GARLIC & ONIONS AS A HAIR LOSS REMEDY

Garlic can also be good for our scalp and hair, as well as for our body.

Garlic stimulates the flow of blood to the scalp and help remove any harmful toxins, which is an important consideration in caring for the growth of our hair and in helping to prevent hair loss.

Adding a garlic extract to shampoo can help to strengthen hair and stop any breakage, while at the same time, adding good body to the hair and a nice gloss.

If you have dry hair or maybe an itchy scalp, a garlic extract type of shampoo will give you relief from many of those nasty symptoms.

An hour before bedtime, slice open a clove of garlic and rub it on the hair loss area. Wait for an hour then massage the scalp with olive oil. Put on a cap and go to bed. In the morning, shampoo your hair. Repeat this remedy for a few weeks, and hopefully hair will stop falling out and re-grow.



Onions are recognized with healing qualities include their antibacterial, cleansing, stimulating, and nourishing powers. Onions contain a number of important minerals and vitamins, such as vitamins C and B6, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and germanium. Onion also has a high sulfur content. Sulphur is a mineral present in every cell in our body, with its greatest concentration in hair, skin and nails. It has often been called the “beauty mineral” and the “healing mineral” because of its ability to promote circulation and decrease inflammation. These qualities also lend to the theory that adequate amounts of sulphur can jump-start hair growth in people with deficiencies. High amounts of sulphur in onions make them particularly effective in regenerating hair follicles and stimulating hair growth. In addition, naturally-concentrated sulphur compounds have been proven to show additional hair-restoring.

Hair loss remedy with onion - apply freshly-squeezed, raw onion juice directly onto the scalp, massage deep into the scalp and hair roots. Left on the scalp for about half-an-hour before shampooing. Do these treatments everyday. In most cases, regular onion treatments will result in dramatic improvement of hair thickness within just several months. Since onion juice restores hair follicles and improves scalp circulation, it will help to promote the strong-hair growth.

Salon Spotlight: Ada's Hair Braiding Salon

Ada's Hair Braiding Salon
6429 Landover Rd
Cheverly, MD 20785-1402
(301) 583-0430


Its the weekend before back to school and I'd promised my daughter she could get her hair braided. I had no idea how taxing the task would be to find a salon. I started calling salons Monday and I was not impressed by the lack of customer service and the inability to answer basic questions ( i.e. what price does your corn rows start? Is the price the same for a child vs. an adult, etc). It was very annoying for me to call salons and there was no answer, I left messages as instructed- no return phone call, I emailed a few salons requesting an appointment- NO RESPONSE. I had almost given up on getting her hair braided when I mentioned my problem to a co worker and she recommend Ada's Salon. I went back to my desk and immediately called Ada expecting the same or similar treatment I'd received from other salons. I was pleasantly surprised. She took the time to answer all my questions, and fit my daughters appt at the last minute. I arrived at the salon 20 minutes early- and it was PACKED- a sign of good business. Ada greeted me, she told me someone would be with me shortly. 5 minutes later the braider came over, introduced herself, ask me if I knew what style I wanted for my daughter. I'd picked out a style on the Internet and I brought a copy of that picture into the salon. The stylist looked at the picture twice and pretty much copied the picture braid for braid. The entire style took 2 hours to complete. I was most happy that I learned of a new style called " feed in braids" aka " no- knot braids". You start the cornrow without adding any extensions. You add the hair in the middle or towards the end of the cornrow. This method gets rid of the usual bump at the beginning of a weaved-cornrow and gives the appearance of a natural cornrow. Ada's fee for this style on my daughter was $65.00 ( a bargain considering others quoted me $80- NO STYLE). My daughter is loving her hair, and we will re visit the salon again for all of our braided hairstyle needs.

Shampoo Bars: Cleanse Your Hair Naturally and Inexpensivenly

Most liquid shampoos on the market include an array of synthetic ingredients. Lather isn't necessary for a shampoo to clean well, but consumers typically expect shampoos to lather well. If it doesn't create rich lather, they don't think the product cleans all that well. The dilemma is that few all-natural ingredients exist that provide ample lather. Most liquid products contain synthetic lathering agents, including Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, commonly abbreviated as SLS. SLS draws moisture from the skin and can cause dryness and irritation. This is especially of concern to those with psoriasis, eczema, dry skin or scalp conditions.

A Shampoo Bar resembles a bar of vegetable based soap, but it is formulated especially for hair. One of the many advantages of Shampoo Bars is that they can be formulated using all-natural ingredients including vegetable oils, vegetable butters, essential oils and other nutritives especially beneficial to the hair and scalp. They also tend to lather well.


