#honestly it's just the detangling and putting it into a protective style post washing and conditioning it that's the worst part for me

[hwanghyunjinenthusiast]

I feel like I don't dread wash day the same way a lot of black people with natural hair do but, my god am I fucking tired right now

[gadgetblogger]

The Dyson Supersonic -  Just an expensive gadget that dries hair or is it more?

I’ve been a fan of Dyson brand since I bought my first Dyson vacuum cleaner14 years ago (and it’s still going strong) while living in the UK. When I heard about the rumours that they were going into the personal grooming industry by reinventing the hairdryer, I was most certainly  intrigued. Then I heard a bit more and the rumours proved to be true 3 years ago, as after 50 months and 103 engineers and Fifty million pounds in the making , the Dyson Supersonic hair dryer was finally launched with a pretty hefty price tag (I guess not surprising for something that took over 50 million pounds to create) – you can read about it’s engineering story here .

While I was super impressed with the reviews and the tech behind it (it has a digital motor, called the V9 that does most of the work and is the smallest and lightest digital motor yet, which spins at an insane rate of 15,000rpm – comparable to a F1 CAR ENGINE!!!.) I still didn’t think paying close to R7K (at the time of launch) was worth the price for something that (that I thought of at the time)  just dries hair and does nothing else…until this year.

So I Caved and got one

I’ve got long hair and reached a point this year where I simply got fed up of spending almost 25-30 mins doing an average job of drying my hair and worse about 45 mins to dry my 11yo daughter Hannah’s hair (she want’s Rapunzel’s hair) so I finally saved up and decided to get a Supersonic 6 months ago (when there was a special on) and due to popular request, here is my personal views of using what I honestly consider the best grooming gadget since the GHD in 2001.

What’s in the box

It all starts with the packaging Honestly unboxing a Supersonic gives you the same experience as unboxing an Apple product, I can’t describe it but if you are an Apple Fan Girl like me, you will know what I mean 😜

The dryer comes with an extremely long, heavy duty cord which is about 2.7m which Dyson describes this cord as “salon length”.

There’s a diffuser cone for managing curly hair and creating volume, two styling nozzles (a smoothing nozzle and a styling concentrator) that attach with magnets (how cool is that!), a rubber mat for placing the dryer on, and a string loop for hanging. All of nozzle attachments, including the diffuser snap on with strong magnets, making attaching and detaching them super easy.

So there are plenty of reviews out there, what is it like in action, well here is how it’s worked for both me and Hannah

FACT: It truly is Fast drying

Most reviewers have said “At its highest speed and heat settings the Supersonic is one of the fastest hair dryers available – some testers say that it can dry hair in half the usual time.”

Pre Supersonic Days Well I have fairly longish hair and washing and conditioning aside (which takes me a good 15-20 mins alone) it usually takes me just over 25-30 mins to blow-dry my hair, thereafter another 15 mins to straighten if I wanted it to look like I bothered to make an effort. 

Post Supersonic Days The first time I used to Supersonic. I specifically timed the drying time, and using it on the highest setting, it took 8 mins! 8!!! That’s almost a 1/3 of my usual drying time. The second time I used it, it was cut to 7 mins. The third time,  I decided to use experiment with the attachments. I used using the smoothing nozzle I found my drying time took 10 mins and it eliminated the need for me to use my straighteners after. Using the diffuser I found it helped creating the volume that I was able ever able to get by a salon professional.My hair also still looked nearly as smooth  and volumised the next day too.

On Extra-long hair Pre Supersonic Days After a few uses on my hair I thought it was time to put the Supersonic to the test on Hannah’s hair. Usually the washing and drying process for her hair takes at least 3-4 hrs of my time with the drying time taking at least 45 mins with lots of stopping and starting , due to the hairdryer getting  too hot and Hannah complaining that her head gets too hot and me being afraid of too much heat burning her hair.

Post Supersonic Days Using the supersonic on Hannah’s hair on its fastest setting took 12 mins max and there was not a complaint about getting her hair getting too hot. Using the smoother, took an extra 4 mins and even Hannah said there is no need for a straightener anymore.

Less Heat and Healthier Hair

Using the supersonic I don’t really use as much hair styling products anymore and our hair just feels so much healthier, smoother and shinier. It’s obviously your choice about using styling products but in the past, I found there was no real cure for split ends and since using the Dyson, my stylist finds that I don’t really have as many split ends as I used to. For Hannah’s hair though as it does take a few mins longer and I’m extra protective of her, I just spray on a detangling spray as she has finer hair than me that tangles very easily.

Hannah’s favourite part of using the dryer on hair is that she feels her hair does not feel like it’s burning anymore like the old dryer, whether I dry her hair for 10 mins or 15 (when I use the smoothing nozzel)

I definitely see a glow and natural shine to both of our hair that proves the point Dyson makes “Unlike some others, the Dyson Supersonic™ hair dryer measures air temperature 20 times a second and regulates the heat. This prevents extreme heat damage, to help protect your hair's natural shine.”

I can see that this is potentially going to save women a lot of heat damage and split ends.

Noise Level

Many people have been asking me about this and quite honestly while it may not be as silent as people expect it to be, it is by far the least noisy hairdryers I’ve ever heard. We can certainly still dry our hair and listen to our favourite music, be it Ed Sheeran (for me) or BlackPink (for Hannah obvs) on at our usual decibel audio levels ☺️

Perfect for Travelling

The Supersonic is compact and lightweight (560g without attachments), compared to models that can weigh over 1kg and the fact that I can now go on a business meeting and wash dry and style my hair in 15 mins or less, is definitely a more cost effective option if I think cost/hr as I can spend more time on my work than time (which equates to money) drying my hair.

My Final Verdict

As sceptical as I was about the initial hefty price tag , after 6 months of owning this hairdryer, I can certainly say that owning a Dyson Supersonic is a bit like owning an Apple product , its essentially a top quality product at a premium price.

However taking into consideration the time saving factor (whether you are a new mum with barely any time to yourself or an entrepreneur always on the go, or simply someone who has gotten fed up of spending over 2 hrs drying and styling their hair),  and overall healthiness of both mine and especially my daughter’s hair , this was certainly a (hopefully) long term investment for us.

If this is something on your bucket list to get, I would recommend saving up and getting one as it certainly does more than just dry hair. It has been a while since a personal grooming tool has impressed me, the last was my GHD that I also saved up and purchased in 2001 with my first UK Christmas bonus back in my 20s (soon after it was released) and even though I’m a little late on acquiring the Dyson Supersonic, it is most definitely the gadget that has impressed me more than anything else since that 2001 GHD purchase.

[jessicakehoe]

Texture Talk: 6 Local Women with Afro-Textured Hair Share Their Quarantine Hair Journeys

Welcome to Texture Talk, a new weekly column that celebrates and deep dives into the dynamic world of curly hair, from springy S-patterns to densely-packed coils — because curly hair is far from one big category. This week, we asked six Canadian women with Afro-textured hair to dish on how they’re each coping with their unique curl care routines now that stay-at-home orders have shuttered hair salons and many go-to beauty supply stores.

