Showing posts with label natural hair. Show all posts
Showing posts with label natural hair. Show all posts
I've finally reached a stage in my natural hair journey where I occasionally feel comfortable wearing it all out. Just rocking it. Previously, my only obstacle was the bits of straight hair and heat damage that would mean I didn't have a nice shape, or some bits would look lifeless (yes I tend to chop them off and hope for the best) But since Jan 18' I've worn my hair straight probably three times, for no longer than two weeks, and it's made all the difference!
I get so many questions about what I use, so thought I would share those here in steps!
Stage 1
Clarify - I'm usually super busy in the week, or get home late from work, so I don't have time to wash it mid week. It's not the washing that takes so long, it's allowing it to dry properly so that it doesn't turn into a frizzy mess that's most important.
To get rid of the build up of product I've started using The Creme of Nature Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse. It's amazing, just make sure you close your eyes!
This will help to completely rid your hair of any product which makes anything you put on your hair afterwards, work to the best of its ability. It's cheap too! You can of course just buy ACV (apple cider vinegar) and dilute it, but this is super handy.
Once a week, I also use a mask. I would recommend the Shea Moisture Raw Shea Butter Deep Treatment Masque.
Stage 2
I then used a bit of shampoo, mostly because of the vinegar-y smell and to bring some shine back. I wouldn't recommend using too much shampoo after a ACV rinse as this can strip its natural oils.
I'm obsessed with the Twisted Sista Shampoo. It makes my hair so defined and it's half the price of Shea Moisture.
I also love the Shea Moisture Curl and Shine Shampoo, which you can get from Boots.
Stage 3
I then rinse again, and this is where I add an essential oil to lock in the moisture. I've been using almond oil. Olive oil, Argon oil and Almond oil work really well for me as they're quite heavy.
Stage 4
Next up, I rinse again and then use the Twisted Sista Curl Jelly. This is amazing and so affordable! To get a defined look that is also sits well, you can also use Eco Styler Gel. I just rake it through my fingers.
I then air dry and then finish off by diffusing on a cool setting.
As you can see it takes a lot of products to perfect my hair routine, and no doubt if you're natural you feel the same!
Boots offers a volunteer panel, which allows you to test the safety and performance of Boots skin care, cosmetics, sun care and toiletries products including No7, Soltan, Soap & Glory, Botanics and Champneys.
As you are already aware Boots stocks a number of products specifically for Asian and black skin types and they are keen to attract more black and Asian women over 18 to the volunteer panel to get their feedback on these products!
Check out the website here.
I've finally reached a stage in my natural hair journey where I occasionally feel comfortable wearing it all out. Just rocking it. Previously, my only obstacle was the bits of straight hair and heat damage that would mean I didn't have a nice shape, or some bits would look lifeless (yes I tend to chop them off and hope for the best) But since Jan 18' I've worn my hair straight probably three times, for no longer than two weeks, and it's made all the difference!
I get so many questions about what I use, so thought I would share those here in steps!
Stage 1
Clarify - I'm usually super busy in the week, or get home late from work, so I don't have time to wash it mid week. It's not the washing that takes so long, it's allowing it to dry properly so that it doesn't turn into a frizzy mess that's most important.
To get rid of the build up of product I've started using The Creme of Nature Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse. It's amazing, just make sure you close your eyes!
This will help to completely rid your hair of any product which makes anything you put on your hair afterwards, work to the best of its ability. It's cheap too! You can of course just buy ACV (apple cider vinegar) and dilute it, but this is super handy.
Once a week, I also use a mask. I would recommend the Shea Moisture Raw Shea Butter Deep Treatment Masque.
Stage 2
I then used a bit of shampoo, mostly because of the vinegar-y smell and to bring some shine back. I wouldn't recommend using too much shampoo after a ACV rinse as this can strip its natural oils.
I'm obsessed with the Twisted Sista Shampoo. It makes my hair so defined and it's half the price of Shea Moisture.
I also love the Shea Moisture Curl and Shine Shampoo, which you can get from Boots.
Stage 3
I then rinse again, and this is where I add an essential oil to lock in the moisture. I've been using almond oil. Olive oil, Argon oil and Almond oil work really well for me as they're quite heavy.
Stage 4
Next up, I rinse again and then use the Twisted Sista Curl Jelly. This is amazing and so affordable! To get a defined look that is also sits well, you can also use Eco Styler Gel. I just rake it through my fingers.
I then air dry and then finish off by diffusing on a cool setting.
As you can see it takes a lot of products to perfect my hair routine, and no doubt if you're natural you feel the same!
