Queen of the Week

 This weeks natural queen is one of my personal faves; meet Suburbanbushbabe, the unique beauty she has to bring to the natural world is her knowledge, wisdom and personal experiences. I remember being a newbie and freaked out when I had a negative encounter with devacare, I didn't know whether it was the beyond the zone curl creme or the devacare,I made a desperate thead on naturallycurly.com and  in came sub (along with dozens of other naturals) with endless info and  advises of what I should do. Up until that experience I did not know what silicone was or how it affect natural hair, I was glad I had sub and other naturals to hold my hands when I needed them the most.

1. How long have you been natural? how long did you transition?
I started my transition in August 2005 and became fully natural in October 2006 - a 14-month transition from being texlaxed.  For many years I was a "false" natural, not a true one, afraid of confronting, caring for and living with my natural hair texture.

2. What are the pros and cons (if any) of being natural?
Very few cons.   I saw this black woman with gorgeous gray/silver, bone straight hair on HGTV, and I began to salivate. But I'm afraid of the flatiron. I'm happier now with my hair than I ever have been in life.

3. Please describe your hair texture and its behaviors ex. kinky curly coarse coil very dry....
My curl pattern is 3c and 4a.  The texture of my hair is fine, volume is thin, and strands are fragile. It's in good condition, but can quickly become dry if I don't feed it enough moisture, especially during seasonal transitions.

4.What made you want to become natural?
I felt frustrated with the hairdresser who texlaxed and colored my hair. I was tired of the whole "hood" salon scene, her coloring skills left much to be desired, I was tired of being burned periodically, and felt I deserved better.  I had been getting my hair cut for awhile by another curl-centric salon, but it was that frustration that made me not go back for relaxer.  But to give her credit, the hairdresser who texlaxed my hair had suggested several times that I should let my hair go natural.

5.What is your hair goal?
Healthy, beautiful, easy to care for hair that grows well, increases my attractiveness and makes me feel great.

6. Name 4 fave hair products? 
4? You are such a kidder!  The products I use consistently are:  GVP version of Biolage Matrix Conditioning Balm, All-Nutrient ClarpHX Active Clarifying shampoo (sulfate-free), Onesta Moisture Balancing Conditioner, Qhemet Biologics Olive Honey Hydrating Balm, Kinky Curly Curling Custard, Vigorol Curls Curling Cream, Devacurl Set it Free, Aquage Illuminating Gellade.

7. What tips and advice would you share with us? 
 Aside from avoiding build-up, conditioning frequently, using a butter or oil on ends and sleeping on a silk pillowcase?

- Don't feel guilty about experimenting with products, unless you are blowing your budget, not paying the rent or mortgage or skimping on meals.  Product experimentation is how I got to know what works and what does not on my hair.  It's also how I know which $4 product works as well as a $20 one.
-  Find a good stylist who cuts many curly heads; I get a Devacut 3 times a year and would not have the shape or curls I have without my hairdresser's expertise.
- Have patience with your hair if you are new; it will go through many changes.  Even on a bad hair 
day, your hair doesn't look as bad as you think it does.
- You will find what works for you eventually - give it time. It took me years, but it is so worth it.

 
8. where can you be found?
Any of the sites below. If you are in or around the Boston area, come join the Boston Naturals meetup - a friendly group of naturals who meet at regular fun events, and we welcome new members.  You can find me on my blog and at my Fotki site -- but I haven't been as active with Fotki since the summer.  I also post frequently at Naturally Curly's Curltalk forum (some could say too frequently). And I occasionally write articles for them as well and for their professional site, Curlstylist.

http://www.meetup.com/Napptural/
http://suburbanbushbabe.wordpress.com/
http://members.fotki.com/suburbanbushbabe/about/
http://www.naturallycurly.com/
http://www.curlstylist.com/

9. what advice would you give someone who is considering becoming natural?  
One of my favorite sayings is, "I'm not ready, but it's time," and when I say that or feel scared of doing something that is going to benefit me, I know it's time for me to step outside my comfort zone.  It can really help us grow to do something outside of our comfort zones, as long as we don't have to stay there all the time. Natural hair can often put us there -- not everyone you know is going to like it, you may get snide or downright hurtful comments, your spouse or lover may say they prefer straight hair.  You may have days where you wonder if the transition is worth it.  You may have days where you long to reach for the relaxer.  Stay with your authenticity.  Make the stretch (no pun intended).  Free your hair -- your mind will follow.