Gloria Alamrew, communications specialist and freelance writer

Courtesy of Gloria Alamrew

Pre-Covid hair rituals: “Pre-quarantine, I was a wash-and-go advocate through and through. I’ve always worn my curls natural and had never really been into protective styles much.”

Hair under quarantine: “For the first few weeks of quarantine, I really fell out of love with my hair. Anxiety was high for me with the news and adjusting to the WFH transition. My hair was honestly the last thing on my mind. And after a while, my curls caught up to me, and I was surprised at how much they had gotten me down! Now that I had neglected them, I was legitimately sad. Recently though, I’ve started pouring more love back into my curls by twisting my hair for the first time. They’re perfect for doing yourself at home because there’s virtually no skill involved: as long as you can section your hair and literally twist two strands together, you can do it. There is something about the routine of washing my hair, brushing it out, sectioning, applying product to each section and then twisting the strands that is so calming to me. I hate to sound cliché, but it really does feel like a sacred moment of self-care for myself. Quarantine has given me the time to actually come back to my hair, and the ritual of styling and protecting it feels so restorative. It has honestly helped with my mental health so much.”

Winy Bernard, entrepreneur and podcaster

Courtesy of Winy Bernard

Pre-Covid hair rituals: “My BC (before corona) hair life was wonderful: I saw my hairstylist every single week for a blowout, sometimes twice if I had an event. I loved my hair; I loved my weekly appointments.”

Hair under quarantine: “I had not done my own hair in maybe 30-35 years. I didn’t even have products for at-home haircare to wash or to take care of my natural hair. I am one of those people that was never, and will never be, an at-home, do-it-yourself person, so this has been extremely difficult and frustrating. I had to call my hairstylist and ask what products to buy at the drugstore, how to wash my hair and how to blow-dry my hair. The first time I washed my hair [on my own], I was very frustrated: It took over 3 hours, hair was everywhere in my washroom and the result didn’t even look good. It’s getting easier, though. I can’t say I’m very good at it, but I am doing my best. Now, my hair is always in a bun or slicked into a ponytail. I am so looking forward to getting back to some kind of normalcy that involves getting my hair done.”

Tasneem Nanji, artist, musician, writer and actor

Courtesy of Tasneem Nanji

Pre-Covid hair rituals: “I have a couple curl patterns going on and I love that. Before quarantine, my hair routine sort of went hand-in-hand with auditions, and I have always worn my hair natural for the most part. I have two [curly hair] looks: One I get with a hair dryer and product, and the other is a completely air-dried natural look.”

Hair under quarantine: “My hair has grown longer since I’ve been quarantined (it tends to grow pretty fast), and when it gets this long, it starts to get harder to manage. I gave myself a trim last week; the split ends were getting to me! I’m wearing a lot more buns and braids in this Covid era, which is new for me. I don’t feel like they’re as authentic of a look in terms of my personality, but I am also learning I am more than my hair. Lately, I keep thinking I should master how to cornrow my own coiff! I’ve been looking to icons, like Sade and Stevie Wonder, who have beautifully worn their hair pulled back and braided. I’m finding a lot of strength in knowing that hair like mine is versatile and can be worn a myriad of ways. Time to hop on a YouTube tutorial!”

Sandra Parker, corporate learning and development consultant

Courtesy of Sandra Parker

Pre-Covid hair rituals: “My hair has been relaxed for a very, very long time. Before quarantine, I had my hair relaxed at a salon by a stylist every six weeks. Between stylist visits, I washed my hair myself once per week. After washing, I blow-dried and then straightened my hair with a flatiron – basically doing everything my stylist does, but not nearly as well. Between home hair washes, I try and heat style as little as possible, so at night I wear a silk bonnet and sleep on a silk pillowcase. This really helps to hold my style so that I don’t have to use a flat iron each morning to fix it.”

Quarantine routine: “Like everyone else – I have no stylist. I’m totally on my own. My last salon relaxer was in mid-February, so twice the time between my regular touch-ups has elapsed. Hair washes now take longer, since my hair is more delicate with the new growth. I’m leaving conditioner in my hair longer and using a deep conditioning mask more often, too. I bought a boxed relaxer kit at the drugstore a few weeks ago. It’s been a million years since I’ve done my own hair, but things were getting out of hand. I bought it hoping I wouldn’t have to use it, but that day came a few days ago. My last few hair washes were really frustrating and my hair was much harder to manage. I watched a million YouTube videos on DIY hair relaxing; I didn’t trust the instructions that came with the kit. I then summoned all of the bravery I had and I relaxed my own hair. Thankfully, it turned out OK and my hair didn’t fall off. Hopefully the restrictions on salons will end soon so that I can have my hair professionally done again.”

Collette “Coco” Murray, university education administrator by day, dance educator, mentor and performer by night

Courtesy of Collette Murray

Pre-Covid hair rituals: “I’ve had dreadlocks for over 20 years. Before quarantine, I would go to my loctician three times a year for a treatment, cut and to wear various petal-loc styles, twists and updos. I have yet to see my stylist this year, so thank goodness I don’t have any highlights or hair colour to treat.”

Hair under quarantine: “With the abrupt shift of working remotely and quarantine life, I was frustrated because I failed to stock up on products. My locs were stressed and lacklustre at the beginning due to dehydration. I needed some advice as I structured my new home routine, so I reached out to my loctician to check in on how my hair was doing and expressed my worry. Finding products that work for locs can be a challenge. I needed tea tree shampoo, castor oil and a shea butter scalp conditioner. He recommended where I could order stuff online (something I don’t normally do), and I also had to be strategic in finding a store close to home that sold products for Black hair: On my social media feed, some Black women share tips on local West Indian or African grocery stores that carry suitable products. Currently, I’ve been setting my hair in loose curls using rollers and I moisturize my scalp and locs every couple days with a shea butter conditioner. I wear them up in a bun, an updo or a ponytail most of the day, but allow them to flow freely, especially for most Zoom meetings. I’m not wearing any new hairstyles yet, but I may rock some Bantu knots over Zoom one day! Quarantine hair has been a bonding experience. Instead of constantly being on the go, I’m now forced to stop and take a few hours of self-care. A good TV binge-watch while I go through my hours of washing, deep conditioning, re-twisting and styling at home is worth it. I love my locs, my cultural ways and the freedom I feel wearing my hair this way is how I cope with my upkeep.”

Bunmi Adeoye, publicist

Courtesy of Bunmi Adeoye

Pre-Covid hair rituals: “Just before lockdown, I decided to be adventurous and do my once-a-year blowout and also put in a colour, which I feel wasn’t the best thing for my hair (I’m now experiencing lots of shedding and maybe heat damage). I don’t know, though, because I haven’t been able to go to a salon and get someone to look at it and assess!”

