts in it that were small enough to fit in there.  I simply piled colorful tissue paper over and around each gift.  It worked out great and they were able to use those boxes to throw in their trash with the exception of other large gifts that didn't fit in there.

Work smarter, not harder right?

Enjoy your day, remember why we are a celebrating Christmas...♡♡♡

God bless you all and we'll chat soon!

Determining Hair Length And Landmarks On Your Body

Where does your hair fall on the chart?

People have different body types, long and short torsos too. I have a shorter torso than the length of my legs and I am 5'4. Although I am mid back length (MBL) at the fullest part of my hair, I am almost grazing waist length (WL) at the same time.

Waist Length example:

For some one who is 6 feet tall, it may take longer for him/her to reach WL if we both started with bald heads and our hair grew at the same exact rate.

While we're on WL, not many people know where their waist is, and it is around the navel area all the way around. Because everyone is shaped differently, determining where the waist can be challenging. For example, I do have curves and there is about a 15 inch difference between my waist and hip area.  Before starting my hair journey, I always thought my waist was right above my hips...meaning it was around the bikini line.  I was totally wrong because it was actually higher.

Are You Really Bra Strap Length:

Being Bra Strap Length (BSL) seems to be an important landmark on your body. It's almost a mid point and a point where people feel if their hair is long or not. Either you're almost there or past it.

I know many of us vary in size when it comes to our lovely lady lumps (breasts). I have seen where women who are or claim bra strap length claim it improperly (in my opinion). Are you wearing the right bra? Is the bra fitting you properly?

• A person may have their bra sitting too low for their body and they are really BSL.
• A person may have their bra sitting too high for their body and they are not BSL.
• A person may ALSO have their bra on all wrong on their body and may be MBL...go figure?

See the difference?

Looking at People's Personalized Hair Journies:

Many of us on hair journies document our lengths by putting a chart together as we go along to see and share our personal progress. But that is relative to the person who put it together and so is mine:

• Don't look at someone else's hair length and expect to be at certain points they've reached at certain time lengths. (You will most likely disappoint yourself).

• Do you know where the different land marks fall on YOUR OWN body?  Consider your body shape and size; hair length landmarks will be relative to you.

• The average hair growth rate per month is about half an inch. This is AVERAGE. But some people will have a faster rate and others a slower rate like I do.

• What is your level of patience when it comes to meeting your own length goals?

Here's a video that my "boo thang" Traycee did on determing hair lengths which we also discussed recently and agreed on so many points: The Big Debate About Hair Lengths

What would you like to add?

Happy Growing and we'll chat soon!

Side note:
For health reasons first, get fitted for the right bra for the right support. And if you're length conscious, it will make a difference as to what you really are with your hair too.

Twisted FroHawk on MadiMel's Natural Hair (Mohawk/Fauxhawk)

I had posted a photo of my daughter, MadiMel's hair on Instagram, Facebook and other sites and it has become popular.  I saw the same or similar hair style on so many different sites, many different times, etc. And I know that so many people have done it themselves. I came across a few people whho stopped me and asked about her hair style.  I gave them my Youtube channel information and told them a video will be posted soon.

It was one morning, I did not feel like doing much with her hair after being styled in a bun.  It seemed too much to deal with and I woke up tired.  I decided to try out the style on her hair since she was in between hair styles anyway. And the results were good.  MadiMel is at that age where she is becoming picky, so when she saw this style, she fell in love and couldn't stop staring at her hair.

After posting the photo, I received so many requests to do a tutorial.  I finally posted it today and hope you like it!  Take care and God bless!

Hair Care Tips For The Fall And Winter Season

Want to keep your hair healthy during the winter months?

I wrote this blog post on a joint blog a few years ago and decided to share it here since we can all benefit from it.

We agree that patience and consistency are key to a successful healthy hair journey, but we also have to remember the other factors that change our routines and regimens.  As the weather changes, we need to adjust to it by the way we dress and what we do.  And for the hair, it should also be the same too.

I love the Fall season with a passion! But let us discuss hair and some of the ways you can maintain it to keep it beautiful and healthy.

Deep Condition
Many of our workplaces, schools, homes are heated with artificial heat and can therefore dry the hair along with the cold brisk air outside. Our hair thrives when it is well moisturized. Shampooing less and Conditioning will keep the moisture the hair needs to withstand the changes to the environment. After shampooing, sometimes there is a stripping feeling to the hair where you will definitely need to follow up with a moisturizing conditioner.