10. would you say being natural affects your life? if so in what way? 

It has brought me in touch with real parts of me, and allowed me to reach out to others and share. And thank you for asking me to share with your blog readers.

HAir UpDates

My hair is sprouting and I am getting even more excited about my 2 years anniversary, I have been wearing it stretched (TEAM STRETCHED!!!) the entire week and I am surprised at how easy it is to manage. My regimen has changed a lot to accommodate the colder weather; instead of washing my hair weekly I try to co wash bi weekly or even once monthly, I use my whupped shea butter mix more, seal with EVOO and stay away from wash n gos (never liked them). I learned that keeping my hair braided or in some sort of a wrapped up style locks moister  for as long as I keep the style in (without having to refresh w/ spritz). I also swear by kimmaytubes leave in concoction (THANK YOU KIM).

I don't know if it's a combination of the products I use and the knowledge i have gained from being natural, but I have managed to keep my hair moist and soft for days without having to add anything to it since last Sunday night. Moister is very important to me and it is one thing I thought I would have a hard time figuring out, it's nice to prove myself wrong.

Today I realize I can put my hair in a ponytail...(and Im not talking about the bobby pin ponytails either) I did so using a hair tie, I don't know why I am not as enthusiastic as i thought I would be when this day would come but I guess I am looking forward to  bigger accomplishments like 12''  hair, or the day I can look down on my chest and see my hair. Although ultimately we all want healthy hair, I also look forward to the length that comes with its health (without getting obsessed with it). I have heard and read too many stories of a scissor happy stylist or heat damage; it happens to the best of us and although I take lots of precautions, my hair is not invincible. It's great how my hair seizes to amaze me.You can never go wrong with natural hair :-D hope my story is inspiring to some if not all.

post advice: "highlight the features in your hair that makes you happy in your current phase, look to others for motivation and inspiration not to compare and contrast; no two heads of hair are alike, be patient and focus on moister and giving those ends TLC, your time will come to be amazed(..if you aren't already)''

Merry X-mas Queens

Two days ago I went against my original plan and took out my braids. I made the mistake of trying a brand I never used before, it was too silky and slippery, by the first month my hair was a complete frizz ball and  it was so obvious where my real hair ended..YIKES!! Granted  I missed my hair crazy I was not too bummed, now I get to spent the holidays with it...YAY!!! Tomorrow I plan to wear one of my fav classic styles; the Marylin Monroe inspired do (currently in Bantu knots as preparation) Although I do not miss the braids I plan to put them back in come January before spring semester starts.

I love the holidays because I spend it doing what I love the most; spending quality time with my family; no presents, no Christmas trees just quality time watching movies, joking and enjoying one another presence.  I am at MOST grateful that I have each and every single one of them to cherish and care for. I don't take a single moment for granted. I thank God for that. 

Happy Holidays to you all share your holiday hair story with me! Luv you all. Peace & blessings

In case you are wondering i am still here

I have been M.I.A with putting my life back together, God has been so good to me and I would love to share and plan to when I can catch my breath. Although I am not on here as often as I use to be, I will stay committed to what gives me a piece of mind and makes me happy. I have realized that I may break from online natural community but the community keeps going no matter what so I have to keep that in mind and  stay true to my subscribers on ytube, new friends on fotki and followers on here. I appreciate and love each and every single person who take the time to join my pages to inquire about what I am doing. So if yo have been wondering, I am blessed and well. Toodles for now queens

Natural Queen of The Week: Gabrielle

This weeks natural beauty is truly a beauty, meet Gabrielle the unique beauty Gabby has to bring to the natural world is her creativity with styles and just her confident in embracing her gorgeous natural tresses. I love browsing through Gabbys' photos for inspiration and if you are seeking to be inspired you will find it with her.

1. How long have you been natural? How long did you transition?
I have been natural since September 2006.  My last relaxer was in March of 2006 and I transitioned for 6 months.

