Monday, October 1, 2012

What my hair goes through on a weekly basis..

What my hair goes through on a weekly basis...

Ok so it has been a year for me and this hair of mine.. From root to tip.. We are close finish each others sentences.. I loved it from first touch and last memory..

Daily
So I Co-wash my hair on a daily basis or at least 5 times a week right now using V05 Shea Cashmere .. ( co-wash wash with conditioner only.. ).. I do not dry my hair with a towel at all.. But if I do dry my hair it is more of a blotting with a t-shirt.. (Steve never has them once I wash them.. They become mine... Insert evil laugh here)

Then I use CC's Naturals Hibiscus Leave In.. 

In the summer or hot day living in Cali our fall is hot as well.. I use coconut oil to seal in the moisture. Yes the food grade organic USDA approved one.. It does have a melting point of 76 degrees it will liquify but it will be solid below 76 degrees. ( sealing in the moisture is very important.. It is what helps your hair not feel dry or brittle..) 
 Coconut Oil - It also provides the essential proteins required for nourishing damaged hair and it softens the hair and conditions the scalp.

In the Winter months I seal with a Hibiscus Whipped Butter.. It has many different ingredients including Hibiscus, Amla, Rosemary, Castor Oil.. I also include Ylang Ylang and other essential oils in it as well.. 
Hibiscus - Prevents hair loss, Enhances growth of hair, Discourages split ends, Thickens hair, and Prevents premature greying of hair
Amla - Stimulates hair growth, has wonderful conditioning properties, strengthens hair at the roots

Rosemary - Will help stimulate hair growth, fight dandruff and restore luster to your hair 
Castor Oil -  It nourishes hair and prevents the scalp from drying by retaining moisture. Castor oil added to hair care products helps to seal moisture, softens, and visibly thickens hair. Castor oil can also be used by itself on the hair to seal in moisture
Ylang Ylang - Promotes Growth 

Then I use my Hibiscus Flaxseed Gel.. To style my hair.. In this I have many of the same ingredients I have in the Shea Butter mix. I just add marshmallow root to the mix as well as sage at times.. 
Marshmallow Root - Imparts moisture 
Sage - Promotes growth.. 



Weekly
I make sure I treat my hair to a Deep condition weekly. There are so many that I do but I will tell you I make my own. I have a lot of them here on the blog. 

I do a Sugar Scalp Scrub and my scalp loves me more.. 

I detangle my hair using my fingers not a comb. Only while my hair is soaked in conditioner. 

I then do a herbal tea rinse.. With this it has many different things that I use in my tea rinse.. Lately I have been using My as we call it Happy Hair Tea..  In it there is Hibiscus, Lavender, Stinging Nettle, and Green Tea. I brew 3 tablespoons of this in 2 cups of hot water and allow it to cool and after I rinse out the conditioner I pour this onto my hair and massage in it.. I do not rinse it out..

Hibiscus Flower - Prevents hair loss, Enhances growth of hair, Discourages split ends, Thickens hair, and Prevents premature greying of hair
Nettle Leaf - counteract hair loss, prevent and cure dandruff, reduce oily secretions and improve the quality of dry, lifeless hair and stimulate the scalp
Lavender - helps stimulate growth and balance oil production
Green Tea - Stimulates Hair growth, soothes Dandruff and psoriasis, As well as strengthens and conditions.


Monthly 
I cleanse my hair with Braggs Apple Cider Vinegar.. It took some getting used to.. No, the smell does not  linger once your hair is dry. We are used to suds and all of that stuff to think our hair is clean.. But with this it helps cleanse the scalp and hair with out stripping the hair of its natural oils. Apple Cider Vinegar promotes shine and luster to your hair. 

I do what works for me.. And this has been great for me for the longest. I make just about everything I use for my hair and I also sell it.. I am the Owner as well as Steve (my husband) of CC's Naturals..  
You can click on the link and it will take you to our site. 

Along with eating right, exercising, drinking plenty of water and a good hair regimen you will have a healthy scalp and hair..   

UNTIL NEXT TIME!!!!

Happy Birthday Jezabel!!!! 1 yr catch up..

 HAPPY BIRTHDAY JEZABEL!!!!!!

It has been a minute since I updated everyone on my hair and the journey that I am on.. Well It will be a year for Jezabel (Steve named my hair). He said I am cheating on him with my hair.. I spend money on it, play in it.. Treat it really nice.. LOL.. He has jokes. So here's what I learned in the past year.. My hair loves moisture.. It thrives on it.  I have learned that what I put in my body also goes to my hair.. I have learned that deep conditioning at least once a week is my friend. And I learned that things in the kitchen can always be put to the test of making some sort of concoction for the hair.. And 9 times out of 10 I succeed and my hair loves it.

A few days after my big Chop
There are so many lessons that I have learned over time, and so many pictures that I have taken to remind me of my growth. But somewhere along the way it stopped being about just my hair.. I have grown as a person as well.. I never thought to look at ingredients on hair products. But why is that. I will look at them when it comes to food but never on hair.. When I started looking and paying attention the more it became easier for me. I started listen to what my hair likes/loves and what it will only tolerate.  My hair changes like the seasons.. One minute it will like something then it wont the next. I started my Journey on October 14th, 2011.. I only remember the date because I took a picture of myself after getting all of my hair cut off..  The picture << is from the 17th. The one I took on the 14th didn't look cute at all.. LOL. But from there I went to understanding what I should use and not use for my hair.  I read blogs and looked at a million youtube videos.. I learned a lot without having someone there to tell me hey try this and try that.. I am still learning. I was once told a smart person never stops learning just because they think they have all the answers. My husband is a great supporter of everything I want to do.  He would hear me talk about something I read and I think I would want to try and BAM the next day he would have it.  Then I started making my own concoctions for us. I would mix up some African Shea Butter and some other stuff and our skin loved it as well as our hair.. The more I learned I started putting my advice in on questions that was asked on Face book..