The Advantages of Shampoo Bars

Shampoo Bars frequently contain all-natural ingredients.


They tend to lather better than all-natural liquid shampoos.


They don't require preservatives. Having said that, they can go rancid over time. It is recommended that you use your Shampoo Bars within six months of purchasing.


They are convenient for use while traveling, camping or for keeping in your locker at the gym.


Shampoo Bars are easy to pack and modest in size.


They won't leak like liquid shampoos can and can be included within carry-on luggage without breaking any current TSA regulations for carry-on items.


Shampoo Bars last a long time. In comparison, they are less expensive to use than liquid shampoos.

The Disadvantages of Shampoo Bars

It takes a little longer in the shower to cleanse the hair using a shampoo bar (Tip: Follow the How to Cleanse Your Hair Using a Shampoo Bar section below).


The lather of some shampoo bars is a bit trickier to fully rinse out of the hair (This can be minimized by following our advice below).

If you often have overnight guests that do not bring their own personal selection of shampoo, they may feel awkward about using a Shampoo Bar on their hair.

How to Cleanse Your Hair Using a Shampoo Bar

Over time, you will most likely develop your own hair cleansing style that best suits your hair type and length of your hair. Start, however, by following these guidelines:

After you enter the shower, rinse your hair well.


Rub the shampoo bar directly onto your hair, working your way from your scalp down to the ends. Repeat until you have fully covered each section of your hair.


Massage your scalp and hair until a good lather forms.
Rinse the shampoo out of your hair.


Repeat.

Conditioning/Clarifying Your Hair Inexpensively
Combine 1 part vinegar to 9 parts water to create a clarifying rinse.


After you have shampooed your hair, pour the clarifying rinse over your hair and scalp so that it has completely covered each section of hair from root to ends.


Rinse.


Your hair will not smell like vinegar after you blow it dry or allow your hair to naturally dry.

Tips for Purchasing Shampoo Bars
Have fun shopping for handmade shampoo bars. The packaging, visual appeal and aroma of shampoo bars can range from the simple and extend into the extraordinary.


Look for shampoo bars that include the ingredients and type of oils that are used. Shampoo Bar makers are not required to list the ingredients they use in their soaps, but many do. Ingredients that include the word "fragrance" are made with synthetic fragrance oils. Those that include oils in the format of "Lavandula officinalis (Lavender) Oil" are made with essential oils derived directly from natural botanicals.

Because shampoo bars are made using vegetable lipids (oils and butters), the bars can go rancid over time. It is best to plan to use the soaps that you purchase within six months. In stores, watch out for shampoo bars that have dusty labels or appear old. Avoid purchasing or using shampoo bars that contain orange spots. Those orange spots indicate areas of the shampoo bars where the natural oils have turned rancid.

Essential Oils & Carrier Oils - Nappy Hair Care

Essential Oils & Carrier Oils

This is a guide to essential oils & carrier oils for nappy, napptural, or natural hair of African descent. Your hair can benefit from two types of oils. These two types of oils are essential oils and carrier oils. Essential oils are fragrant oils that are actually the concentrated essence, or 'life force' of a plant. Essential oils are light and do not feel like an oil. They evaporate quickly. You would mix essential oils with a carrier oil before you put it on your hair to prevent skin irritation. Carrier oils are oily in consistency. They can be oil from a vegetable, a fruit, a nut, or even a seed.


Essential Oils for Nappy Hair
All essential oils are not created equal. Look for the highest grade you can find. Only buy Complete Essential Oils or Genuine Grade A Essential Oils. These are oils that contain the most natural oil and the least amount of additives and chemicals. Some essential oils for the hair are:

Basil which stimulates the scalp.
Cedarwood which is an astringent, antiseptic, balances production of sebum, and stimulates the scalp. Sebum is your hair’s natural oil.
Chamomile which adds sheen and conditions the hair.
Eucalyptus which removes dandruff and has antiseptic properties.
Frankincense which is used to get rid of dry scalp.
Jasmine which is often used for fragrance.
Lavender which is used for dandruff and fragrance.
Lemon which cleanses the hair and scalp and improves hair elasticity.
Myrrh which is used for dry hair and scalp.
Orange Oil which helps the hair by regulating the production of sebum. Sebum is your hair’s natural oil.
Palmarosa which helps the hair by regulating the production of sebum. Sebum is your hair’s natural oil.
Patchouli which treats dandruff and oily hair.
Peppermint which stimulates the scalp.
Rose Oil which is used as fragrance and to sooth the scalp.
Rosemary Oil (DO NOT USE IF YOU ARE PREGNANT!) which stimulates the scalp and treats dandruff.
Sandalwood Oil which is an astringent, an anti-inflammatory, as well as an antiseptic. Use sandalwood oil to soothe a dry and irritated scalp.
Tea Tree Oil which is used to treat dandruff and kill lice. Tea tree oil balances production of sebum and stimulates the scalp. Sebum is your hair’s natural oil.
Ylang-Ylang which balances production of sebum, stimulates the scalp. Sebum is your hair’s natural oil.