2. What are the pros and cons (if any) of being natural?
Pros:
Natural hair is low maintenance
Cheaper than my relaxed hair was
My hair is healthier than my relaxed hair
Having natural hair forced me to not be dependent on a beautician to style my hair for me

Cons:
Okay, thinking of any cons was a little challenging!
If you don't like frizzy hair, then trying to keep your natural hair looking "fresh" is going to drive you nuts!  I personally don't mind frizz
It might take you a while to get a solid routine down
Shrinkage sometimes is annoying when you want to show off your length, it is something you definitely have to learn to love.


3. Please describe your hair texture and its behaviors ex. kinky curly coarse coil very dry....
My hair is mainly very coarse.  However, I do have fine and normal hairs as well.  My hair is naturally dry and it is wiry.  On the LOIS hair typing system, my hair strands are mainly "O" and "S".

4.What inspired you to become natural?
I was at school one day back in 2005 and I saw a girl with a gorgeous high puff! I decided I wanted one after I saw hers and after one failed attempt of going natural in late 2005 I finally did it in late 2006.

5. What is your hair goal?
Having healthy hair is a goal of mine.  I try to do everything I can to keep my hair  healthy.  If you have healthy hair first then you can have any other hair goal you set for yourself.  The next goal I would like to reach is waist length.

6. Name 4 hair products you cannot live without?
My favorite moisturizer is Worlds of Curls Curl Activator gel and Worlds of Curls Comb Out Spray.  I like to use Aloe Vera gel for hold.  My favorite conditioner is Aubrey Organics Honeysuckle Rose (good stuff!). 

7. What tips and advise would you share with us?
I have been natural for 4 years and I am still learning about my hair!  Yes, trying to get a routine together is very frustrating but do not give up. Also, work with your hair and not against your hair.  What I mean by this is that you will drive yourself crazy trying to get your hair to do things that it cannot do.  If you don't have any curls naturally but you are constantly trying to find some way to get defined curls then you are going to get very frustrated!  Learn to love your hair and work with what you have naturally, it will make your natural hair journey a lot more pleasant.

8. Where can you be found?
Everywhere! lol
My blog is: http://www.frostoppa.com/
Fotki album: http://www.fotki.com/ms-gg
Youtube Channel: http://www.youtube.com/user/FroStoppa
And on Nappturality.com I am Ms-gg :)



9. What advise would you give someone who is considering becoming natural?
I will give you the same advise I gave myself:
Try it out.  Cut off all of your relaxed ends when you have enough hair that you are comfortable with.  If you don't like it, they sell perms Walgreens, Wal-Mart, CVS, they are everywhere.  If you don't like your natural hair say after a year, then go back to the relaxer.  It is that simple.  How will you know relaxed hair is not for you if you never give it a try? 
That is the advice I have myself four years ago and I have not looked back since!

10. Would you say being natural affect your life? if so in what way?
Yes it has.  It made me realize that I do not need to wear my hair straight and that my natural hair is beautiful and I do not need the approval of anyone to wear my hair natural. 

Product of the week: Green tea

One of the many beautiful things I admire about being natural is learning new discoveries that become  life changing practices and part of my everyday lifestyle. I discovered green tea earlier this year while researching online about natural hair.  Here are some facts about green tea; Green is very high in antioxidant, in fact it contains more antioxidant than any of the other herbal teas. The following illnesses are a few of the many cures green tea have been proven to take care of. 

• cancer
• rheumatoid arthritis
• high cholesterol levels
• cariovascular disease
• weight loss
• impaired immune function
  
  

  
  

  It's No wonder the Chinese call this tea the miracle tea. Here is how I use it;
  
  
  

  Drinking Green Tea: As for the hair, green tea is known to stop hair loss and restore skin cells. In my opinion it promotes growth, during my last braid set I noticed my hair literally sprouting in a rapid pace to the point where i had to take my hair down 2 weeks before expected (this is all after re braiding my edges). Although I would like to give drinking 2-3 cups of green tea daily sole credit for this remarkable progress I can't , in any circumstance; TLC=positive results and I think that's what contributed to my success. I do however think drinking the green tea added to it.