Now here we are a year into my journey and I have a blog myself and people that actually read what I write. Haha.. GO ME... I know silly.. But hey Your reading this and I thank you from the bottom of my pen and finger tips.  Now I have tried some things that I heard people rave about.. Like Eco Styler Gel and Green housing the hair ( I hope I said that right) Anyway Green house is when you co-wash you hair and put the leave in and all of that other stuff on your hair at night and put on a plastic cap and go to sleep. Yeah my hair couldnt stand it.. And I found that my hair loves my Hibiscus Flaxseed Gel .

My curls and Coils after using CC's Naturals Hibiscus Flaxseed gel
I detangle my hair while it is soaked with conditioner only. I dont wash with shampoo but I do however cleanse with apple cider vinegar once a month or when ever my hair tells me it needs it. I use herbs in just about everything I make for my hair.. Herbs like rosemary, hibiscus, marshmallow root, lemon grass, burdock root, and so many more. I use coconut oil, castor oil, grapseed oil, avocado oil, almond oil, Shea butter, Mango Butter, Cocoa Butter.. See I told you I treat Jezabel good.. I know this is a lot but I havent updated you guys in a long time.. Today I decided to step out of my comfort zone and dye my hair.. I have dyed it plenty of times when I was relaxed but natural is a whole other horse.  I have Henna'd my natural hair but today was a leap forward.. I stated for a while that I wanted to dye my hair a reddish color... So first I tried Henna but that only dyed my grey hairs.. I wanted something that would dye the whole head.. So I sent Steve to the store to pick up some red dye.. I used Manic Panic Vampire Red.  Dont freak out.. It is a semi permanent dye unless you bleach your hair.  I didn't go the bleached route maybe some other time.. I loved it.. I didn't dye my hair super bright red but it did dye it like a maroonish color.. So here is a picture of the color as well as the length check for the year..
Oct 1st, 2012 freshly dyed and washed no products
It is so much more to tell you guys but that will have to be another post. Im sure you looked at this one and said dang she got the raps.. HAHA.. I will update you guys more on how my journey is going. I promise.. I will get better with this one of these days.

UNTIL NEXT TIME!!!!!

Thursday, August 30, 2012

Some Great herbs for Skin Care as well as hair..

Here is a list of some other herbs that are great for skin and hair care.. I have already posted a blog about some herbs that are great for hair and what that can help you with whether it is moisture , shine or just plain scalp health... Some are mentioned in another blog post ---->You can read that here... Some of these Herbs shouldn't be used while pregnant you can read up on it here

Yarrow Flowers-- Yarrow Flowers are used for their astringent, healing and soothing effects on the skin and hair. Strengthens skin tone. Can be used for problem, oily skin, large pores and wrinkles.

Wild Pansys-- Wild Pansy is healing, cleansing and soothing and is used in Compresses, Baths, Steam Baths and in Creams and Ointments for Skin Care. It is especially effective in helping to treat problem skin. When combined with Comfrey, it is supposed to reduce pores and rejuvenate the skin.

Comfry Leaves-- Comfrey Leaves have a high carbohydrate content and considered to rejuvenate the skin and to have healing, soothing and moisture retaining properties. They are good for rough, damaged skin and can, with time, alleviate wrinkling and enable skin tissue to regain its youthful elasticity. Allantoin promotes skin cell regeneration, stimulates the growth of new cells and helps sensitive skin to become more resilient, counteracting dryness and cracking. Should not be used internally because of its pyrrolizidine alkaloid content.

Comfry Root--Comfrey root and young leaf preparations should not be used internally because of its pyrrolizidine alkaloid content. Similar properties as the leaves. ( pyrrolizidine Alkaloid is a poison produced by plants as a defense mechanism against insect herbivores)

Horsetail-- Whole plant. Often called the ‘Beauty Herb’, Horsetail is considered to strengthen connective tissue and skin. Clarifying, astringent, closes the pores and stimulates production of new skin cells. Because of its high Silica content the whole plant is used as an abrasive.

Nettle-- Used as a Compress, in Lotions and Creams for oily skin, it is supposed to be cleansing, clarifying and emollient and soothes sensitive skins with surface blood capillaries. Can have a positive effect on dry and sensitive skins. Used extensively in Hair Care products where it is supposed to counteract hair loss, prevent and cure dandruff, reduce oily secretions and improve the quality of dry, lifeless hair and stimulate the scalp. Best results in hair are achieved through Rinses and Hair Packs (better than Shampoos). Nettles may also be used in Deodorants.

Peppermint-- Peppermint cools, refreshes, stimulates and revitalizes. It is considered to restore elasticity to the skin, to tone tissue, close pores, reduce swellings, counteract bad smells, reduce redness and irritation and clarify the skin. It is good for oily and large pored complexions. It is also commonly used for its cooling and soothing qualities in products like ointments, salves and creams for the feet.

Rose Petals-- Rose Oil, Rose Water and an Infusion made from Rose Petals are used in Skin Care products for tender, dry, sensitive skin and have a cleansing, astringent, toning, moisture retaining, stimulating and soothing effect. When Rose is included in a Cream or Lotion, it stimulates and protects the skin, while moisturizing and hydrating it. It gives a boost to all skin types, and is particularly beneficial to dry, mature and sensitive skin.

Birch Leaves-- Birch leaves disinfect wounds and are considered to alleviate most skin complaints, including cellulite. The leaves are used externally as an astringent and antiseptic (the bark is even more effective) for inflammations of the skin and for strengthening the skin tissue.