Wash-N-Go’s 
Many love the Wash-‘N-Go’s or wearing the hair slightly damp and it is simply simple, especially for those who have natural hair. My daughter has natural hair too.  Let us remind ourselves that one can get extremely sick by wearing their hair wet while being outside in the cold. Another reason why you would not want to do a Wash ‘N Go would be the experience of the hair freezing and easily breaking. So Wash 'N Go's, in my opinion should probably be a no-no. I would suggest doing twist outs.

Hair Breakage 
During the winter we wear scarves, hats and sweaters that are made with fabrics such as wool. For example, wool tends to dry out the tresses and also pull on the hair causing slow breakage. The areas that tend to get affected the most are the edges and the nape of the neck. To avoid these types of problems, you can line the hat with a satin or silk fabric as a barrier to protect the hair. If you’re not crafty, you can simply tie a scarf around the head prior to putting on the hat. Putting the hair up while wearing a scarf will also aid in keeping the hair healthy. The more protected the hair, the less damage.

Protective styling
With protective styles, the hair is usually up and away from the shoulders and it will not rub as much on the sweaters that will cause hair dryness. Tucking your hair ends away during the harsh weather season will keep your hair from damage while staying moisturized. Not to mention that they are beautiful, you can also have fun with different styles to enhance the beauty of your hair.  If you decide to have your hair down, be sure to moisturize the hair a tad bit more.

Oils
We massage certain oils on their scalps, mix it with their shampoos and/or conditioners and use it as a daily moisturizer to help seal in the moisture the hair needs to stay healthy. Not only do oils moisturize the hair and body, but different ones do have several beneficial factors. Research the oils to see what best fits your healthy hair and skin needs. My favorite oils are coconut, olive, castor and tea tree oils.

Hair Products
In some cases, you may have to use a product that will do a lot for the hair this winter season. Something that may have been a bit too much for the summer most likely will be great for the winter. Be sure it keeps your hair well moisturized and it does it's job.

Using less heat to NO heat
Using heat will help the cold air cause more dryness to the hair. Especially DIRECT HEAT. Direct heat constitutes using a flat iron directly on the hair.  Roller sets are okay since the heat is indirectly used and not concentrated on the hair like an iron to a shirt.

Moisture, moisture and moisture 
Moisturizing the hair is not just limited to the summer, but also recommended for the winter too. As mentioned before, between the extreme temperatures of the indoors and outdoors, moisturizing enough will help the hair to stay protected.

Stick to what works for you
There are several ideas when it comes to hair care. But remember to always stick to what works for you! Your hair will be happy and stay healthy.

Notice a theme here: MOISTURE!!!!

Feel free to share what has worked for you, or something I did not mention here that we can all benefit from during the colder months.

We'll chat soon!

What A Hair Journey! 2013 Update

It's been 6 long years - 3 bad set backs and all, but I'm here now.

I have been on my hair journey since late October 2007.

By now, you would have thought that I should have been waist length, or even hip length.  I thought so myself too when I first started my journey.  But I was so wrong!

I can not say that my hair journey was horrible.  It could have been worse than horrible.  I will say that my hair journey was normal except for the set backs I experienced.  And those set backs did set me back where I had to let go of the idea of having long hair for a while.

Let us remind ourselves again that it happens and we must learn to accept it, understand it and learn from it.

Here are the bad set backs I had during my hair journey.

I colored my hair (slightly bleached it and then put on a rinse). My hair started to slowly break off and it was so dry and brittle. Will I color my hair again? No, I will only do color rinses. I don't even want to think about doing henna....at least not yet.

• What did I do: I decided to focus on the health of my hair, clip my ends and while staying at bra strap length. This has been over the course of three years of being bra strap length, trying to get rid of the bleached/dyed hair completely.

I suffered from post partum hair shedding. I lost all of my edges and had a bad widow's peak. My shedded hair looked like tumble weeds on my bathroom floor. 

• What did I do: I did more cowashes, protein treatments, rubbed castor oil on my scalp and styled my hair that would last a whole week.  I was also afraid to comb or even touch my hair, but mostly used my fingers to comb and conditioner to detangle before a wash.  And of course, I kept taking my prenatal vitamins.

