LEARNING AND LOVING HIS WOOLLY HAIR

Learning and Loving His Woolly Hair

Out of all my children- and I have six, one came into this world with what I called at the time the old man hair.  He had no hair at the top but had hair around his head like it had been rubbed off in the womb and went bald.  Then when it finally decided to grow in, it was so kinky like a dry woolly pad.  No matter what I put in it I could not keep it moist. Jonah is the only baby I know that got a hair cut at six months.  When he got older he told me he wanted hair like his older brother Brendin.  Brendin's hair is much different, when he was born his hair was so straight he looked like a little Indian.  Then of course it got curly and grew and grew.  Now it reaches his bottom. So I decided to give Jonah's hair shot at growing out. I didn't know how I was going to work with it.  I thought to my self should I lock it? should I braid it? I'm trying to think how I can describe his hair.... it's like his hair grows from a dry parched desert, his scalp seems like something is missing where he can not retain moisture on it and it can not nourish his hair from within.  I really need to look this up because it's not like he is dehydrated like he been working on the plantation in the sun all day.  I seriously think this is condition, no joke.  When I put oil or conditioner on it will either sit on top or less than thirty minutes later it is thirsty again. So I experimented with different products and styles.

Finally after some trail and error I found some styles and products that work.  One of our favorite styles that we like to do often is what he like to call  the "sonic hedgehog".  It looks like locs but it's not.  It's tightly twisted and sinced his hair is so tightly coiled it looks like locs but it will loc fast if I let it.  I have to comb it out once a week.  He is extremely tender headed so I don't comb it often.  It is a must that I comb it once a week or it will loc!  The products I use are a leave in conditioner, any will do, but what works for him is Biotera (from Ross) and I use avocado oil.  I like avocado oil A LOT, it is the only heavy oil that I have found that actually penetrates to nourish inside and protects outside and is very high in amino fatty acids which our hair loves.  Then I use the eco styler gel to lock in and hold the style.  It's pretty easy to do- no comb no fuss.  I have a video of the process I go through down below. I will repeat this process as neccessary during the week, if we have to go somewhere.  Usually I will just moisturize it and keep it moving,  but remember COMB IT OUT ONCE A WEEK!

 

IS IT THE END FOR SHEA MOISTURE?

GET OVER IT SISTAH!

Is it truly the end for Shea Moisture? I've never been the type to get caught up in too much hype- well for one I'm an introvert.  So, although I was a little upset because of the hype surrounding Shea Moisture's advertising campaign.  I gave it much thought after everything simmered down.  It's actually quite simple- all the "black" women that was butt hurt over the campaign, think of this.. how loyal were you to Shea Moisture to exclusively (ONLY) use their products and nothing else?  

I think that's a good question and very relevant.  I mean think about it, here you have a lynch mob of Sistahs ready to tear down a successful black company just because the company saw a lucrative opportunity in extending their product line to a different demographic.  Major brands have been doing that for years and guess what? Our sistah jumped right on that band wagon and bought EVERY LAST ONE of those products.... natural, we bought them.  We can be so emotional sometime without even thinking.  In proving their disloyalty we demonstrated OUR disloyalty ( I say "our" cause I speak as A PEOPLE most of the time).  We hardly ever support our black businesses.  Also think about it,  do you think they would've blatantly extended if all black people had a line of shea moisture in their house? With all the competition out there especially with newer black owned products being produced, I'm sure the board discussed a decline in their sales and a potential risk.  I have to be honest, I only bought shea moisture maybe twice throughout my whole natural journey, and that's four years.  I like to use the less pricier ones that work great but that's another post.  We'll stick to this topic for now.  Before you all get to calling me out of my name and how much I'm a coon or whatever, let me remind you of this. Think about it ladies, how many none black own products and I'm not even asking about throughout your house, just hair products a lone.  How many of your hair products are owned by white companies? 

So why cut down our people for wanting to make that "other" "schomoney".  It's sad how we do this to each other, with out even thinking how much they have even contributed to the black communities; or that they have a dream to offer their children to have a better life; and college education; and family to support; and even debt to pay back.  Please think people.  It's time to love one another support one another and build up one another.  It's hard enough being black to even make it to the top.  Let's support those that are already there, so they would WANT to reach down and lift a brother and sisters up.  Keep your heads up my people stay positive PLEASE, and stay focused.  We can make it easier on us if you come together and support each other.  BELIEVE THAT!

