Types of Hair Conditioners

Conditioning treatments come in a variety of basic formulas, and each of these serves to treat specific needs:

Rinse-through Conditioners are finishing rinses or cream rinses that are rinsed out after they are worked through the hair for detangling. This type of conditioner includes the basic conditioner formulas found with their companion shampoo formula by countless brands and makers. Rinse-through conditioners usually have a one-to-three minute application time and primarily affect the outer layer of the hair shaft, smoothing the cuticle and making the hair feel silkier and easier to comb. They are also used to protect the hair from potential damage during heat-styling processes.

Rinse-through Conditioners are the most commonly found and - being formulated for oily, normal and dry hair types - are great for use in your regular hair care regimen after shampooing for long-term healthy hair maintenance.

Treatment or Repair Conditioners are the more deeply penetrating formulas that are left on the hair from ten to twenty minutes (sometimes being capped and placed under the heat of a dryer to speed penetration). These conditioning formulas often include ingredients to restore proteins and moisture to the hair. Hair moisturizing masques and protein packs fall into this category. Moisture-rich versions of these deep conditioners are especially good for chronically dry hair because of the full penetration of the moisture agents in the product, as well as ingredients to then smooth the cuticle and seal in the moisture that has been added. The high-protein versions of this product are designed to gently swell the hair, allowing it to pass through the cuticle of the hair shaft and replenish the proteins in the cortex, restoring the strength and elasticity of the hair. Protein packs are especially good for use prior to wet set styling to give better, longer- lasting results.

Hair treatments and repair conditioners are best used to treat specific hair issues. If you have severely dry hair, a deep conditioner can restore softness and moisture. If your problem is brittle, weak hair, then a high-protein repair conditioner can strengthen and revitalize the damaged hair. These deep-care treatments should be used no more than once a week, and are great in conjunction with your normal rinse-through conditioning agent and even leave-in preparations used for added protection.

Leave-In Conditioners are designed for just that - to be applied and left in the hair with no rinsing. They are generally light, moisture-rich formulas designed to prevent dryness and smooth tangles without weighing down the hair. These formulas can be designed for application after shampooing, but before towel-drying the hair, or can be found in spray-on formulas to allow more-controlled application or give extra protection as needed.

Leave-in formulas can be particularly useful in situations of combination hair. If you have trouble with dry, fly-away hair caused by daily shampooing, but daily conditioning causes your hair to be flat and appear oily at the scalp, a spray-on leave-in conditioner will allow you to target the ends of the hair where the dryness occurs.

Let's not forget that conditioning treatments are always designed to add to the hair and scalp. There are also toners and astringents designed to remove excess scalp oils and balance out the levels of natural oil in the hair. So, if your problem is very oily hair and scalp, a good astringent and a light spray-on conditioner can be just the combination you need to get the results you want.

©Hairfinder.com
http://www.hairfinder.com/hairquestions/hairconditioners.htm

Can Nettle Extract Combat Hair Loss?

Author: Christiana Roberts

The nettle plant, also known as Stinging Nettle, or under its botanical names Urtica dioica and Urtica urens, has been used as a traditional medicinal herb for many centuries. A mental stimulant, it was found useful in ancient schools. Teachers applied stinging sprigs of fresh nettle to the bare backs of their students, to help them memorize their lessons better…

Both nettle roots and leafs were traditionally used to treat asthma, diabetes, kidney infections, arthritis, coughs, colds, and even enlarged prostates. They were believed to improve digestion, heal wounds, and lower blood pressure. An interesting action of nettle root is in its testosterone and estrogen-enhancing qualities, with makes this herb a praised aphrodisiac. However, the most famous application of nettle infusions is in treating alopecia areata. A gentle irritant, this herb is able to improve scalp circulation, stimulate hair roots, facilitate the flow of oxygen and nutrients into hair follicles, and promote overall hair growth. Clinical trials have confirmed the effectiveness of nettle root extracts in treatments of hair loss, including genetic male-pattern baldness and alopecia areata.