Hair under quarantine: “Being left with the aftermath of potential heat damage from the blowout and colour (that I don’t love), I’m figuring out how to rehab my hair and get it back to good health. I’ve been doing more protective styles: twists to twist-outs, braids to braid-outs, intense detangling, protein treatments (twice so far in lockdown) and weekly deep conditioning. My immediate work team has now seen my hair in twists, twist-outs and space buns over Zoom meetings, and I get a lot of Slack messages, like: “OMG, your hair looks ah-mazing!” It makes me smile. Someone recently said that I change my hair every day. There was one time, though, I had to leave the camera off because I didn’t have enough time to rinse out the deep conditioner and my hair was under a plastic shower cap. People don’t need to see that JUST yet!”

The post Texture Talk: 6 Local Women with Afro-Textured Hair Share Their Quarantine Hair Journeys appeared first on FASHION Magazine.

Texture Talk: 6 Local Women with Afro-Textured Hair Share Their Quarantine Hair Journeys published first on https://borboletabags.tumblr.com/

[i-am-very-very-tired]

Dee Keeve says:JULY 31, 2016 AT 5:56 AM

Amen. Finally finding ones who love relaxed hair

Bri says:JULY 11, 2016 AT 1:42 PM

REPLY

Lauren!!!! I ran into your website through google images, and you have officially persuaded me back into the relaxer life. I’ve been trying to go natural for almost a year and I absolutely hate it. Every single thing you said is what has been happening to me daily. I work as a receptionist and I feel like it makes me look completely unprofessional when my hair gets all poofy and sticks up. I haaate it! I’m going to do go buy Dr. Miracles tonight!!!!!

My hair was far more heat protected and healthier when I was relaxing it. Even so I only relaxed maybe 3 times a year so I had a good thing going. I don’t know what I was thinking. I honestly just wanted my hair to be fuller and just have a wave when I got it wet. I wasn’t even going natural for the right reasons, I had no dedication whatsoever.

The good thing is I DID get a lot of growth during this 10 month period, about 4 ½ inches. So I’m just excited to relax it out lol. THANK YOU LAUREN!

Teni says:AUGUST 23, 2016 AT 4:45 PMREPLY

Thank you for this comment <3 I am 9 months into transitioning and I hate it. I will just go on a healthy relaxed hair journey.

Keitra says:JUNE 21, 2016 AT 1:27 PM

REPLY

Adore this post so much. I thought i was the only one who had those issues. The really bad breakouts, detangling and my nape area was a nightmare. I just choose a week ago after a 4 month strech to do what i do best and rock my relaxed hair. Idk why its so shamed up on to get relaxer like its an abomination or something. Nothing about getting relaxer or no relaxer is going to make your body health any healther try dieting or eating better lets debate on that, lets jump down ppl thoart on a healthier eating habit vs freaking hair. This world smh.

adrienne says:JUNE 14, 2016 AT 9:14 PM

REPLY

i agree with you my intent was not quite to go natural but to do long stretches like either only relax once or twice a year… sigh,,, I just brought a relaxer today to use later,,, last time i relaxed was december 2015… but by april it’s been..sigh.. horrible the dryness from the new growth and i’ve spent more money the past 6 mos. i ever have than when I was relaxed… when i was relaxed all i used was a lil oil sheen and maybe occasional dab of oil moisturizer lotion,, didn’t need nothing else. ,, but since trying to make my stretch last a full year,,, i see i can’t go natural.. and my texture is 3b/some 3c and it was still a living hell!

deja says:JUNE 12, 2016 AT 10:58 AM

REPLY

i cant believe what im reading “natural isnt for everyone” how does that work out? how does ur natural hair..that grows naturally..out of ur hair not work for u? how does someone else’s hair work better for u than the hair that comes out of ur head..smh black ppl are brainwashed Bad

I won’t argue with you – a simple google search can tell you all you need to know about both sides of the coin. Have a great day!

Oh my goodness! You don’t know how much this blessed and inspired me in my hair life! Out of all of my friends, and family, I’m pretty much the only one who gets relaxers!! No one else gets them anymore and I’m talking about dozens of people that I know! The only time a relaxer did me damage was when the Rio perm was advertised backing the mid 1990’s and Debbie Allen and other celebrities were testing the product out by eating it, testing it out on their own heads, etc!! I was 6 years old with beautiful relaxed hair and the Rio perm was put on by my mom and she regretted placing it on my head to this day! That was 21 years ago, I am now 27 and within minutes my hair and scalp was burning from the bad Rio product. Anywho there was a class action lawsuit and most people that filed with pictures only received $97 for the poor relaxed product. Why did my mom try it? Because the celebrities were acting as it was safe! Until then my mom always put PCJ on my hair and she always got compliments on my hair. Before she used PCJ, she tried placing the hot comb method on my hair but it would kink up and be back to the coarse nappy look in a few days after straightened (and this is way before a relaxer even touched my head) so as ppl always say everyone has a good curl pattern when they were younger, nope that was never the case for me it’s always been coarse and thick due to the grate of hair that my parents have. But after the Rio incident, my mom restored my hair by putting protective styles and treating it with the right products. I also have used various beauticians to treat my hair with appropriate relaxers and styles. During my college years it was hard to afford the beauty shop so I had a olive oil relaxer or kiddie relaxer on my hair which it still grew! I have no problems with relaxers, I usually go 8 weeks or 10 weeks to get another relaxer. So many black women are against chemicals and they fail to realize that they spend so much money on weaves and blowouts to get their hair straight like a relaxer until the price they pay for this stuff ends up being that standard $65 relaxer and style cost that professional beauticians charge!!!

Charlene dorsey says:DECEMBER 3, 2016 AT 11:08 PM

It’s a style preference thing…. It should be a choice… Here’s a wuick question for you….Do you wear makeup? If so; why??? You weren’t born with makeup on…… most people wear it because they feel it enhances their beauty…same thing for hair preferences…

I agree Lauren. To each their own. Some hair that grows naturally out of some heads is very thick, coily, and very hard to manage. And might I add, TIME CONSUMING. You can spend lots of $$ on products trying to keep the hair conditioned, softened and tameable and it adds up. But some people like to wear their hair dry so they costs for products may not be a big deal. Again, I like what you say and I’m with you. I’ve only been natural 3 months, and I’m not quite liking it. I want my curl and waves but not bone straight so texlaxing is the best thing for me. I refuse to allow anyone to make me feel bad and or guilty about my choices. It’s all about how I feel about me and healthy hair at the end of the day. Thanks for sharing this.