Boots offers a volunteer panel, which allows you to test the safety and performance of Boots skin care, cosmetics, sun care and toiletries products including No7, Soltan, Soap & Glory, Botanics and Champneys.
As you are already aware Boots stocks a number of products specifically for Asian and black skin types and they are keen to attract more black and Asian women over 18 to the volunteer panel to get their feedback on these products!
Check out the website here.
 |
| Left = Summer 2016, Right = January 2017 |
Happy New Year!
I'm back to blogging and hope I can keep it up this year. I'm not going to do a huge post about keeping up with my blog and what I hope to write about, better to just get on with it eh?
So what have I learnt about Wash & Go's? First of all you really can't just wash and go! It takes me so much longer to get ready in the morning when I wear my hair in a Wash & Go style, rather than when it is straight, you'd assume it to be the other way round wouldn't you? So now I have learnt to accept that if I want my hair to look good, I need to leave extra time in the morning.
I've also tried to stop looking at what natural hair bloggers on Instagram do with their Wash & Go styles and started to work out what works on my hair best. I'm feel like I'm getting through the trial and error stage, (I'm probably still in it) but I'm sure I'll do another post just like this in another years time!
My current routine is as follows:
Wash Hair
I use the Shea Moisture Raw Shea Butter Moisture Retention Shampoo for maximum hydration.
I've cut down the amount of times I wash my hair, as it is drying no matter how hydrating the shampoo is, but I do have to wet my hair at least every other day to achieve a 'fresh' look. That's just how I prefer it.
Apply a Leave In Conditioner
I use the Cantu Shea Butter Leave in Conditioner
Again, I don't do this every day, but certainly after a big hair wash or if it starts to get dry and lack lustre.
Dab dry with a t-shirt, I avoid using a towel or rubbing my hair to reduce frizz.
Add 100% pure Coconut Oil, occasionally. I have a real pet hate for product build up, so I try to avoid adding to much oil.
Apply a curling agent whilst the hair is damp. At the moment I use either the Shea Moisture Curling Gel Soufflé (my personal favourite) but I've recently started using the Shea Moisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie which does improve curl definition without leaving the hair crispy.
I then use my all time favourite thing in the world. MY DIFFUSER! I use a cheap one from Argos, it was around £10.99 and it's great, now I just cringe as I think of all the hairstyles I tried to pull off without it!
I then use a soft brush and Eco Styler Gel to neaten the front, and then tighten it with my good old makeshift hair band made from an old leg from a pair of tights.
I then pick my fro with the afro comb so that the curls have body and my head doesn't look so much of a pea.
What's your Wash & Go routine? Comment below!
|
| Left = Summer 2016, Right = January 2017 |
Happy New Year!
I'm back to blogging and hope I can keep it up this year. I'm not going to do a huge post about keeping up with my blog and what I hope to write about, better to just get on with it eh?
So what have I learnt about Wash & Go's? First of all you really can't just wash and go! It takes me so much longer to get ready in the morning when I wear my hair in a Wash & Go style, rather than when it is straight, you'd assume it to be the other way round wouldn't you? So now I have learnt to accept that if I want my hair to look good, I need to leave extra time in the morning.
I've also tried to stop looking at what natural hair bloggers on Instagram do with their Wash & Go styles and started to work out what works on my hair best. I'm feel like I'm getting through the trial and error stage, (I'm probably still in it) but I'm sure I'll do another post just like this in another years time!
My current routine is as follows:
Wash Hair
I use the Shea Moisture Raw Shea Butter Moisture Retention Shampoo for maximum hydration.
I've cut down the amount of times I wash my hair, as it is drying no matter how hydrating the shampoo is, but I do have to wet my hair at least every other day to achieve a 'fresh' look. That's just how I prefer it.
Apply a Leave In Conditioner
I use the Cantu Shea Butter Leave in Conditioner
Again, I don't do this every day, but certainly after a big hair wash or if it starts to get dry and lack lustre.
Dab dry with a t-shirt, I avoid using a towel or rubbing my hair to reduce frizz.
Add 100% pure Coconut Oil, occasionally. I have a real pet hate for product build up, so I try to avoid adding to much oil.
Apply a curling agent whilst the hair is damp. At the moment I use either the Shea Moisture Curling Gel Soufflé (my personal favourite) but I've recently started using the Shea Moisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie which does improve curl definition without leaving the hair crispy.
I then use my all time favourite thing in the world. MY DIFFUSER! I use a cheap one from Argos, it was around £10.99 and it's great, now I just cringe as I think of all the hairstyles I tried to pull off without it!
I then use a soft brush and Eco Styler Gel to neaten the front, and then tighten it with my good old makeshift hair band made from an old leg from a pair of tights.