Carrier Oils for Nappy Hair

You can use carrier oils with essential oils or by themselves. A popular, readily available, and inexpensive carrier oil is extra virgin olive oil. Other carrier oils for the hair are:

Almond Oil which is a light, non greasy, fast absorbing hair conditioner.
Apricot Kernel Oil which is used for dry hair. It makes your hair shiny and moisture rich. It contain a large amount of linoleic acid which is essential for cell health.
Avocado Oil which is a light, protein and vitamin rich. It include vitamin A, vitamin E, vitamin D, and potassium.
Castor Oil which is a humectant. Humectants attract moisture into your hair.
Grapeseed Oil which is odorless and vitamin rich. It makes your hair shiny and moisture rich. It contain a large amount of linoleic acid which is essential for cell health.
Hazelnut Oil which is fast absorbing and medium weight. It contain a large amount of linoleic acid which is essential for cell health.
Jojoba Oil which is simular to sebum, which is your hair's natural oil. It can be used with or without an essential oil. It is often used 50/50 with another carrier oil to massage the scalp.

Additional Popular Carrier Oils

Aloe Vera Oil
Calendula Oil
Carrot Oil
Coconut Oil
Emu Oil
Neem Oil
Papaya Oil
Rosehip Oil
Safflower Oil
Sesame Oil
Sunflower Oil
Vitamin E Oil
Walnut Oil
Wheatgerm OilMixing Essential and Carrier Oils

When you mix your essential and carrier oils, as a general rule, use a one (1) drop essential oil per four (4) tablespoons of carrier oil.

Using Essential and Carrier Oils Mixtures

Mix only the amount you are planning to use. This is because essential oils do not have a very long shelf life. Adding a couple of drops of wheatgerm oil to the mixture will extend the shelf life. As an added benefit, wheatgerm oil also has healing properties.

There are Four (4) Grades of Essential Oils:

Pure Essential Oils: This means that the oil was not diluted with a lesser quality essential oil. Be aware, however, that it could be 80% vegetable oil & 20% essential oil and still be labeled '100% Pure.'

Natural Essential Oils: This means that the oil was not altered with vegetable oils, SD Alcohol 40, propylene glycol, or other chemicals.

Complete Essential Oils: This means that the oil was distilled at low heat and low pressure in order to preserve its therapeutic properties. This means that the oil has not been rectified or purified (which means stripped or redistilled). Rectifying and purifying is like reusing a tea bag. It makes more tea, but the quality and potency suffers. This process decreases the essential oil's therapeutic properties.

Genuine, Authentic, or Grade A Essential Oils: These are the best of the best. Great care is taken at every step of the process. Chemicals are never used on the plants. Great care is taking in choosing each plant, time spent in the distillation process, harvesting process, gas chromatograph readings, etc. A gas chromatograph is a chemical analysis instrument used to separate chemicals.

Essential oil is also known as volatile oil and ethereal oil. They may also be referred to as "oil of" the raw plant material from which it was extracted. For example, Oil of Clove.

Do realize that fragrance oils and perfumes are not the same as essential oils.

A Word about Hair Grease, Mineral Oil, Petrolatum, and Petroleum

Approximately 99.9% of Black hair care products use mineral oil, petrolatum, or petroleum as its main ingredient because they are cheap to produce. Mineral oil comes from petroleum or crude oil. Yes, same as the motor oil under your hood. Yes, the same as 'grease'. Yes, the same as Vaseline. Yes, the same products your family has used for generations.

Grease does NOT moisturize your hair. It actually coats your hair, like plastic wrap, which prevents moisture from getting in. Grease basically causes your hair to die of thirst!

Basic Tools For Natural Hair

Well, the list is very simple; your hands (of course), water, and moisturizer. Those are the basic tools that you need to maintain your natural hair. Some with naptural hair elect not to use a comb or brush, but for those who want to detangle without only using their hands, a wide tooth comb and brush need to also be a part of your list.

