How to use Coconut Oil (Before or After Washing)?

Its no secret that I absolutely LOVE coconut oil, well click on the link below to see why I choose to use coconut oil as a pre-poo and why it is such a critical part of the girls' hair regimen...

THE NATURAL HAVEN: Reader Questions - Coconut Oil Before Washing?: Coconut oil appears to be the flavour of the day and specifically coconut oil's role in hygral fatigue (Damage due to swelling and contraction of hair due to uptake and loss of water).

How do you use coconut oil?

So, I'm Natural...Do I HAVE to Use 'Natural' Products? ~Kinky Kinetik

I thought this was explained perfectly...Enjoy! via Kinky Kinetik 

So, I'm Natural...Do I HAVE to Use 'Natural' Products?Survey says: It's your hair, it's your choice!

Now, don't get me wrong, I strongly encourage the use of products that are all-natural.  Why?  Because they not only aid in the health of your hair but it also affects the overall health of your body.  Remember, the products that you put on your hair, skin, and scalp ultimately end up in the blood stream.

So, is using natural products the way to go?  In my opinion, YES!  I suggest using products that are, for the most part, natural, limited in the amount of chemical additives and synthetic ingredients.  So Kinky, are you talking about all of the products found at beauty supply stores, online, and big stores like Target and Walmart?!?  No, I'm not talking about those 'natural' products full of synthetic ingredients.  I'm also not talking about those products that are targeted towards us naturals, yet don't have an ounce of a 'natural' ingredient in it (and if it does, it's not in the top five ingredients).  I'm not talking about the over-priced 'natural' products with ingredients that you can barely read, let alone pronounce.  I'm talking about the natural products that come from the earth.  The butters, the herbs, some oils...  Those are what I encourage others to use and what I strive to use for me and my daughter.

With that said, I know that there's some naturals, male and female alike, out there that still swear by the mineral oils, the sulfates, the parabens, the silicones, the TEAs, etc.  And your thoughts Kinky?  Do you (and your research) boo!  As long as you are aware and thoroughly informed of what you're using, how you're using it, and the potential effects, then all I can honestly say is, to each their own.  Certain gels, shampoos, conditioners, and stylers have the aforementioned types of [not so good] ingredients in them.  Are there alternatives to them?  Yes.  Should you try those natural alternatives?  Definitely!  Is it a guarantee that your hair will come out the same way if you start using all-natural ingredients?  Possibly (I refuse to make that guarantee and then y'all blame me saying, "Kinky told me X.Y. and Z...").  So, take a chance!

This is not a ploy to have certain companies shut down as they don't truly make all-natural products.  I'm also not here to publicly bash certain brands.  I just want to say: be warned Kinkies!!  Just because the label says it's natural, or organic, doesn't mean that it is!  Hell, feces are natural, would you go around using it in your hair?  (I truly hope that no one answered yes or even thought about it.).  Now, that may be an extreme example in some eyes, but you get the point right?!?  [insert nodding in agreement here.]  Good!

I know that I touched a bit on what some consider natural (or unnatural) in my blog post called You Ain't Natural.  However, today I just wanted to elaborate on the use of certain ingredients while living your 'natural' lifestyle.   I say do your research and make the decision ON YOUR OWN of what products you will use in/on YOUR hair.  If you're like others who ask me what to use, please understand that I would  suggest the all-natural alternatives for continued, long-term use.  However, please continue to use your discretion with what you use on your hair, your skin... Please also understand that what works for one, may not work for another.

Sealing with Aloe Vera Juice (AVJ)

After reading the title, I'm sure most people are thinking what?! No oils and no butters!  You read correctly...I have always loved using Aloe Vera Juice (AVJ) or Aloe Vera Gel (AVG) on BG "S" hair.  I use it in homemade recipes to make hair butters, sprays, etc. AVJ and AVG have many benefits on natural hair.  

Just to name a few:

• Detangles
• Moisturizes
• Heals and Soothes Damaged Scalp from Scratches, Burns, Dandruff, etc.
• Balances pH Level (Porosity) of Hair- pH Balance and Hair
  
  
  

Now to the sealing part...I recently used AVG and coconut oil at the ends of BG "S" hair for some added moisture and to give her curls a little boost needless to say it worked like a charm!  BUT I never thought to use AVJ as a sealant over the entire head o_O.  Say what?! That is until I can across a post via HeyFranHey, she tried a "little sealing experiment".  The Aloe Vera Juice seals in the moisture as a butter or oil would without the added weight plus it adds shine and reduces frizz.