Hey, do u rub makeup on ur face.. or better still. When trying to get curl definition don’t u spent tons of cash buying curl defining creams and custards, then spend hours trying to do a twist out so you cud have more defined curls…. to me I feel that’s exactly the same thing. U are not satisfied with he way ur hair curls naturally and you feel the need to enhance its curl. If u wanna be truly natural stop twist outs and braid outs and all that is, because lets face facts your hair isn’t naturally like that.. just stick to a fro.. then u can come preach to me abt embracing the natural pattern with which hair comes out of he head.

April says:JUNE 20, 2016 AT 2:04 PMREPLY

Relaxed4life says:AUGUST 4, 2016 AT 10:11 PMREPLY

Azarmiah says:OCTOBER 5, 2016 AT 8:05 AMREPLY

Amor Amankwah says:OCTOBER 8, 2016 AT 4:47 PMREPLY

Touche! Well said! You hit the nail on the head.

Preach it beee!! Amen and A. men!!

If your natural you know that those styles help reduce tangles i personally dont wear them no reason i havent masterd them as of yet and and doesnt take nothing nut humidity and a wash to get you back to its natural state. Hey check out this video by angel ikyg called black women natural hair its not a bashing video he gives good reasoning to go natural if u feel the same way after watching the video then keep getting relaxers by all means because its your hair have a good day

Dude I always felt the same way. You manipulating your hair to get your curls a certain way says a lot.

Seriously why be so negative? Some people don’t like curly hair or braids but prefer straight hair. Quite frankly some women don’t look good with either hair style. Yeah one can argue that a black woman can achieve straight hair with natural hair but do you know how much more damage will occur than by doing relaxers. If you actually read this woman’s blog you would see her hair is healthy and relaxed. So stop hair shaming and accept the fact that people can have different hair styles and still have healthy hair.

[dryscalpgone]

Top 10 Best Dry Shampoos for Black Hair [with FAQ]

See Top 10 Best Dry Shampoos for Black Hair [with FAQ] on dryscalpgone.com or read the entire post below:

What's the thing with dry shampoos? Are some better than top rated organic shampoos? Does it matter if you have black hair, dark hair or braided hair? These are just a few of the questions women and men ask when searching for the best dry shampoos on the market.

Dry shampoos are incredible substitutes when you don't have time for wet shampooing.  However, some dry shampoos are messy and leave a white powdery substance behind, plus they can clog the roots of your hair, causing you to wash your hair almost immediately.

On the negative side, if you have a dry scalp but oily hair, you may need to re-apply the dry shampoo several times to get the desired effects. In the case of dry shampooing, you want a product which will work with one application.

On the positive side, other dry shampoos make your hair look fresh and clean. With just a squirt, you're able to go from dull and lifeless to bouncy and lively.

Top 10 Dry Shampoos for Dark Hair

Keep reading to find out which, out of the many shampoos online, we recommend:

#1. Lafe's Dry Shampoo, Black

While searching for wet-less shampoos, we ran across Lafe's Dry Shampoo. This product claims to be superior to the others in that its awesome formula protects the environment while it extends the time to wash your hair.

Lafe's ingredients are [certified] organic and safe to use around plants and animals. Lafe's dry shampoo is also cool to use on color-treated hair and is made with Argan oil. Not only that but when you buy from Lafe's, you support breast cancer prevention and awareness.

They also promote green technology by empowering users with products free of toxic chemicals, petroleum, parabens, artificial fragrances, synthetics and estrogenic activity. What's in Lafe's include Vitamin E, Lemon Peel Oil, Sodium Bicarbonate, Iron Oxides, and Horsetail Extract.

Under those circumstances, Lafe's is harmless. You can use the dry shampoo at home, at work or while you're on-the-go. Your hair will feel and look sensational without the use of water and the visible residue.

The special formula matches almost any hair color. All you need to do is apply the shampoo to the scalp and brush through the hair, leaving you with strands that move when you move. Customers say there are too few aerosol free, dry shampoos available for black hair, so Lafe's a benefit in this way as well.

Again, some dry shampoos leave hair feeling dirty and flat. To put it another way, the hair is not inviting. Users report using additional products to give the hair shine, therefore, causing extra buildup and an urgent desire to wash the hair with a wet shampoo.

Check the Price of [easyazon_link identifier="B00FRZKUYO" locale="US" tag="dryscalpgone-20"]Lafe's Dry Shampoo[/easyazon_link] on Amazon!

#2. Batiste Dry Shampoo, Divine Dark

Asian girls have beautiful, dark hair. They, like other women with black hair, have some of the same issues when it comes to maintaining shiny locks. Batiste Dry Shampoo is one the things they can agree on to keep their hair clean especially when it's not feasible to wash and go.

It is easy to fall in love with this shampoo as it works wonders on fine hair. It's important to realize not everyone should wash their hair every day, and in this case, dry shampooing can provide help between cleansing. Batiste Divine Dark Dry Shampoo allows users a break for up to three days.

If you have naturally oily hair, you probably feel the need to wash every couple of days, but with this product, you can skip a few days if necessary. For hair which is thinning, you want a product to help regrow your hair.

With this in mind, you should try Batiste Shampoo. It's easy to use, and it smells terrific. It will leave your hair fresh and clean. You'll be happy to know Batiste Divine Shampoo works on color-dyed hair and doesn't leave embarrassing residuum behind.

Another key point to remember is the fragrance is noticeable but gentle, not overbearing. This shampoo is never tried on animals, so activists approve of its uses. Feel free to take it on vacation, to work or on long trips where showering and shampooing are not possible.

Check the Price of [easyazon_link identifier="B01CYDXMVE" locale="US" tag="dryscalpgone-20"]Batiste Dry Shampoo[/easyazon_link] on Amazon!

#3. Moroccanoil Dark Tones Shampoo

Some of us were born with naturally dark hair while others go through the process of color treating our strands. It's a personal decision, and sometimes, we make color changes frequently. With this said, washing our hair too often will wash away the color.

Luckily, there's Moroccanoil Dark Tones Shampoo. Its formula removes chemical buildup and bad odors. Given that the Moroccanoil Shampoo contains nature's ingredients, it conditions the hair, leaving it soft to touch and easy to style.

What's in it? Components such as Argan oil and rice starch helps to keep the hair shiny and odor free while it removes buildup. Given that Moroccanoil primes its products with argan oil, you know it's high quality. The formula helps to detangle your hair, so you lose less while combing or brushing your strands.

We recommend Moroccanoil not only because it's great for all hair types, but it provides protection from the sun. It also puts the volume back into your hair while it's nourishing the scalp and hair shaft. It's perfect for dark hair.

Shake the bottle first, next, spray it on your scalp, massage the roots of your hair and comb through. Moroccanoil has won numerous beauty awards for its amazing results. You'll be glad you tried Moroccanoil. It's honestly the most effective dry shampoo sold on the market today.

Check the Price of [easyazon_link identifier="B00VVS9O6G" locale="US" tag="dryscalpgone-20"]Moroccanoil Dark Tones Shampoo[/easyazon_link] on Amazon!

