Product Name: Shea Moisture - SuperFruit Complex 10-in 1 Renewal System
Price: $10.99
Size: 13oz

Product Description: This antioxidant-rich conditioner helps to perfect and renew vibrancy to dull, lackluster hair. When used in our System, it detangles while providing anti-aging benefits, color protection, hydration, nourishment, rejuvination, strength, anti-stress, managability, softness and shine. Our Superfruit Complex nourishes the scalp, while Marula Oil and Biotin combine in a moisture rich formulation to support hair's elasticity. Hair looks vibrant and lustrous. Ten Benefits Specific for our CONDITIONER: Age-Defy Nourish Anti-Stress Revive Body Color Protect Shine Hydrate Strengthen Manageability Soften.

Ingredients: "Superfruit - A blend of Red Raspberry, Ketones, Goji, Acai and Guava Extracts rich in anti-aging antioxidants. Marula Oil - Contains natural plant peptides that help support hair's elasticity. Biotin - Nourishes individual strands for thicker, stronger hair. Shea Butter - Deeply moisturizes while conditioning hair and scalp." 

My Experience: It smells so good...omg. It's principal purpose is to perfect and renew vibrancy to dull, lackluster, half dead hair. Lord knows I needed a product that would help soften my hair - like I said earlier these are products that work well for me. Doesn't necessarily mean they will have the same effect on you, but it's worth a try! It is also a great detangler...honestly any Shea Moisture conditioner can work well as a detangler. They're all soft and gentle and make the hair soft as soon as it is applied. Of course, I don't have all of their conditioners but I imagine they're all great. 

 

Product Name: Raw Shea Butter Moisture Retnetion Shampoo
Price: $9.79
Size: 12 oz  

Product Description: "Shea Moisture's Raw Shea Butter Moisture Retention Shampoo cleanses, hydrates and repairs dry, damaged or over-processed hair. Sulfate-free"

Ingredients: 

Sea Kelp - mineral-rich nutrition seals and smoothes hair cuticles. 

Argan Oil - restores shine while helping promote hair elasticity. 

Shea Butter - deeply moisturizes while conditioning hair and scalp"

Deionized Water, Decyl Glucoside(Coconut Oil), African Butyrospermum Parkii (shea Butter)*, Aloe Vera Leaf Juice, Argan Oil, Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B-5), Rosemary Extract, Sea Kelp Extract, Vitamin E, Guar Gum, Lonicera Capifloium (Honeysuckle) Flower (and) Lonicera Japonica (Japanese Honeysuckle) Flower Extract, Avacado Oil 

My Experience: This was actually the first shampoo I used from the shea moisture brand - it smells AMAZING. It moisturizes, cleanses, and hydrates dry damaged, or overprocessed hair. Most importantly it's sulfate free! I use this on my twists as well - it is not a necessity, just a personal choice. The Reggae braids don't have a smell so sometimes I rub this conditioner onto my twists. It doesn't affect the synthetic hair because it's already twisted, but it does make them smell amazing. I can't tell you how many "omg you smell good what is that?" compliments I've gotten in an elevator. That's the thing about tight spaces - all the smells seep out. So, keep it fresh people! 

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Hey guys, yesterday's post has been getting a lot of traction which is awesome! Thank you for reading and sharing! It seems as though a lot of females and males - which was actually pretty surprising - are interested in natural hair care. I figured I would keep the ball rolling and continue to give you guys hair tips and clue you into my hair care process - so be on the lookout! Today's topic is 5 Things Transitioners Should Know. If you're on the fence about joining team natural here are 5 things to keep in mind before you make your decision. Please note, I am not here to bash women who still perm their hair - If it works for you then continue perming and be fabulous. I know plenty of women who still perm their hair and keep it healthy - which is great! I am just not one of them, I tried and failed miserably. 

Nothing in life worth having comes easily- remember that during your process. There is no magical elixir that will cause your hair to look like Solange's within a 3 month period, It's impossible. Unrealistic hair goals and "magical creams" that promise faster hair growth fall short on their promises which can cause discouragement. Good old fashion TIME and your hair care regimen will get you the results you're dying to see. Just be patient and consistent! If you stick with it, I promise the end results will have you feeling like beyoncé in the Work It Out Video - Ha! 




Fun Facts!