After I stopped taking contraceptives (birth control), I went through hair shedding again, this time it was all throughout my head, I did not lose much of my edges...this was just early this year.  It has stopped shedding excessively and is pretty much back to normal again. (Side note: Contraceptive alters your hormones, so when you stop taking them, your body is trying to readjust to it's normal natural state. No baby plans here, I'm getting older and contraceptives does not agree with my body anymore.)

• What did I do: I deep conditioned, cowashed, protein treatments and massaged my scalp with castor oil at times.  And since I do not like my hair down during the summer, I had it in a bun most of the season.

Patience was been key during this whole hair journey. I would have loved to stick to getting my hair long. But you know what...health is even better.  Does not make sense for me to have long unhealthy hair.

For those of you who have been on a real long hair journey, it's okay. I am on one and look where I am now. Instead of giving up and being upset about never have long hair, I decided to shift my focus to wanting healthy hair.  And yes, I had moments of frustrations, moments where I wanted to chop my hair off and moments where I said that I did not care about this whole hair journey thing....those thoughts occupied my mind after I saw how damaging my hair started to become after the hair color. Right now, my focus is still the same to this day...HEALTHY HAIR.  Of course, a healthy diet, vitamins and water too.

I always say this, "A healthy head of hair will always turn heads no matter at what length."

Before Trim & After Trim
(My hair was not colored, the photos were taken at two different times of the day with flash.
The picture on the left is my natural hair color in the sun.)

Thanks for reading, enjoy the pics and we'll chat soon!

MadiMel's Night Time Hair Routine - Natural Hair (Children's Hair)

Many have asked me about MadiMel's night time hair routine.  It is explained in the video below.
Enjoy the video and ask questions!

 

We'll chat later and God Bless!

-Sdestra

Revising A Hair Regimen

We have always heard the phrase, "If it isn't (ain't) broken, then don't fix it."
True.
I had always advocated about using what works for you as long as the technique implemented helps with your hair journey.

Over time, we may feel the need to tweak our hair regimen because:

*we found something better
*our hair doesn't respond the same any more to a product we have been using for several years
*we just want to try something different/new
*we saw or heard someone else talking about a product and we must try it - "jumping the bandwagon"

I just recently revised my hair regimen.  Not much at all.  Too give you some background info, my hair regimen has been the same for several years.  I may have let go of a product or two and also started using a product again.

But me, trying to use it myself...I'm surprised I still had hair!  So let us fast forward, I moved to Atlanta and I still had two bottles of the ApHogee Two Step Protein Treatment, several large containers of 100% Shea Butter that I purchased for $1.00 each working near NYC from an African store.  I was on a rampage, cleaning and clearing things out, that I threw those products out...thinking I would never use them again.

I had purchased the ApHogee products way before my hair journey...spent nearly $100 on all of the products because someone told me about the hair care line.  I really didn't know how to use them.  I wasn't knowledgeable about proteins, and proper moisturizing.  My beautiful sister is a hair stylist back home in Jersey, and I was her guinea pig when she started working at a salon, and it was also an opportunity for her new boss to see her skills.  She followed the instructions carefully and did my hair resulting in a bouncy-full of body, roller set.  Although I didn't have the balancing moisturizer with me, she did deep condition my hair with a moisturizing conditioner.

When I started my hair journey a year later after moving, I smacked my forehead reading and following hair journies with the products I threw out!. Mad and upset!

Anyway, as a protein treatment, I have always used eggs. Now, It is time to let the eggs go and make room for the 2-Step Protein Treatment along with it's partner, the Balancing Moisturizer which works as a pair.

I already have been using two ApHogee products for years, so they were always staples for me (Keratin & Green Restructurizer, ProVitamin Leave-In Conditioner).

I also went back to my old relaxer only because I always loved it and had nothing else but good results for so many, many years.  The Alma Legend, for me...was a great relaxer and I have nothing negative to say about it in regards to my personal experience.  I was fortunate enough to not to feel any burn - it did process a bit quicker in my experience, the product required no mixing either and it smelled amazing....yes, for a relaxer, it smelled awesome.  It was sent to me for review months ago and I did make the choice to try it out.

So what changes have you made in your hair regimen? Was it a good thing, bad thing, or still working on it?

So check out my hair regimen, and feel free to ask questions!