Dandelion Leaves-- Dandelion Leaves are used in skin preparations for its astringent and detoxifying properties. A natural diuretic which does not deplete potassium.

Dandelion Root-- Its blood cleansing ability treats rashes.

Hyssop-- Leaves and flowers. Hyssop contains substances which protect the skin against sunburn. Hyssop is an antiperspirant and astringent, like Sage, and can be used in Deodorants.

Sage-- Sage Leaves are used for Oily, spotty skin and for wrinkled, sagging complexions. Sage can be used in facial toners, cleansers, lotions and creams.  It cleanses, stimulates blood circulation, closes pores and restores elasticity.  Sage Oil inhibits the action of glands like the sweat and saliva glands.

Plantain Leaves-- Plantain is an effective topical treatment for a number of conditions, mainly wounds of all kinds – particularly effective at removing the itch from bites and the sting from cuts and grazes; Good for minor burns including mild sunburn and  insect bites.

Echinacea-- Root and aerial parts. Considered to regulate and soothe the skin and to enhance overall immunity. Can be used in ointments, creams and toners for wounds, skin regeneration, skin infections, and inflammatory skin conditions.

Lavender-- Flowers. Lavender is considered to be Beauty product. Lavender has many sedative compounds that can penetrate the skin. Good for normal and dry skin, Lavender is used as a tonic for all types of skin. Can also be used in Deodorant.

Lemon Balm-- Whole plant (leaves). Effective in creams and toners for mildly oily skin, cleanses and closes open pores, has an astringent and soothing effect when used as a Face Toner or Facial Steam for tired, sensitive skin.

Burdock Root--  Is a diuretic, and one of the best blood purifiers. Good for treating skin diseases like eczema & psoriasis. Make as decoction. Also good for treating boils.

Calendula-- Is a flower used for its healing and tissue regenerating properties for all types of skin. Calendula is good to use in all cases where cell regeneration is required such as in cases of sunburn and sores where the skin is red and irritated. Also good as a regular wash for spots and boils.

Chickweed--  Whole above-ground plant. Best known in its use for treating itchy skin, it is also used to treat skin allergies and other skin problems.

Cleavers--  The variety of tannin acids in Cleavers have an astringent and antiseptic effect and this makes the herb good for healing burns and wounds.

Cornflowers-- Used as a Face Toner for its soothing and astringent effect on the skin. It has antibacterial as well as antioxidant properties and is successful when included in Eye products such as Gels, since it has a gentle astringent effect, but also soothes inflamed and irritated skin.

Lady's Mantel-- The leaves and roots are used in Skin Care products for its healing effects. It is supposed to soothe, cleanse and heal dry, sensitive skin. It reduces swellings, is good for chapped and broken skin on the hands and feet, is a good astringent for large pores and can be used in anti-wrinkle creams.

Golden Rod-- An Infusion can be used as a face wash for oily skin and can also be added to a bath to relieve backache. An astringent and anti-fungal herb, it is often used to treat slow healing wounds, insect bites. As a Gargle or Mouth Wash it can be used to relieve laryngitis, a sore throat, oral yeast and other oral inflammatory or fungal conditions.

Rosemary-- The leaves are used as a fragrant additive in soaps and other cosmetics. An infusion can also be used as an invigorating toner and astringent. Rosemary added to a bath strengthens and refreshes, especially when used following an illness. Considered to stimulate blood circulation and to restore elasticity to the skin, Rosemary is also effective for lifeless and oily skin, for blackheads and spots.  Note: if you are pregnant you shouldn't use Rosemary..

Witch Hazel-- Is well used in the cosmetic and toiletry industry in Face Toners, Shaving Creams, Face Packs and Aftershave Creams. The steam distillate, infusion or tincture of fresh leaves and twigs of Hamamelis is used because of its astringent and anti-inflammatory effects, and has also been recommended for certain skin conditions, insect bites, bruises, etc. Its high tannin content has a strengthening astringent effect on veins. It can be used as a Facial Toner for oily skin and to control minor pimple formation.

Orris Root-- Considered to have a positive effect on the moisture content and elasticity of the skin and helps the skin to detoxify.

Chamomile-- Chamomile herbs have well known sedative and relaxing properties. Used in skin and hair care for its cleansing and soothing benefit. Good for sensitive and irritated skin. Good also for scalp irritations.

St. Johns Warts-- Soothes irritations of the skin with generally beneficial effects as the herb has calming properties,  it also makes the skin photosensitive so the skin should not be exposed to sunlight after it has been applied externally, such as in an ointment or a cream. Even taking it internally may make people more sensitive to the sun.



Well there you have it... 
Until next time.. 





Thursday, August 16, 2012

Protiens


Proteins
  
Hair is protein. But an abundance of protein can cause a different reaction than we are used to. If you have color treated hair, use heat quite often, texturize, or relax a protein treatment will at times help you with getting your hairs strength up. Strong like Popeye after he eats the spinach. But some of you are saying "I don't do any of those so why do I need it" right. Well there are other reasons like Severe damage, loss of snap back (elasticity), and serious damage. 

I get many questions on what is protein classified as in product.. Or I have tried his product and it left my hair feeling like hay, straw, dry, and brittle. What did I do wrong or what is wrong with the product to where it doesn't connect with my hair. Well peoples hair types especially those with a coarse hair texture, are sensitive to proteins, which can cause some curly hair to become dry and brittle. It is best it it were avoided. It is always important to read labels to everything you put onto your hair but also your body. But we are speaking about hair here.. There are some protein ingredients to look out for.. If you are protein sensitive read these like there is a caution sign wrapped around the product.
    