#4. Klorane Dry Shampoo with Oat Milk, Natural Tint

Klorane Dry Shampoo is excellent for dark hair. It blends naturally with your hair, and it doesn't contain harsh chemicals. You don't need to try any other shampoo. It's also a multi award winning dry shampoo.

Klorane Oat Milk, Natural Tint is, of course, safe to use on all hair types, but especially on medium brown or dark hair and textures. The fragrance is subtle, so you won't have to worry about a harsh smell offending anyone.

A point often passed over is Klorane products are free of parabens and sulfates. In particular, Shampoo with Oat Milk removes oil from your hair so it can breathe. Since it gives a clean appearance, the hair is also fuller.

How do you use the shampoo? The answer is simple. Spray it in, near the roots of the scalp, massage, and style as usual. That's it!  You're ready to go. On the negative side, some users report having to brush their hair longer than usual in an attempt to remove white residue completely.

If you are running late and don't have the time to shower and shampoo, apply Klorane Dry Shampoo. In other words, it's a real time saver, plus it doesn't dry your hair out like some of the other brand names.

Check the Price of [easyazon_link identifier="B00NY04LR6" locale="US" tag="dryscalpgone-20"]Klorane Dry Shampoo with Oat Milk[/easyazon_link] on Amazon!

#5. Evo Water Killer Dry Shampoo

We all know there's an obvious difference between Asian hair, Indian hair, and African-American hair. Naturally, some products will not work the same for everybody.  For this reason, we want to know can African-Americans use dry shampoos? Yes, they can and do!

In fact, Evo Water Killer Dry Shampoo comes with superior recommendations from its users. Even those who have thick, coarse, curly, permed straight hair can take advantage of Evo's formula for African-American hair.

What Are the Benefits of Using Evo Dry Shampoo?

Do you have damaged hair and want to avoid over washing? This is an excellent option to help keep your hair clean between shampoos.

You don't need to blow dry

There's no water involved

Time saver

Made with rice starch and oat or kernel meal

What are the other benefits of using Evo Water Killer? For example, it's a holiday weekend, and you can't get an appointment with your favorite stylist.

There are parties everywhere, and you want to be in attendance, but we know you're not going anywhere with your hair looking like that. It's greasy and just not attractive. What do you do in this case? Break out the Evo!

Evo will make your hair look its best, clean and freshly done. Say you want to take your braids down and wear it curly. Evo will give it that volume it needs to achieve the wow factor. Yes, without leaving behind the gray or white residue.

Check the Price of [easyazon_link identifier="B00793J4TY" locale="US" tag="dryscalpgone-20"]Evo Water Killer Dry Shampoo[/easyazon_link] on Amazon!

#6. Hydratherma Naturals Moisture Boosting Shampoo

Dry shampoos have been in existence for decades now, but only recently are more African-Americans taking note of them. Black hair can go longer without washing in comparison to Caucasian or Indian hair, but when you need to wash and can't a dry shampoo could provide a temporary solution.

Before new advances in technology, you could expect not to use a product such as this on African-American hair. However, that problem seems to be fading away. The fact is black hair doesn't produce as much oil as other hair types. With this in mind, dry shampoos can dry out the hair and scalp.

Once the hair becomes dry, it's easy to break. Additionally, hairstyles will not last as long or look as good. Hydratherma Naturals Moisture Boosting Shampoo works great on all hair types. It's amazing on dry, brittle hair; it puts moisture back into the hair, helping to prevent split ends.

On that note, you should also know Hydratherma helps to control dandruff and flakiness. Not only that but adds texture to your hair as well. Why does Hydratherma Boosting Shampoo perform better than the others? The answer is in the ingredients.

They pack algae, sea kelp, and seaweed into their shampoo, including essential oils. If that's not enough, consider the omega 6 and omega 3s that are in it.  Each strand is touchable and hydrated. On a positive note, we recommend using Hydratherma Dry Shampoo for African-American hair.

Check the Price of [easyazon_link identifier="B0065LUK6M" locale="US" tag="dryscalpgone-20"]Hydratherma Naturals Moisture Boosting Shampoo[/easyazon_link] on Amazon!

#7. Organic Root Stimulator Herbal Cleanse Hair and Scalp Cleanse Shampoo

If you know anything at all about braid, you know it's a low maintenance hairstyle. However, cleaning them without removing the braids or twists can be tricky. Be that as it may, Organic Root Stimulator Herbal Cleanse leaves the hair clean and looking brand new.

You don't need to worry about odor as the Scalp Cleanse can remove smoke odors as well as odors caused by sweating and chemical buildup. The Organic Root Stimulator dries within an instant after applying it to the scalp.

There are two different ways to use an Organic Root Stimulator Herbal formula:

To dry wash, apply a tiny amount of shampoo to a hand towel and clean braids individually.

To clean your scalp, you will need an ample amount of shampoo to put on the scalp. Of course, massage well touching the roots of your hair. Busy yourself for about an hour and with a damp towel, wipe away residue.

To point out another way to treat your hair, try deep cleaning without the suds or greasy mess. You'll need to moisten your scalp and hair well with the Root Stimulator and Scalp Cleanse. Next, warm a towel and leave it on for about 15 minutes or so. After which, wipe away residue and go.

What's in the Herbal Cleanse? Ingredients like aloe vera, Kola Nut, lavender, and alcohol. The alcohol helps to prevent oily buildup but doesn't dry out your hair.

Check the Price of [easyazon_link identifier="B000EGMBXY" locale="US" tag="dryscalpgone-20"]Organic Root Stimulator Herbal Cleanse Shampoo[/easyazon_link] on Amazon!

#8. Not Your Mother's Clean Freak Refreshing Dry Shampoo

If the name didn't catch your attention, keep reading to find out what the product does. Not Your Mother's Clean Freak Refreshing Dry Shampoo prevents you from washing your hair too much as we know that can do more harm than good.

It's, of course, easy to apply and it gives the hair a clean-looking appearance. Clean Freak Refreshing Dry Shampoo gives the hair a lift and a point often overlooked, and it provides texture. Who can use it? Anyone who wants to prolong shampooing yet another day.

Spray it on your scalp and throughout your dreadlocks, braids or strands for a fresh look all day. With styles intended to last, Not Your Mother's Clean Freak works on slick styles as well.  You can apply Not Your Mother's Dry Shampoo anywhere, any time of the day or night.

It's conveniently packaged so you can throw it in the bag and carry it with you. Customers who use it, love it. They say -

It saves them time

Gives them volume

Doesn't irritate the scalp

Doesn't require water

Adds texture

Helps to eliminate oily hair

It's easy to apply

Hair has a matte finish

For these reasons, we put our final stamp of approval on Not Your Mother's Clean Freak Dry Shampoo. With recommendations like this, we had one of our own try it, and the results were the same. It removes unwanted oil, but it doesn't leave your hair dry. The hair looks clean and touchable.