So, I thought since I got good results from using it on BG "S" ends, what the heck, let's do it!  I did this sealing method last night and couldn't have been more pleased! The hair was so soft and very easy to comb.  For the first time ever my daughter sat the entire time to get her hair completely done; since it was easier to comb I was able to move a little faster!  You would use the AVJ just as you would an oil.  I poured some in my hand and applied the AVJ right after the leave-in (I will be using a spray bottle in the future).  

It especially works well for us since I use Qhemet Biologics Amla & Olive Heavy Cream (very thick and creamy) as a leave-in on BG "S" hair.  I didn't have time to take pics but I will definitely take some the next go' round.  I will be using this sealing method in BG "S" Hair Regimen for now and document to see how the hair continue to responds. 

Why Sealing With Aloe Vera Is So Effective

Have you tried it? What are you thoughts or opinion on using AVJ as a sealant?

Product Review: TRESemme Naturals Moisture Conditioner

TRESemme Naturals Nourishing Moisture Conditioner

Cost: Under $7.00 (Target/Grocery Store)

Size: 25 oz

Scent: Light Sweet Fragrance
Consistency: Rich Creamy

What They Say: This new lightweight, silicone-free conditioner uses natural ingredients to hydrate hair, giving you the moisture you need and the natural benefits you love.

What I Say:  OMG...where have you been hiding?!  When looking for a conditioner I want something that certainly provides moisture as well as softens the hair after rinsing the product out.  This product does just that, this stuff is great!  The ingredients are nice.  It has great slip, detangles nicely and softens immediately...and the way it moisturizes is like wow! I was so impressed, I went to the store and bought another bottle after using it for the first time just because I'm afraid they'll switch up the ingredients.  The cost is amazing, so this is definitely going to give my favorite Curls Coconut Sublime Conditioner a run for its money (literally).  I will be using this conditioner to Co-Wash.  LOVE IT! 

Ingredients: Water (Aqua) , Stearyl Alcohol , Cetyl Alcohol , Caprylic , Capric Triglyceride , Stearamidopropyl Dimethylamine , Fragrance (Parfum) , Lauroyl Lysine , Caprylyl Glycol , Brassica Campestris , Aleurites Fordi Oil Copolymer , Aspartic Acid , Distearyldimonium Chloride , Persea Gratissima Oil (Avocado) , Citric Acid , Alcohol , Isopropyl Alcohol , Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice

**** I give this product a 5 out of 5 Baby Curls****

Natural Free Hair (Late Post)

I try to let the girls where their hair out after taking down a style before washing and restyling just to let the hair "breathe".  This is how they wore their hair on Father's Day.

They LOVE wearing their hair out, especially BG "M" (oldest)!  These pics are after removing an old hairstyle.  So, after removing the styles, I simply applied some KCKT mixed with water and oil to BG "M" (left) and applied Cara B Moisturizing Mist followed by coconut oil to BG "S" (right), brushed and Voila!  BG "M" previous style was in twists (party bun) and BG "S" had chunky cornrows.

"Good Mornings" - Children Are Always Beautiful, Naturally (Cara B)

SNEAK PEEK....

CARA B Naturally's second video in a series of vignettes. Certified Natural skin and hair care for ethnically diverse babies and children. www.mycarab.com

**Product Reviews: Qhemet Biologics**

Qhemet Biologics Cocoa Tree Detangling Ghee

Cost: $15.00 (www.qhemetbiologics.com)
This is the old packaging and size

Size: 5 oz

Scent: Light Cocoa Scent
Consistency: Thick, Rich Creamy

What They Say: Restores manageability, softness and elasticity to normal to very dry hair. Smooths cuticles, improves combing ability and reduces breakage.