 Common protein ingredients include:
  • Collagen
  • Hydrolyzed Collagen Protein
  • Hydrolyzed Silk Protein
  • Hydrolyzed Soy Protein
  • Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein
  • Keratin
  • Keratin Amino Acids
  • Silk Amino Acids
  • Silk Protein
  • Soy Protein
  • Wheat Amino Acids
  • Wheat Protein 

    UNTIL NEXT TIME!!!!!

Friday, July 13, 2012

Silicone free Conditioners

Conditioners Without any sort of Silicones

Abba Crème-Masque Conditioner
Abba Moisture Scensation Conditioner
Abba Nourishing Leave-On Conditioner
Abba Recoup Conditioner
Abba Thickening Conditioner
Abba True Culrs Conditioner
Abba True Curls Activating Tonic
Abba True Shine Conditioner
Abba TruMint Conditioner
Akiva Naturals Conditioning Herbal Hair Mist
Akiva Naturals Healthy Hair Milk
Akiva Naturals Shea Hair Smoothie
Akiva's Secret Potion
Alberto V05 Blushin' Apple conditioner
Alberto V05 Creamy Citrus Healthy Shine Conditioner
Alberto V05 Extra Body conditioner
Alberto V05 Free Me Freesia conditioner
Alberto V05 Fruitsation Naturals Conditioner
Alberto V05 Kiwi and Lime Squeeze conditioner
Alberto VO5 Lavender Luster
Alberto V05 Moisture Milks Strawberries and Cream conditioner
Alberto V05 Peaches & Cream
Alberto V05 Passion Fruit Smoothie Conditioner (Moisture Milks)
Alberto VO5 Silky Experiences Champagne Kiss
Alberto VO5 Spa Lemongrass and Chammomile
Alberto V05 Spa Volumizing Conditioner (Invigorating w/ Spring Water and Lemongrass)
Alberto V05 Strawberries and Cream
Alberto V05 Sun Kissed Raspberry conditioner
Alberto V05 Tangerine Tickle conditioner
Alberto V05 Tea Therapy Nourishing conditioner (Tranquility Calming Chamomile Tea)
Aloe Desert Herb Revitalizing
American Crew Daily Conditioner for Men
Aubrey Organics (all products)
Auntie Rhubarb Moisture Bomb
Australian Organics Extra Body Conditioner for Fine, Limp + Oily Hair
Australian Organics Nourishing Restorative Conditioner for Dry, Colored or Chemically Treated Hair
Australian Organics Replenishing Balancing Conditioner For Normal Hair
Avalon Organics Peppermint Organic Conditioner

Avalon Organics Mint Thyme Conditioner

Avalon Organics Tea Tree Mint Conditioner

Avalon Organics Chamomile Citrus Conditioner

Avalon Organics Biotin-B Complex Thickening Conditioner

Avalon Organics Awapuhi Mango Moisturizing Conditioner

Aveda Cherry Almond Bark Conditioner
Aveda Deep Penetrating Hair Revitalizer
Aveda Rosemary Mint Conditioner
Aveda Sap Moss Nourishing Concentrate
Better Botanicals Pure Gloss Conditioner
Better Botanicals Kokum Care Conditioner
Beauty Without Cruelty Conditioner, Daily Benefits
Beauty Without Cruelty Conditioner, Moisture Plus
Beauty Without Cruelty Conditioner, Volume Plus for Fine Hair
Beauty Without Cruelty Leave-In Conditioner, Revitalize
Biolage by Matrix Conditioning Balm
Biolage by Matrix Fortifying Conditioner
Biotene H-24 Natural Conditioner
Blended Beauty Cleansing conditioner
Blended Beauty Curl Quenching Conditioner
Blended Beauty Herbal Reconstructing Treatment
Blended Beauty Volcanic Clean Mask
Body Shop Nettle Oil Balance Conditioner
Boots basic's conditioner
Boot's own brand (Europe)
Botanical Therapeutic Tree Essence Daily Moisturizing (by Carina)
Bumble & Bumble Leave-in conditioner
Bumble & Bumble Seaweed conditioner
Burts Bees Avocado Butter Hair Treatment
Burt's Bees Super Shiney Grapefruit and Sugar Beet conditioner
Camocare Camomile Conditioner
California Baby Swimmer's Defense Hair Conditioner
Carol’s Daughter Flowers & Herbs Leave-In Conditioner-General
Carol’s Daughter Flowers & Herbs Leave-In Conditioner-Indigo
Carol’s Daughter Khoret Amen Shea Butter Hair Smoothie
Clariol's Herbal Essence Protection Conditioner (pink stuff)
Color Charm Care Rehydrating Conditioner
Cornrows and Company Mint Condition
Cornrows and Company Sweet Orange Conditioner
Curl Friends Replenish Leave in Conditioner (Humidity Blocker)
Curl Junkie Guava and Protein Deep Fix Repairative Conditioner
Curl Junkie Hibiscus and Banana Deep Fix Moisturizing Conditioner
Curl Junkie Intense Protection Leave in conditioner- fine
Curls Curl Ecstasy Asian Hair Tea conditioner
Curls Pure Essential Moisturizer
Curly Hair Solutions Conditioner

Curly Hair Solutions Pure Silk Protien
Curly Hair Solutions SILK leave in Conditioner
Curly Hair Solutions SLIP Detangler
Desert Essence Daily Replenish Conditioner

Desert Essence Body Boosting Conditioner

Desert Essence Shea Butter Conditioner

Desert Essence Therapeutic Conditioner

Desert Essence Conditioning Therapy Treatment

Down Under Naturals Daily Conditioner (Extra Body for Fine Hair)

Down Under Naturals Nude Conditioner
Druide Detangling Conditioner
Druide Nourishing Conditioner