Natural hair textures require it's own set of standards for care. Those standards are very different from relaxed hair... in other words -  there's more work involved with natural hair care. I researched the average hair growth per month for African Americans and learned that hair grows approximately 1/2 inch per month, for a total of six inches in one year.Then again it depends on your genetics. If you're mixed then there is a chance that your hair might grow a bit faster.

Remember, when you're growing out your hair the look of it will change first ie. thickness, and feel. Within the first 3-4 months of your hair journey you'll notice the improvements in thickness, this usually happens before you see any additional length. If you are diligent with your hair care within 6-8 months you will notice a big difference in length. I've been natural for about a year and I'm finally starting to see some length! Be encouraged ladies! Consistency and positivity will help you along your journey!

These 5 hair care tips should help you avoid breakage and bad hair days so you can keep it cute! 

1. Transitioning is a process that requires massive amounts of patience. For those of you who don't know - transitioning takes up to a year or more depending on how much-relaxed ends you have. If you're not interested in the big chop (I wasn't) then this is the next best thing. You have time to wait until your hair reaches a length that you're comfortable with. At that point, you can chop off the relaxed ends little by little. I personally cut my ends every month or so. 

2. While transitioning you're dealing with two completely different hair textures. At the root, you'll have your curls, and at the ends you'll have your relaxed/straight ends. The extreme difference in these two textures can cause hair breakage if not cared for properly. By wearing protective styles (as discussed in the last post - Beginners Guide to Natural Hair). Buns, low manipulation styles (ie. twist outs), twists or braids can help your hair grow properly and avoid breakage. 

3.  DO NOT COMB YOUR HAIR FROM THE ROOTS TO THE ENDS! When your hair is relaxed or straightened you can do as you please, but in its curly state - don't even think about it...you might break the comb...you don't want to break the comb...you need that comb. When combing your tresses you GENTLY start from the ends to your roots using a Denman brush or a WIDE tooth comb. Be sure to use a detangler - I love the Cantu Shea Butter Coil Calm Detangler (I'm sure you can find this in your local beauty supply store as well). 

4. Stay away from heat styling tools! The use of curling irons or flat irons can cause permanent straightening of the hair - same as relaxers. Don't defeat the purpose by doing things that will go against your transition process. You're trying to revert to your natural texture, right? Good, so no hot hair tools during the transitioning phase! Once you're totally relaxer free a little straightening once and a while won't hurt. The only time I apply heat to my hair is when I'm deep conditioning with my Bonnet Dryer.

Bonnet Dryer - I purchased it sometime last month so I, unfortunately, don't have the box, but It looks just like this. I purchased it from a Beauty Supply store on Fulton (of course I don't remember the name. It was either The Hair Shop or the store right across the street). You can also purchase it online from Sally's.






Tip: If you don't have a Bonnet Cap or a dryer you can do the alternative - The Towel Method. After you've applied the deep conditioner to your hair put on a shower cap and find a large towel. Simply soak the towel in hot water, squeeze out the excess water and quickly wrap it around your head. Though it is very time-consuming, it will get the job done. Before I purchased my bonnet cap I did the Towel Method for at least 25 minutes. Now I know some of you might think that that is ridiculous, but the towel doesn't retain its heat for long. So It is an up and down process - you must continuously remove the towel, wet it again, and re-wrap it on your head. Best of luck!

5. As your hair grows examine your curl pattern, its kinkiness, coils, and coarseness. Understanding what your hair can and cannot do will save you time and energy. For example, there are some naturalistas that can wet their hair frequently, shake and go. You may not be one of them! Let me try to shake and go... everything would be fine and dandy until that thing dries. I would walk outside looking like Chewbacca - lmao a HOT MESS.  Applying practices that do not work for your hair type will cause you all types of unnecessary drama - and worst-case scenario can cause breakage. 

Check this chart out for more information! 




Good luck with the transition ladies! 

