#avoid hair breakage

[twistsandturbans]

Banish Breakage For Thicker Natural Hair

Say Goodbye to Fragile Hair! Breakage Basics Banish Breakage From Your Natural Hair Regimen!  Do you often find yourself looking at broken hairs that have fallen out of your head? Well, don’t worry – you are not alone! Hair breakage is a common problem amongst many women with natural hair. But, there is hope! With the right techniques and products, you too can banish breakage once and for…

[thatcurlychic]

Banish Breakage For Thicker Natural Hair

Say Goodbye to Fragile Hair! Breakage Basics Banish Breakage From Your Natural Hair Regimen!  Do you often find yourself looking at broken hairs that have fallen out of your head? Well, don’t worry – you are not alone! Hair breakage is a common problem amongst many women with natural hair. But, there is hope! With the right techniques and products, you too can banish breakage once and for…

[missdollcouture]

missdollcouture

at home nail care: maintaining strong and healthy nails at home

as much as i'm sure (almost) all of us love getting our nails done, keeping our natural nails up is just as important, if not more.

pre-mani care is a huge part of keeping your nails healthy. so before going to get your nails done or doing them yourself, there's a few things you should do as far as preparation goes to prevent damaging your nails.

cuticle care

taking care of your cuticles is essential for nail health. I personally avoid cutting my cuticles since it could lead to infection or nail damage. but I still push my cuticles back (preferably after a shower) and that keeps them looks fresh

keep your cuticles moisturized as well because it promotes nail growth and strength.

trims

think of your nails kinda like your hair. trimming your nails regularly can help prevent breakage or snapping. I personally think keeping your nails trimmed down gives a cleaner and well kept look to your nails since there's not always dirt and bacteria getting in them.

biotin

taking biotin or just certain vitamins in general, is so good for your nail and hair health. but biotin in particular helps with cell growth and the metabolism of amino acids that are essential for nail growth

builder gel

i love putting builder gel on my nails to keep them strong and from chipping. I recommend doing some research before buying one so you don't get any with harsh chemicals.

quick hot tips

stop biting your nails. its hard, I know. but trust me its so worth it and improves your nails tremendously.

be cautious with your natural nails. use the pads of your fingers to open stuff (or things along those lines)

jojoba oil to moisturize your cuticles is literally the best oil you could use.

when getting acrylics or things like that, take breaks in between each set to let your nails breath

[ms-demeanor]

Though in regards to that other post and focusing specifically on hair: you probably don't need to shampoo your hair every other day (some people do; people with thin hair, very straight hair, and oily scalps may feel more comfortable shampooing very frequently). If you've got curly hair, your hair is more flat in cross-section than straight hair which makes it less able to hold onto moisture. And the curlier it is the flatter it is.

Shampooing is going to dry your hair out, using hot water is going to dry your hair out, treating your hair with heat is going to dry your hair out, treating your hair with chemicals is going to dry your hair out. If you have curly hair that is dry or damaged, it is going to be frizzy and more prone to breakage and tangling, so it might be worthwhile to experiment with shampooing your hair less frequently and using conditioner only for most of your showers (also avoiding products like mousse, which have alcohol, or using heat on your hair).

Also if you've got curly hair, don't brush it dry; detangle it in the shower while it's got conditioner in it then let it air dry or dry it with a diffuser so that your hair dries in its natural curl pattern, which will make it less frizzy and less prone to tangles (and also generally looks better; whenever I brush my hair dry and break up the curls I look like a poodle).

There are lots of people with curly hair who were raised by parents with who had no idea how to manage the curls and taught habits that aren't great for your hair. There are lots of guides and tutorials out there for "the curly girl method" or "no-poo haircair" or guides on natural haircare for curly hair but most of them boil down to:

don't shampoo too frequently (I shampoo weekly, some people shampoo twice a week, some people shampoo once a month - figure out what works for you)

avoid drying products (bleach, alcohol, ammonia) and heat

Use sulfate-free conditioner, and a lot of it, frequently; use hair masques and protein treatments less frequently.

don't brush your hair dry, and when you do brush or finger-comb your hair, work tip to root and be gentle.

Air dry your hair or use a diffuser, but don't dry with heat and don't dry by rubbing it with a towel.

Sleep with your hair covered or braided, or use a satin pillowcase, to keep your curls from getting disrupted or crossing over and tangling at night.