Of course, your hands are probably a given, but water is an important tool that is often forgotten about. Natural hair loooves water. Water is a great detangler/moisturizer. In the summer, when I wear box braids I keep a spray bottle filled with water mixed with a little water soluble “eo” - (essential oil - I like lavender) in the refrigerator.

I lightly spritz my head after coming in from a day under the hot sun to give it some moisture. When it dries, the lavender leaves a nice clean smell. I also use the water mixture before and after I take down my braids to help with detangling. The water and eo mixture can also be used with extension styles as well.

Now during the cooler months, and depending on what hair style you are wearing (like a transition style that requires your permed ends to be straight or curled) it may not be wise to use simply water as a moisturizer. When it comes to a moisturizer you will have to experiment with a few to find out which one your hair likes best.

An important note on moisturizers : The moisturizer I am referring to is ‘hair moisturizer’ a moisturizer put on for your hair, to be gently massaged, rubbed or brushed through your hair and to ends - to give it a healthy-looking sheen and to prevent dry ends. Some people ‘religiously’ use moisturizers on their scalp - the old ‘grease your scalp’ mentality. In reality you do not have to ‘grease your scalp’. Our scalp produces it’s own moisturizer called sebum.

Some people who have dry scalp and/or dandruff believe that ‘greasing’ their scalp helps or prevents this, but it does not. Dry scalp and/or dandruff are actually a result of too much oil on your scalp. Dandruff can be managed by a mild anti-dandruff shampoo or if more severe yo should seek the care of a dermatologist. For those with oily scalp tea tree oil with it’s natural drying antiseptic qualities is a remedy. Check out this website for more details.

Some people have a reaction to oil-based moisturizers. So for those who are prone to break-outs due to oil-based products, you should look for moisturizers that are water based - water should be the first ingredient. Also when looking for a moisturizer be conscious of products that contain ‘cones’ Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, silicone, etc.

These ingredients are usually found in conditioners and shampoos, but are also found in moisturizers. Again you must experiment with products to see what’s best for your hair, but it’s been my experience that moisturizers that contain ‘cones’ especially ones that you plan on using daily or even weekly, tend to leave natural hair sticky and gummy, and result in scalp build-up.

Seek out moisturizers that contain ingredients close to our scalp’s own sebum like shea butter, sweet almond oil, jojoba and mango butter, and make sure they are high-up on the ingredient list. And for those who can not break the habit of ‘greasing’ your scalp you can massage your scalp with the balls of your fingers to distribute these natural moisturizers throughout your scalp.

Now to cut out the hassle of trying to decipher ingredients on the back of products, the simplest thing to do is to use natural products. Although you will also have to experiment with these, you will not have to worry about putting chemicals on your hair. Natural products can be a bit more expensive, but if you keep the products you use to a minimal, and keep in mind less is better to extend your products, in the end you may find that you will actually save money in comparison with the products you used before you were natural.

For more information please visit fromnaturewithlove.com

Carols Daughter Launch The Princess and The Frog Bath Collection

Carol’s Daughter is launching(in October) a new line of bath products inspired by the upcoming film The Princess and the Frog. The film features Princess Tiana, Disney’s first African-American princess, as the heroine.

What: The Princess and the Frog bath collection by Carol’s Daughter

Description: The Princess and the Frog bath collection by Carol’s Daughter is a limited limited-edition line of hair and bath & body products made with natural ingredients such as aloe leaf juice, cranberry extract, sunflower seed oil, olive oil etc. The collection includes a shampoo, conditioner, hair detangler and bubble bath packaged in packaging featuring scenes from the movie. The product line is geared for African-American hair but is suitable for all races.

Product Highlight(s): Affordable, AA owned

Price:$10.00

Where to Buy: Carolsdaughter.com

YOUR INVITED: Oyin Handmade Event

Whether you have natural hair, relaxed hair or locs, Oyin Handmade cordially invites you to spend the day with us on Saturday August 29, 2009. We’ll have hot music to vibe to, independent movies playing in the media section, hand massage and on the spot hair analysis! Yep, no matter your hair type, length, and regardless of your age or gender, we’ll hook you up with what your hair (and body!) needs. Plus, there are hot tee’s, handbags, independent Black music, art and literature.