- Sassy ' N' New York 




Images: (Buzzfeed,Giffy,Sallys,NaturallyCurly)

I'm not going to sit here and act like I know everything about natural hair, but I will say that all that I've learned has come from trial and error... well more error than trial...but the bottom line is I'M TRYING. If you told me a couple years ago that I would eventually become a part of team natural I'd probably flick a couple of boogers your way - just kidding that's gross, but honestly I'd think you were insane. I was the perm, queen! I loved the shiny slick feel & look of a fresh perm. The only problem is, with the perm comes the drama. My hair texture is ...interesting. It does what it's told - on a good day, but most of the time it flies in whatever direction it pleases. All the perming and chemicals caused my hair to walk into the direction of extinction, meaning it was breaking off left and right and my edges were missing. Like most women, the winter season was always the toughest. I would comb my hair and watch it fall around me like I was giving it away for free or something. 




After numerous chats with my younger cousin Gabbie (hey girl!) I decided I would finally take the plunge and ATTEMPT (because I was certain I wouldn't stick with it) to go natural. My hair was short for about two years before The Big Change and I refused to cut it again, so I started wearing Protective Styles. 

After weeks of "intense" research I discovered there are hundreds (maybe I'm over exaggerating) but a bunch of different protective styles to choose from - besides box braids which I absolutely refused to get because they take entirely too long to complete, and it feels like my ass is on fire from sitting down for 7 hours under the constant tugging from the stranger above me braiding my hair... No thank you. 


Anyhoo, you can check out some of the protective styles I've achieved so far, as well the type of hair and products I used to achieve my looks. 
Out of all the protective styles I've tried thus far, this one is my absolute favorite. Besides the fact that I was able to refer to myself as Rita Marley for a couple of weeks - the style was fun, unique, beautiful and reminiscent of my inner Africana. Looks very royal, don't you think? The only drawback is that the hair is extremely heavy. If you're used to that sort of thing then you should be fine once it's installed. If you're like me, not used to a massive amount of hair on your head then you'll be struggling. After the installment, the first thing I thought was Oh Lawd... how am I going to lug around this heavy thing attached to my head Jesus?! Three days later I was fine. BUT putting those thangs in a bun was killer. I had to be mindful of how quickly I put my head down because the hair was so heavy. If I moved too quickly I would be bobbling around like a bobble head trying to regain my balance...smh a mess. It was like balancing a tub of water on my head. Yet, I would definitely get them again. All that weight forced me to keep my body upright...perfect posture anyone? Yes, I miss my Rita hairstyle... It's time for a comeback.

Brand: African Exports - Reggae Braid
Color: 1B + 1B/33 

Products/Tools: Shea Moisture - Strengthen & Grow Restorative Hair Serum, Jamaican Black Castor Oil, Olive Oil, & Lighter



This is what the package looks like - you can probably find it in any beauty supply store. If you're from New york, I got mine at a beauty supply store on Jay Street and Fulton. I can't remember the name of the store, but there are a million out there, you'll find it. Now, if you're not from New York and your local beauty supply store is being annoying because they don't sell this brand you can find it here: African Exports 


Protective Style Number 2: Havanna Twists 

Havanna Twists have become my go-to protective style because they're easy to put in, easy to maintain and are extremely light (depending on the size of your twists). I prefer my twists to be jumbo - mainly because I think they're cuter that way and it takes less time to do than the smaller ones. The first time I installed them I curled the ends by using perm rods and dipped them in boiling water. These days I am too lazy for all of that so it's left as is (no they do not reel out). I used the same hair brand as my Faux Locs African Exports - Reggae Braid. Reggae Braid and Marley hair are the same, so either will work for your twists. This style usually takes about 5-6 hours (including breaks). Doesn't this style remind you of Janet Jackson in Poetic Justice? Yes!! 

Brand: African Exports - Reggae Braid
Products: Shea Moisture - Strengthen & Grow Restorative Hair Serum, Jamaican Black Castor Oil, Cantu - Leave in Conditioner Repair Cream & Cantu Twist and Loc Gel

Protective Style Number 3: Crochet Braids Alternative - By Me ;)

By now I'm sure we all know what Crochet Braids are as well as what they are "supposed" to look like. Well, I went against the grain - I chucked the traditional form out the window and did my own thing. Ladies - I present to you The Crochet Alternative - by yours truly. Instead of installing cornrows and weaving the hair in and out, I parted each section and braided the top (traditional box braid style) knotted the synthetic hair two or three inches under my real hair and let the bottom poof (the way it looks in the pack).