Nettle root extracts, infusions, oils, and alcohol preparations have been praised in many societies for their unique skin-smoothing, bacteria-killing, and hair-restoring properties. They found applications in numerous traditional hair care products - those ancients shampoos, soaps, rinses, and conditioners. Recently, both modern science and cosmetic industry have rediscovered many wonderful qualities of nettle, and incorporated its extracts into a vast variety of treatments and beauty products. Nettle root preparations are now being used in many health care items to enhance their cleaning and healing properties. One of the most important applications for nettle root extract is found in herbal hair care products. Due to their superb hair-growing properties, nettle preparations are included in modern hair massage oils, shampoos, conditioners, and hair loss treatments. Nettle is especially known for its capacity to improve the health of skin, scalp, and hair, remove dandruff, stimulate hair growth, and strengthen weakened hair follicles.

Nettle oil is, probably, the most powerful of nettle infusions. It is usually manufactured by mixing extra-virgin, cold-pressed olive oil with nettle root extracts. For centuries, this powerful herbal oil has been proven very effective in restoring dull, thinning hair. An anti-inflammatory remedy, nettle oil should be massaged into the scalp and hair at least once a week, to combat dandruff, dry hair, and an itchy, irritated scalp. Apply gently warmed nettle oil onto your scalp about one hour before shampooing, massage vigorously into the leather and especially inflamed areas, and leave there for more effective absorption. Nettle oil can also be left on the scalp and hair overnight. Long-term nettle applications are known to improve scalp psoriasis, eczema, and various types of dermatitis - the conditions which often result in the fall of hair. A hypersensitive skin reacts to nettle root oil especially well: weekly scalp massages are a great treatment that helps reduce inflammation, heal irritated areas, and reverse related hair loss.

What makes nettle so unique is its chemical composition featuring a wide array of healing components. It contains vitamins C and E, serotonin, formic acid, choline, chlorophyll, flavonoids, carotenoids, lecithin, caffeic acids, and beneficial minerals. Some chemical agents of nettle root are able to block the enzyme 5a-reductase, which is responsible for the formation of DHT from testosterone - the main villain involved in the development of male-pattern hair loss.

To enhance the healing effect of nettle oil on the scalp and hair, it is often mixed with other herbal remedies, such as Burdock root oil, Saw Palmetto extracts, or Plantain oil. Combined action of these traditional hair-restoring herbs is particularly beneficial for over-sensitive, reddish, dry, and irritated scalp. It is also a great strengthening remedy to rejuvenate and give a boost to hair follicles that have entered telogen - their “resting phase”, during which hair falls out. In addition, personal care products with nettle root can feature facial masks and skin lotions designed to smooth the skin, combat inflammation, and remove wrinkles.

Nettle root and leaf extracts, usually mixed with other herbal elixirs, can also be found in dietary supplements formulated to purify the blood, stop hair loss, improve various scalp conditions, and stimulate the growth of healthy hair.

Sage - a Versatile Medicinal Herb Used in Traditional Hair Treatments

Author: Christiana Roberts

Sage, also known under its botanical names Salvia officinalis or Salvia salvatrix, is a universal flavouring and medicinal herb, a native of the Northern Mediterranean coast and the American continent. For many centuries, it has been used as a powerful folk medicine to treat a number of health and cosmetic conditions, including hair loss and greying hair. A stimulant and an anti-bacterial plant, it has been traditionally applied to treat indigestion, ulcers, dandruff, bleeding gums, sore throat, fever, and a number of nervous diseases. Traditional Chinese medicine values sage as an herb able to combat liver, kidney, lung, blood, and stomach diseases. Sage infusions are known to cure joint pains, wounds, nervous headaches, excessive perspiration, lethargy, and even measles!


Long ago, miraculous healing qualities of sage were noticed by ancient Greeks, Romans, Native Americans, Arabs, and Asians. Sage was believed to have healing, strengthening, and purifying qualities. Spiritual ceremonies of American aboriginals still include burning sage to “clean” the spirit before it enters supernatural realms. Ancient Arabs praised sage for its curative powers, as a general tonic, and as a medicine for snakebites; Arab women used it extensively to keep their hair dark, thick, and healthy. Smoking sage was believed to cure coughs, chest colds, and asthma. In the Middle Ages, sage was even considered a “cure-all”.