My Prepoo Method

Everyone has their own system when it comes to their hair. After all I'm a strong believer in finding something that works for you and going with that. I like to do what my hair likes and what makes my hair feel good cause I know the results are rewarding. My hair is happy, I am happy, we both compliment each other.

My first step- is sectioning my hair with 5 ponytail scrunchies. I like to always use the yarn scrunchies. They help my hair grow by adding the right amount of tension and by not tangling it to aid in growth retention. That's why I always keep those around.

My second step- is to take each section at a time and starting from roots apply the extra virgin olive oil to the scalp working it to the ends. I usually just put 1 cup of olive oil in a cup and dip fingers in cup. Make sure you don't wear important attire, it can get messy.

My third step is to massage the scalp and hair.

The final step- is putting the plastic cap on sitting under a bonnet hair dryer for 15 minutes or you can chose to just leave cap on for a couple of hours with heat. It's up to you. Then shampoo, condition, and style as usual.


As you begin to take really good care of your hair, you begin to learn different ways of caring for it which works best for your hair. Oh and another thing, you can use any oil that you desire.  Another one of my favorites for prepooing is coconut oil.

My hair doesn't make me, I make my hair!

I believe women are more sensitive about their hair than any other part of their body. I remember getting teased by the little white girls when I would wear my hair down at school because it would puff up, and also being teased by members of my family from my dads side, they are half Asian and have super wavy thick hair. I have always had thick hair but learned at a very young age that it just wasn't good..enough. What I know now is, I have beautiful hair! I think people are very uneducated when It comes to kinky or Afro texture hair. As I have stated in previous posts, Afro kinky hair need extra TLC. It needs to be handled delicately from the ends to achieve longer lengths. Otherwise we tear up our ends and that's why it may seem to never grow. Is that so difficult to comprehend? So when you are rushing out of the house to drop off the kids to school, DO NOT RUSH COMB YOUR HAIR! Just throw it in a bun, knit cap, bonnet, or scarf until you return and can take your time.
I can't count how many lady's hair I have done that wishes they can stop wearing weaves. They can! if they really want to- that is. But unfortunately some people do not have the self discipline, the know how, or even know where to start. What keeps me from putting someone else's hair on my head is the thought that it came from someone else's head- Booyow!! Also  no telling what can of spirit that person had or even bugs! I don't care that they treated it! I like the feel of my own hair growing out of my head. I like to be free, and this goes with my free spirit. I want my man to be able to adore my hair just as much as I do, and run his fingers through it from the scalp. Oh and ladies, if you have never gotten a scalp massage from your man, you're missing out! I also believe that healthy long locks on a sistas head opens her up to a better quality of life. Think about it! More positivity flows your way, that means compliments and smiles which leads to confidence and becoming more outgoing and meeting different interesting people and it goes on and on.

I don't know about you, but I never felt comfortable wearing a weave. I always felt like they know me as the girl that doesn't have any hair lol or "that's not her hair" they would be debating amongst themselves. I know many women think and say,"I don't care what any body think" and that's good to a degree. You really should care what other people think.. pretty muuuch! ( in my country twang voice) especially if you deal with people. You just don't have always do what other people think. Taking into consideration about image is important. Many people judge based on appearance, yeah it's not always right but that's the way it is. Which leads me to my next post....

My Cassia Treatment

Hi yesterday I did a cassia treatment yaay! I soo need another one.  I wish I had some Amla to add to it to color my gray more.  So this is how it went.

First-

This is me before treatment.  How ever in my hair I have applied shea/ almond conditoner by suave coconut oil and castor oil prior.  I won't be washing that out. That is going to be added nutrients in my hair while applying the cassia.

Here is my cassia packs, I am using 2 1/2

It comes tightly packed

Here I added warm water till it is thick as pancake batter no no like conditioner.  Some people add honey, orange juice, lemon juice essential oils.  You can do what ever you choose.  I am down with that.  Today tho, I am just mixing it with warm water since I just washed my hair and already added my stuff directly to my hair.  I started to mix with a plastic knife but using my hand, I am able to squeeze the lumps to smooth it out.

Here is the finish product about to get it in! lol

I am just inspecting my hair checking out my grays, grrrrrr!!!  Trying to decide where I would like to apply the cassia first. 