  
  

  Hair/face  Rinse: My hair loves green tea rinse, I usually do this rinse as my final rinse on the days of my DTs and I don't rinse out. 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  
  I purchased my tea from China town in Los Angeles, it came in a cool container and the herbs were nicely wrapped in a bag (as shown in the above pix). I used about tablespoon amount and put it in roughly 2 cups of bowling water for about 5 mins then strained it, next I transfer the tea into a  pitcher and add cold water to cool down and dilute the tea some. When I am done the tea is the color of the first pix. I drink it daily as water replacement. I do not add anything to it. This may be somewhat bitter but anything this beneficial is worth it. You can add lemon juice, honey or sweet and low to minimize the taste.
  
  
  *I like my tea in the herb form vs bagged because I can taste the difference, the herb is stronger and more effective. Green tea herb can be found at any local Asian super market.
  
  
  
  
  

Congrats to my natural queen Janelle Monae for winning the soul train award

Tonight while watching The Soul Train Awards my girl Janelle monae won the Soul Train Award YAY!!!! 

Her speech was so empowering and I couldn't help it but to think she was referring to being natural when she said Black young girls should embrace what God gave them and take advantage of what makes them unique. Of course I could be wrong but that's what I got from it. Any way, CONGRATS Janelle, you are the face of unique in a beautiful way and in the music industry, I am so glad you are finally starting to get recognition for your talent. We need more woman such as Janelle in the industry promoting positive self image for our little Black women growing up in a euro centric worldview of what beauty is. 

http://www.centrictv.com/photos/Soul-Train-Awards-2010-photos/10139/

Hair styles tutorials: Mini twists updos

 This weeks style can be worn in countless ways; its can be dressed up with accessories, updos, it can be worn as a everyday look the trick is to be creative.

you will need: rats tail comb, clips or rubber bands, foam wrap, hair butter(whipped shea butter,styling creme etc)

Step 1: wash and condition hair then add foam wrap to hair wait till hair dries to begin

Step 2. section wet hair into 4 sections with rats tail comb. use clips or rubber band to separate sections.

Step 3. Start on nape area or  back of head begin by parting first section hair horizontally into small square shaped parts. use clips to hold hair from mixing with small section.  then add small amount of hair butter to section before twisting.

Step 4. repeat step 3 until entire head is twisted, leave  for a few days, if gets frizzy retwist with natural oil of your choice.

For up dos: Use bobby pins and clear rubber bands to keep style up

tips: when twisting, start by twisting your  wrist to get a secure start.

Natural Queen of The Week: Leisl

Inspiration comes in different aspects. I love the beauty of natural hair; its textures, styles, colors..the list is never ending. This weeks beauty of the week is also a friend of mine, every now and then I meet a natural sista I feel truly makes being natural more rewarding. Meet Leisl, the unique beauty Leisl has to bring to the natural world is her warmth inside out, her hair is thriving and she has taken it a step further by creating her very own deep treatment (DT) concoction that I am dying to try once my hair is out of braids. Thanks Queen for making this journey another reason to be excited.

1. How long have you been natural?

I’ve been natural since the end of February 2009 - 1 year and 9 months.

a. How long did you transition?

I transitioned for 18 months and my hair was braided the whole time.  If you choose to do your transition this way, remember to keep your scalp and hair moisturized and do nightly massages on your scalp.

2. What are the pros and cons (if any) of being natural?

          

  When it comes to being natural, the pros far exceed the cons.  I actually had to stop and think about the cons and I can only come up with a couple things the first is getting used to your hair in a natural state and figuring out what products work best for you.  It’s all in how you perceive things that determine the end result so rather than seeing it as a challenge, enjoy the adventure of doing your research – which I strongly advise and be patient with yourself. 

The pros are numerous, aside from the feeling of freedom that comes with being natural; I now have a strong urge to take better care of myself.  My eating habits have also changed.  I’ve always loved to do experiments and now that aspect of me is being fully appeased. I love shopping for and creating hair concoctions that work effectively on my hair.  Once you figure out what works best for you, coming up with your own hair creations will come naturally as you learn to expound on what you’ve gained through your research.  Before I didn’t know what loving my hair really meant but now I love it to the point where I have to remind myself to stop touching it so much - lol

3. Please describe your hair texture and its behaviors ex. kinky curly coarse coil very dry....

            My hair texture is 4a mostly with S and O curls. It’s fine and soft to the touch.  My hair tends to be on the dry side with high porosity so my focus most of the time is on moisture.  I also incorporate protein into my routine – internally and externally but be careful when it comes to protein overload as everyone’s hair is different.  Do some research on protein and moisture balance to see what’s right for you.  Also, Apple Cider Vinegar(ACV) tends to help with my porosity issues so I rinse with it often.