In many cultures, sage has gained a reputation of a miraculous hair medicine. Sage applications were considered the most effective natural therapies to reverse baldness and restore the dark colour of greying hair. In “The Book of Natural Remedies for Ancient Ills” by classical English physician Nicolas Culpepper, we can read that sage preparations were extensively used in antiquity to combat the fall of hair.

Ancient Greek doctor and botanist Pedanius Dioscorides in his famous book “De Materia Medica” mentioned that drinking sage tea could make greying hair restore its black colour, while topical applications of fresh sage juice were able to treat baldness.

According to the book “Sage: The Genus Salvia” by Anthony C. Dweck, common sage is a great hair-toning aid. In order to prepare a toning hair infusion, fresh sage leaves should be brewed in water and then applied to the scalp and hair. To treat alopecia, Anthony C. Dweck recommends to use freshly-made sage infusions as a hair lotion, massaging the brew into the scalp three times a week. These treatments are also said to promote the health of hair and ensure its shiny glow.

The Dweck’s book mentions that sage preparations are particularly good to strengthen the hair roots, stimulate hair growth, and deepen the rich colour of naturally black hair. Historically, elderly African Americans used to make sage tonics for hair applications to maintain their hair strong, black ,and shiny, he writes.

Naturally-occurring volatile oil in sage is, probably, the main ingredient that does miracles to support the strength of hair.

Sage preparations work especially good when combined with rosemary - another traditional hair remedy. A very beneficial hair lotion can be made from equal parts of sage and rosemary leaves slowly simmered in water for several minutes and then steeped, covered, for a few hours. The brew should be rubbed into the scalp and hair every night as a wonderful strengthening medicine to fight hair loss, rejuvenate the hair follicles, maintain the colour, and ensure the growth of thick, healthy locks.

The Benefits of Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil has been around for a very long time, since about the 1800's, but has recently found its way into many hair products. It is one of the most beneficial ingredients used in hair care today. This extract is a derivative of the melaleuca tree in Australia. It is superb for cleaning out the hair follicle and promoting hair growth, more so than many of the other products on the market today. Occasionally people have an irritated scalp caused by bacteria or other irritants and this product can assist with healing the effects of harmful bacteria or hair products.

In terms of hair product tea tree oil can prevent and help with bacterial and fungal infections to the scalp. This has a direct benefit to hair, especially ethnic hair since many harmful products may have been previously applied. A solution to this is to apply the tea tree product which is perfect for restoring dry or damaged hair. Tea tree mixed with a combination of other oils can prevent scalp infection and dandruff as well. One must think of the extract like medicine. There are different concentrations of this chemical found in various products.

What you generally see in industry are hair products that contain approximately two percent concentration tea tree oil. It is particularly useful in shampoo form and since it can be applied to hair on a regular basis for healthy hair. It generally makes ethnic hair more durable, thicker and robust. The product "Proclaim Tea Tree Shampoo" also has great effect on someone who is losing their hair. In general scalp irritation will be reduced, the follicles cleansed and the hair will be strengthened and become more durable. This function of relieving scalp irritation greatly helps with ethnic hair because often times harsh products can be used that may damage hair.

However, if this oil product is used it will maintain healthy hair. By nature, it is a potent antiseptic. It is also good to note that it is not irritating to the skin like chemicals found in other products. It is also known for cleaning out the sebaceous glands on the scalp. This is desirable to most people. The net result is healthy hair, irritation free, and can be more easily worked with. And when you are styling ethnic hair, it certainly helps. Other hair products that contain tea tree oil are root stimulator, conditioner, shampoo, wax, and oils, as well as other ethnic hair products. All of which contribute to overall ethnic beauty. In summary through the usage of the tea tree oil in the right proportion you can achieve superb hair results and maintain the overall health of your hair.