***My Hair Regimen

Spicy Wifey Giveaway!

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Hey Ya'll - I'm Back !!!!

Well, I didn't really go any where...lol.  I took an unintentional hiatus due to life...so here goes:

Hey my lovely ladies and gents!

I am doing absolutely well and praise God for it!  Feeling blessed, great and excited...excited for what?  I'm living and enjoying life.  You don't need the finer things in life to enjoy it, as long as you have what you need, God in your life and love...you're blessed.  Give praises to him all day every day!

I had so much going on within the past three months and haven't had time to sit down and post.  Actually, I'm lying...lol.  I had the time to post but haven't had time to sit.  Makes sense?

Once I finish what I need to do, I basically shut every thing off and indulge myself in some me time.  I am on Instagram more than anything.  Instagram is quick, easy and mobile.  Blogger is mobile too, but I'm still a little leery about how it works.  But I have quite of things to talk about, mainly about events and hair molded into different posts.

Events, trips, holidays and birthdays are slowly coming to a halt soon (temporarily) and I'm going to start catching up on some things with you.  Sorry for rambling...lol.

But I posted a video the other day with some updates and random things.  Watch, enjoy and comment! Subscribe if you haven't done so, follow me on Instagram and like my Facebook fan page too!

God bless and we'll chat soon!

My Son's Hair Cut!!!

Remember the post I posted months and months ago about growing my son's hair?

It was my husband's idea to grow it out.  Not mine.  I went along with it so I can document his hair journey and thought it would be cute.  When were we planning on cutting it?  We had no clue and would do it when he had gotten a little older.

So it was the beginning of his hair journey...I cared for it, braided it, moisturized...basically took care of it to retain length.

The other day, I took his hair down from a set of cornrows that lasted about three weeks.  Usually, I'll give his hair a break for about a week.  Wash, condition and moisturize.  I'll put his hair into two large cornrows to help stretch the hair out for about two days.

On Sunday, my husband looked at our son and said, "I'm taking him to the barber shop."  I paused and had mixed feelings about it.  I was starting to get used to doing his hair.  Then I thought that it would be a good thing because he can go out with his father more than usual and have that extra time to bond together when they get their hair cuts.

My husband dreaded it because he felt that our son would have screamed his head off and flip out.  He told me he have seen from toddlers to young boys around 10 years old in tears.  I assured him that he will be fine and is a trooper.  Although my son does give me a hard time to braid his hair, I think he would sit still for someone else despite the sound and feeling of the clippers on his head.  And recently, he had his teeth cleaned at the dentists' office and did not flinch nor cry.

After about an hour my husband and son left, these photos come in:

The first thing I noticed was his face!  

He was smiling and did not have a look of distress.  Then my husband called me, raving about how our son sat there and did not cry.  Then went on saying that he sat there and smiled the whole time.  Far from what he expected.

So, the hair is gone.  The hair growth journey has ended and I am perfectly fine with it. Did I cry?  Absolutely not.  May be it would have been different if I was at the barber shop.  But I was happy and knew that dealing with one less head of hair would be more appealing and a relief.

Interesting to see how he is a big boy now...it's official and he went from being a toddler to looking like a boy as if he went through a rite of passage into becoming one (laughing).

Thanks so much for reading and here are a few more photos showing his hair from the time he was born to now with his hair cut.  We'll chat again soon!

Happy Mother's Day! (Sorry for the Late Post)

Okay, so the post was not actually late, but I had it scheduled to post yesterday and it never did.  I must have done something wrong?  I am so sorry that it happened.

I so was excited about the post too.  But it is better late than never!

I want to wish you all and hope you had a wonderful Happy Mother's Day!  Whether you are a mother, mother that adopted, step mother, or played a "motherly" role in someone's life...Happy Mother's Day.

Here is a video I posted yesterday along with some of my wonderful friends who contributed to do this with me!  These wonderful ladies were more than eager to participate and from me to them, I thank all of them for sharing a piece of themselves.  These friends are relatives, bloggers, youtubers and/or followers. I did not expect so many to share, but it did overwhelm me with emotion as I received the photos and videos since they were all beautiful and sincere.

Again, Happy Mother's Day and remember that it is celebrated every day through love, dedication, care and our personal teachings that we share and give our children.

Love,

Sdestra

P.S. We'll chat soon!

