By Guest Blogger Crystal of Ishimma.com

You or a friend may have at one time seen a hairstyle, tutorial, or video and said something along the lines of “I wish my hair did that!” or “Dang, I can’t get my hair to do like that!” You get the point. Basically, imagine the frustration you feel when you’ve watched someone’s Youtube video or read their tutorial and your hair does not look exactly like their finished product!

Simply put, your hair may not always do what you want it to do or act how you think it should act. Often, our hair expectations come from what we see on other people’s heads but this is not necessarily the best way of navigating the relationship we have with our curls. Instead, it is important to be aware of the limitations of our hair and hair type, the little things your hair does or does not like, as well as its susceptibility to certain types of damage.

For example, I have a younger sister who has natural hair and I also have natural hair. In regards to the hair typing index, we’re both somewhere in that 4b area. With my sister’s hair, however, she can add heat to it without worrying too much about split ends, damage, or hair conversion…she doesn’t even really use thermal protectors! I, on the other hand, stay away from all types of heat because I know my hair is much more sensitive. We could frown and ponder about why our hair doesn’t do what the other person’s hair does, but it just doesn’t!

What I’m saying is that each of us needs to get in touch with our own hair and know what it can and cannot do. And once you’re aware of that, accept it as what it is instead of being upset because of what it isn’t.

So, why is it important to know your hair?

• Styling – Knowing your hair helps you to understand what types of styles will or won’t work as well as what extra steps you may have to take to achieve a specific style.
• Maintenance and Damage Control – Understanding what your hair needs in regards to moisture and care is extremely important so you can keep your hair from breakage and unnecessary damage.
• Self-assurance and Peace of Mind – When you know something about your hair, and you know it well, it creates a certain confidence in you that signifies a comfort level and bond with your hair. You don’t have to be disappointed in your hair because you are very familiar with its ability. And you can stop forcing your hair to do what it can’t or wishing it was something it’s not!

If you haven’t thought about getting to know your hair or you’ve just been following other people’s advice blindly, here are some things to think about in getting to know your hair:

• Frizz – Does your hair frizz? If so, when? What have you tried that has worked for your hair in reducing frizz?
• Heat damage – Do you use a lot of heat on your hair (with thermal protector)? If so, are you seeing scraggly ends, split ends, damage in the middle of the strand?
• Shrinkage – When your hair dries, does it shrink too much or do you not see much shrinking? If your shrinkage is a lot, no problem, you may just need to stretch your hair before styling, especially if your hair is shorter.
• Density – Would you consider your hair dense (more hair in a given area) or thinner (less hair in a given area)?
• Styling – Do you have a set of styles you can use for your hair depending on curl pattern, length, etc?

Those thoughts are just a part of knowing your hair, keep asking questions! On this hair journey, don’t get frustrated when things don’t work out…simply try something new; learning about and knowing your hair is a continuous process.

With that, I’m signing out!

Trying never before used products is like a box of chocolates – you never know what you are going to get. When I saw this hair care line that I noticed years before, but didn’t pay attention to until now, I decided to purchase a few items and put them to the test.

DevaCurl promoted to me that their products are made for curly heads from all ethnic backgrounds that includes, Latin, Caucasian and African. “If you have curly hair, then DevaCurl is for you.” Guess what? I disagree.

I can’t tell you how excited I was to spend my money on this brand that boosts to be 100% sulfate free, botanically drenched, silicone free, plastic free and paraben free. The sales clerk hyped up DevaCurl then quickly suggested I try the travel sized products to see how I liked them. At first, I questioned her insinuation, but later realized why she might have directed me in a different direction.

Check out my experience below.

DevaCurl No-Poo – Zero lathering cleanser designed to stimulate, hydrate and cleanse the scalp and hair.

My Experience– No-Poo is a zero lathering cleanser. I don’t believe lather is the only method to clean your hair. After using a generous amount a couple of times my hair and scalp did feel clean but I didn’t like the way it actually felt. My hair gave off a signal that it was dry and brittle.

DevaCurl One Condition – This daily conditioner provides maximum hydration and is perfect for all curl types.

My Experience – I literally used a ton of One Condition and my hair did not feel conditioned, soft or manageable.

DevaCurl Heaven In Hair – This intensive moisture treatment provides super hydration and is perfect for all curl types.

My Experience – After applying this product I donned a plastic cap and got busy with weekend chores around the house. The next thing I knew I had left the conditioner on my hair for more than two hours. After rinsing, my curls were soft, but they did not feel conditioned and moist.

DevaCurl B’ Leave-In- A botanically enriched curl volumizer that enhances curl fullness and strength.

My Experience – This product offered no moisture. I mean NO moisture. My hair reminded me of straw on a broom and my curls were neither enhanced nor full.

DevaCurl AnGEL- A light hold moisturizing and defining gel that dissolves instantly when applied to wet hair. As it dries, AnGEL forms a moisture-protective cast to enhance curls

My Experience – I don’t know what they are talking about. The gel left my hair looking and feeling very dry with flakes everywhere.