In the above picture on the left, you can see the individual braids as well as the parting. Once I was done installing the hair, I did a simple twist out. The picture on the left was taken the day after installment (with twist-out). Doesn't it look natural...like it's all mine. Yes, Girl, IT DOES. The "secret" to achieving the "AU- natural" look is tons of conditioner. Most Marley hair is tough or course, which is inconvenient if you plan on having your hair frame your face. No one wants itchy scratchy hair annoying them all day - but then again you get what you pay for...right? No need to buy crazy expensive hair, you can soften your due a bit by applying conditioner to the hair - (I use either Cantu or Wen) and brushing it thoroughly. This helps if you plan on curling them - as seen in the picture in the above right and below. All in all, the hair is light, and fluffy and blows perfectly in the wind lol. 

Brand: African Exports - Reggae Braid 
Products/Tools: Olive Oil, Cantu or Wen Conditioner, Perm Rods, Boiling Water





In between all of these styles I wash, condition, deep condition, and use oil treatments. Remember, the purpose of protective styles are to protect the ends of your hair from breaking, harsh weather etc. Therefore, you MUST take care of your REAL hair while the protective style is installed. MOISTURE IS YOUR BEST FRIEND! I use a mixture of water, olive oil, and Shea Moisture Conditioner in a spray bottle. I spray my scalp three times a week. I read somewhere that natural ingredients such as water & olive oil (or coconut etc.) should be used instead of hair oil. Mainly because, the oil clogs the pores and makes it harder for the scalp to retain moisture. Makes sense doesn't it? 

I've been transitioning for about a year now and it's been pretty great. I was nervous about going Natural because I was certain that my hair was going to be nappy and look like a complete mess. Why, because I was the kid that used to scream and holler when mama walked towards me with the comb. That piece of comb was death on a stick, I used to run like hell whenever I saw her with that thing in hand.

 Surprisingly enough my hair in it's natural state is actually kind of nice. Don't get me wrong - when I wash and dry my hair there is absolutely no moisture in that thing and it looks crazy...CRAZY. Once, I use my Cantu Coil Calm Detangler and slap some plats/twists in there, combing it the next day is a breeze. That texture is my natural hair texture. Once I figured that out, I was hype. No more weaves or wigs for me! 

These pictures speak volumes, my friends. 

Clearly the picture on left is totally unhealthy hair. After years of heavy chemicals, my hair slowly but surely started to break off. I was attending University in another state at the time, so I would have to travel all the way back to NY to have my hair stylist help me get my life together. It was brittle, thin, and desperate without my hair crack. The picture on the right was taken last week, isn't it beautiful?! My hair is thicker and fuller than it's ever been and my edges are back - ha! I am actually surprised by the growth. I always had a problem growing my hair but these days it's finally deciding to cooperate. I've read that it takes a good amount of time for you to grow out the permed ends of your hair. In my case, they're disappearing pretty fast. I usually cut the permed ends before I start the Installment. This time around there was barely anything left to cut! I figure by next year this time my hair should be twice this size, which would be Amaze-balls.

Be sure to check in from time to time, as I will be posting updates about my hair progress, and providing transitioning tips, along with other goodies. 

Good Day Hair Lovers! 

- Sassy ' N' New York 




Images: (Samsbeauty)

We've officially reached the age where everyone is either having babies or getting married. Many women are trying to get on board with either of the two but for some reason they always fall for the wrong guy. You know the ones I'm talking about, the guy who just wants some cootie cat, the mooch, the couch potato, the ambition-less, the woman juggler... the list goes on and on. Telling the difference between a guy who's seriously into you and one who's caught up in the moment is not always easy. Why, because some men are scandalous? Seriously, some men will do or say damn near anything in the beginning stages. Look at it this way, to some men there is a very small gap between "nice to meet you" and "intercourse," closing that gap can be a goal that they chase after with a vengeance. They may get carried away and act like you're the best thing walking, only to lose interest or show their true colors as soon as you give it up. But hey, if you're just looking for sex, then do you, but if not, how can you tell if a guy is right for the long-term?

THE WRONG TYPE OF GUY - THE - CONSTANT TEXTER - PRE DATE


It's a great thing when a guy isn't afraid to communicate and get in touch, but if he hops into constant contact before you've even met him, it's no bueno. You see, these men think they're slick. He'll start texting you ten times a day, and attempt to occupy your time too quickly. This is a CLEAR indication that he's trying to get some. As women, we get comfortable and emotional; by him creating a romantic fantasy via text message helps you feel like you're more "romantically connected." Simple things like cute little good morning and good night texts, the "I can't wait to see you" texts, or the "I loved the picture you posted on IG, you're so beautiful" texts. By the time he finally sees you, you feel like you've already been dating him for a while. Am I right or what...