Also if you have curly hair and you use chemical treatments on it, your curls will be less curly. I've had my hair bleached for the last few years and it's a lot less curly than it is naturally, and is much much more prone to tangling (see below for the way my curls changed with no bleach, a single bleach treatment, and repeated bleaching)

Anyway, this is just a PSA for the kids out there who are getting to figure out their own haircare and bodycare routines for the first time who may not know what the hell to do with curly hair.

[nenelonomh]

cold shower routine

why take cold showers

increased endorphins: cold showers can help relieve symptoms of depression by stimulating electrical impulses in the brain. these impulses increase alertness, clarity, and energy levels, while also releasing endorphins—those “happiness hormones” that promote feelings of well-being and optimism.

improved metabolism: exposure to cold temperatures activates brown adipose tissue (brown fat; BAT), which plays a role in adult health. BAT is a type of body fat that plays a unique role in regulating body temperature. it produces thermal heat through a process called nonshivering thermogenesis. unlike white fat, which primarily stores energy, BAT actively burns calories and stores energy in a smaller space. when BAT burns, it creates heat without causing shivering. researchers believe that BAT could be a treatment for obesity and metabolic syndromes. although cold showers alone won’t lead to significant weight loss, they may contribute to increased metabolism over time. remember - BAT and white fat are parts of our physiology that contribute to our overall health.

enhanced circulation: cold water makes your circulatory system work more efficiently. some people even notice improved skin appearance due to better circulation. athletes have long used cold water for post-workout recovery.

what about alternating hot and cold showers?

alternating hot and cold showers can be invigorating and offer several benefits. the contrast between hot and cold stimulates blood flow, which can benefit your cardiovascular system.

cold exposure may enhance immune function. additionally, alternating temperatures can wake you up and increase alertness.

start with warm water: begin your shower with warm water. this helps relax your muscles and opens up pores.

gradual temperature changes: after a few minutes of warm water, gradually switch to cold water. aim for a comfortable but brisk temperature.

repeat the cycle: alternate between warm and cold water. you can do this 2-3 times during your shower.

what about hot showers?

muscle relaxation: warm water helps relax tense muscles and can provide relief from soreness or stiffness.

improved blood flow: hot showers dilate blood vessels, promoting better circulation. this can be especially beneficial for people with cold extremities.

stress relief: the warmth of a hot shower can soothe your mind and reduce stress. it’s a great way to unwind after a long day.

sinus congestion: steam from hot showers can help clear nasal passages and ease congestion.

while hot showers have their benefits, there are a few potential downsides to consider:

dry skin: hot water can strip your skin of natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. if you have sensitive skin, lukewarm showers might be a better choice.

hair damage: frequent hot showers can weaken hair strands and make them more prone to breakage. cooler water is gentler on your hair.

blood pressure: hot showers can temporarily raise blood pressure due to vasodilation. if you have hypertension, it’s advisable to avoid extremely hot showers.

energy consumption: hot showers consume more energy, which can impact your utility bills and the environment.

here are some tips to protect your skin during hot showers:

limit shower time: keep your showers short to prevent excessive moisture loss. prolonged exposure to hot water can dehydrate your skin.

use mild cleansers: choose gentle, moisturizing body washes or soaps. harsh cleansers can further dry out your skin.

moisturize immediately: apply good-quality moisturizer after your shower while your skin is still damp. this helps lock in moisture.

avoid scrubbing vigorously: be gentle when using a loofah or washcloth. aggressive scrubbing can damage the skin barrier. instead of rubbing your skin with a towel, pat it gently to avoid friction and irritation.

what is a cold shower routine?

a cold shower routine that combines morning cold exposure and evening warmth can be beneficial. this morning/evening routine will allow you to maximise the benefits of both hot and cold showers.

to incorporate it into your daily routine, gradually work towards a 2-5 minute cold shower. focus on your breath while under the cold water. start by allowing the cold water to hit your chest, back, and extremities first. gradually immerse your head and face in the cold water.

take a warm (not boiling!) shower before bedtime to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. maintain a relaxing routine, such as meditating or winding down, after your warm shower. ensure your bedroom is cool (around 65 degrees fahrenheit or 18 degrees celsius) for optimal sleep.

end notes

remember - both cold and warm showers have their benefits, so look to find a balance that suits your preferences and health needs. enjoy your refreshing showers!

i hope you enjoyed this post! ❤️ nene

[isatling-husbandry-guide]

So my cousine bought a "Siffrin" or what they assumed was a Siffrin...It was a King who had it's hair cut, it was in very distressed and after I told him that it was a King he dropped it on me. (The shelters nearby were either full or refused to take him...)