Check the Price of [easyazon_link identifier="B01FL4SIGC" locale="US" tag="dryscalpgone-20"]Not Your Mother's Clean Freak Refreshing Dry Shampoo[/easyazon_link] on Amazon!

#9. Batiste Dry Shampoo

Batiste is a name you may know and with good reason. They are one of the original dry shampoos on the market, so they have knowledge and experience. Users rave about it because of its -

Ability to remove excess oil at the roots

Works instantly

Clean, natural fragrance

Power to leave hair looking clean

Capacity for travel

Revives dull hair

You'll be thrilled to know Batiste Dry Shampoo never test its products on animals, and you can save money by using it. Plus, you don't need water to clean or refresh your hair, and those are only a few of the benefits of using Batiste Shampoo.

How does Batiste help to save money? It's simple. You're able to hold your hairstyle longer since you don't have to wet your hair to wash it! Genius, I know. And so do thousands of customers who recommend it.

Did I forget to mention Batiste Dry Shampoo Original blends well with your natural hair color? It hides the grays and your roots. Spray on your roots, manipulate throughout your entire head, comb, and style.

With that said, try the combination or Batiste for dark hair or blonde hair. They have a complete line of styling products made with you in mind. Their intent is to save you time and money while making you look great. According to the reviews, Batiste is doing it and doing it well.

Check the Price of [easyazon_link identifier="B008D5HAHU" locale="US" tag="dryscalpgone-20"]Batiste Dry Shampoo[/easyazon_link] on Amazon!

#10. Batiste Dry Shampoo, Cherry

You can find natural scents in Batiste Dry Shampoos, mainly due to the cherry aroma. Besides it smelling good, Batiste Cherry Shampoo gives your hair a lift, turning lifeless hair into strands with full body swing.

If you have questions about which dry shampoo to try, this could be your first stop if you did not purchase the Original. It may not be your last because Batiste has a line of dry shampoos and conditioners we're sure you want to try out.

Users confirm its ability to clean the hair, add volume and save money. What more could you ask for? Well, how about its water-less features? Do you like the fact it works straight away? Those are all good reasons to buy Batiste Dry Shampoo.

Is it easy to apply?  Yes, it is! Shake it up and spray the roots, holding the bottle about 30 cm away from your face. Once your done spraying your scalp, work it into your hair. Comb and style as usual.

Check the Price of [easyazon_link identifier="B007PQYHJW" locale="US" tag="dryscalpgone-20"]Batiste Dry Shampoo, Cherry[/easyazon_link] on Amazon!

Questions & Answers (Q&A) Section

What Is Dry Shampoo Exactly?

Dry shampoos are made to clean your hair without water. You spray the formula directly onto your roots to remove oil and chemical buildup. Its intent is not to replace regular washing, but to prolong it. Not washing hair will cause itchiness.

Are Dry Shampoos New to the Market?

No, they aren't new products. In fact, the news of a dry shampoo wasn't made known until 1918. However, they were popular in other countries before making its debut in the states.  On second thought, if you want to be technical, dry shampoos came about in the 1800s. Yes, it's been that long!

They were used primarily to deodorize wigs as well as to color them. Are you picturing the George Washington wig? Yes, me, too. Nonetheless, it wasn't made available to everyone until 1940.  From then on, housewives took to the idea way into the '70s as a means to quickly clean their hair.

It was Lesley Larson who increased popularity. You may remember the model by her nickname, “Twiggy.” However, this was back in the later part of the '60s era.

Also, you may be wondering why you are now hearing about them. Well, it's booming now for obvious reasons; it's a time saver, and it saves our precious resource, water.

Does It Work on Wet Hair?

Applying a dry shampoo to wet or damp hair is NOT effective. It should be applied to dry hair only.

How Do I Apply Dry Shampoo to My Hair?

Normally, you would spray a minimal amount to your roots or scalp. First, shake the bottle well to mix the ingredients. Second, hold the bottle about six inches away from your face and head and spritz.

Third, once you have enough spray on your roots, massage into your scalp using your fingertips.  Lastly, comb or brush and style.

Tip: Don't play in your hair after the application. It will come off on your hands and make a mess.

Can I Use a Dry Shampoo After My Workout?

Sure, you can. It's made to revive dirty hair. However, if you're sweaty and your hair is damp, wait until your hair dries to apply.  The fact you're using a dry shampoo after a workout will help to remove odor and greasy buildup.

Do Dry Shampoos Contain Harmful Chemicals?

You'll be happy to know most do not contain parabens or sulphates. Why? Simply because it's a dry shampoo and there isn't a need for it. Parabens are used to prevent fungus and bacteria.  The bottles or cans are sterile, so they are free of parabens or preservatives.

Is There a Dry Shampoo for Black Hair?

Certainly. There are specific types of dry shampoos on the market today. Since you have black hair, use a dry shampoo like [easyazon_link identifier="B01CYDXMVE" locale="US" tag="dryscalpgone-20"]Batiste Divine Dark Dry Shampoo[/easyazon_link]. You should avoid, however, spraying too close to your scalp. Hold the bottle as directed – about six inches away and you should see a difference.

Will Dry Shampoo Give My Hair Texture?

Yes, as a matter of fact, it will. This is one of the advantages.

Will Using It a Few Days in a Row Damage My Hair?

Again, they are not made to replace wet washing, but the answer greatly depends on the condition of your hair. Although it may control oily hair, you must still shampoo your hair. On the negative side of using a dry shampoo, you can start to itch.

I'm Using a Temporary Color in My Hair. Will This Still Work?

Absolutely.  In fact, it's the perfect solution if you don't want to wash away the color so soon. Providing you don't overdo it, you will keep your same color hair. After you spray it on, massage it thoroughly and brush your hair like normal. If you apply too much, wipe the excess with a towel.

Will This Work on Hair with Highlights?

It's perfect for highlights. Try using Batiste Dry Shampoo, Original since you already have color-treated hair. If you use a dry shampoo for brown hair, it could possibly turn your hair another shade of brown, which would be residue and you don't want that.

Does Dry Shampoo Work on Ombre Hairstyles?

Of course, it does. Depending on the shades, purchase a dry shampoo for black and dark hair or red hair.

Directions Say Apply to the scalp. What about the Ends?

When you apply dry shampoo to the scalp, you massage it in and brush or comb through. What this does is bring the shampoo to the strands, so all your hair receives the benefits.

At the same time, you can spray it on the ends or shaft of the hair or anywhere you need to control the oil in your hair. Just don't overdo it. You may have to comb through longer than usual to remove the residue. However, you should expect this and use a towel to help remove the excess if you need to do so.

I'm African-American. Can I Use a Dry Shampoo?

For sure! A lot of the dry shampoos work on all hair types, including twists, dreadlocks, and braids. In fact, [easyazon_link identifier="B000EGMBXY" locale="US" tag="dryscalpgone-20"]Organic Root Stimulator Herbal Cleanse Hair and Scalp Cleanse Shampoo[/easyazon_link] could be an excellent brand to try.