I did use the gloves and started around my edges first, not that it even matters because the cassia doesn't really give any noticeable color.  Right here I am just doing alittle touch up on my sides.

Look I have a lot left over, my daughter wants to use it so I will place it in the refrigerator until she is ready to use it I say it can be stored for about a week in refrigerator before thrown out.

It is very messy so make sure you use a shirt I don't really care about getting mess on. 

Cleaning up around the edges

Now I leave on for 4 hours for good results.

Now For vivid color results with natural dyes, I recommend Henna, Alma, Indigo.

Henna

Alma

Indigo

Cassia( noticeable on very light blond hair only and gray)

What I find that's cool is how  people use different parts of different dyes for different color variations.


 Also you can add the Cassia for lighter versions of the other colors.  For More info on the natural dyes go here, Natural Hennas.

 

 

African Braid Shops, Bad Business?

Did you all know that in Killeen braid shops are popping up everywhere in town?  That's fine, the problem is, in many of these shops they are getting over not just by ripping customers hair out but also  because the only licensed operators are the owners.  I just found out by a reliable source that they have their family members which are not licensed and do not even have papers to work in this country, assisting in helping to service customers, which in the state of Texas is a big no no!You must have a valid braiding license to touch anyone's hair in a place of business according to Texas law.  We have a right to defend our selves speak up and tell them "You don't have to braid my damn hair so tight!".  Now, when I see ladies that have been victimized by the African braid shops, it then becomes my business.  I have to be the bearer of the bad news and tell them that the damage is permanent or will take a long time to grow back.   It's kind of similar to those people seeking out someone to enlarge their butts only to end of very ill and even dying because the person in operation injected these desperate people (they all were not women) with FIX A FLAT and sealed wound with CRAZY GLUE!! I CAN NOT stress enough that if they are braiding your hair and it is hurting to the point that you wanna crying (because if you're crying it's too late)YOU need to tell them to STOP!!  Because I'm going to tell you this- it is only going to get worst.  Look at the photo below- beautiful huh? NOT!!  The good part is you can sue them and win! But the bad part is we never take that kind of action, but live with the consequences and give them the opportunity to do the same to someone else.  In my opinion- I can't let someone in my hair that can't stand where I'm from. Im just saying That is just crazy! Are we that desperate in Killeen.  Where I'm from we don't even go to Africans,( I learn my skills from my aunty in the hood) I mean really does it mean that much to us to get our hair done to only end up bald at the top and all around our edges?

Is this attractive to you?

Why would you pay someone to do this to you?

Why would we pay someone to do this to our hair?  the main cause of traction alopecia is too much tension on the scalp cause by the operator.  So tension is the main cuprit.  It upsets me that we let it go this far.  I know we have many responsibilities that sometime we are to busy to worry about our hair.  But to neglect it?  I am so appalled at the audacity these shops have, to continue to ignore the many complaints of their customers.  We have to take control and stay in control, have better self image, better self esteem, know that our hair is apart of us and to respect it!  Our hair very is delicate and we have to be gentle with it:-)

What Castor Can do for Your Hair

Castor Oil for Hair:  A popular hair growth oil is the Jamaican Black unrefined applied to roots and scalp regularly.  Keep reading to find out more.

Jamaican Black Castor Oil is the best kind to use for your hair.  You can typically find castor oil at any grocery store or drugstore.  You may remember getting castor oil as a child as a regular daily supplement.  I sure do and I don't have pleasant memories of it!

But, castor oil is a wonderful oil to use for hair treatments and the benefits to your hair are astounding and well worth it.

However, if you have difficulties in finding jamaican castor oil in a drugstore, you can check out online retailers to get the purest form of this oil.  The reasoning behind looking for black castor oil is to have an unrefined oil.

Using the unrefined or purest form of castor oil for hair will ensure that you get the best results because the oil is still closest to its natural state.  The color will typically be darker and the scent will be much richer.  It generally does not have a scent.  Now, let's find out the benefits of this oil.

Benefits of Castor Oil

• Castor oil contains Omega-9 fatty acids which help moisturize the hair and the scalp preventing both from becoming dry.

• Does castor oil help hair grow?  It sure does.  Regularly applying castor oil to your scalp and roots to eliminate dry hair and promote regrowth of hair within months. It will also help to thicken hair that is thinning out.

• Helps reduce and prevent damage.  Also can hide the appearance of damage while trying to improve your hair's health leading to thicker, fuller hair over time.  