Benefits and Uses of Castor Oil

Many have used and are using Castor Oil in their hair regimens for the past few years when it became well known to help with the hair.

Black Castor Oil (from Haiti)

Castor Oil is a vegetable oil from the castor bean.  The oil contains a lot of appealing things that would make it attractive to use in a hair regimen and beauty regimen.  Another great thing about this oil is that it has healing benefits too.

The oil is usually clear to a dark brown color.  It comes refined and un-refined too which all depends on how the oil was extracted from the beans.  Unrefined in my opinion is better because the properties are not manipulated or stripped from the oil.

Castor Oil has proteins, Vitamin E, anti-fungual and anti-bacterial properties.  The benefits are not only limited to the things mentioned, but it also has anti-inflammatory properties.

Here are some reasons why this oil is great for a healthy hair regimen:

It Adds Shine:
Castor Oil coats the hair shaft, seals in moisture to make the surface silky and smooth.  It is also a great oil to use for hot oil treatments before you wash your hair.  One down side is that if you use it too much or too often, it can weigh your hair down, cause build up and leave your scalp and hair very oily.  Also, let us note, that if the oil coats the hair to seal it, it can slow and/or prevent split ends.  One of the ways to do it, is to mix the oil with a lighter oil for even distribution.

It Helps In Hair Loss, Dandruff & Circulation:
Because of the anti-fungual and anti-bacterial properties the oil has, which I mentioned above...this oil has a high amount of chemical compositions of fatty acids with ricinoleic acid.  With that said, many bacterial, fungal and parasitic infections can be healed using it the oil.  And with the different infections being combated, it fights hair loss to allow the hair to grow.

Castor oil also helps to increase circulation, makes the hair follicles strong and stimulate hair growth.  If hair loss is hereditary, I will go on an assumption that castor oil may not stop hair loss.  In cases of alopecia and post partum hair shedding, this oil can be a great benefit to help restore the hair. Those who are experiencing dry scalp and a lot of dandruff, it also works wonders since it is an amazing moisturizer.

Helps To Thicken the Hair and Moisturize It:
Because castor oil can get rid of bacteria, fungus and stimulate growth do to it's natural properties, it will help make room for the hair to for grow.  Those negative things will block areas of your scalp to suppress and hinder growth.  Using it for hot oil treatments, to massage the scalp and to moisturize will help the hair tremendously in so many ways beside thickening the hair.

My family have always used Haitian Black Castor Oil (HBCO) for years.  The way I know it was used, was of course...for the hair.  Other ways included: Used as a laxative, for massages, for healing and to get rid of skin infections.  It was not until a few years ago, I implemented this oil into my and my children's healthy hair regimen when Jamaican Black Castor Oil (JBCO) became well known in the hair world.  The oil is not new, it has been around for years and years from generation to generations.

I experienced post partum shedding twice, but used it during the second, because I was on a hair journey at the time.  It helped me a lot in moisturizing my scalp and to stimulate growth in those areas. I do not feel that it will "make" your hair grow, but it will "remove every hindrance" such as the bacteria, fungus, dry scalp, to allow and make room for the hair to grow and retain length.

I use it for hot oil treatments once a month when I shampoo my hair.  I'll lightly massage it onto my scalp during the week and/or as needed.  On my children, I have a Shea butter mixture that includes castor oil and extra virgin coconut oil to use on their scalp, edges and even on their hair ends.

There are several hair sites online that do sell Black Castor Oil!

How do you use castor oil in your hair regimen?

** Please Note: Do your research on anything that you use including oils on your hair and skin.

Hair and Make Up: Celebrating My Wedding Anniversary

Husband and I at Ocean Prime in Atlanta

My husband and I have been married for eight years now!!!  Yay!  And with God's presence, it has been an amazing journey for us.  With two children and the both of us being silly at times, there is never a dull moment here at all.  What is the secret?  Keeping God as a focus and every thing will fall into place in all aspects of a marriage/relationship.  Also reinventing yourself in a way where you will surprise and amaze one another by the things you do, changing your look, doing something out of the ordinary and stimulating a different kind of spark.  It is fine if you love each other just the way you both are, but do not be afraid to add a twist to make it things memorable. 