It will help to remove buildup and oil from the roots of your hair. The Root Stimulator and Scalp Cleanse Shampoo is especially good during the locking process when you're not able to wash your hair.  It will leave your hair smelling as fresh as it looks, too.

I Need a Hypoallergenic Product. Will Dry Shampoos Work for Me?

Of course, you can find dry shampoos which have subtle or mild scents, even unscented ones like Batiste Original Dry Shampoo. Organic dry shampoos are made with natural components so that they may be better for you as well as a non-aerosol.

Will I Also Need a Conditioner?

It's not needed. However, there's not one reason why you can't add a conditioner to your dry shampoo. As a matter of fact, sets are available. Some users recommend it's a [easyazon_link identifier="B00D8DSDHS" locale="US" tag="dryscalpgone-20"]10 Miracle Dry Shampoo & Conditioner in One[/easyazon_link]. They tell us the product does a good job at removing oil and lifting the hair. Besides that, it smells good and doesn't leave a film of residue behind.

What's the Difference in the Powder and the Spray Stuff?

Some users like it better because there's more control over where you put it. It lifts instantly, and it lasts longer. Another point to make is dry shampoos add powder and starch to their formula. This is what removes the oils.

You want to use a spray if you are going to style your hair and a dry shampoo powder to prevent oil. Both will add texture or want a matte finish, however.

Are They Suitable for Men?

Without a doubt! Men are welcome to try the same shampoos as women, but they make formulas especially for men.  For instance, The [easyazon_link identifier="B01J887GHO" locale="US" tag="dryscalpgone-20"]Dry Guy Shampoo[/easyazon_link] helps the man stay fashionably groomed.

He can throw it in his travel bag and freshen up on the plane. Never have a bad hair day again! Turn heads even, or at least that's what they claim. What we know for certain about this product is its organic and easy to use.

Men should pour a small amount into the palm of their hands and rub throughout the hair. Brush or comb, remove excess and move on.  It's that's simple.

Dry shampoos are an alternative to wet washing. Having an option such as this put you back in the game. It's best when you need to protect your hair from over-washing. Too much washing and it will dry your hair out and make it brittle.

What I like about it is you don't need a lot of time to have fresh looking locks, braids or strands. Plus you can apply it wherever you go, and yes, you can use it on dark hair. We recommend you try these dry shampoos for your styling needs, find the one perfect for you and share the news with your friends. They'll be glad you did.

[multiracialmedia-blog]

Parent of a Multiracial Kid? Here are 7 Key Hair Tips you need to know.

A few years ago I realized that my daughter was walking around with her hair looking a hot mess. I realized quickly that I needed to learn how to do her hair, and do it well.

I am a White woman, married to a Black man. We have 2 mixed / multiracial / biracial children. I have felt the pressure to make sure my children look put together because I knew we were already under a microscope of judgement from others and I didn’t want to add “she has her kids out here looking raggedy” on top of the pile of opinions.

Because of this I decided to learn as much as I can. Being raised in a diverse neighborhood and growing up around my Black girlfriends getting their hair done combined with my own Type A research skills already had me set up better than some other parents out there who may be reading this. I also am lucky to be close to my husband’s family so I have been able to ask them (especially my sister-in-law Salley Nycole Crews) questions when I wasn’t sure what to do.

So I started my own page, The Mixed Mama Blog, to share what I have learned with others that may not have the resources I do. Now I am here to share this information with the Multiracial Media audience. To start out we decided a post on Multiracial Hair Care Basics would be a good beginning. If there are any specific topics you are interested in learning about or reading please let me know either down in the comments below or by emailing me directly at: themixedmamablog@gmail.com with “Multiracial Media Column Question” as your Subject line.

7 Key Hair Tips you NEED to know

(Disclosure – This post may contain affiliate links but all opinions are my own)

1 – THROW AWAY THE BRUSH

Seriously parents. Do NOT brush your kids hair. Unless they are one of the few multiracial kids that don’t have any curl in their hair. But if they are like a majority of biracial kids then do.not.ever. brush their hair. It should only be combed while wet. My personal favorite comb is the Conair Wide Tooth Shower Comb.

2 – CONDITION, CONDITION, CONDITION

You should be using some form of, some combination of, some concoction of conditioner. Whether that is a leave-in, or moisturizing conditioner in the bath, and/or a deep conditioner. Honestly I recommend doing all of the above. If you would like to find out more specifics of some of the products I recommend you can check out my post CHEAT SHEET- Mixed Kid Hair Care – The Basics . 

3 – FIND AN OIL THAT WORKS FOR THEIR HAIR

You have probably heard of the LOC or LCO method. The method basically means LIQUID. OIL. CONDITIONER or  LIQUID. CONDITIONER. OIL. Its a layering technique to seal in moisture. The thing is though…. not all oils work for all hair. Try out different kinds until you figure out what works. Check out this post for a list of Top Hair Oils.

4 – LEARN A SIMPLE PROTECTIVE HAIR STYLE

Mixed kids hair has special needs and precautions you have to take as a parent. It is your responsibility to learn them. One of the basics is to keep their hair in a protective style, especially at night time while they sleep, or while they are swimming, or running around playing. This will help prevent knots and keep their hair healthy. If you need some ideas I have already done a few simple tutorial posts that you can check out here, here, and here on The Mixed Mama Blog.

Finding a hair salon nearby or making friends with someone who knows how to do natural hair is also a must have if you don’t know how to do hair.

5 – DO NOT OVERWASH HAIR!

Simply put… multiracial/curly hair has different needs than other races hair. I could technically wash my hair everyday and it would be fine. But… if I washed my kids hair everyday?! It would be SO DRY. Don’t do it. We wash once per week. But that is only because my daughter has a more oily scalp like I do. When we wash we use a nourishing shampoo and only shampoo her roots. ONLY THE ROOTS. Some people can go even longer without washing.  Figure out what works for your children and don’t be afraid to try something that is different.

6 – MAKE A REFRESH SPRAY

Ok… what am I even talking about. Basically go to the dollar store, get a spray bottle, and fill it with water, some hair oil, and some conditioner, shake up, and use this throughout the week. This can be used in between washes to help “refresh” the hair and add some moisture. This also makes it easier to re-do hairstyles and revive curls mid-week. Even if we could go an entire week without doing my daughter’s hair, we usually re-do it at least once during the week to try to prevent knots. But that just happens to be what works for us. There are also pre-made sprays out there that you can use. We have a couple that we like and love: Soft & Precious Baby Products – Detangling Moisturizer and Lusti Organics – Olive Oil Hair Sheen.

