DIY: Flaxseed Gel

On the hunt to find the "perfect" styler, I decided to try flax seeds to make a hair gel...

Last month I started making homemade Flaxseed Gel to use as a styler.  It took me three attempts to get it to the consistency I wanted.  I watched a few YouTube videos and did some additional research before putting together a recipe I liked.  I had great results with the gel and found it to be extremely moisturizing.  The only thing I didn't like was the roasted smell which doesn't seem to go away no matter how much essential oil I use o_O but that smell doesn't linger in the hair.  Oh, I also store any remaining gel in the fridge. 

Overall, I love flaxseed gel!  Its inexpensive and have great benefits for the hair.  I got my bag of Flax Seeds from Trader's Joe for about $3.  I tried making a custard like styler by adding some of my shea butter mix but it didn't blend too well...maybe I'll revisit that another time :)  Urban Bush Babes pretty much sums it up below and I have to agree with everything stated.

-From Urban Bush Babes

{There are 2 types of Flax seed (linseed), a light golden yellow and brown. The brown Flax seeds are slightly higher in omega 3 fatty acids.

Benefits:

-Leaves hair soft, shiny, and moisturized

-Promotes hair growth

-You can reuse the flax seeds

-Cost effective (more for your money)

-Nourishing for the hair rich in omega 3

-Gives great curl definition

-Gives hold with no crunch/non flaking/not drying to the hair/doesn’t cause breakage/or shedding

-Fast drying

-Great for wng's /sleek styles/twists and twist outs and sets the twists once dry for a lovely twist out

-Mixes well with oils/conditioners/ many products

-All natural..organic.

-A lot of reviews compare it to Kinky Curly’s Knot Today, but say Flax seed Gel  is actually better (maybe they meant KCCC ?)

-Great for all hair types}

**Update- I didn't put the steps on how to make the gel (silly me).  It is very easy to make, you can watch Naptural85 video HERE.**

Here are some pics of my flaxseed gel and my daughter's hair after using it to style her twists...

Before adding additional ingredients

Two Strand Twists Using Flaxseed Gel

Have you tried Flaxseed Gel?  If so, how do you like it and if not, would you try it?

Product Review: Jessicurl Deep Conditioning Treatment

JessiCurl Deep Conditioning Treatment

Cost: $16.95 (www.jessicurl.com) or (www.curlmart.com)

Size: 8 oz.

Scent: No Fragrance (Available in 3 scents, I opted for no fragrance)
Consistency: Rich Creamy & Thick

What They Say:
...It used to be called “Weekly Deep Conditioning Treatment” but then I heard from more and more curlies that they were using it every day, and some were even using it as a leave in. Who am I to limit how much you use your favorite conditioner, right? Thus, I dropped “Weekly” and just left it at Deep Conditioning Treatment. It’s thick, it’s rich, it’s moisturizing, it doesn’t build up – it really is the ideal formula for restoring moisture to dry curly hair. It also works great as a shaving cream – that even includes bald men! :)

Deep conditioning treatments with heat really moisturize and strengthen the hair, and they're just plain fun to do. This treatment works best with a plastic cap and left on for 20 minutes. This thick conditioner uses cocoa butter and shea butter to add some serious moisture to your hair. Great for all Hair Types!

What I Say:
OMG, this is one of the best moisturizing deep conditioners I have used, I love this stuff!  It made BG "S" hair super soft and so easy to detangle, it pretty much melted the tangles away and for Type 4 hair that is everything!  I used this deep conditioner on pre-cleansed hair (before washing but after spraying with a little ACV mixed with water) and placed a bag & cap on it for about 60 minutes. The hair felt very conditioned after removing the bag & cap and more importantly after rinsing.  It penetrated the hair nicely and provided some much needed moisture and softness. I believe I have found our staple moisturizing deep conditioner and I will be ordering more (with a fragrance).  I definitely say give it a try if you are searching for a moisturizing deep conditioner.

Ingredients: (NEW 7/9/12)
Water (Aqua) infused with Equisetum Maximum Lam (Horsetail), Mentha Piperita (Peppermint), Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary), Laurus Nobilis (Bay Leaf), Ocimum Basilicum (Basil), Arctium Lappa (Burdock Root), Althaea Officinalis (Marshmallow Root), Origanum Vulgare (Oregano), Cymbopogon Flexuosus (Lemongrass), Thymus Vulgaris (Thyme), Salvia Officinalis (Sage) and Urtica Dioica (Nettle); Behentrimonium Methosulfate (and) Cetearyl Alcohol, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Soy Lecithin, Diazolidinyl Urea (and) Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate

Deep Conditioning w/ JessiCurl DCT

1. The hair have been deep conditioning for about an hour and a half
2. The hair after removing the cap & bag
3. The hair after removing the cap & bag (the curls were clumping together)
4. The hair was very soft & manageable, so I detangled the hair and plaited for washing
5. The hair was very moisturized and shiny after washing

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

Deep Conditioning Locs w/ Homemade Deep Conditioner

I love, love, love this deep conditioner.  It leaves the hair so soft and super moisturized.  Not to mention it has to be one of the easiest recipes I've ever done!  Deep Conditioning has always been apart of BG "S" hair regimen but not since loc'ing.  As many of you know or don't know, one of my favorite store bought deep conditioners is the Shea Moisture Organic Yucca & Baobab Anti-Breakage Masque.  I am a little nervous to use this product due to the possibility of buildup in the locs since its so thick and creamy.   So for now this homemade deep conditioner will be our new deep conditioner. After all her locs is still HAIR and her hair LOVES some coconut oil :)

Deep conditioning the hair have MANY benefits. Check out the benefits of deep conditioning your hair HERE.

What is your favorite homemade deep conditioner?

**Product Review: Qhemet Biologics Olive & Honey Hydrating Balm**

Yes, another Qhemet Biologics Review ;o)  LOVE IT!

Qhemet Biologics Olive & Honey Hydrating Balm

Cost: $16.00 (www.qhemetbiologics.com)

Size:  8.0 oz

Scent: Light Citrus
Consistency: The texture of honey

What They Say:Our pure and natural hydrating balm leaves dense, coarse and dry hair touchably soft, moist and supple. 

What I Say:This stuff is awesome!  If your hair desires moisture, this is another QB product for you.  This product gives extra hydration.  It makes the hair very soft and leaves the hair feeling super moisturized.  Due to reviews, I first tried this product by mixing it with the QB Amla & Olive Heavy Cream and fell in LOVE!  I have officially found my styling aid for twists, twist-outs, etc. The texture is very much like honey but is very easy to apply the hair.  It leaves the hair feeling a little sticky if used on dry hair so I prefer it on damp hair.  This product is good on its own but GREAT when mixed with the AOHC.  It is a little costly as well but worth every penny! I will use this product as a styler and to keep the ends of the hair moisturized.  Update: I will use this product as is to moisturize BG "S" locs after washing.  Here is the post where I styled BG "S" hair with the combo. Another staple from QB!

Ingredients:Pure Olive Oil, expressed from the fruit seeds of the noble and majestic Olive tree, delivers softness and emollience. Pure Grapeseed Oil delivers shine, softness and lubricity. MSM nourishes scalp and encourages healthy growth while pure wildflower honey and vegetable glycerin contribute lasting moisture and softness.  Does not contain mineral oil, lanolin, proteins, silicones, artificial fragrances, dyes or parabens.

*Color may vary from batch to batch from yellow to green due to the natural color variance in Olive and Grapeseed Oils.

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

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****

**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**** 

Moisturizing Dry Hair with the L.O.C Method (Sealing)

Is your hair or child's hair dry and you feel like you have tried everything or every product (lawd knows I have!).  Well, we all know that dry hair is one issue that is experienced by many naturals.  My youngest daughter BGS have extremely dry hair and it soaks up everything, literally (like a sponge)!  I came across the L.O.C Method last year on YouTube via BlackOnyx77 (Sealing the Moisture in Natural Hair-How To) but never tried it since BGS was younger and I had a very short window to get her hair done (if you know what I mean?!).  Now that she is a little older, I have successfully done the (L) and the (O) but I am vigorously searching for a cream moisturizer without protein that I love for her hair to complete the (L) (O) and (C).  I have been eyeing a cream moisturizer and hoping to do the complete method very soon. I will keep you guys posted! :)  Update: I have noticed that I've been using the L.C.O Method this entire time and have been successful with it.  I guess in the end you have to use what works.  The regimens can be found HERE and it goes (L)-Water (C)-Leave-In/Moisturizer (O) Grapeseed Oil and then a styling butter or creme if needed.

The L.O.C Method is applying: Liquid | Oil | Cream

The liquid should be something water based like a spray leave-in conditioner or just plain water, followed by a light oil such as coconut oil, jojoba oil, grapeseed oil, evoo, etc. proceeded by applying a moisturizing cream like Shea Moisture's Curl Enhancing Smoothie.

As with hair products, the L.O.C Method may not work for every natural as this method may be too heavy for some.

Additional Info here:

Curly Nikki | Natural Hair Styles and Curly Hair Care: The L.O.C Method: via Hairscapades by Jackie of Engineering Natural Beauty.