What I Say:  It does EXACTLY what it claims! It makes the hair extremely soft and manageable, it melts away tangles like you wouldn't imagine.  I tried this on damp and dry hair and it made it very easy to comb through the hair (I prefer using it on dry hair).  The comb literally glides thru your hair after applying this product, it is moisturizing and absorbs nicely.  This stuff is definitely amazing and worth every penny.  Great product.  Check out Vlogger CharJay's review here.

Ingredients: Contains pure, prime pressed Cocoa Butter to smooth, soften and seal in moisture, Horsetail, Nettle and Barley to strengthen and condition and sulfur rich MSM to nourish follicles and support growth. Enhanced with carefully selected mild and eco-friendly detangling actives, it instantly restores manageability, pliability and elasticity to matted and tangled hair.  Does not contain mineral oil, lanolin, silicones, parabens or artificial fragrances.

**** I give this product a 5 out of 5 Baby Curls****

Qhemet Biologics Castor & Moringa Softening Serum

Cost: $10.00 (www.qhemetbiologics.com)
This is the old packaging

Size: 2.5 oz

Scent: Citrus/ Orange
Consistency: Thick Oil

What They Say: Contains 100% pure Castor and Moringa Oils. Moringa Oil is a highly valued emollient used in African and Indian hair and skin care traditions for over 2000 years. Moringa seed oil is rich in fatty acids, vitamins A and C and copper and calcium, important nutrients for the skin and scalp. It is also an excellent pre-wash hair conditioner as it naturally possesses cleansing and nourishing proprieties. African Castor Oil has been found in ancient Egyptian tombs dating back to 4000 B.C. The castor bean plant is native to the Ethiopian region of tropical East Africa. This thick, shiny oil acts as a barrier agent and protective medium against harsh conditions and extremes. It is a natural humectant and possesses hair conditioning, thickening and softening properties. Protects ends and moisturizes dry, brittle and coarse hair.

What I Say:  I don't know what it is about this oil but it makes the hair super soft.  It has multiple uses which is always a plus.  I applied this serum to freshly washed hair and was amazed at the results which I didn't expect because I was thinking its just an oil...boy was I wrong!  I will continue using this oil as a sealant and leave in treatment. Another great product.

Ingredients: Pure Castor Oil, Pure Moringa Oil, Pure Essential Oil Fragrance

**** I give this product a 5 out of 5 Baby Curls****

Qhemet Biologics Amla & Olive Heavy Cream

Cost: $16.50 (www.qhemetbiologics.com)

Size:  8.5 oz

Scent: Citrus/ Orange
Consistency: Thick, Rich Creamy

What They Say: Our nourishingly rich blend of old world oils, organic herbs and natural humectants leaves coarse, dry and brittle hair extra soft, healthy and supple! A perfect all-in-one for moisturizing and softening afro's, coils, curls, pony puffs, two strand twists, braids, cornrows, fades, chemical and color processes, softening new growth and restoring softness and elasticity to dry brittle ends. Also helps weigh down kinks and coils. Use as a:

• Soothing and regenerative scalp butter
• Post-shampoo conditioner
• Overnight Deep Treatment
• Moisturizing daily leave-in
• Replenishing body butter
• Evenly distribute a small to moderate amount through dry or slightly damp hair

What I Say:  This one is my FAVORITE!  This stuff is awesome!  If your hair desires moisture, this is for you.  It makes the hair so soft and it is very moisturizing, the hair stays moisturized for a few days without reapplying.  I didn't like it on dry hair but it is A-mazing on damp/wet hair.  I have used this product as a leave-in, moisturizer and styler and it is by far one of the best products I have ever used in BG "S" dry hair!  There is also a lighter version of this cream called Burdock Root Butter Cream.  Staple product for sure!  Update: 7/12- I recently mixed this product with the QB Olive & Honey Hydrating Balm and fell in LOVE!  I have officially found my styling aid for twists, twist-outs, etc.

Ingredients: Our ultra thick cream contains Amla, Brahmi and African Aloe, premium Afro-Indian botanicals used for thousands of years to nourish the scalp and strengthen and condition hair. MSM sulfur nurtures follicles and encourages healthy hair growth, Mediterranean Olive Oil delivers emollience and lubricity while Vegetable Glycerin and pure African Castor Oil lends sheen, softness and intense moisture.  Does not contain mineral oil, lanolin, proteins, silicones, artificial fragrances, dyes or parabens.