So now I have a vet visit planned since this is my first time owning a King and I pressume that havinf a King with shorthair is very bad. If anyone could give me more advice that would be very helpfull thanks.

While a King does need occasional trimming, it should never have short enough hair that they can be mistaken for a Siffrin. The hair of a King is vital for temperature regulation, and a King with hair shorter than shoulder length is likely to experience immense distress as hair often acts as an object of comfort for Kings, both emotionally and physically.

Make sure you’re managing their hair! Keep track of how long your King’s hair has grown by measuring it every few days and writing down the new measurement. Consistent growth is indicative of a content and healthy King. To avoid breakage, brush the King’s hair and tie it back- preferably in a braid. For a new King that’s not very trusting, I suggest braiding their hair during baths or feedings, and wear paper type Craft gloves (both to avoid any rock attacks, and because your King might bite. If any of these occur, leave the King alone temporarily to calm down). Don’t over-shampoo, as it can damage the hair more than help it. Shampoo at most once a week, or whenever absolutely necessary. And, I cannot stress this enough: Invest in good hair and shell oil. I recommend ShinePlux or Bright-Specialty Products. Avoid charcoal hair products: they risk staining the hair, which is an absolute no no for Kings. Keep your King’s armor blindingly shiny and his hair utterly darkless!!!

Take note of any hair loss or thinning, as it can indicate health problems and abnormal stress. A healthy King should have long darkless hair that doesn’t tangle when brushed (this applies to any variant of a King, regardless of hair texture) and is shiny- not greasy- in appearance.

Kings are also a much larger species than Siffrins, so it’s possible that your King may be in its childhood stage? Despite their later size, a King starts out relatively small, and grows to a taller height later in its life through a sudden stage of rapid moltings. Keep an eye out for any pre-molt behaviors like diminished appetite, fatigue, and distancing.

Definitely reach out to any Planetarium Houses for advice! Since Kings of the Islander variety, these specialized Houses are often very informed about them, and tend to have one of their own.

[prettieinpink]

TAKING CARE OF BLACK HAIR

This post is dedicated to all of my black beauties, who may be struggling in haircare. No way am I an expert, but these are tips that worked for me.

DAILY

Spray water on your hair + drink a lot of water to keep it hydrated. It helps with detangling and promotes softer hair.

Use a daily hair moisturizer. This can be hair food, oil, or a leave-in conditioner, but something that can moisturise your hair every day.

Sleep on a silk bonnet or a silk pillow to prevent tangles and knots in your hair.

Apply styling products in layers. Too many products can cause grease or ‘crunchy’ hair.

WASH DAY

Wash your hair once a week. You want to avoid product buildup, as that is drying your hair. If possible, apply thick oils or gels every other day instead of every day (most spray or thinner oils/gels are fine for daily use).

Detangle before you wash your hair. I like to completely wet my hair before detangling, so it’s much easier and avoids breakage. Or, you can buy a detangling spray that aids you. Try to use your fingers instead of a comb, as it is much gentler.

When shampooing, avoid foaming shampoos as they can dry out your hair. Look for shampoos that don’t have any harsh chemicals as well.

Deep condition your hair instead of just rinsing it. You can buy one or you can make your own. What I do is, I separate my hair into sections and then put conditioner onto each one. Then I put on a shower cap and let it stay for 15-30 minutes. Extensive deep conditioning can weaken your hair.

Use an old shirt or a microfiber towel to squeeze excess moisture and water from your hair. Using a towel can cause frizziness and breakage + avoid drying your hair using a blow dryer.

PROTECTIVE HAIRSTYLES

Try not to leave in protective hairstyles for too long. A month is the best time frame, but 3 months is the absolute maximum!

When taking out protective hairstyles, let your hair breathe. A minimum of two weeks of natural hair is ideal. This allows you to take care of your strands as well.

During protective hairstyles, remember to shampoo weekly to avoid dandruff buildup + use moistures!

If needed after a hairstyle, trim your hair. Some ends cannot be saved.

[cherubofthenight]

nurturing my natural self (part 4)

Disclaimer: I made this, like all my other posts, for myself, but if you are reading this, I'm not a doctor, and this is basic researched knowledge. If you realize that you need help, please seek a doctor!