Oyin Handmade is launching a few new products, including Honey Water! This moisturizing mist for the body is simply delish and leaves the skin feeling well nourished. It comes in four scents, Black Cedar Fig, Coco Mango, Rich Almond and Original Honey Scent. Also, there’s a brand new cleanser, black soap cleansing gel. This unscented gel is deep cleansing, hydrating and it’s packed with antioxidants. Want to glow from the inside? Here you go! Plus, we are officially launching the 32 oz. bottles of the infamous Honey Hemp Conditioner! It’s about time, right? I can wax off a bottle of conditioner in no time, so this is definitely a must for me! I say this all the time, but I really wish I found this condish when I was still relaxed! It’s so jam packed with healing ingredients, it may have helped save my hair. Ah well, I have it now!

Here are the details!
Who: You and The Oyin Gang
What: The Honey Water Launch Party
Where: 2103 N. Charles St, Baltimore, MD
When: August 29, 2009 2-5pm (The store is open from 12-7)
Why: Because we love you and your hair!

For more information on the brand, check out http://www.oyinhandmade.com.

Nappy Hair Cleansers

Nappy Hair Cleansers

Most of the ingredients in these recipes can be found in your refrigerator. Recipes with perishable ingredients may require refrigeration since they do not contain preservatives. These recipes are quick to make and will save you time and money. As with ANY recipe, you may have to play with the ingredients a little bit to suit you. These are hair cleansing recipes that are simple, natural, and beneficial for ALL hair.


Castile Moisturizing Shampoo

1/4 Cup Dr. Bronner's Castile Soap
1/8 Cup Vegetable Glycerin
1/8 Cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1 Cup Water

Mix ingredients. Shampoo as usual. Note: I must say this is my favorite recipe. It cleans my hair without stripping it, leaving it moist with a lot of sheen. This is NOT a thick mixture. However, a little goes a LONG way.


Hair Clarifier Recipe

2 Tablespoon Shampoo
1 Tablespoon Baking soda
1/4 Cup Water
1 Small bowl
1 Spoon or stirrer

Mix water and baking soda together until there is no 'grit'. Add shampoo and stir to even consistency. Wash hair as normal. Use fingertips (not nails) to massage scalp area. Rinse well with warm water. Use cool water on the last rinse, for shine.Condition and style as usual.


Hair Clarifier Recipe

1 Tablespoon Baking soda
1 Cup Water
1 Small bowl
1 Spoon or stirrer

Mix water and baking soda together until there is no 'grit'. Use fingertips (not nails) to massage scalp area. Rinse well with warm water. Use cool water on the last rinse, for shine. Condition and style as usual.


Apple Cider Vinegar Clarifier

2 Tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar
2 Cups distilled water
2 Drops Sage Oil (this is optional)
1 Small bowl
1 Spoon or stirrer

Mix ingredients together. Shampoo wash or conditoner wash as usual. Rinse conditioner. Use fingertips (not nails) to massage mixture thoroughly into scalp area. Use cool water on the last rinse, for shine.

Brown Sugar Hair and Scalp Cleaner

1 Tablespoon Brown sugar
3 Tablespoon Conditioner

Mix ingredients together. Wet your hair and scalp. Use your fingertips (not nails) to massage scalp in small circles. Rinse well. Use cool water on the last rinse, for shine.



Lemon Scalp Cleaner

2 Tablespoons Lemon Juice
5 Tablespoons Conditioner

Mix ingredients. Massage into hair and scalp. Rinse well. Use cool water on the last rinse, for shine.


Lemon Clarifier

2 Cups Warm water
1/2 Cup Lemon

Mix ingredients together. Wet hair thoroughly. Massage into hair using fingertips (not nails). Let sit for 8-10 minutes. Rinse well. Apply your normal conditioner, for shine.


oz = ounce
tsp = teaspoon
tbs = tablespoon
c = cup

Nappy Hair Moisturizers

Nappy Hair Moisturizers

Most of the ingredients in these recipes can be found in your refrigerator. Recipes with perishable ingredients may require refrigeration since they do not contain preservatives. These recipes are quick to make and will save you time and money. As with ANY recipe, you may have to play with the ingredients a little bit to suit you. These are hair moisturizing recipes that are simple, natural, and beneficial for ALL hair. These recipes will add moisture, sheen, and softness to your hair.


Lemon & Honey Rinse

2 Teaspoons Honey
1/4 Cup Lemon juice
4 Cups Warm water
Mix ingredients together. Wash as usual. Apply mixture thoroughly through hair. Do NOT rinse.