I then pick my fro with the afro comb so that the curls have body and my head doesn't look so much of a pea.
What's your Wash & Go routine? Comment below!
The Preparation
This is probably the most important part of the process if you want to make your big bouncy afro smooth and sleek. I find that my hair straightens the best when it is just washed so use something very clarifying! When I intend to straighten my hair after washing, I use the KeraCare Hydrating Detangling Shampoo as it makes my hair feel really moisturised and I have noticed that it reduces frizz. I then used the Shea Moisture Deep Conditioner. I comb out my hair in the shower and twist it into sections so that it is easier to manage later on.
I don't usually towel dry my hair but when I'm planning to straighten it anyway I speed up the process by towel drying it. When it is still damp I spray it with the Argan Oil Heat Defence Leave in Spray and then apply this amazing Vatika Coconut Hair Oil to lock in the moisture.
The Tools
Nicky Clarke Hairdryer
I use this to dry and stretch each section and separate it into small sections before straightening, sounds time consuming and yes it is but if you want it really straight and sleek it's best to do it properly first time round.
This Hairdryer is great because you can make it cool, warm, hot, I am pretty sure most hairdryers do that but its great for natural hair as you don't always want it on the hot setting. It isn't too heavy either, and if you have a lot of hair that's exactly what you need.
Wooden Comb
I prefer to use a wooden comb these days, I find that it doesn't snag and doesn't hurt my head as much as a plastic one.
Thin Comb
This is KEY to getting hair looking layered and bouncy. I straighten my hair in tiny sections, split off from the already quite small sections and always make sure to curl it round and the ends. To me, dead straight ends on natural hair makes it look a bit lifeless.
Lee Stafford Hair Straighteners
Before Straightening I apply the Creme of Nature Smooth and Shine Polisher and I love it. It smells amazing and is really light weight.
I straighten it on quite a hot setting, I do this because I don't want to keep going over the same spot of hair over and over again.
Freshly Washed and Damp
Blow-dried
After Straightening, I spray it with hairspray if it is for a night out, I used the Tresemme Firm Hold spray and my style stayed in tact until the next day! I then wrap the top with a silk scarf. Before I go out I then fluff it out again with my fingers to make it full!
The Finished Look
The Preparation
This is probably the most important part of the process if you want to make your big bouncy afro smooth and sleek. I find that my hair straightens the best when it is just washed so use something very clarifying! When I intend to straighten my hair after washing, I use the KeraCare Hydrating Detangling Shampoo as it makes my hair feel really moisturised and I have noticed that it reduces frizz. I then used the Shea Moisture Deep Conditioner. I comb out my hair in the shower and twist it into sections so that it is easier to manage later on.
I don't usually towel dry my hair but when I'm planning to straighten it anyway I speed up the process by towel drying it. When it is still damp I spray it with the Argan Oil Heat Defence Leave in Spray and then apply this amazing Vatika Coconut Hair Oil to lock in the moisture.
The Tools
Nicky Clarke Hairdryer
I use this to dry and stretch each section and separate it into small sections before straightening, sounds time consuming and yes it is but if you want it really straight and sleek it's best to do it properly first time round.
This Hairdryer is great because you can make it cool, warm, hot, I am pretty sure most hairdryers do that but its great for natural hair as you don't always want it on the hot setting. It isn't too heavy either, and if you have a lot of hair that's exactly what you need.
Wooden Comb
I prefer to use a wooden comb these days, I find that it doesn't snag and doesn't hurt my head as much as a plastic one.
Thin Comb
This is KEY to getting hair looking layered and bouncy. I straighten my hair in tiny sections, split off from the already quite small sections and always make sure to curl it round and the ends. To me, dead straight ends on natural hair makes it look a bit lifeless.
Lee Stafford Hair Straighteners
Before Straightening I apply the Creme of Nature Smooth and Shine Polisher and I love it. It smells amazing and is really light weight.
I straighten it on quite a hot setting, I do this because I don't want to keep going over the same spot of hair over and over again.
Freshly Washed and Damp
Blow-dried
After Straightening, I spray it with hairspray if it is for a night out, I used the Tresemme Firm Hold spray and my style stayed in tact until the next day! I then wrap the top with a silk scarf. Before I go out I then fluff it out again with my fingers to make it full!
The Finished Look
As you can probably tell, I couldn't think of a short title for this post! I have been styling my hair without heat for about 6 weeks now and I cannot believe the progress it has made, and I thought it would also be a good idea to start documenting it.