Earth Science Fragrance Free Conditioner

Earth Science Citrisoft Conditioner

Earth Science Hair Repair Conditioner

Earth Science Intensicare Conditioner
Ecco Bella Vanilla Penetrating Conditioner
EBL Hair+ Growth Promoting Conditioner
Elucence Moisture Balancing Conditioner
Elucence Protective Barrier Balm
Elucence Extended Moisture Repair Treatment
Emerald Forest Botanical Conditioner
Emerald Forest Revitalizing Conditioner

EO Coco Chamomile & Honey Conditioner

EO French Lavender Conditioner
EO French Lavender Conditioner
EO Hair Repair Conditioner
EO Lemon Verbena Conditioner
EO Rose & Chamomile Conditioner
EO Rosemary & Mint Conditioner
EO Rosemary & Mint Conditioner
EO Sweet Orange & Rose Geranium Conditioner
'Euro Profit'~ available in Europe
Folicure Extra Conditioner
Frederic Fekkai Full Volume Conditioner
Frederic Fekkai Technician Conditioner
Freeman Papaya and Awapuhi, High Tide Volume Conditioner

Freeman Papaya and Lime, Overboard Shine Conditioner
Freeman Papaya and Mango, Massive Moisture 3 Minute
Freeman Sea Kelp Moisture Conditioner
Fuzzy Duck Detangler Refresher Spray
Fuzzy Duck Kids Conditioner
Garnier Fructis (Fine Hair)
Ginesis Healthy Hair Conditioner
Ginesis Nutrient Conditioner
Giovanni 50/50 Balanced Hair Remoisturizer conditioner
Giovanni Direct Leave-in
Giovanni Magnetic Restruxturing
Giovanni More Body - Leave-in Hair Thickener
Giovanni Nutrafix (reconstructor)
Giovanni Smooth as Silk conditioner
Giovanni Tea Tree Triple Treat conditioner
Goth Rosary (all scents)
Grahams Natural Conditioner
Hamadi Shea Hair Mask
Hamadi Shea Rice Milk Conditioner
Heritage Olive Oil Conditioner
Heritage Crudoleum Conditioner

Herbacin Herbal Conditioner for All Types of Hair
Hi-Pro-Pac Conditioner
Hobe Labs Hair Lovers Conditioner
Hobe Labs Nuhairtrition Protein Conditioner

Home Health Oliva Conditioner

Home Health Chamovera Conditioner

Hydromiel Honey Detangling Conditioning Balm
Hydromiel Honey Nourishing Capillary Mask
Inecto Coconut oil Moisture Miracle conditioner
Jason Natural Cosmetics Hemp Enriched Conditioner
Jason Natural Cosmetics Henna Hi-Lites Conditioner
Jason Natural Cosmetics Lavender Conditioner (Organic Hair Strengthening)
Jason Natural Cosmetics Natural Apricot Conditioner (Super Shine)
Jason Natural Cosmetics Natural Biotin Conditioner (Hair Fortifying)
Jason Natural Cosmetics Pure Aloe Vera Conditioner (Hair Soothing)
Jason Natural Cosmetics Rosewater Conditioner (Organic Hair Smoothing)
Jason Natural Cosmetics Scalp Balancing Natural Jojoba Conditioner
Jason Natural Cosmetics Swimmer's & Sports Conditioner
Jason Natural Cosmetics Vitamin E with A & C Conditioner (Body Enhancing)
Jessicurl Aloeba Daily Conditioner
Jessicurl Too Shea Extra Moisturizing Conditioner
Jessicurl Weekly Deep Conditioning Treatment
Jheri Redding Humidicon Moisturizing Conditioner
Jheri Redding Natural Protein Conditioner
JOEY New York Daily Conditioner for Color Treated Hair
John Masters Organics Honey & Hibiscus Hair Reconstructor
John Masters Organics Lavender & Avocado Intensive Conditioner
JOICO moisturizer
Kenra Color Maintenance Conditioner
Kenra Moisturizing Conditioner
Kiehl's Leave-In Hair Conditioner
Kiss My Face Big Body Conditioner, Volumizing
Kiss My Face Miss Treated Conditioner, Replenishing
L'Anza Dry Hair Moisture Treatment
L'Anza Hair Repair Reconstructor
L'Anza Urban Elements Daily Revitalizer
L'Anza Urban Elements Deep Conditioner
Lamas Beauty International Soy Balancing Conditioner
Le Kair Cholesterol Plus Aloe Formula Conditioner
Le Kair Cholesterol Plus Original Formula Conditioner
Live Clean
Living Nature Manuka Nourishing Conditioner
Long Lovely Locks (any products)
L'Oreal VIVE Fresh-Shine Conditioner
L'Oreal VIVE Non-Stop Volume Conditioner
L'Oreal VIVE Nutri-Gloss intensive shine masque (pink jar)
Lush American Cream Conditioner
Lush Coolaulin
Lush Fuel Hair Conditioner
Lush Jungle Hair Conditioner
Lush Retread conditioner
Lush Veganese Condtioner
Magick Botanicals Oil Free / Fragrance Free
Mia Simone's Boutique (all products)
Miessence B5 Hair Repair Leave-in
Miessence Shine Herbal Hair Conditioner
Mill Creek Aloe Conditioner
Mill Creek Jojoba Conditioner