Honey Rinse

1 Teaspoon Honey
4 Cups Warm water

Mix the ingredients. Wash as usual. Apply mixture thoroughly through hair. Do NOT rinse.


Honey & Olive Oil Conditioner
1 Tablespoon Honey
1/2 Teaspoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1 Cup warm water
Mix honey and olive oil well. Add to water and stir well. Distribute evenly all over the hair. Apply plastic cap for 15-20 minutes. Rinse well. Style as usual.

Mayo Conditioner
3 - 4 Tablespoons mayonnaise (real mayonnaise, NOT salad dressing)
With hair wet or dry, cover hair with mayonnaise. Apply plastic cap for 15-20 minutes. Rinse, then style as usual.

Note: Leaving a minimal amount in the hair will keep it soft and moisturized.

Hot Olive Oil Treatment
1 - 2 Teaspoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1 Sandwich bag (with zip closure)

Put olive oil in the bag and zip it. Run hot water over the bag until desired temperature (DO NOT OVERHEAT!!!).Apply olive oil all over your hair. Apply plastic cap for 5 - 10 minutes. Rinse, then style as usual.


Homemade Dandruff Treatment
1/2 Cup White Vinegar
1/2 Cup Water

Mix the ingredients and stir well. Apply to the scalp. Let sit for 5 - 7 minutes. Rinse well.
Note: You can put this mixtue in a plastic bottle and spray in onto the scalp for ease of use.



Homemade Citrus Hair Spray
1 Orange
2 Cups Water

Chop the orange and boil until 1/2 the original contents are gone. Strain, cool, and put into a spray bottle. Add more water if too sticky. Refrigerate after use.

Homemade Hair Gel
1 Teaspoon unflavored gelatin
1 Cup warm water

Dissolve the gelatin in the warm water. Keep refrigerated and use as you would any hair gel. It's that simple!


oz = ounce
tsp = teaspoon
tbs = tablespoon
c = cup

and the winner is...............

NAIJHA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Congratulations!!!

Thanks so much to everyone who entered
Come back soon as I will be doing more give-a-ways soon.
Miss Sixx
(~_~)

My HairStory.. Going from Relaxed to Au Naturale- Part One

Long, luxurious locks, bone straight and down my back...and when it gets wet it curls up into tight crisp ringlets that grow into soft cloud-like curls without the use of rollers or an iron.

I guess that's good hair. But I never called it that. That's my hair. I didn't learn the term good hair until the middle school/high school.


Standing in size order waiting to walk into class on the first day of high school the boy beside me kept staring at me. I kept looking around and looking down at my uniform thinking that there was something wrong until finally he finally spoke: " Is all that your hair?"


I was never asked that before. Growing up and playing with dolls, they all had hair like me. My mom, and my siblings had hair like me and so did my grandma. I never thought of my hair as something special or unique. Actually, since I was tender headed, most of the time I thought of it as a pain. My grandmother used to tell me, "if you look at your hair too hard it will tangle up." And it was true, with naturally curly thick hair getting a comb through it was almost impossible without putting in at least three hours of work. Doing my hair was an all day affair. I longed to just be able to wear it straight like my mommy and have it swish and blow in the wind. But, it was a fleeting thought. I never thought my hair was bad, it was just annoying.


After a while I got used to it. People saying things like: "never cut your hair" and "is that all yours?" "Who does your weaves?" The next question is always: "What are you?" I was never fully black to them. My hair could not just be from me but had to be the result of some exotic mix. Black girls were not supposed to have hair like me, and so I could not be just black.

And so growing up my hair defined me. I was never the loud girl, or the bad girl, or the funny girl. I was the tall girl with nice hair and good grades. I wasn't even described darkskin girl or the brownskin girl, as kids often use in their descriptions, until much later. But for a while it seemed like my hair excused even the color of my skin, until we got older and more people had hair like mine, or at least appeared to.