Our wedding anniversary was during the week and we celebrated during the weekend.  He presented me with delicate roses, a silly card and a special gift (not ready to share that just yet.)  I was surprised and confused at first, but it was a promise he kept for several years although I told him that he did not have to.  But, I will share that it was as if I was proposed to all over again...lol!


For dinner, we went to Ocean Prime in the city of Atlanta Saturday evening. Food was great, beautiful and classy atmosphere and the service was very efficient!  It was a perfect way to start off our evening before we go to other "hot spots" in the city.

Let us get into my look for this past Saturday evening.

Before (Day) and After (Evening):
Photos were taken at two different times of the day

Hair

* Co-washed my hair early Saturday morning and let it air dry with the leave-ins: ApHogee Pro Vitamin Leave-In and ApHogee Keratin & Green Tea Restructurizer

* Air dry up to 90%

* Grabbed large sections and ran the blow dryer up and down while on low heat. 

* Flat ironed my hair, running it one time down the length of my hair using Fantasia IC Heat Protector Straightening Serum

* I clipped my ends (just a little bit) but was not aiming to even it out.

* Then I wrapped my hair, tied it down with a scarf.


Face

As far as my make-up goes, I barely did anything in my opinion.  Honestly, I do not use foundation, concealers, etc all over my face.  I have not had issues with breaking out or anything, but my skin feels clogged if I do so.  I have skin moles gifted to me through hereditary by my beautiful mom, but I do not go out the way to cover them up. But I definitely love to accentuate my features.

* To moisturize my face, I used Neutrogena Healthy Defense SPF 50 Daily Moisturizer

* Filled in my eyebrows with NYX 903 Dark Brown and shaped around it using MAC Studio Tech NC45 (very lightly) so I can flawlessly blend it with my natural skin tone

* Lightly brushed MAC Mineralize Skinfinish (dark) around my eyes, forehead and chin - that evens my skin good enough

* I used colors from two different BH Cosmetics Color Palettes for my eye lids, colors starting from a shimmery lavender shade, to pewter, to charcoal.  NYX Liquid Eyeliner and Cover Girl Great Lash Mascara

* Lips: MAC Lipstick (Fresh Moroccan), MAC Lip Pencil (Chestnut) and MAC Lip Glass (Restless)

Thanks for reading!

-Sdestra

Jingle Bell Rock - Holiday Hair Special

I want to wish you all a wonderful and blessed Merry Christmas!

Tonkabelle of Wura's Secret Hair shared a wonderful idea for some of the hair/beauty bloggers to share their Holiday hair style.

Here are steps as to how I achieved this hair style.  Please note, that I used Elasta QP Olive Oil & Mango Butter as a moisturizer and to lay the hair down instead of gel.  I am almost 8 weeks post relaxer.  Hope you like it and enjoy!


1. I did parted the hair in the front into a trapezoid shape.

2. I pulled the rest of the hair back and used a panty hose leg to secure it.

3. I slide the pony tail through a sock bun

4. Spread the hair out over the sock bun and smooth it down.

5. I use a ponytail holder to slide over the sock bun which secures the hair.

6. The loose hair, I gently roll it under the bun going in a clock-wise direction, using one pin to hold the end in place.

7. The front of the hair, I use two Caruso Rollers to curl the front.

8. I finger comb and then take some strands to pin to the side, leaving a few hairs hanging to form tendrils.



Visit these lovely young ladies who are also sharing their wonderful Holiday Hair styles!

Tonkabelle

Naija Hair Can Grow

Dr. Fomsky of the Sizzling Mommy

Lesely of Fresh Lengths

L.O.C. Method on Relaxed Hair

I recently posted an "Air Drying on Relaxed Hair" video on Youtube and showed the process on how I do it with no heat.  In the video, I did a process called the L.O.C. Method on my relaxed hair.   A subscriber observed this as she watched the video and asked should I have sealed with the oil last.  I realized that I did not explain this as a quick FYI in the video. Many of us learned, to seal in moisture, we usually seal everything with an oil, right?

I have been reading many blogs about this method, and I noticed that a lot of women who have natural hair have tried it and loved it. I read about it on Curly Nikki's blog, whom one of her lovely guest bloggers wrote about her experience in doing it on her natural hair. 