Mill Creek Henna Conditioner

Mill Creek Biotin Conditioner

Mill Creek Keratin Conditioner

Mode de Vie Vanilla Shea Butter Conditioner

Modern Organic lemongrass Conditioner (fine hair)
Modern Organic Glisten Conditioner (Chemically Treated Hair)
Modern Organic Mixed Greens Conditioner (Normal to Dry Hair)
Mop Top Daily Condtioner
Mop Top Herbal Detangler and Refresher Spray
Morrocco Method Diamond Mist Conditioner
Morrocco Method Volumizer Mist Conditioner
Mountain Ocean Hair Conditioning Treatment
Naturade Aloe Vera 80 Daily Conditioner
Natural Innovations MSM Conditioner
Nature’s Gate Aloe Vera Conditioner
Nature’s Gate Biotin Conditioner Gel
Nature’s Gate Herbal Conditioner
Nature’s Gate Jojoba Conditioner
Nature’s Gate Keratin Conditioner
Nature’s Gate Lavender & Aloe Conditioner
Nature's Gate Organics Fruit Blend Asian Pear and Red Tea conditioner
Nature’s Gate Organics Fruit Blend Chamomile & Lemon Verbena Conditioner
Nature’s Gate Organics Fruit Blend Grapefruit and Wild Ginger Conditioner
Nature’s Gate Organics Fruit Blend Lavender & Aloe Conditioner
Nature's Gate Organics Fruit Blend Mandarin Orange and Patchouli conditioner
Nature’s Gate Organics Fruit Blend Persimmon and Rose Geranium Conditioner
Nature’s Gate Organics Tea Tree & Blue Cypress Conditioner
Nature’s Gate Organics Victorian Emerald Cypress Conditioner
Nature’s Gate Rainwater Herbal Awapuhi Conditioner
Nature’s Gate Rainwater Herbal Hemp Conditioner
Nature’s Gate Rainwater Herbal Henna Conditioner
Nature’s Gate Rainwater Herbal Sea Kelp and Aloe Conditioner
Nature's Gate Rainwater Tea Tree Oil conditioner
Nature’s Gate Soy Fragrance-Free Conditioner
Nature's Organics Cherry Almond
Nature's Organics Green Tea Citrus
Nature's Organics Vanilla Grapefruit
New York Soap Co. Pomegranate Conditioner
Nexxus Color Ensure Replenishing Conditioner
Nexxus Ensure Acidifying Conditioner & Detangler
Nexxus Humectress Ultimate Moisturizing Conditioner
Nexxus Keraphix
Nirvana Natural Cherry Bark/Almond Conditioner
No Rinse Hair Conditioner
Organic Excellence Mint Conditioner
Orjene Kelp Moisturizing Conditioner
Oyin Honey Hemp Conditioner with Aloe & Silk
Palmer's Olive Oil Formula Extra Conditioning for Dry Hair with Virgin Olive Oil
Peter Thomas Roth Botanical Oasis Conditioner with aroma-therapeutics & botanical nutrients
Philip B. Deep-Conditioning Creme Rinse
Philosophy the big blow off, liquid protein hair conditioner
PHYTOSPECIFIC Intense Nutrition Mask
Prairie Naturals Badlands
Prairie Naturals Chinook
Prairie Naturals Harvestmoon
Progaine Weightless Conditioner
Pro-Vitamin SYSTEME Intensive conditioner repair creme
Pure-A-Teas Green Tea
Pure-A-Teas Lotus
Qhemet Biologies (all products)
Rainbow Research Organic Herbal Conditioner
Rainbow Research Henna Conditioner
Redken Fresh Curls Conditioner
Regis Design Line Olive Oil Conditioner
Regis Design Line Olive Oil Hair Masque
ReVe Essential Hair & Body Moisturizer
Sainsburys own brand
Santa Maria Novella Honey Intensive Cream
Sebastian Instant Conditioner
Sebastian Slinky Conditioner
Shikai Color Reflect Daily Moisture Conditioner
Suave Aloe Vera
Suave Juicy Green Apple
Suave Milk and Honey conditioner
Suave Naturals Fresh Berry Smoothie Conditioner
Suave Naturals Citrus Smoothie
Suave Naturals Juicy Green Apple Conditioner
Suave Naturals Lavender Conditioner
Suave Naturals Tropical Coconut Conditioner
Terax Hair Care Original Crema Hair Treatment
Terex Original hydrate lotion
Terex Original lotion Rigene 8
TIGI Bed Head Moisture Maniac Conditioner
TIGI Catwalk Oatmeal & Honey conditioner
Timotei Honey and Monoi Conditioner
Too Shea! by Jessicurl
Trader Joe's Nourish Spa Conditioner
TriMedica MSM Conditioner
Ultra Swim - Ultra Swim Conditioner
Wella Balsam for dry and damaged hair
Wella Flash Flood Hydrating Vitality Blast
Wella Wellazid UV Filter Conditioner with Herbs
Weleda Rosemary Phyto Hair Conditioner
Wella System Professional Sunset Express Cream
White Rain Energizing Citrus
White Rain Extra Body conditioner
White Rain Jasmine conditioner
White Rain Regular conditioner
Yanai Van Curl Heal Intensive Conditioning Treatment

Until Next time... 

Sulfate Free Shampoo's

Sulfate Free Shampoo's List

- ABBA True Curls Shampoo
- Alba Shampoo
- Alfa Parf’s Splendore Hydrate Shampoo
- Allafia Shampoo
- Aloe Jojoba Shampoo
- Aubrey Organics Shampoo
- Aveda Shampoo
- Avalon Shampoo
- Burt Bees Shampoo
- BrocatoSplash Shampoo
- Body Shop’s Honey Moisturizing Shampoo
- Beauty Without Cruelty Shampoo
- Dead Sea Natural Mineral Shampoo
- Deva Curl Low Poo Shampoo
- Desert Essence Shampoo
- Enjoy Shampoo
- Fragile Color Safe Shampoo
- Herbal Choice Natural Shampoo
- Honey Moisturizing Shampoo from Body Shop
- Jason Shampoo
- John Masters Organic Shampoo
- Jonathan Shampoo
- Kenra Shampoo
- Kiss My Face Shampoo
- L’ANZA Shampoo
- Logona Shampoo
- Mastey Shampoo
- Max Green Scalp Rescue Shampoo
- Nature Gate Organic Shampoo
- Neutrogena Triple Moisture Shampoo
- Nuture My Body Organic Volumizing Shampoo
- Optima Australian Tea Tree Shampoo
- Organic Care Systems Shampoo
- OSMO Shampoo
- Paves Prof Shampoo
- Pravana Shampoo
- Pureology Shampoo
- Real Purity Shampoo
- SEXY HAIR Shampoo
- Shikai Shampoo
- Silkane Shampoo
- Tara Smith’s Shampoo
- TiGi Shampoo
- Treasured Locks Shampoo
- Ultimate Shampoo
- Zerran Shampoo