4. What made you want to become natural?

            My decision to become natural started when I put braids in my hair to help gain some length and give my hair a rest from the relaxers – being natural was the furthest thing from my mind.  Prior to that, my hair had been breaking badly. I never wore it open and I had a closet full of wigs – I was known for wearing a different wig everyday!  Anyhoo, I decided to put braided extensions in and maintain it for 6 months.  During that time my hair flourished but it was on the dry side so I started doing research and that first search led me to Long Hair Care Forum (LHCF).  I must say, I thought I knew a thing or two about hair cause I could braid and work with natural hair care ingredients but nothing could have prepared me for the wealth of knowledge these ladies openly shared – I’d rather not list names for fare of forgetting some but there are a lot of talented beautiful people there – check it out when you get a chance.  What I learned through this site and additional research enabled me to enhance what I already knew and some!  It wasn’t long until I found Fotki - a site with volumes of pictures for me to enjoy - I was hooked!  So much beautiful natural hair, so much versatility, so much love, so many jaw-dropping hair pictures – literally.  The way these ladies support one another on these sites is ourstanding.  The encouragement I saw passing from one person to another as I read and learned more and more about my hair, strongly influenced my decision to go natural.  I felt like I had found a place where I could be a part of something cool, something bigger than me, something enlightening, something inspirational.  It wasn’t too long after I did my Bid Chop (BC) that I opened a free account with Fotki and began documenting my journey.  I’ve met so many wonderful naturals since then – including the host of this site – who’ve really been so kind and supportive from the start.  Now that I’m natural I know that I could never go back to relaxing my hair again but I respect those who choose to do so.

5. What is your hair goal?      

            My goal is to have healthy, waist length hair stretched.

6. Name 4 fave hair products?

            Currently, my 4 favorite hair products are: IC Fantasia hair gel (clear and green), World of Curls curl activator gel (for extra dry hair – it has a slightly yellow colour), Henna and VO5 Repair and Protect. BTW, this stuff is an excellent leave-in conditioner and if your hair tends to be dry like mine, it’s especially good when mixed with your favorite oils.  My mix consists of VO5 Repair and Protect, EVOO – 2 tablespoons, Vitamin E oil – 1 tablespoon, Shark Oil – 1 tablespoon, Argon Oil – 1 tablespoon and Rosemary Essential Oil - about 10 drops.

7. What tips and advice would you share with us?

          

  Finding other naturals (online or in person) with similar hair, really takes a lot of guess work off the early stages of your journey.  I was really new to the natural world so I quickly realized that I needed to do more research after I found LHCF – there are many similar sites but this is the one that resonated with me.  This site enabled me to gain a vast scope of knowledge and eventually led me to the Fotki photo sharing website.  

Natural hair is very versatile so why not enhance it as such…There are lots of times where a simple style is essential but having fun with your styles is a great way to show how creative you are; a flower here, a scarf there, a head band, a pretty clip or two all these adornments serve to take a style from pretty to fabulous!  Whenever you can, show the world how unique, exciting, versatile and fun natural hair can be J

8. Where can you be found?

            You can find me at http://members.fotki.com/Leisl/about/

9. What advise would you give someone who is considering becoming natural?

            Decide whether you want a long or short transition and how you want to transition.  Also, if you don’t already know, learn the proper way to comb your hair – this will enable you to retain more hair on your scalp.  Research what proper protein/moisture balance is – remember, hair mainly consists of a protein called keratin.  Treat your hair like it’s a piece of fine delicate jewelry – love your hair and it will love you back.  You may want to check out supplements geared towards hair health but again do your research to see what works best for you and your health.  I’m currently using: MSM(100mg) – 2 per day, Omega 3 – 1 per day, Nettle – 1 per day, Horsetail – 1 per day, A prenatal pill in place of a multi-vitamin (I’m not pregnant), Soy Lecthin – 1 per day, Mega Acidophilus – 1 per day and Garlic & Parsley – 2 per day. I take less than the daily requirements for some of my vitamins because I find it best with my current diet.  I also take one teaspoon of wheat grass per day.  I find that these supplements work well for me and I take them 5 days per week and rest on the weekend – I take some in the afternoon and some in the morning.  I may add or remove vitamins as necessary but the above list are my staples and if I remove any, it’s only temporary.  I also get my protein mainly from ingesting beans, eggs, fish and protein shakes - I use the shakes as meal replacements.  Lastly, drink lots of water and eat your fruits and veggies.