DevaCurl Set It Free – Eliminates frizz, adds shine and enhances curls with this 24-48 hour moisture lock spray.

My Experience – My hair was frizzy, it had no shine and there was no enhancement or moisture that made my tresses feel loved.

Overall, I don’t think DevaCurl is for African hair even though the sales person and their website gave me the indication that it is suitable for all curly hair types. After applying the products, my curls were dull, dry, lifeless, brittle, and most importantly, they lacked moisture.

On a scale of 1 to 5 curls I give DevaCurl a minus 0.

When her first album was released I was a college freshman. In the dorms and at parties, Whitney’s songs were constantly played.

I was just thinking about Whitney during the Super Bowl. Her interpretation of the Star Bangle Banner was the best ever and I thought about her doing the remake of “Sparkle” and couldn’t wait to see it.

She was confident, beautiful and an amazing woman. I am going to miss her.

Whitney performing some of my favorite classics at the American Music Awards.

“You Could win the Motions Naturally Fabulous Search”

Do you have natural style? Do you dream of being a spokes model? Motions Salon hair care is searching for 3 fabulous girls with natural style to introduce their newest line of natural hair care products, MOTIONS Naturally You!

If you’re chosen as the Motions Natural Girl, you’ll be on your way to New York City for a full makeover weekend, where you’ll be featured in a hair style how-to-video featuring a celebrity hair stylist! You’ll also appear in a special Motions spread in Essence magazine, plus other MOTIONS Naturally You print and/or campaigns!

Please click HERE to enter!

Prizes will include:

• All expenses paid trip to NYC for a makeover weekend
• Featured in a hair style how-to-video
• Appear in an Essence Magazine Spread

Whether you’re wearing your natural hair in tightly-coiled curls, loose ringlets, flowing waves or super straight, new Motions Naturally You products are specially-formulated to moisturize your hair with essential natural oils. Embrace the incredible beauty of your natural hair with Motions Naturally You. For more information visit us at http://bit.ly/zxbd4g.

“Disclosure: Compensation was provided by Motions via Glam Media.  The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Motions”

Let me explain. I was recently invited to a luncheon hosted by MOTIONS hair care products. MOTIONS is mainly known for their relaxers, but now the company has created a new line of products for natural hair called Naturally You. I attended the affair that launched the entire line. The event took place in my hometown, New York City, at the magnificent Mondrian Hotel in Soho. I haven’t visited New York since I relocated to New Mexico in June. I was clearly happy to return to my old neighborhood, and most of all, to be a part of a new product line that celebrates natural hair care.

Back in my perm days, I often used MOTIONS relaxer, and because of my familiarity with the company, I was extremely excited about having the opportunity to investigate their latest brand for kinky hair. Naturally You consists of five major items that include a Moisturizing Cleanser, Smoothing Conditioner, Deep Conditioning Masque, Hydrating Pudding and Radiating Gloss. Each product was produced for curly hair and infused with Shea Butter, Coconut and Avocado oils. As I see it, one of the best things about Naturally You is the price. Items range from $6.00 to $7.00 which clearly makes them affordable.

Whether you’re wearing your natural hair in tightly-coiled curls, loose ringlets, flowing waves or super straight, new MOTIONS Naturally You products are specially-formulated to moisturize your hair with essential natural oils. Embrace the incredible beauty of your natural hair with Motions Naturally You. For more information visit us at http://bit.ly/zxbd4g.

Check out the pictures below from the event that launched it all.

With Karen an executive at MOTIONS

Getting my nails done.

Disclosure: Compensation was provided by Motions via Glam Media.  The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Motions

I am a driven young woman who loves to be involved. Outside of working at a communications company I volunteer with various organizations within my community. One of them includes, as a member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., the New Mexico Divine 9 Council.

Tell us about your hair.

I am not sure exactly what my “hair type” is. I have tight ringlet curls and when picked out my tresses resemble a 70 style afro. My hair loves moisture! If I flat iron my hair, and it is raining outside (even before a drop of rain touches my head), the curls begin to spring into action. My hair does not do well in the dry New Mexico climate without a good leave in conditioner.

What inspired you to go natural?

Two things inspired me to go natural. First, my hair was not growing. Before my first perm, my hair was halfway down my back. After the perm, it would not grow longer than shoulder length. The second thing that inspired me to go natural was my college experience. I was finally around other girls who had hair similar to mine and I saw how healthy theirs was. I decided to stop relaxing it for a while and see how it turned out.

Did you transition, are you currently transitioning or did you do the Big Chop? Why did you choose to do your selected method?

I let my hair grow out and trimmed the relaxer out bit by bit. I was by no means bold enough to cut all my hair off, especially since it was already short to begin with. However, if I went with the big chop I would have avoided a strange period of new growth mixed with old relaxer! It wasn’t the prettiest hair time for me. Luckily when my head was finally filled with curls, I was pleased.

Was this your first attempt going from permed to natural hair? If not, how many times have you tried? What made you go back to permed hair and what made you decide to go natural again?