Allowing Your Hair to Recover

Nurturing your hair is just as important. This allows your natural hair to breathe and thrive. While protective styles like braids, wigs, and weaves can be great, they can also harm your hair if you don't give it a break. It's crucial to find a routine and products that work for your hair type and porosity.

I want to grow my hair out so I can wear it more often, but I’ve struggled to find styles that suit my current length after chopping off my dead ends. Cutting those damaged ends felt like a weight lifted off my chest! I’m investing in my hair care and currently have a protective style in, but I’ll switch back to my natural hair once it’s out.

I’ve found more styling ideas on TikTok, which helps since it can be tough to find looks for my length. My hair is a bit longer than the TWA (teeny weeny afro) stage and is growing well. The health of my hair is very important, and I plan to continue adding to my routine.

- Nutrients: Protein: Essential for hair structure (lean meats, fish, eggs, legumes). Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Support scalp health (fatty fish, walnuts, flaxseeds). Vitamin A: Promotes sebum production for a healthy scalp (carrots, sweet potatoes). Vitamin C: Supports collagen production and iron absorption (citrus fruits, berries). Biotin: A B-vitamin crucial for hair growth (eggs, nuts, avocados). Vitamin E: Improves blood circulation to the scalp (nuts, seeds, leafy greens).

- Hydration: Drink plenty of water to keep your hair and scalp hydrated.

- Scalp care: Cleansing, exfoliation & massage: using a gentle shampoo, keep your scalp clean to prevent build-up, which can hinder growth. occasionally exfoliate your scalp to remove dead skin cells and promote circulation (started using aztec clay, 10/10 so far, loving it). massage your scalp to stimulate blood flow and promote hair growth.

- Moisturizing Oils: jojoba, argan, grapeseed & avocado oil. These help hydrate hair by adding moisture and nutrients. Apply these oils to damp hair to hydrate it, either as part of a deep conditioning treatment or after washing.

- Moisture-Sealing Oils: castor oil, coconut oil, olive oil, avocado (serves as both) & shea butter. These create a barrier to lock in moisture and prevent dehydration. Use these after applying a moisturizing oil or treatment to lock in the hydration, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends of the hair. I don't use these much if at all unless I'm focusing on the ends of my hair because of my scalp condition.

- Heat Management: If you’re using heat, always protect your hair. Heat protectants are a must to prevent damage from styling tools. Try to minimize heat use overall or stick to low-heat settings.

- Detangling: a major part of healthy hair care. Always use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers (if using both, then use your fingers first), and make sure your hair is wet with conditioner to prevent breakage.

- Seasonal Hair Care: your hair’s needs can change with the seasons. In the winter, it might need more moisture, while summer humidity might require lighter products.

- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Choose sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners to avoid stripping natural oils. reduce or avoid harsh chemical treatments (e.g., relaxers, dyes) that can weaken hair.

- Protective styling: using low-manipulation styles to protect your ends (braids, twists) can help prevent breakage. styles that are too tight can lead to traction alopecia.

- Hair care ingredients: it's important to find what works for you. what works for kayla may not work for kiara, yk? for example, i've read and heard about others who benefitted from Coconut oil, shea butter, castor oil, jojoba oil, rosemary oil, and mint oil are examples of hair care ingredients known for their nourishing, moisturizing, and growth-stimulating properties. While not all of these oils are beneficial for managing my seborrheic dermatitis, certain ones, like jojoba oil and rosemary oil, have been especially helpful in controlling flare-ups.

- Routine: Find a fitting routine for your type and porosity. A general one is: shampoo + condition + rinse + leave in + style OR shampoo + deep condition + rinse + leave in + style . People include pre-poo (pre-shampoo) to detangle, some people even condition their hair before deep conditioning. this can actually cause your deep conditioner to be less effective. my current routine to which pre-pooing will be added: detangle with water + shampoo/aztec clay mask w acv + deep condition + rinse + leave-in conditioner + blow-dry on low heat. this is to prep my hair for like braids or something but if i was doing a wash n go, i wouldn't bow dry, i'd style with either a curl custard and gel or a hair butter (to lock int he moisture) + gel since i already used leave-in.

- Trims, Patience, and Stress Management: Regular trims are necessary to keep split ends at bay. Managing stress and getting enough sleep can make a huge difference in your hair’s health. And remember, patience is key—healthy hair growth takes time!

Some ingredients to beware of:

- Sulfates (e.g. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate): Strips natural oils, causing dryness.