What is the LOC Method? The acronyms L.O.C. stands for, Liquid, Oil, Cream

(L) Liquid: You use liquid on your hair such as water
(O) Oil: You seal with an oil to lock in the liquid moisture 
(C) Cream: Finally, you put on a cream over the oil and liquid 

Basically it is a way of sealing the hair of it's moisture, twice. Each layer is sealed for more moisture retention.  I am sure some people have been doing this for a long time, way before a name was given to it; to which it recently rose to popularity among the hair care world. 

So, I tried the L.O.C. method on my relaxed hair.  Some of you may know that my hair is prone to getting dry easily since I mentioned it via several sources.  And I have relaxed hair.  So with relaxed hair, we do have to work a little more to keep it moisturized.

When I first read about this method, I said to myself...it would not hurt for me to try it. And what did I have to lose any way?  I am just using moisturizers and sealants.

I watched several Youtube videos from those you happen to have natural hair, and read blogs about it to get more information.  I tried it for a little over a month, without mentioning anything so I can test it out myself before I shared my experience. 

Here is what I did and used for the L.O.C. Method:

(L) Liquid: Water (hair is wet from washing), ApHogee Pro Vitamin Leave-In 

(O) Oil: - Extra Virgin Coconut Oil (EVCO) 

(C) Cream: - Elasta QP Mango Butter 


The results:

I am happy to say that it has worked for me to hold in more moisture for MUCH, MUCH LONGER.  I observed and tried to notice if my hair needed daily moisture as before.  You know how that can be, if you moisturize almost every day, you are prone to build up depending on what products you use.

Before, I had to moisturize my hair almost every 2 days.  After implementing the method, I noticed that may hair can go almost 5 days without re-moisturizing after doing it few times.  Because of my experience, the L.O.C. Method works on my relaxed hair and is here to stay!  .

It may not work for every one just like it does/did not work for every one who is natural. But I do feel confident that we can implement that into our hair care regimen. Some of the products I use may be heavy for your hair, but I am sure there are products you have that can make this method work for you.

Questions for all of my natural, relaxed/texlaxed ladies: 

Has anyone used L.O.C. method?  How has it worked for you?  Are you going to try it?  What products will you or did you use?

Winter Hair Care Tips

My daughter at 5 months (2005)

As the different seasons transition from one to the next...the way we dress, our activities and even our diet changes too. (I would say it has a lot to do with being indoors and the abundance of food during the festive holidays.) 

With these few adjustments we would want to also consider maintaining the health of the hair. Wanting the hair to stay healthy is one thing, but doing something about it is another. In general, consistency and patience are key to a successful hair journey. While we may have great products that cater to our hair needs, we also need to adjust to our environments to maintain the health of our hair.

Moisture, moisture and moisture
Throughout this post, MOISTURE will be mentioned a lot! Moisturizing the hair is not just limited to the summer, but also recommended for the winter too. Between the extreme temperatures of the indoors and outdoors, moisturizing enough will help the hair to stay nourished. Many of us can agree that hair does thrive on well moisturized hair.

Deep Condition/ Cowash more often
Many of our workplaces, schools, homes are heated with artificial heat and can therefore dry the hair along with the cold brisk air outside.  Shampooing less and conditioning/cowashing more will keep the moisture the hair needs to withstand the changes in the environment. After shampooing, sometimes there is a stripping feeling to the hair where following up with a moisturizing conditioner is a must.

Oils & Hot Oil Treatments
A great way to moisturize the hair is to do a hot oil treatment before washing to restore the moisture your hair is losing. Massaging oils onto the scalp, mixing it with shampoos, conditioners help seal in the moisture the hair needs to stay healthy. Not only do oils moisturize the hair and body, but different ones do have several beneficial factors. Research the oils to see what best fits your healthy hair and skin needs.  (For those who are pregnant: Please do your research before using ANY OIL, know the effects of using them, the pros and cons to your changing body during this miraculous time.)

Moisturizing Hair Products
In some cases, you may have to use a product(s) that will do a lot for the hair this winter season. Something that may have been a bit too heavy for the summer, may be great for the winter.  Use a sufficient amount of moisturizing products your hair consumes to balance the amount of needed to keep your tresses quenched.

Wash-N-Go’s
Many love the “Wash-‘N-Go’s" or wearing the hair slightly damp.  It is a simple, low maintenance style.  Being that it is now colder outside, let us remind ourselves that one can get extremely sick by wearing their hair wet in those types of temperatures. Another reason why you would not want to do a Wash ‘N Go during colder months, is to not experience the hair freezing, drying and breaking.