My first attempt in going natural was successful. Do I think about getting a perm again? Occasionally. Will I get another perm? Probably not. I keep in mind how damaging relaxers are to hair and how many style options are available for natural hair. Also, a major part of me staying natural is how much hair growth I’ve experience without having a relaxer.

What is your favorite hairstyle(s)?

My favorite hairstyles are braids, twists, and large curly afros. I have yet to try braids on myself but I think they look beautiful. My easiest personal style is just pulling my hair back into a large ponytail creating a crown on ringlets on my head.

Which products do you like to use?

I switch products often as I have yet to find an absolute favorite. Currently, I am using Shea Moisture. So far this product has been okay, but I will be on the hunt for something new once I’m out. I give much credit to my natural friends out there in the kitchen making their own products!

What is your hair care ritual? Do you do it yourself or do you go to a salon?

I don’t have much of a daily ritual. I wash my hair once a week and wrap it in a bonnet at night. When I have extra time in the evenings I’ll put a leave in conditioner and twist my hair before putting my bonnet on. The only time I go to the salon is to get my ends trimmed about every 6 weeks. With the weather getting colder I will have to soon find a regimen that moisturizes my hair regularly.

Where else can we find you on the World Wide Web?

I find time to tweet and blog every once in a while. I can be found on twitter @shawnabrown10.

What do you want Permed to Natural readers to take with them after reading your story?

I say to Permed to Natural readers (who are not natural): Just do it once! At least see what your natural hair texture is like. If you hate the new look, you can always go back. To the natural readers: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles. There are so may for us to choose from!

GULITY!!!!

Who knew I had so much to say. I didn’t. I just wanted to start a diary about transitioning from permed to natural hair. Then I feel in love. 

I have enjoyed my last two years as a blogger. I got a little recognition in the media and look forward to getting more attention soon. But sharing my experiences (of any kind) has been extremely therapeutic and I plan to continue to share me with you for many years to come. If it wasn’t for you guys checking in daily, blogging wouldn’t be as much fun. So I have to thank each of you for inspiring me to reveal my hair as well as my personal life adventures.

I also want to say Happy Founders’ Day to all of my Determined, Elegant, Loyal, Tenacious and Admirable Sorors of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Ninety nine years and counting!

2013 Watch Out!!

With my Sorors at a Founders’ Day Luncheon in New York 2009. Yep that is a perm in my hair. I started my transition in September of that year.

Tell us about yourself.

I’m a 32 year old woman in Wilmington, N.C. originally from Queens, New York.  I am in the process of finishing school with plans also of starting my own business.

Tell us about your hair.

I have short, dark brown dreads that I love.  I’ve had dreads once before and restarted them because of the damage relaxers and coloring combined have done to my hair. My hair is very thick and grows faster. I think it’s healthier when natural.

What inspired you to go natural?

My initial set of locks was inspired by my mother’s friend. I thought her locks were beautiful and I wanted to emulate that same beauty.

Did you transition, are you currently transitioning or did you do the Big Chop? Why did you choose to do your selected method?

I transitioned about the spring time of 2011 and I did the big chop because my hair was already damaged and falling out due to the relaxer.  So I had no choice but to do the big chop.

Was this your first attempt going from permed to natural hair? If not, how many times have you tried? What made you go back to permed hair and what made you decide to go natural again?

Well as I stated above this is not my first attempt at locks and the reason for chopping off the first set was because the job market in this state was not excepting of my bright red locks.  I think had I just cut them and darkened the color it would’ve looked more like braids and it would not have been a problem. The relaxers damaged my hair so it had to be cut.

Have you ever done anything to your hair that you now regret? (Aside from getting a perm if that is what you regret)

I didn’t know that putting bleach in permed hair would cause breakage.  I wouldn’t put bleach in my natural hair but in relaxed hair.  I let a hair dresser do that and my hair just fell out. This ultimately led to my new set of locks.

What is your favorite hairstyle(s)?

I like locks styled in updo’s and or in unique ways.

Which products do you like to use?

Taliah Waajid, Carol’s Daughter, IC hair gloss, Cantu Shea Butter Sheen Spray, and to lock my hair I either use Taliah Waajid lock it up or Jam (hair gel) in combination with Jamaican Lime Locking Gel.  There’s no build up, it doesn’t flake and it lasts at least a month.

What is your hair care ritual? Do you do it yourself or do you go to a salon?

Right now I do it myself. I used to go to the salon but going every month to every other month is costly.  So I learned to do it myself.  I’m in the process of learning how to color my own hair with no bleach and also trying to build up my confidence to style and put my hair in a funky up do.

Where else can we find you on the World Wide Web?  

I’m on Facebook as Blooming Flowers and you can follow me on twitter at @TFLUV.

What do you want Permed to Natural readers to take with them after reading your story?

Natural hair is not for everybody. Do your research if you are contemplating going natural and decide what is acceptable in the field you work.  Tame your mane and look presentable when going through the process because appearance and first impressions matter in this society.  Once you get your flare and your style going stick with it and be proud of your God given natural beauty!