- Parabens (e.g. Methylparaben): Preservatives that may disrupt hormones.

- Silicones (e.g. Dimethicone): Can build up on hair, leading to dullness.

- Alcohols (e.g. Isopropyl alcohol): Drying effects on hair.

- Formaldehyde (e.g. DMDM Hydantoin): Can cause irritation and allergic reactions.

- Artificial Fragrances: Can irritate sensitive skin and cause allergic reactions.

- Harsh Detanglers (e.g., Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Cetrimonium Chloride): Can strip moisture and cause buildup.

Hair Care Essentials

- clarifying shampoo (deeply cleanses to remove buildup, excess oil, and impurities. Ideal for occasional use to refresh hair but can strip natural oils with frequent use.)

- hydrating shampoo (gentle cleansers that don’t strip natural oils; look for hydrating formulas.)

- co-wash (cleansing conditioner that helps remove dirt while maintaining moisture, suitable for regular use. i.e. when you wanna wash your hair but it's too soon use shampoo bc you don't wanna dry it out)

- conditioner (moisturize and detangle hair after shampooing.)

- blow dryer (better than air drying, esp useful for when you're doing styles that require dry hair)

- spray bottle (refresh, dampen, moisturize)

- plastic cap (to hold your hair when you put hair masks on)

- leave in conditioner (retain moisture and detangle hair.)

- deep conditioner/hair mask (Used weekly or bi-weekly to provide intense moisture and repair. choose one best suited to your hai-- what your hair needs the most in the moment)

- hydrating creams & oils (shea butter, coconut oil, or argan oil to nourish and moisturize.)

- natural oils: coconut oil, olive oil, jojoba oil, or castor oil can help seal in moisture, add shine, and promote hair growth.

- essential oils: tea tree oil, lavender oil, and peppermint oil can help with scalp health and stimulation.

- curl creams or gels: defining curls, providing hold, and reducing frizz.

- edge control & brush sleek edges and maintaining hairstyles.

- hair mousse: volume and lightweight hold.

- wide-tooth comb: for detangling without causing breakage & combing out.

- detangling brush: for detangling (denman, unbrush etc)

- fine-tooth comb: sectioning and parting hair

- satin or silk scarves/bonnets/pillowcases: protect hair from friction while sleeping, reducing frizz and breakage.

- hair clips and bands: sectioning hair during styling and care routines.

- heat protectant spray or cream: if you use heat styling tools (like flat irons or blow dryers) to protect your hair from damage.

- trimming tools: scissors handy for regular trims to remove split ends and encourage healthy growth.

- scalp massager: promote blood circulation and stimulate hair growth.

- scalp Treatments: tea tree oil for dandruff or other scalp concerns.

masterlist

[porcelainpistol]

one thing i don't see brought up enough is scemo hair is damaging. whether you do a side-swept bang, dye, full on Big hair... then if you do several things, the damage compounds. for example, if you bleach your hair, use heat styling, and then tease it? that is a Lot of damage

so! here's a reminder to do what you can to protect your hair!

always use heat protection if you blow dry and/or heat style, no matter what texture your hair is

make sure your hair is fully dry before combing or brushing, no less teasing

if you bleach, use bond builders, and never put more bleach on hair that's already been lightened to the level you want it. avoid 40% developer. tone with 0-5% developer if you use permanent toners, or use purple/blue shampoos to temporary tone. bleach baths (adding some shampoo to your bleach) are universally beneficial. always use the bleach to developer ratio the bleach says to use. avoid getting bleach on the skin, including the scalp. if it hurts/burns on your scalp, rinse it off immediately

use oils, hair masks, and leave-in conditioners for moisture so it's more manageable and less likely to tangle. tangles = breakage more often than not

if you have afro-textured hair, be cautious if you use relaxers. they can be damaging if over-used, and especially if you also bleach

if you use permanent dyes to go for a classic black, it may be better to just use a dye from sally's or similar cosmetology store with developer over harsher chemicals in a box dye. it's very difficult to lighten box dye if you ever want to change it later

make sure you use a clarifying shampoo if you use a lot of other products. this'll help the hair stay clean and prevent buildup of products on the scalp, which can lead to other complications

if you use extensions or do updos make sure the pulling of the hair on your scalp isn't too tight

[sugarsprinklesoul]

Hair Care Tips

Hair care refers to the practice of maintaining the health and appearance of one's hair through various grooming and hygiene practices.