10. Would you say being natural has affected your life? if so in what way?

             

Yes, I would say that being natural has affected my life profoundly.  I receive compliments daily and I also receive inquisitive looks.  My hair is healthier and grows faster than ever before.  I’ve gained volumes of knowledge.  I now know what liberation feels like and I definitely look and feel more beautiful.  I’ve been told that I’m emanating a calm confidence - I didn’t even know such ‘emanations’ existed – lol and I’ve met some incredibly supportive people along my journey.  If you’re thinking of going natural, now is the time.  If I could change anything about my natural journey it would be that I would have transitioned years ago but then again, there’s no time like the present J

 

Tips naturals need to know about natural hair

Being natural I have also become aware, it's like seeing the world for the very first time, things I once overlooked are now an important part of my regimen. If you are transitioning, thinking of transitioning, a newbie, or already natural there are a few things you must know.

1.  Water is your friend not your enemy
2.  Black hair is prone to dryness, so its very important to keep it moisturized at all times.
3. Natural hair is very fragile so handle it with care.
4. Toss the tight bristle combs and replace them with wide tooth comb ( I use plastic picks)
5. Comb/detangle hair ONLY when it has conditioner in it, never comb while dry.
6.  Gently comb hair from tip to root.
7.  *do not comb against hair growth direction, this will pull your hair out; http://www.growafrohairlong.com/combbrush.html  
8. Working in sections makes getting through the entire head easier
9. Silk bonnet helps tremendously at night
10.  Always keep your scalp clean and clear of products and buildup 
11.  Deep condition/deep treatment (DT)  at least 1x monthly
12.  DO NOT curse or get mad at your hair.

Product of the week: Extra Virgin Olive oil

Like many natural products extra virgin olive oil (evoo) has many health benefits, for the sake of natural hair I will discuss the benefits this oil have on natural hair.  EVOO is a great moisturizer ;  it strengthens, softens, cures dry scalp, reverse hair loss, promote growth and adds natural shine.

I have many uses for EVOO:

Deep Conditioner:

Working in sections I apply evoo to my hair after shampoo rinse, I pay close attention to my ends and not so much my roots so it doesn't clog my pores. Next I apply my conditioner then rinse with cold water to lock in moister.

Oil Treatment:

1oz of hot evoo applied directly to scalp, then I massage it into hair with finger tips (not finger nails) , I leave  in overnight then wash and condition the next day. This stimulates root growth, promoting activity and increased circulation, it also helps distribute the scalp's natural oils through the shaft of the hair, increasing moisture content.   A little goes a long way.

brand I am currently using

Sealer/leave in: 

I apply evoo as a leave in after my co washes it also serves as a sealer, this adds great shine to styles.

EVOO in hair

Natural Queen of The Week

This week I am most excited to introduce the beauty of the week!!! I have been eyeballing this sista for a  while on fotki and I have been dying to get an interview from her, I am so glad I am successful. Meet Lukalomi, aside from her striking beauty, the unique beauty Lukalomi has to bring to the natural world is her creativity with styles, her hair progress over the past 3 years have been remarkable, I hope you all get as inspired as I am. Special thanks to Lukalomi for taking the time to do this interview.

1. How long have you been natural? how long did you transition?

- I have been natural a little under 3 years. I transitioned for 7 months before BCing.

 2. What are the pros and cons (if any) of being natural?

The pros of being natural are that I have been forced to learn how to care for my hair on my own.
I feel more comfortable in my own skin. I am more confident and I trust myself a bit more. It's a great conversation starter.
The cons are that I have become even more aware of how insecure some black women can be about hair. To point
of putting each other down.

 3. Please describe your hair texture and its behaviors ex. kinky curly coarse coil very dry....

- I have an assortment of fine to medium to sightly course hair it can be relatively cooperative. The curl pattern
varies greatly. Some curls kinks and waves here and there. It's normal to dry.