I vividly recall the day I walked into Domination Hair Salon for what my stylist thought was going to be my " regular" do.I had been thinking about my next hair move. I was looking the hair magazines and saw a picture of Jada Pinkett Smith with that infamous close crop cut. Ah-ha! that's it...... I wanted to go natural, and go natural NOW!!! My stylist explained to achieve that look, I would have to do the " big chop". I was okay with it and very excited. I'd never seen myself with short hair, let alone no hair. My stylist, tried to give me many hair style options to avoid cutting my hair, from wigs, weaves, to braids (not sure how braids were suppose to give me the look I wanted). After what seem like hours(it probably was 30 minutes), I finally took the situation into my own hands, grabbed the scissors,and cut a huge hunk of my hair from the middle of my head and placed it on her station. All eyes were on me at that moment. NOW, my stylist was in shock. At first she just starred at me with her mouth open. She knew at that point I was S-E-R-I-O-U-S. As she began to work her magic, cutting my hair away, blending, edging me up, it turned into a spectator event. Gasp, Oh no, why are you doing that? what's wrong? why would you want to look like a boy? "People pay alot of money to have long hair like yours!", I sat silently, and patiently never responding to the strange looks or the comments. After my hair cut was complete, I looked at myself and I saw a stranger. Your face " opens" up when you have short hair ( in my case- NO HAIR..lol..lol..). I never realized how big my lips were, or the width my nose, but I wasn't through yet.. Now I want some color. Yep I wanted to stand out and be fierce. I went for the brighest blond that would look good on me. Let's say, a new women was born that day- and I became the headliner model for the June hair show debuting my new Au Naturale look.
..... stay tuned

Contest Time....1 Day Left- Au Naturale FREE Give A Way

I'm hosting my first

Au Naturale Give-A-Way


The rules are simple:

1. You must be a follower of Au Naturale by Miss Sixx
(http://missnaturale.blogspot.com/)

2. Answer the poll question on the the left side of the page " What is your favorite oil".

3. You must leave a comment including your e-mail address

**US residents only!!**


The winner will be picked randomly on August 4th, 2009 & I'll post the winner on August 5th, 2009.

RECEIPE: Homemade Rose Milk Bath recipe from beauty industry entrepreneur, Lisa Price of Carol’s Daughter

Homemade Rose Milk Bath recipe from beauty industry entrepreneur, Lisa Price of Carol’s Daughter

1 quart whole milk
1 fifth of vodka
2 tablespoons vanilla extract
5 roses
50 drops rose fragrance oil
Strawberries, sliced and strained of juice (optional)

Directions:
1. Gently pull the petals off the roses, throwing away the center and stem.

2. Toss the petals into a large mixing bowl, saving some for floating in your bath or in a bowl near your bath.

3. Pour in the milk (smoothes the skin), followed by the vodka (tones the skin), then the vanilla extract (an aphrodisiac). Stir.

4. At this point you have the option of including sliced strawberries to add alpha hydroxyl acids (improves skin texture, cleanses pores)

5. Add rose oil fragrance. Be creative if you dare by adding gardenia (uplifting), honey (attracts and retains moisture) or sandalwood (calming aphrodisiac, aids in meditation).

6. Close the bathroom door, turn the shower on “hot” and allow bathroom to steam up. Shift water to bathtub nozzle, reducing temperature to warm so as not to dry out the skin.

7. Slowly pour the rose mixture into the bath, swirling the ingredients in the water with your hand.

8. Sprinkle rose petals atop the water, stick your big toe in the water to test the temperature, adjust the water as necessary. Slide in!

Brands to Watch: Natural Hair Care Brands We Love

Now that summer is here, how about freshening up your hair care routine and give natural products a try? The following is a list of some of the sites that cater to healthy hair with the added bonus of natural ingredients.

Oyin Handmade

Website: www.oyinhandmade.com
Oyin is family-owned company, named after the Yoruba word for honey. Handmade hair and body products for women, men and children all made in small batches to ensure freshness. Free of petroleum, silicones, and fillers.
Product Pick: Juices and Berries - Nourishing Herbal Leave-In
Usage: Moisturizes, detangles and shine. Great refresher for those hot summer days.
Ingredients: Spring water, infused with herbs known to help stimulate the scalp and encourage hair growth; Vegetable Glycerine and nutritious essential oil blend.

Oyin Handmade is in BALTIMORE!!!!! our store is located at 2103 N. Charles St, Baltimore, MD 21218. we would love it if you stopped by - we are open every saturday from noon to 7pm. our shop will feature independently produced and alternative books, music, film, and art, as well as serving as the flagship store for oyin handmade hair and body care products.



Anita Grant

Website: anitagrant.com
All of Anita Grant’s Goodies are hand made to order, her natural ingredients are purchased directly from farming communities and/or partnerships with fair trade and organic suppliers throughout the world. The site features a beautiful array of natural products, although they are for hair, are truly mouth watering. If you have trouble deciding what to try, be sure to check out the yummy sample sizes.
Product Pick: Rhassoul Deep Condish
Usage: For Thick curly hair and locs. Detoxifies your scalp leaving hair light, soft and fluffy.
Ingredients: Rhassoul contains Iron, Calcium, Potassium, Silica, Magnesium and Sodium. Unrefined Black Cocoa Butter, natural Soya based Vitamin E, Honey and more.