If you know of more please comment and I will add it to the list... 

Until next time... 

Thursday, July 12, 2012

Sulfates


   A surfactant—sometimes referred to as a detergent—is a substance that, when dissolved in water, gives a product the ability to remove dirt from surfaces such as the human skin, textiles, and other solids. There are several different types of surfactants, ranging from harsh to mild, with sulfates belonging to the class that is the most harsh.

When using a product with sulfates it clarifies the hair, meaning it strips the hair of everything.. Gunk, dirt, buildup, even the natural oils that we need. That's why afterwards some people have this dried, hard hay feeling left over to their hair. In order to get rid of that you have to do a dc to put all of the goodness back in..

     Common sulfates as found on hair product ingredient bottles include:
  • Alkylbenzene Sulfonate
  • Ammonium Laureth or Lauryl Sulfate
  • Ammonium or Sodium Xylenesulfonate
  • Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
  • Ethyl PEG-15 Cocamine Sulfate
  • Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
  • Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
  • Sodium Laureth, Myreth, or Lauryl Sulfate
  • Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
  • TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
Some milder surfactants—less drying and recommended in lieu of sulfates—include:
  • Cocamidopropyl Betaine
  • Coco Betaine
  • Cocoamphoacetate
  • Cocoamphodipropionate
  • Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate or Cocoamphodipropionate
  • Lauroamphoacetate
  • Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate

    Until next time!!!!!

Sunday, July 8, 2012

What you may or may not know about Silicones...


What you may or may not know about Silicones...

Within the Natural hair community there is a saying "Watch out for Cones". "You don't want to get products with Cones in them". Well heres why.... 

Silicone does make your hair look smooth and frizz free.. But is less frizz really worth it in the end. Silicone actually smothers the hair. It seals off the hair and coats it so nothing gets in. Meaning none of the products you use will actually penetrate the hair.

I know now your asking well how do I get this mess out of my hair.. Well you would have to use a clarifying agent to cleanse your hair to get it out.. Like a sulfate Shampoo, baking soda mixed with water or even the ever trusting  Apple Cider Vinegar.. 

If you are a natural curly girl products containing Silicones are not for you or your hair.  Unlike straight hair, our hair cannot handle silicone at all. It'll look good the first two days, maybe, if you're lucky. By the fourth or fifth day though, it'll be flat and dull and weighed down and frizzy. Silicone weighs down hair and the effect is a lot more noticeable on curly hair.

How can you tell if the product has Silicones or not.. Just look at the ingredients sometimes it is spelled out for you and other times it is hidden.. Any ingredient that ends in CONE, CONOL, COL, XANE is Silicone. 

Types of Silicones:

Silicones that are not soluble in water, will consistently build up on the hair and will require a surfactant-based shampoo or a clarifying agent to remove include:
  • Cetearyl Methicone
  • Cetyl Dimethicone
  • Dimethicone
  • Dimethiconol
  • Stearyl Dimethicone

 Silicones that are not soluble in water, but whose chemical properties allow it to repel further deposit, helping to prevent buildup (although they will still lock moisture out of the hair and require a surfactant to remove):
  • Amodimethicone
  • Cyclomethicone/Cyclopentasiloxane
  • Trimethylsilylamodimethicone
 Silicones that are slightly soluble in water, but can possibly build up on some types of curly hair over time, include:
  • Behenoxy Dimethicone
  • Stearoxy Dimethicone
 Silicones that are soluble in water and can generally be considered safe to use (in addition to those listed with "PEG"  or "PPG" in front of them) include:
  • Dimethicone Copolyol
  • Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein Hydroxypropyl Polysiloxane
  • Lauryl Methicone Copolyol

  

UNTIL NEXT TIME!!!!

Tuesday, May 22, 2012

Essential Oils that are safe for Pregnancy

I started this research when my sister and cousins were pregnant and I was talking about different essential oils they could use for their hair.. But then I came across essentials that weren't safe for pregnant women and could cause complications. They may be beneficial to you but they aren't safe for you if you are pregnant or could possibly be. 


In some circumstances, it's best to steer clear of essential oils altogether. Don't use any oils if: 
  • you have a history of miscarriage
  • you have had any vaginal bleeding in this pregnancy
  • you have epilepsy
  • you have heart problems
  • you have diabetes, blood clotting problems, or have thyroid, liver or kidney disease

These are safe if your pregnancy is going well.. 
  • citrus oils, such as tangerine and neroli
  • German chamomile
  • common lavender
  • frankincense
  • black pepper
  • peppermint
  • ylang ylang
  • eucalyptus
  • bergamot
  • cypress
  • rose
  • tea tree oil (not in labour)


And these are not safe to use:

 Don't use the following essential oils while you are pregnant: 
  • nutmeg, which may have hallucinogenic effects and react with pain-relieving drugs in labour
  • rosemary, which is thought to increase blood pressure, and may cause contractions
  • basil, which is thought to contribute to abnormal cell development
  • jasmine and clary sage, which may trigger contractions
  • sage, which may cause bleeding in your uterus (womb)
  • juniper berry, which may affect your kidneys


Until next time.. 