Regular Washing: Clean your hair regularly, but not excessively, to maintain a healthy scalp and prevent product buildup.

Conditioning: Use a good conditioner to keep your hair moisturized and manageable.

Avoid Hot Water: Wash your hair with lukewarm water instead of hot water to prevent stripping away natural oils.

Trimming: Trim your hair regularly to prevent split ends and promote healthy growth.

Balanced Diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals to support overall hair health.

Protect from Heat: Minimize the use of heat styling tools and, when used, use a heat protectant spray.

Gentle Drying: Pat your hair dry with a soft towel; avoid vigorous rubbing to prevent breakage.

Choose the Right Products: Use hair products suitable for your hair type and concerns.

Scalp Massage: Stimulate blood circulation by gently massaging your scalp, promoting hair growth.

Protect from Sun and Wind: Cover your hair in harsh weather conditions to prevent damage from the sun and wind.

[selfcare-love]

✿2024✿ goals & habits i want to implement ✨

hair

wash 1-2x per week based on needs

oil treatment 3-4hrs before washing, once per week

hair mask 2x per week

small amount of hair oil in ends everyday

scalp massages nightly

only use claw clips + scrunchies to avoid breakage

loose braids/protective styles while asleep to avoid damage/breakage

skin

cleanse + moisturize every single day!

face mask once per week

find new skin care products that work with skin type, play around + establish a routine

body

eat mindfully

drink more water

incorporate greens + fruit as often as possible

indulge in fav foods <3 no restriction here!

move body more! dance, walk, workout, anything to get moving!

exfoliate, lotion, fragrance more often!

nail care <3 cuticle oil & polish!

mental

read more books

journal - prompted, gratitude, or just brain dumps. anything!

practice positive thinking + reinforce negative thoughts

practice self love + body positivity

overall, i just want to take better care of myself, mentally and physically. <3

[saltywithsarcasm]

I’m writing a compilation of the Straw Hats touching Sanji’s hair and the first Chapter is him and Usopp, bonding over hair care.

Let know who you want next.

Usopp yawns and stretches as he walks to the bathroom in the morning, still groggy from sleep. He pushes open the door and sees Sanji already at the sink, brushing his hair. Usopp blinks a few times, trying to wake up fully and gives a small nod to Sanji before starting his own morning routine.

The snipper has to take particular care of his curly hair every morning. He starts by gently detangling it with a wide-tooth comb to avoid breakage. Then, he applies a generous amount of leave-in conditioner to keep his curls hydrated and defined. After that, he uses a bit of oil to lock in the moisture and give his hair a healthy shine. It’s a meticulous process but he knows it's worth it to keep his curls looking their best.

As he starts carefully working through his own hair, he glances over to the sink where Sanji is standing. He notices the array of hair products lined up neatly beside the cook. Sanji's collection includes high-quality shampoos, conditioners and a variety of styling creams. Usopp can't help but to admire how the cook’s hair always looks so healthy and soft. Usopp feels a blush creeping up his cheeks as he watches Sanji's hair gleam under the bathroom light, feeling a bit envious of how effortlessly smooth and soft it looks. The thought of asking to touch it crosses his mind but he quickly shakes his head, embarrassed by the idea. He fidgets with his own curls, trying to push the thought away but the curiosity lingers, making him feel awkward and self-conscious.

Sanji begins to trim his facial hair with a steady hand, focusing on getting the lines just right and as he glances in the mirror, he notices Usopp's fidgeting behavior. Usopp seems unusually restless, tugging at his curls and avoiding eye contact. Sanji pauses, lowering the trimmer and turns to face Usopp.

“Hey, you alright there?” Usopp's eyes widen slightly as Sanji addresses him and he feels his face heat up.

“Y-Yeah, I'm fine.” He stammers, quickly looking down at his brush and scrambles to continue brushing his hair, his movements a bit more hurried and clumsy than before, hoping the man doesn't notice his embarrassment.

“Usopp.” Sanji raises a brow, clearly not buying his answer and leans against the sink, crossing his arms. “What's bothering you?”

“I think you have pretty hair.” Usopp admits, still fidgeting with his comb.

Sanji's eyes widen in surprise, caught off guard by the compliment then a warm smile spreads across his face.

“Well, thanks. You have pretty hair too.” Both men smile at each other, sharing a brief moment of mutual appreciation before continuing their morning routine. As Usopp busies himself with his hair, he can't shake the silent bafflement. Sanji, of all people, had just complimented him, another man. The sincerity in his words takes a moment to sink in, leaving Usopp with a surprising wave of pride he hadn't anticipated.