Qhemet Biologics

Website: www.qhemetbiologics.com
Features products for men and women made with natural ingredients such as aloe vera, amla, castor oil, coconut oil, Egyptian wheat grass and more. Check out the site’s recommendation chart before ordering. The site is currently in the process of restocking it’s inventory, and will be re-stocked for an upcoming sale on July 3rd.
Product Pick: Tea Tree & Grapeseed Therapeutic Pomade
Usage: Natural healing, regenerative treatment for irritated and flaky scalp. Repairs damaged follicles.
Ingredients: 100% natural, mineral oil, lanolin and paraffin-free combination of cold pressed Grapeseed and pure Tea Tree oils.

Jane Carter Solution

Website: www.janecartersolution.com
Part of the Jane Carter Solution philosophy is that they believe that “hair is hair,” and that segmenting hair care by ethnicity does not encourage diversity, love and multicultural coexistence. Jane also hosts free live conference calls where she discuses her products and answers hair care questions. See the site for more details.
Product Pick: Scalp Renew
Usage: Pre shampoo scalp treatment that stimulates hair growth by cleansing and exfoliating the scalp.
Ingredients: Pure essential oils of Peppermint, Lavender, Tea Tree, Sweet Orange, Rosemary, Ylang-ylang, Bergamot, Vitamins A, D,&E.

Kinky Curly

Website: kinky-curly.com
Kinky Curly products are formulated to give moisture and hold without drying out hair. Features paraben, petroleum, mineral oil, silicone, free products.
Product Pick: Curling Custard
Usage: Moisturizes, curl definition, hold, shine. For wet, freshly washed hair. Recommends that thicker hair types use with leave-in conditioner.
Ingredients: Botanical infusion of water, Horsetail, Chamomile, Nettle and Marshmallow, Organic Aloe Vera Juice, Agave Nectar Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Pectin, Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate and natural fragrance. A little goes a long way.

Karen’s Body Beautiful

Website: www.karensbodybeautiful.com
Handmade hair, body and bath products that promote a healthy, holistic approach to beauty that are made from natural ingredients. Karen’s Body Beautiful also sells products for babies, men and the home. The site also features a virtual hair consultation.
Product Pick: Hair Milk
Usage: Moisturizes, detangles, defrizzes and defines curls. Can be used on wet and dry hair.
Ingredients: Purified water, Jojoba and Avocado Oils, Vegetable Wax, Vitamin E, Panthenol, Arnica and Calendula Flowers, Echinacea, Nettle and Horsetail Extracts, Vegetable Glycerin, Wheat Germ Oil, Fragrance Oil and Natural Enzymes.

I’ve seen via YouTube great twist and braid out results from Karen’s hair milk, and like most all products offered you can choose your own scent which is a plus.

ASHA’S Be Naturally Beautifully

Website: www.myashas.com/index.html
Natural bath and body products for women and men. Exotic plants and herbs made from natural, handmade products that will provide you with earth’s secrets to obtaining beautiful hair, luxurious skin and a healthier body.
Product Pick: Rosemary Mint Herbal Shampoo
Usage: Cleansing, conditioning for hair and scalp.
Ingredients: Infusion of Rosemary and Peppermint

Taliah Waajid

Website: www.naturalhair.org
Alcohol free moisture based products for twists, dreads, braids and natural hair. Products feature the S.T.E.P.S. system - System To Enhance Protect and Strengthen. The system is an all natural anti-bacterial system based on Bay Laurel. All colors and fragrances used are derived from dried fruit extracts or juices.
Product Pick: Stimulating Herbal Cleanser
Usage: Helps eliminate itchy scalp and other minor scalp irritations. Great low pre-poo also good for locked and braided styles.
Ingredients: Pure Distilled Water, Indian Hemp, Olive Oil, Wheat Germ, Yarrow Root, Sodium Laureate Sulfate, Rosemary, African Herbal Cleansing Complex Sea Salt, Sage, Silk Protein, Corn Oils, Corn Silk, Vitamin E, Fruit Bio-flavonoids, Bay Laurel, Cocomide (coconut bio-flavanoid)

Product Sites

www.honeyfig.com
www.naturallycurly.com
www.sistasplace.biz
www.afrokinks.com
www.treasuredlocks.com
www.beautifulmadame.com

**Article Courtesy of Clutch Magazine Online**