Monday, May 21, 2012

Herbs that are great for hair..

Herbs that is great for hair that you may not have known about.... 



Cinnamon - prevent hair breakage and reduce the amount of hair that falls out
Neem - Is an antibacterial powerhouse, it helps correct scalp issues, as well as promote healthy hair growth

Brahmi - Strengthens hair at the roots, helps relieve dandruff, also purported to thicken hair

Shikakai - Acts as a natural cleanser, and mild conditioner, whilst promoting hair growth

Aritha/Reetha - Natural cleansing agent
Methi/Fenugreek - Prevents hair loss, promotes hair growth, helps strengthen hair shaft, light protein

Hibiscus - Conditions hair, promotes healthy hair growth, prevents hair loss, thickens hair

Orange Peel - Imparts incredible shine, light conditioning properties 

Aloe - stimulates new hair growth, works against frizz, works as a natural conditioner

Amla - Stimulates hair growth, has wonderful conditioning properties, strengthens hair at the roots

Birch - works against a dry scalp
Burdock - promotes hair growth, increased shine and healthy body, combats hair loss, dandruff and itching. 

Chamomile - Works great as a natural conditioner and for cosmetic purposes, it will lighten blond hair over time.

Licorice - Largely associated with preventing hair loss

Marigold - Acts as moisturizer and can help you lighten your color to increase the shine
Bhringraj - Treats hair loss, premature graying, and also acts as a conditioner
Mulberries - Helps treat premature gray hair

Parsley - Its doses or Iron and Vitamin C help keep hair healthy and strong

Sage - Works well a natural coloring agent and also fights grays.
Horsetail - Strengthens hair and restores shine. 
Stinging Nettle - Nourishes hair and scalp, imparts shine, light conditioning properties
Rosemary - Will help stimulate hair growth, fight dandruff and restore luster to your hair
Arnica Promotes hair growth and provides nutrition to the hair shafts. Treats dandruff and aids in preventing further scalp problems.
Catmint – Provides moisture to dry scalp
Witch Hazel – Improves blood circulation to your scalp and will stimulate natural hair growth. Also is a deep cleanser for the scalp
Hops – A natural conditioner and makes hair softer. Provides strength and resilience.

Marshmallow Root - A natural Moisturizer 






Until next time...  

Sunday, May 20, 2012

Some Recipes for Deep Conditioners

Here are some recipes for some deep conditioners... If you know of some feel free to let us know.. Remember you can add your own Essential oils to the mix as well.. Make it your own and have fun while your doing it.

1 avocado

3 heaping tbsp Mayo, olive oil
, and honey


Mix well!! If not, you will be picking avocado out of your hair. This recipe makes hair extremely soft and adds moisture. Feel free to add your own oil choices.


1/2 cup of Honey
1/3 cup of Conditioner
1/4 cup of EVOO or whatever oil you would like to use
Mix well!!!! Saturate you head with the mixture and cover your hair for 30 mins to an hr. 


1 cup of greek yogurt
1/2 cup of honey
1/4 cup of Evoo
Mix well...
1x egg
2 tablespoons of oil – castor oil, olive oil, jojoba oil, vatika oil, coconut oil or any vegetable oil
1 tablespoon honey
Mix well with a fork.
Whenever you use rinsing out deep conditioners that contain raw eggs, do use a cool to lukewarm setting on the water.  You do not want to end up wth scrambled eggs in your hair!


1 tablespoon unrefined pure shea butter
1 teaspoon wheat germ oil
1 tablespoon castor oil
Warm up the shea butter in pan till melted.  Add the wheatgerm oil & castor oil.
After the treatment, rinse out with warm water.

1 tablespoon of blackstrap molasses
2 tablespoons of natural yoghurt or Greek natural yoghurt
3 tablespoons of coconut milk
2 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon of honey
3 tablespoon of castor oil
If you find the mixture too runny, simply add about 1-2 teaspoons of arrow root to thicken up the mix.
You can also add half a banana (overripe and pureed/blended) and 2 tablespoon of olive oil.  This is for added moisture, but is optional.

raw honey Evoo, evco, Jojoba, grapeseed and other oils    
Mix well and remember to rinse out completely.. This is more of a pre poo.. DC


1/2 cup of plain yogurt1/4 cup of molasses
1/3 cup of acv
1/3 cup of evoo3 jar of banana(baby food)

 or 2 bananas Blended well (dont want to be blamed for Naner chunks in your hair.. Mix very well, this makes my hair soft, super clean and soft.


2 tablespoons of Shea butter 
2 tablespoons of melted coconut oil 
1/4 cup of honey 
1/2 cup of Cheap silicone free conditioner.. 
Mix well 

1/3 cup EVOO, 
1/4 cup honey 
1 avocado 
Mix well and either put on a heated cap for 1 hr or just put on a plastic cap and let your body heat work its magic... It leave my hair very soft and shiny. 


1/3 cup EVOO, 

1/4 cup honey 
1 Banana  
Mix well and either put on a heated cap for 1 hr or just put on a plastic cap and let your body heat work its magic... It leave my hair very soft and shiny. 

1 bottle of beer
1/2 cup of honey 
Mix well and cover your head with a plastic cap.. Leave on for 30mins-1 hr. 


1 1/2 tspn of powdered fenugreek

1 tspn of jojoba oil

2 drops of lavender oil

2 drops of atlas cedar

2 drops of rosemary

1/2 cup of unsweetened coconut milk 

Mix ingredients, double if you have longer thick hair. 




Until next time...