He still wants to touch Sanji’s hair though. Usopp's eyes dart around as he thinks quickly.

“Hey, Sanji, did you change your shampoo or something?” He asks, trying to sound nonchalant and reaches out to touch his hair, pretending to examine it closely. “It looks different today.”

“Hm?” Sanji glances at him in the mirror, noticing the hand touching his hair then back at Usopp and without a word, he returns to finish up his shaving, seemingly unbothered by the interruption. “Nami let me try some of her shampoo she picked up from the last island.”

“It looks very soft.” Usopp notices how fluffy the cook’s hair is and catches a whiff of citrus, which doesn’t surprise him because it’s Nami’s. “I’m jealous.”

“My hair isn’t as nicely maintained as yours.” Sanji muses, setting the razor down and picking up a rag to wipe his face then notices Usopp's hand still lingering in his hair, clearly fascinated by it. A slight blush creeps onto his face but he leans his head forward a bit, offering silent permission for him to continue playing with his hair. Usopp absentmindedly runs his fingers through his hair but then it hits him that he might be overstepping and quickly pulls his hands away, offering an apology. “It’s whatever, I don’t mind.”

“You can touch my hair if you want.” Usopp offers, feeling a bit awkward after pulling his hands away. “Might need help reaching the back with the oil since it’s gotten longer than I’m used to.”

Sanji pauses for a moment, knowing how much effort Usopp puts into his hair and worries he might mess it up since he has no experience with his hair type.

“Are you sure? What if I mess up?” Sanji asks hesitantly, wiping his hands off as he takes the comb from him.

“Best way to learn is from hands on experience.”

Brook walks into the bathroom some time later and finds Sanji standing over Usopp, carefully combing his hair. The blonde is deeply focused, adding oil to their friend's hair with a meticulous touch and can't help but chuckle at the sweet gesture.

“Mind doing my hair next?”

[rottenpumpkin13]

wait HOMIE YOU HAVE HIP LENGTH HAIR WTF HOW DO YOU DO IT

In my defense I'm around 5'3-ish and have a shorter torso, it's not hard for it to reach my hip 🥲 I've also been growing it out since I was about 17 when it was shoulder length, so around 5 full years of only getting trims every few months and that's it.

Additionally I swear by scalp oiling for growth, and usually oil it every other day/every two days around 2 hours before I wash it. I make sure the shampoo I use is salt/sulfate free because I have chemicals in my hair that keep it pin straight (my natural hair is 3A and difficult to maintain). I also use hair masks right before I go in with conditioner, and use types that fit what my hair needs at that moment, so hydrating masks, protein masks, strengthening etc etc. I'll admit that I've been slacking though because I don't have the time 😭

After I wash it I apply leave-in and try to detangle it a bit, not brush fully because brushing wet hair causes more breakage (unless your hair is wavy or curly, that's a whole other conversation). When I have it on hand, I looove castor oil for my ends because it keeps them neat and not frizzy, but I avoid putting more than one product in my hair after I shower, especially if the leave-in I use already has castor oil in it or something similar.

*The ghost of Sephiroth leaves my body and I fall to the ground hacking and coughing* What was that???

[konigsblog]

completely irrelevant to what i post, but does wearing your hair up to go to sleep (in a loose, but tight enough bun that doesn't hurt your scalp) cause traction alopecia? im being told it can, but that it's better to have your hair up when you're sleeping to avoid breakage, tangles, ect...

my hair is pretty wavy and a bit curly, it gets super, super big when it's brushed so i try avoid brushing it from the root and just brushing the ends. but i swear, after i wake up, my hair is tangled it just gets HUGE 😢

like do i wear it up in a bun or not?

[mysoulishere]

My Everything night routine!

🎀dry brush (start at feet and move towards your heart in circular motions)

🎀 shampoo hair x2 with warm water

🎀condition hair and rinse with cold water

🎀wash and rinse your body

🎀wash face

🎀exfoliate body with an unscented sugar scrub

🎀shave anything that needs to be shaved (use conditioner or a good unscented shaving cream) and rinse

🎀use a pumice stone on the footsies

🎀 dry off (gently pat skin to dry since it’s sensitive from the shave)

🎀get dressed in comfy clothing

🎀apply coconut oil to the body

🎀hair routine: use a curl cream and rake it in your wet hair, get a mousse and a gel and mix them both in your hair and scrunch, I then either diffuse or let air dry.