Hair products containing tea tree oil are generally not too much more expensive than that of the normal variety. Only about forty percent more cost, but the benefit to your hair is fantastic. When you invest in these products and apply it to your hair it is an investment that is well worth it.

http://ezinearticles.com/?The-Benefits-of-Tea-Tree-Oil-on-Ethnic-Hair&id=3535120

The key to combing natural hair - SPRITZ!!!

I've been approached several times in the past by people stating that there were unable to comfortably comb their natural hair.

The key to combing natural hair is to NEVER comb it dry.

I recommend that you comb your hair with a wide tooth comb after it has been freshly washed and loaded with either a moisturizing conditioner for detangling or a leave-in conditioner and moisturizer (post detangling) in preparation for a styling session.

But, if you want to comb your hair while dry, the key is to use a spritz to reset your hair. I use a spritz mix of natural conditioner, castor oil, and water.

I separate my hair with the tail end of a styling tool such as a rat tail comb, pick or application brush. If I encounter a tangle during the process, I gently remove it using my fingers.

My recipe for a homemade spritz mix includes:

A 8 oz spray bottle (Walmart/Target Health Care Section)
2 tbsp Aubrey Organics Honey Suckle Rose Conditioner
2 tbsp Castor Oil
Warm Water
10 drops of essential oil (optional)

You can add more conditioner or oil based on your preference. Many people prefer distilled water but I prefer warm tap warm because it helps the products blend. Essential oils can be added if preferred for fragrance, as a preservative, or for use of their growth stimulating properties. The conditioner itself contains perservatives so if I add essential oils it's usually for fragrance or growth stimulation. If you are looking for growth stimulants, peppermint, rosemary, and ylang ylang are all touted to stimulate growth.

Updated 1/24/2010: One of my FAVORITE Bloggers, JC of The Natural Haven, has posted to articles that that you should view. Check them out!

Combing = Damage ?

To Comb or Not to Comb ?

Review: Elucence Moisture Balancing Conditioner

Description:
Moisture Balancing Conditioner is a dual purpose moisture adjusting product. This smart formula adjusts moisture as needed and works two ways.

As a one-minute rinse out, it boosts moisture levels with essential lipids and proteins. As a leave-in lotion, it provides continuous moisturizing and suppleness to unusually dry hair.

These lipids and fatty acids mimic hair and scalp natural moisture. Squalane, a natural component of hair and scalp moisture is used in this formula to replenish and restore moisture balance (this special ingredient comes from olives). Lipids provide subsurface hydration, optimizing moisture levels and detangle hair to create managability. Hydrolyzed proteins process from natural wheat, lock in moisture to prevent dehydration. For intense moisture treatment, use under dryer for 15-20 minutes (with plastic cap). Or use MicroHeat Cap.

Ingredients: Panax Ginseng root extract, cetraria islandia (Irish Moss) extract, saccharomyces cerevisiea (Brewer's Yeast) extract, Gingko Biloba extract, pimpinella anisum (Anise) fruit extract, prunis persica (Peach) extract in purified water, hexadecanol, stearakonium chloride, certimonium bromide, Squalane (olive oil lipid), Capric Caprillic Triglycerides (coconut fatty acids), Panthenol (pro-vitamin USP), Biotin (USP), imisazolidinyl urea, methylparaben (USP), fragrance

Review:

Anybody that knows me knows how much I love my Aubrey Organics conditioners. But honey I’m here to tell you, Elucence Moisture Balancing Conditioner gives my Aubrey Conditioners a run for the money.

Elucence Moisture Balancing Conditioner is truly a miracle conditioner. I can cover my entire my head with a very small amount, which is the first miracle. It spreads quickly, provides lots of slip, and gives my hair uber moisture. It also has a foaming property that is hard to describe. The fact that Elucence can be used as a one minute rinse out, deep conditioner, and a leave-in conditioner is an added bonus.

I’ve have now used Elucence a total of four times. The first time I used it in my hair I was able to part my hair with my fingers so easily that it was truly shocking to me. Keep in mind that after my transition, Aubrey HSR was the only conditioner that allowed me to comb through my hair with ease so for me to part my hair with my just my fingers using Elucence was truly a miracle # two.