Exactly. 

A man who honestly wants to be in a committed relationship with you and is ready for a partnership doesn't need to push like that. The guys that wants to be with you wants to interact with you in PERSON. Every interaction shouldn't be with a cell phone in your hand. #RememberThat

On the first date... #MissionOne 

Some people believe that first dates are supposed to be super chill and relaxed, and they're right in a sense, but it is also the MOST important of the dating stage. By the end of that date you will know whether or not you're compatible with that person based on their likes, dislikes, and opinions of monogamy and relationships. In some cases (depending on the flow of the conversation) a guy will have an HONEST MOMENT. This is the most important part of the conversation. Why? His likes and dislikes about relationships will be expressed, this is the portion of the conversation where he might say something along the lines of  "I don't believe in love" or ' I'll never get married." If these are things you are looking for now you'll know exactly where he stands. No need to waste time...He's not the one for you. Now, I'm not saying that everything he says before or after that moment is a lie, it's just your job to pay attention and LISTEN to what he's saying without any interpretation of your own.

Most of the time people hear what they want to & when shit hits the fan no one knows what the hell is going on. Had you been paying attention in the beginning stages of your dating process then you would have known what to expect. LISTENING IS KEY. If you're both on the same page, and looking for the same thing, you've successfully completed mission number one.

This goes without saying but, if you enjoyed the date and would like to see him again; express that. There is nothing wrong with showing a bit of appreciation - and you can do that with your clothes on... mhum lol. Letting him know that you've enjoyed yourself is a great indication for a second date. If you're bold enough to ask him out then go for it, if not and the date went as well as you think it did, he'll be back.

Dates 2 & 3... #MissionTwo

Do you want to be courted? Pay attention to how long it takes for him to reach out to you. If the first date was good, he will definitely contact you. If you want to see how interested he is, just wait.

Now I know some of you are going to try to cut my head off about who should text who first BUT, if you cut off a man's ability to chase you by chasing him, then how will you know his level of interest? Trust me, if he likes you he will be emailing you, texting you, and trying to lock you down for another date.

THE WRONG TYPE OF GUY - THE -"LET'S HANG OUT AT MY PLACE GUY...MHUM




If you're looking for a serious relationship this is the man you should steer clear of. Listen, if he is really looking for a wife, his main intention won't be to just sex you up real quick. You should be able to make it through at least two or three dates without getting naked. If not, then nine times out of ten he just wants some ass. Remember, if he just wants the nookie, the content of your conversations will be sexual. Some men are bold enough to ask you sexual questions right away, others will insinuate. Some will invite you to dinner and then invite you back to his place. I personally wouldn't go to some man's house whom I barely know. Baby steps...

TIP: In order to steer clear of sexual situations and or conversations - participate in outdoor activities i.e. restaurants, walks in the park, coffee, etc.

4th Date & so on...#Mission 3

If you've managed to score three successful dates then kudos to you! That means by now you're officially being courted. He's making plans, following up, asking specific questions about you, etc.

Now is the time to check or search for compatibility.

You can do so by asking certain questions such as, "where do you see yourself in five years," "do you consider yourself a jealous person," etc. A clear indication that he just wants the cootie cat is if he responds to most if not all of the questions while referencing your body in some way shape or form "You're so sexy, "your body is amazing," "your ass is fat," etc. What that has to do with the questions you've asked I have no idea - if he insists on talking about what he likes sexually before you sleep together... watch out. Despite the conversation, he will ALWAYS find a way to slip sex into the equation. Why? Maybe at this point he feels like he's working too hard for it. If that's the case one of two things will happen, either you cave and give it up, or he slowly disappears.

On the flip side, men who are actually interested in seriously dating someone will talk about important things, like his goals and future plans. Men who are interested in getting married will definitely express that. If he's taken you out numerous times consider yourself a contender, these type of men DO NOT WASTE THEIR TIME.

Keep all of this in mind while you're man hunting.
Good luck Divas!

- Sassy ' N' New York 



Images: (giffy)