 4. What made you want to become natural?

I decided to go natural after several haircuts and dye jobs. My hair was dull frizzy and lifeless. I was spending
ridiculous amounts of money on stylists (for a student). I like to change up my look a lot. Straight hair just didn't
give me enough versatility.

 5. What is your hair goal?

My hair goal is shiny healthy hair with no split ends and no single strand knots. I can dream. LOL

 6. Name 4 fave hair products?

My favorite hair products are kinky curly knot today. burdock root butter from qhemet biologics. shea butter and sauve coconut conditioner.

7. What tips and advice would you share with us?  

My advice is to take pictures so you can see how your hair has grown. Be gentle with it and have patience.

 8. Where can you be found?

 I can be found at youtube:lukalomi for videos and at fotki for pictures.
 

 9. What advice would you give someone who is considering becoming natural?

To someone going natural I would say really research how to take of natural hair before you do it because it will save
you from heartache down the road.

 10. Would you say being natural affects your life? if so in what way?

 Being natural is a way of thinking and doing. It is life. It has made me more health conscious and makes me question every day life

BC & Transitioning vs Self Esteem &other peoples opinion

I notice a lot of naturals make their decisions to go natural but along the journey they allow others and their opinions to interfere with their experience or their personal low self esteem get in their way of reaping the full benefits of being natural.

 Part of going natural is the freedom of finding beauty  internally even when you don't feel it externally. I have had the best experience ever doing what I did for ME. Queens let me tell you, it seemed like my world thought, I was insane ranting and raving about being natural and its benefits when i first took interest in going natural, my friends didn't believe me when I said I would BC and it didn't matter because this wasn't for them to believe it was for me to prove to myself; I knew I needed to find the more of me, there was more to my natural beauty than wearing someone else hair to feel secure. When I finally BC'd  I texted them all pix of my hair on the ground, than of my face, they couldn't believe I did it. When I look back  I remember  feeling extremely uncomfortable with my hair as short as it was, but I was getting so much compliments that  I knew it was an internal battle I had with myself.  I see pix  of my hair then and think,  "i looked a hot mess w/ twa" 

but you know what?  I went through it despite of how unattractive I felt because there was way more to my beauty than my hair.  I wanted to reap the full  benefits,  think about it; you will NEVER have your hair that short again, why not enjoy the ride and all the phases? when I look back at my pix I can say I did it from beginning to end .There are naturals who transitioned a long time, who follow my journey they, and tell me me how much they wished they would have BCd and didn't take the cowardly way out and transition. Now they will never know how it feels.

Out of all the natural ladies I am one that really took A LOT out of the experience of going natural. I love to see others gain these same benefits. For those of you battling the same issues I did, don't think about it and just go for it, in the long run you will be glad you did. 

Just a thought Peace & Blessings

Product of the week: Bentonite clay & Apple cider vinegar

This weeks product  is a personal favorite, like many of my natural products this combo can be used for multiply purpose. I am happy to admit most of my staples were discovered when I first became natural. Bentonite clay is created for skin benefits particularly the face.  As a face mask, it cleanses, softens, gets rid of pores, acne and any other skin issues you may have. I recieved a tip that it works well for the hair and scalp and waisted no time try to it,  and to my surprise its worked wonders!

experimenting by applying to both hair & face at the same time

Kinky hair is prone to dryness because our hair shafts tend to be lift, what the ACV does is close those shafts. You can see the difference in your hair after you rinse; hair is shiny, curls are naturally defined and cleansed. I also use ACV as a rinse to tame frizz. Remember to use raw unfiltered ACV to get the best results. When used as a mask the consistency should be like yogurts do not be scared when clay starts to harden, it desolves once it comes in contact with water. You will feel when it is time to rinse the clay out because hair will be stiff. 

bentonite clay and ACV on hair 4 months natural

ready to rinse clay

Raw unfiltered ACV has many health benefits, a tablespoon daily before a meal  will burn fat, detoxify, and cleanses your system. You will start to see a difference in your skin in a matter of weeks.  ACV also  remove; stains, bacteria, and germs. 

What I admired the most about being a newbie was my curiosity to try new things, with that I found great products that I can see myself using for years to come. Taking risks is not only exciting , its is fun! See what bentonite clay & acv can do for you!