After three uses, I honestly have to admit that I think I can give up my precious Aubrey (except for use in my homemade spritz). It takes a lot for me to admit that considering that Aubrey is truly my first love. I haven’t yet had time to try Elucence with a heat cap but I am sure that I won't be disappointed.

The only downside to Elucence that I see in my future is that I am not able to get it on the ground. But, if I can get it $20 for a liter with a Naturally Curly discount code I’ll snag at least two at a time to make it worth the cost of shipping.

If are still searching for your holy grail conditioner or a product junkie like most, you HAVE to try this conditioner. If you have thick, dry, natural hair, I promise you that you will not regret trying it.

Steps to a Successful Transition to Natural Hair and a Regimen for Those Already Natural

I hear a lot of people say that the products that worked for them while relaxed didn't worked for them after going natural. This article will provide both natural and mass market alternatives for transitioners.

The first thing you should invest in is both a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner. I recommend Aubrey organics Honeysuckle Rose shampoo and conditioner as a natural alternative and both Suave tropical coconut conditioner and Herbal Essence Hello Hydration mass market. But, trial and error will help you to figure out what makes your hair thrive. Most naturals tend to stay away from shampoo because they strip the moisture from your hair and as a natural, we need all the moisture we can get. I personally follow the no poo regimen. Every week, I cleanse my scalp using conditioner only, which is referred to as a conditioner wash or cowash. If I need an extra cleansing, I add a little baking soda to my conditioner wash. It will take a while to get use to using condition only to cleanse your scalp because we have be brainwashed into thinking our hair isn't clean without suds and squeaky clean hair but you'll get used to it.

Never rinse out all of your conditioner and ALWAYS use a leave-in conditioner. As a natural, I've used Giovanni Direct Leave-in from the health food store as well as Alba leave-in but my favorite is by Kinky Curly Knot Today. I've recently began using Yes to Cucumbers Daily Hydrating Hair Care Conditioner as my leave-in. You can purchase Alba, Giovanni, and Kinky Curly at most Whole Foods and Alba and Giovanni at the Vitamin Shoppe. Yes to Cucumbers can be found at select Target and Walgreens. A Mass market leave-in that i've read good things about is Herbal Essence.

Next, you'll need a good moisturizer. This will be the MOST important part of your regimen. You will HAVE to keep your new growth moist during your transition. Moisturizer is key to keeping your hair soft and manageable. It will also help to prevent breakage at the line of demarcation (the line where the natural and relaxed hair meets). There are a lot of good natural hair care lines that can be ordered online. My personal favorite is Qhemet Biologics Alma/Olive Heavy Cream mixed with the Olive/Honey Hydrating Balm. Another that I really like is Karen's Body Beautiful Hair Cream. Mass market products that I've heard good things about include Organic Root Stimulator Olive Cream and Profectiv, which both can be purchased from Sally Beauty Supply. Hopefully, someone will post some recommendations in the comment section below. Remember that items containing mineral and petroleum are said to block out moisture and clog pores so it is recommended that you stay away from those.

Next, you will need an oil to seal in your moisturizer. I'll suggest avocado oil, castor oil, or olive oil. These are the only three oils that actually penetrate the hair shaft and soften the hair. All other oils sit on top of the hair. You can get olive oil at any grocer or walmart. It's best to get avocado oil and castor oil at the health food store. You can get a big bottle of castor oil for a low price but avocado oil is pretty expensive. A lot of the mass market oil blends like Hot Six Oil are pure oil so ALWAYS read the ingredients.

Next you will need a styler, I use natural gels like kinky curly knot today, Aubrey Organics Mandarin Magic Moisturizing Gelly, and Kiss My Face Upper Management Gel as well as creamy natural stylers like Ohm Body Sweet Hair Pudding. Mass market, people swear by eco styler gel as well as Sparkle-lites and several curl activator gels from the local beauty supply store.

During my transition I wore my hair wrapped the first couple of month until the roots got too thick. After that, I started setting my hair with two-strand twists for twistout wavy styles. You can do the same with single braids (plaits) for braidouts.