• You can also experiment with adding some castor oil to your conditioners for a deep conditioning treatment.  You'll have to experiment with the amount of castor oil to use to avoid greasy hair.  I would start off with a small amount like a teaspoon or less.

• Castor oil is versatile in that you can mix it with other oils to still receive the benefits but avoid the super-thick consistency.  Try mixing it with sweet almond oil to make it a lighter oil that is much easier to spread and gives it a nice scent.

• You can also experiment with castor oil for hair on your ends. This rich, thick oil will help your ends becomes shiny and hide the appearance of frizzy, damaged, and split ends.  Over time, as you trim damage away, you'll notice your hair won't develop split ends as easily. Since it is so thick, you may want to mix it first.

Unique Hair and Exotics Looks Around the World

I love hair and unique looks so I'm gonna share some from around the world. 

Japan

Taregami

The taregami hair was a product of the Heian period. According to the British Museum, this period marked the rise of courtly culture centered around nobility and the end of Chinese influence on Japanese culture. The Japanese noblewomen began wearing their hair as long as possible without binding it. Long, flowing hair was considered the height of Japanese beauty during this time because noblewomen were expected to remain sedentary most of the time. The novel "The Tale of Genji," written by a Japanese noblewoman named Murasaki Shikibu, describes women wearing the taregami hairstyle.

Chonmage

With the decline of the Heian court came the rise of the samurai military class, who took over Japanese culture. The Kamakura, Muromachi and Sengoku periods, or height of the samurai class from 1194 to 1600, saw simpler and more practical hairstyles. The distinctive hairstyle of the samurai was the chonmage, or topknot. Several varieties of chonmage existed, ranging from the simple Chinese-inspired ponytail half-loop topknot to the mitsu-ori, or a topknot folded forward onto the head. The mitsu-ori was popular during the late 16th century. In the 21st century, the only common wearers of the chonmage are sumo wrestlers.

Shimada

With the unification of Japan in the early 1600s came the rise of civilian culture. One of the most distinctive cultural figures of the Edo period was the geisha, or hired entertainer/artist. All geisha wore their hair in one of several hairstyles collectively called shimada. The most commonly seen hairstyle is known as the momoware, or split peach, and is worn by apprentice geisha known as maiko, according to Beauty and the Bath. The momoware is a high bun that splits in two along the middle.

Brazil 

I would like to have more to say about Brazil and traditional style,   However I Chose to post the women with the tignons.  Made me think of Carmen Miranda- MAMÃE EU QUERO.  

It was the mandatory head-wear for Creole women in Louisiana during the Spanish colonial period, and the style was adopted throughout the Caribbean island communities as well. This headdress was required by Louisiana laws in 1785. Called the tignon laws, they prescribed appropriate public dress for females of color in colonial society, where some women of color & some white women tried to outdo each other in beauty, dress, ostentation and manners.

In an effort to maintain class distinctions in his Spanish colony at the beginning of his term, Governor Esteban Rodriguez Miró (1785 - 1791) decreed that women of color, slave or free, should cover their heads with a knotted headdress and refrain from "excessive attention to dress."

Panama

The traditional women's costume of Panama, the "pollera," would be incomplete without the intricately decorative hairstyle. There are three types of pollera: the pollera de gala, for special occasions; the pollera montuna, for everyday wear; and the pollera de boda, or wedding dress. Each of these traditional costumes is topped with appropriately elaborate hair ornaments.

 

France

 ( well the French braid and roll) I liked this picture because if you look at the lady's hair is the back, it touches the ground....wow!!

                                                                   The West Indies

Rastafarian Dreadlocks often come to mind when mentioning the West Indies.  The reason I added the white lady with the locs is to show that not only do they where locs as a culture in the West Indies(particularly Jamaica) they also where them as a fashion statement around the world as well.

Polynesia/ Melanesia- I wanted to post them together to show the diversity in the South Pacific.

India

It always amazes me how dark Indians can be and how straight their hair is.  

Australia

Aborigines have beautiful hair, thank God for the hair right? I mean if it wasn't for their hair... well that's all I will say about that lol. 

The things we do for health and beauty.  It all fascinates me. Someone would call me vain but I am no more vain than someone that goes to the shop faithfully to get their hair and nails done or puts on make up.  I call what I do "celebrating beauty" and me addressing the "dos and don'ts"