**** I give this product a 5 out of 5 Baby Curls**** 

Quick & Simple Style for Toddler (Chunky Cornrows)

BG "S" started Summer Camp at her new school this week (Yippee...) and I wanted to do an easy style for the week.  Not to mention after taking down her mini braids I needed a quick style for my sanity, lol.  My first thought was to do flat twists but since her hair is sooo thick and I didn't feel like doing them small I opted to do chunky cornrows (I'm not a pro at doing cornrows since I don't do them often, this is literally my 4th time cornrowing her hair).  So let's get to it...

I prepoo'ed with Coconut Oil, washed with SM Raw Shea Butter Moisture Retention Shampoo and deep conditioned with Miss Jessie's Sweetback Treatment (review coming soon).  I then applied Qhemet Biologics Castor & Moringa Softening Serum, followed by Amla & Olive Heavy Cream (reviews coming soon) and then banded.

SN: This was the second time around doing this style since on her very first day at summer camp, she came home with a head full of sand! o_O (The joys of motherhood, our work is never done!)  The second time around I co-washed with Tresemme Naturals Nourishing Moisture Conditioner (review coming soon).

Taking a walk after banding in the warm weather to speed up the drying process

This style is holding up nicely and most of the ends are protected.  An easy style in is an easy style out!

BG "S" Mini Braids & Good Ole' Fashion Hair GREASE!

This post is a little late, I actually braided her hair on Tuesday, May 29th.

Recent Pic
Braids are holding up nicely.
 Going on 2 weeks.

For the first time my husband made a "hair request", he wanted me to braid BG "S" hair.  So I decided to do mini braids (mini to me) the week I was leaving town.  This is also the style I submitted for Beads, Braids & Beyond Protective Style Challenge final week.  I decided to deep condition her hair with Miss Jessie's Super Sweet Back Treatment which has protein, (I'm learning to keep a protein and moisture balance - although her hair never agrees with proteins) moisturized and twisted to let air dry overnight.

I began her hair the next day.  I decided to go back to the old way of doing things.  When BG "S" was younger, I simply used grease and water (mouths drop, lol) and never had any problems with dryness, breakage or any other issues people think/say grease cause...just a little lint.  Well, this go' round I decided to use Nature's Blessing Hair Pomade (Grease) and Water.  I used this grease when I was relaxed and LOVED it!!!  With each section, I spritz the hair with distilled water, applied the grease to the hair and began braiding.  I was very happy with the outcome...no frizz, no greasiness or stickiness, just well done braids without the hassle of going back and forth between several different products!

Will this be my way of doing braids?  Possibly...Nature's Blessing is easy to get, works great as a sealant/ styler, very affordable and this has been the only way I have gotten braids done successfully to my liking on BG "S"!  No wonder I braided her hair so much when she was younger, sometime you just have to revisit the old way of doing things.  Have you tried using grease and how did you use it?

Disclaimer: Grease worked for US but it may or may not work for you. 

Graduation Day for BG "M"! Party Bun on Shoulder Length Hair

So yesterday was a big day for BG "M". She was officially promoted from Kindergarten to 1st Grade! Yayy!!!  Well, I just got back in town from celebrating my birthday and needless to say I am still exhausted and in need of some serios sleep o_O. I had to take-out her box braids, wash and style her hair the night before graduation.  I literally didn't have a clue as to how I wanted to style her hair until Tuesday when I came across the Party Bun Post by KandyLandKurls (life saver).  The style was inspired by Une Autre Naturelle, can you say absolutely gorg!  I was a little nervous about how it would turn out but I just went for it.  I did this style on damp hair. Its not identical but it'll due, lol.

After removing her box braids, I washed with Giovanni Smooth As Silk Deep Moisture Shampoo and conditioned with Giovanni Smooth As Silk Deep Moisture Conditioner.  I parted the hair into six sections.  With each section I applied Shea Moisture Curl & Style Milk, followed with Carol's Daughter Hair Balm.  I secured the base of the hair with two rubber bands and began twisting.  After twisting each section, I followed the steps and began securing the hair accordingly.  Just as simple as putting on shoes and she LOVED IT!    :-D

This style is very quick and simple...