Both pictures were taking straight after washing. The white residue you can see is my leave in conditioner, I use the Cantu Shea Butter Leave in which is so easy and quick to use. I have also been trying the Aphogee Pro Vitamin conditioner, I thought I would prefer it because it is in a spray bottle, but I totally prefer the creamy texture of the Cantu one.
As you can see in the top picture my hair is quite limp and is practically straight on the ends due to heat damage. I never thought I would be able to do a wash and go style like below without doing a huge chop, but with time and patience I have learnt that your hair will love you if you love it back! I
The main thing that I think has brought the body, fullness and curl back into my hair is of course cutting down on using heat. Secondly, I have been washing it about twice a week with non sulphate shampoo and using products that emphasise having lots of protein in them and stating that they are for damaged hair.
(I am hoping to start making my own protein masks but I haven't got round to it yet)
In-between washes I have been using the LOC method as a way of keeping the moisture in, and spraying it with water constantly because there really is no better way to moisture your hair than H20!
I have stopped using towels to dry my hair as this just causes frizz, and the texture of towels will rub against the curls in your hair. Instead I use an old t-shirt and just wrap it round to stop it dripping. I know it is best to air dry it but my hair takes ages to dry and I hate feeling it drip down my neck. EW!
So, for now I think I have perfected my wash routine. I use the Aphogee Shampoo for damaged hair. Then I put loads of the Cantu Shea Butter Leave in Conditioning repair cream and let it air dry for about 20 minutes, then put a t-shirt on it (whilst I do my makeup). After that, whilst it is still damp i put coconut oil onto my hair by sectioning it and making sure it is mostly on the roots. Sometimes If I have somewhere I need to be I will use my hairdryer on the cool setting to speed it up a bit!
The creamy set product is my new favourite, it sets curls just like eco styler gel but without the stiffness, and like all these products it is available in your local hair shop. I didn't buy any of these things online.
I get quite a few people asking me what I use, so I hope that helps.
If you have any suggestions for products feel free to comment below!
As you can probably tell, I couldn't think of a short title for this post! I have been styling my hair without heat for about 6 weeks now and I cannot believe the progress it has made, and I thought it would also be a good idea to start documenting it.
Both pictures were taking straight after washing. The white residue you can see is my leave in conditioner, I use the Cantu Shea Butter Leave in which is so easy and quick to use. I have also been trying the Aphogee Pro Vitamin conditioner, I thought I would prefer it because it is in a spray bottle, but I totally prefer the creamy texture of the Cantu one.
As you can see in the top picture my hair is quite limp and is practically straight on the ends due to heat damage. I never thought I would be able to do a wash and go style like below without doing a huge chop, but with time and patience I have learnt that your hair will love you if you love it back! I
The main thing that I think has brought the body, fullness and curl back into my hair is of course cutting down on using heat. Secondly, I have been washing it about twice a week with non sulphate shampoo and using products that emphasise having lots of protein in them and stating that they are for damaged hair.
(I am hoping to start making my own protein masks but I haven't got round to it yet)
In-between washes I have been using the LOC method as a way of keeping the moisture in, and spraying it with water constantly because there really is no better way to moisture your hair than H20!
I have stopped using towels to dry my hair as this just causes frizz, and the texture of towels will rub against the curls in your hair. Instead I use an old t-shirt and just wrap it round to stop it dripping. I know it is best to air dry it but my hair takes ages to dry and I hate feeling it drip down my neck. EW!
So, for now I think I have perfected my wash routine. I use the Aphogee Shampoo for damaged hair. Then I put loads of the Cantu Shea Butter Leave in Conditioning repair cream and let it air dry for about 20 minutes, then put a t-shirt on it (whilst I do my makeup). After that, whilst it is still damp i put coconut oil onto my hair by sectioning it and making sure it is mostly on the roots. Sometimes If I have somewhere I need to be I will use my hairdryer on the cool setting to speed it up a bit!
The creamy set product is my new favourite, it sets curls just like eco styler gel but without the stiffness, and like all these products it is available in your local hair shop. I didn't buy any of these things online.
I get quite a few people asking me what I use, so I hope that helps.
If you have any suggestions for products feel free to comment below!
It is affordable and is widely available on the high street
The packaging is cute and the tub can definitely be re-used
It is very moisturising and has a nice texture. I would say it is better as a moisturiser than a curl definer as it isn't sticky and it prevented my hair from drying out after being in the cold and wind!
My ends did stay curled!
It is affordable and is widely available on the high street
The packaging is cute and the tub can definitely be re-used
It is very moisturising and has a nice texture. I would say it is better as a moisturiser than a curl definer as it isn't sticky and it prevented my hair from drying out after being in the cold and wind!
My ends did stay curled!
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