7 – TEACH YOUR KIDS TO LOVE THEIR HAIR

This is the MOST IMPORTANT tip in my opinion. We as parents have the responsibility to teach our children to love their hair. Even if it is different than all the other kids in school, even if they want straight hair like you, even if it makes them stand out. Teach them that their uniqueness is GREAT. I don’t know how many times I’ve read parents wanting to straighten their kids hair because they want to be like the other kids in school. In my mind this teaches them that they have to change who they are to be like others. NOOOOO. NO. NO. NO. NO. Our biracial, multiracial, mixed, curly kids are already going to have to face so much resistance in their lives for their differences. Start as young as possible teaching them to be proud and accepting of their traits. Especially vulnerable will be our multiracial daughters and sons with black mixed in. Society tells black/brown people that their natural/curly hair isn’t professional, isn’t acceptable, isn’t desirable… We have to fight that! I want my children to love their natural hair. It is our responsibility as parents to try as hard as we can to accomplish that.

Comment from HD Young that stood out to me on the original post that started this whole column on Multiracial Media

BONUS TIP: Get a satin sleep cap for your kids hair at night time or a satin pillow case. Also… put it into braids before bed.

  Disclaimer- I am not a professional… this is just what I’ve learned through research and trial & error. We are always learning and I am not afraid to admit if I am wrong and made a mistake. It’s ok if you do too. We, as parents, aren’t perfect. That’s ok. As long as we try as hard as we can for our children.

Again, if there are any specific topics you are interested in learning about or reading please let me know either down in the comments below or by emailing me directly at: themixedmamablog@gmail.com with “Multiracial Media Column Question” as your Subject line. 

Thanks for reading and good luck!

    Parent of a Multiracial Kid? Here are 7 Key Hair Tips you need to know. if you want to check out other voices of the Multiracial Community click here Multiracial Media

[i-am-very-very-tired]

Tasha says:JUNE 15, 2017 AT 12:13 PM

I’m glad I found this article. I’ve been natural for 3 years and some months now. I have 3b, 3c and 4a texture with thick strands and really dense hair that is longer than bra strap length. My hair is very curly but it is also very frizzy and I give myself a hair trim every 2-3 mnths since I struggle with split ends. I have to put tonnes of product in my hair to get the hair to stay tamed and frizz free. I do love my natural hair and I was glad to see it because I’d been relaxed since age 9 and I’m now 26 years old. I decided to go natural after I received a horrible relaxer at a hair salon (my head was so badly burnt that it stuck to my pillow). I honestly thought that I could just wash and go but that’s a sham. I’m from the tropics so I will die of heat stroke if I wore it out so I don’t do that. My hair is just fine but it takes an entire day to dry when I wash it and a good couple hours to detangle even when using a comb and this leaves me with neck and back pain. I spend alot of money on products since I go through conditioners like crazy. I also struggled with acne in the earlier part of high school and it was a tough time for me. I’d since recovered but with my hair now and products that I have to use, the nightmare is starting all over again (my face and back). When I went natural and chopped off my hair, ALL the women in my family followed and now that I want to relax my hair I’m worried I will let them down. Your article has helped me to make up my mind about whether to get a relaxer since I’ve been on the fence about it for well over two months now. At the end of the day, I prefer nice clear skin with straight hair and judgement from the people around me than acne-ridden skin, big untamed curly hair that leaves me looking like a child just to maintain my family’s happiness.

Thank you so much.

Nina says:APRIL 27, 2017 AT 1:23 PM

Rant Alert! People like Deja really need to get off of their high horse and just chill a bit. The reasons behind someone’s decision to relax or go natural is not for anyone else to determine. Unless you can read the mind and heart of every individual you encounter, you have no way of knowing their reasons, especially not from an online comments section. There are people who relax because it is easier to manage/manipulate, but would prefer their natural hair if it weren’t for the time-consuming factor for example. There are people with hair that responds better to a relaxed state (whether by heat or chemical) then in it’s natural state and this may be partly due to how the hair is handled. I can tell you that I no longer have the patience or energy needed for MY natural hair. No two heads of hair are the same. So, while I believe there are people that relax their hair for what I consider to be unhealthy reasons (societal acceptance, etc) there are also people who would love to keep their hair natural but can no longer deal with the effort, time or money it takes. I remember how good I felt when I went natural over 12 years ago and so taking the journey to become relaxed is not an easy one. But I have to remember that at the end of the day it is just hair and it doesn’t change who I am. Hair today, gone tomorrow…if all your hair fell out would you still be you? I wonder if people like Deja judge those who are natural but wear weave/extensions or people who wear makeup or those that have tattoos, or fill in the damn blank…you get my point. Lastly, instead of being so quick to judge someone or a group of people for what you THINK you know about them (yes, saying people are brainwashed is judgmental and not supportive at all), set your ego aside and squeeze out just a little bit of your time to talk to folks and get to know them and where they are coming from. Maybe just maybe you’ll learn something/see things from a different perspective and have a little compassion.

P.S. I didn’t post this as a reply to Deja because one, I didn’t want it to get buried and two, it’s not just for her…it’s for all those like her. End Rant.

Leshay says:APRIL 1, 2017 AT 12:00 PM

After reading this I am happy to know there are others. I have been natural for three years and I can say that I have never lost hair the way I do now. I havent had any growth not even with Jamaican black castor oil. And that’s supposed to be the best hair thickener. My crown has always been the strongest part of my hair. It is now 1/2 an inch long which is an inch and a half shorter than the rest of my hair and still falling out. I don’t care what other people say because my whole reason for going natural was because it was supposed to be healthier. I have just come to the realization that natural hair is for people who should have never been relaxing in the first place. I have the worst 4c hair in the world. I could rub my hair and grease four other heads with the oils on my hair but it would still look and feel dry. My hair feels like carpet no matter what I do. I tried protective styles and Twisties and I know about hair care as I went to school for it. I wouldn’t recommend over processing but some people don’t have the water and grease hair. They need a little more than that and there’s nothing wrong with that. When I was a baby I had carpet hair. When I was a child I had carpet hair. I never had the wavy cute baby hair. All over my head was nappy knots until my mother began to relax my hair. Now my sister on the other hand had the waves and good hair texture. Relaxing has always made my hair grow. I didn’t experience breakage like this until going natural and after three years, there is nothing anyone can tell me that would make me do it again. I held on, I waited and I was very dedicated to being broke for my hair and for what? To go back to relaxing after three years . So all these girls that are talking about natural is healthier, I would like an explanation as to what happened with mine. I had no growth in three years. My hair in the front and nape are the same length as they were when I took a measurement after cutting the last bit of perm off 2 and a half years ago. My crown on the other hand broke off badly. So to all people no matter what hair care you choose, do what works for you and know that no two hairs are the same, so what works for one may not work for another. And all hair is manipulated and no one wakes up and goes so with that being said don’t criticize others when you want your hair to look a certain way. We all have to do something to get and achieve the look we want. No one is Beyonce and wakes up like that. Hope you all have a great day no matter what side of the fence you’re on.