Protective styling

We wear warmer, thicker clothing. With protective style, the hair will not rub as much on the sweaters that will cause hair dryness. Tucking your hair ends away during the harsh weather season will keep your hair from damage while staying moisturized. Not to mention that they are beautiful, you can also have fun with different styles to enhance the beauty of your hair.

Using less to NO heat
Using heat will help the cold air cause more dryness to the hair. This is where protective styling and moisturizing more comes into play too. Using indirect heat such as using a hooded dryer for roller sets is a good way to using less penetrating heat versus a using a flat iron. There are many heat-free hairstyles that can work for you.

Scarves & Hats: Making them friendly for your hair

During the winter we wear scarves, hats and sweaters that are made with fabrics such as wool and cotton. For example, wool tends to dry out the tresses and also pull on the hair causing slow breakage. The areas that tend to get affected the most are the edges and the nape of the neck. To avoid these types of problems, you can line the hat with a satin or silk fabric as a barrier to protect the hair. If you are not crafty, you can simply tie a scarf around the head prior to putting on the hat. Putting the hair up while wearing a scarf will also aid in keeping the hair healthy. The more protected the hair from these elements, the less damage you will sustain.

Stick to what works for you

There are several ideas when it comes to hair care. But remember to always stick to what works for you! If you have an awesome hair care regimen to help your hair combat the evil forces of nature during the winter, then you should do well!

What tips would you like to share in regards to the colder months and what products, techniques and methods has worked for you?

"That's That Stuff I Don't Like" (Hair Bloggers Edition)

The lovely Tathiana, the blogger of My Pound Cake, came up with an idea to do a bloggers edition on stuff that we don't like.  Many of you may be familiar with several YouTube Tags on the same topic sharing their pet peeves.  This should be fun and tell me if you share any of my pet peeves! 

That's That Stuff I Don't Like....

1. I do not like the phrase "mixed hair".  Everyone has mixed hair because of the several hair types we have on our head.  What is mixed hair?  I thought we all, as a human race have straight, curly, kinky or tightly coiled hair.  Maybe, SOME people who are biracial tend to fall in a category with a certain hair type, but to me, it would not be "mixed" hair.  Then I'm mixed since I have 4 gazillion hair types on my head.

2. I do not like when a product worked on my hair and it made it look amazing!  Then next time, it makes my hair look like crap, even if I used it the same exact way.

3. I do not like to spend a lot of money on hair products. I am one of those who will pick up the product, check out the price, look at it and start thinking of all my uses of the products.  I go through a mental list of 100 reasons why I need it and a list of 5 reasons why I do not.  I put it back down on the shelf, walk away. Then I charge down the aisle to find myself picking it up again, to get to the register and tell the cashier that I will not buy it while he/she is ringing up my purchases.

4. I do not like when I get questioned by cashiers for the hair products I purchase, such as VO5 and/or Herbal Essence's products.  "I thought that was only for white people..." Yes it does work for many of us too!

5. I do not like negative comments from people I know who thinks documenting my "hair journey" is silly and pathetic.  But then come to me later for hair advice.  I'll let you guess if I actually help them.

6. I do not like after I do my daughter's hair, she complains about the way just ONE twist falls over her head. 

7. I do not like when I get comments that my hair is long because my mom has long hair and therefore my daughter will also have long hair.  Hair length is not hereditary. There are many who never had long hair in their families, but acquired long hair because of their healthy hair journies.

8. I do not like when I have no clue what to do with my hair, especially if I am going out with friends or my husband. I want to look hot!

9. I do not like RANDOM people touching my hair, I do not know you, so kick rocks and bounce.  Do not just ram your fingers into my scalp without even having the audacity to ask.  Last time someone did that, her hand was smacked hard...and it happened in church too ;-)!  Don't bother to touch my childrens' hairs too...we are going to fight!

10. I do not like when I am told that I do not look Haitian because my hair is long...and that Haitian people have short, brillo pad looking hair.  Stop watching TV all the time and believe everything you see.  Black people all over the earth come in all colors of the spectrum along with different types of hair.  Everyone is beautiful!

That's That Stuff I Don't Like...

I originally started tagging bloggers, but consider all of you tagged, especially if you are a hair blogger!

What's the stuff that you don't like?