🎀moisturize face

🎀use a dermaplaner to touch up eyebrows and get any unwanted facial hair!

🎀wipe face with a wet cotton round

🎀moisturize once more!

🎀light a candle

🎀scroll on pinterest

🎀pray

🎀sleep once hair is dry to avoid breakage!

[wordtotherose]

Jay watched, painfully still for more reasons than she could keep track of, as Chip took what looked to be the most deliberate breath of his life, just as the body of the Navy officer dropped to the floor. Off of his blades.

There had been so few times in which she'd seen him so still. No shifting weight to and from the balls of his feet. No tapping fingers. No slight sway to his shoulders. No smile, no bright, shadowed eyes, no unerring flippancy. For half a second she was back at the worst, her back to her father, his hand on her shoulder, the poisoned truth spilling from her sea-chapped lips. For another she was staring where Gillion had been, where all his belongings, ever last gift and piece of armour, were scattered now on the ground.

A crash rattled the floor, the windows in their frames, the horror from Chip's expression.

"The fuck was that?" He asked, sounding to all intents and purposes like he hadn't just been told that every insecurity they'd coaxed out of him just days ago had been spat into his face by a complete stranger. "Where's Gill?"

Shit. Shit.

Read More Under the Cut or on AO3...

Jay pushed a hand into Chip's chest as he tried to walk past her, out of the building, towards the rest of the fight.

"Chip, wait! Just-"

He didn't slap her away like he might have normally but he didn't wait with a single ounce of patience. She didn't want to tell him this. Had hoped, ferverently and desperately, that Gillion would have dealt with it by now and be back before Chip could react to the fucker who'd probably been responsible for the catastrophic sounding breakage outside.

"What? Jay, spit it out! He's with Ollie, we need to-"

She cut in quickly, curling her fingers into one of the lapels of his bloodied coat. "Kuba Kenta," she forced out, fighting back her wince as Chip's expression closed off again, "he's fighting Kuba Kenta. Ollie is fine, I'm sure. Gillion won't let anything happen to him but, Chip, listen to me. Chip, he's after you specifically so the best thing you can do for Gillion right now is stay put, don't make yourself a target."

Her breath was coming fast now, her grip loosening as he gripped her wrist in his own fingers, one cold pinky prosthetic not so tight as the others, one less nail digging into her skin. Brown eyes flinted spark red as she evaluated and replanned number upon number of plans and potentialities that could be about to occur. Always looking for the best outcome, the one where they emerged as unscathed as possible. Seconds ticked by. Chip looked over her shoulder, avoiding her searching gaze. He was a mess. Close to passing out on her. She knew him. Loved him. Would save him everytime, even from himself. But she couldn't stop him now, she wasn't in much of a better state and if what she thought had happened had happened then the stronger swimmer of the two of them was about to need to launch a desperate, watery rescue.

***

Ollie's return startled Jay enough that Chip could slip past her, finally able to look for their missing counterpart.

Gone. Was the answer. Just.

Gone.

Again.

Admittedly, down through a hole by the looks of it this time. But there was no mop of green hair spread across the surface to let Chip know Gillion had survived the fall and was cheerfully swimming his way back to them.

Not even the ripples of their impact remained far, far, far below.

Right.

Fuck.

He stumbled back into the shop, lurching into the doorway unintentionally with a muffled curse before he relayed the information to Jay. Jay with her still sore and red tattoo bleeding occasionally on her back, pulling at it further as she bent over Rufus to check for a pulse, for breath, for life. Gods. He hadn't even stopped to check. Great friend that made him.

Ollie stood to the side of Jay, nervously tugging at the ends of his sleeves, a braid of his hair in his mouth before he caught Chip looking and spat it out, mumbling an apology. Fucking hells, Chip thought, what the actual fuck had they been thinking waltzing back here all high and mighty? Bringing the whole crew along to get absolutely fucked over by the goddamn Navy. Idiot.

Jay was saying something, not that he could hear a word over the ringing in his ears, and he hesitated, stupid stupid stupid, before taking the healing potion she was holding out for him to take, impatience brewing like a storm on her face. He caught her snapped order to 'Go!' and put the rest of it together on the way back to the hole in the fucking floor. Pausing only to down the bottle to have the strength to survive the dive, he tightened his coat, wished he had the time to leave his shoes, and followed after Gillion.

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