Braidouts, Twistouts, cornrows, flat twists, rollerset and other transitioning styles help blend the natural and relaxed hair textures. Heat can damage the new growth if not utilized properly so I chose to avoid heat but that's a personal choice. Many people choose to press their hair weekly press or opt for a Dominican blowout and flat iron style.

Check out the transitioners forum on http://www.nappturality.com. I don't think I would have made it through my journey without the inspiration of that site.

With Winter fast approaching in North Carolina, a cold weather healthy hair care regimen that I recommend includes:

Cowash (Yes to Tomatoes)
Deep condition with heat (AOHR, Elucence MBC, or Yes to Cucumbers)
Apply leave-in (Yes to Cucumbers)
Moisturize (Qhemet AOHC mixed with OHHB)
Twist/braid set while wet using styler (AO MMHMJ or OHM SHP)

Because I am already natural, as added step, I ALWAYS seal my ends with castor oil, which is especially important in the cold weather months due to the various coats, hats, scarves, sweaters that your ends may come in contact with on a daily basis.

When my single strand knots get out of control I'll coat my entire hair strand.

Review: Aubrey Organics Jojoba & Aloe Desert Herb Revitalizing Conditioner

Description:

For Dry, Damaged Hair

Bring damaged, desert-dry hair back to life. Moisture-rich botanicals nourish, rebalance and rehydrate parched, overprocessed hair on contact. Milk protein strengthens and mends damaged areas and promotes elasticity to prevent breakage and leave hair touchably soft, shiny and resilient.

Key ingredients:

Organic Jojoba Oil Nourishes - adds a natural sheen

Organic Aloe Vera - replenishes moisture

Lactalbumin (milk protein) - strengthens & mends damaged areas

Ingredients:

Coconut Fatty Acid Cream Base, Organic Aloe Vera, Organic Jojoba Oil, Wheat Germ Oil, Lactalbumin; Extracts of Fennel, Hops, Balm Mint, Mistletoe, Camomile and Yarrow; Organic Rosemary Oil, Organic Sage Oil, Carrot Oil, Essential Oil Blend (Cedar, Grapefruit, Rose-Geranium, Lavender), Aubrey’s Preservative (Citrus Seed Extract, Vitamins A, C and E).

Review:

I immediately felt the the tangles in my hair melting away upon impact while detangling with my finger. I put my hair in four sections and continued detangling with my Conair Shower Comb. I found the product to be pretty moisturizing providing just the right amount of slip for my personal need. The texture is a mix between my three favs, which are honey suckle rose, island naturals, and white camelia. Honeysuckle Rose will remain my favorite for a deep conditioning treatment but for a nice quick rinseout with a protein boost, you can't go wrong with this one.

My Castor Oil Challenge results were featured on HairliciousInc's YouTube Channel!

The challenge ran from April 22 - August 22.

I began the challenge on April 20, 2009 and continue to use Castor Oil today. It will forever remain part of my regimen.

Part 3 will begin on Sunday September 2 and run through Sunday December 2. This will be the final challenge in 2009.

You can get a 20% discount on Jamaican Black Castor Oil from Sams Carribean Marketplace through September 15, 2009 using code "HAIR". After September 15, the discount will be 15%.

Join the Castor Oil Challenge Part 3 group on Hairlista now.

Check out the video below or by clicking "here".

Grow It: How To Grow Afro-Textured Hair To Maximum Lengths In The Shortest Time by Chicoro

I was recently contacted by the beautiful Chicoro, the author of the book Grow It!: How To Grow Afro-Textured Hair To Maximum Lengths In The Shortest Time. As a thank you for featuring her wonderful book in Build Your Natural Hair Care Library promotion at the top of the blog, she's sending me one of her beautiful tote bags.


As a special thanks to beautiful Chicoro, she deserves a blog post of her very own.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Grow It! is the first book in Chicoro's Beautify Bit By Bit Series. The primary focus is on "how to gain, retain and maintain length that you grow on afro-textured hair."

The list price of the book is $15 but it can be purchased at Amazon.com for $13.50.

Please check out Chicoro's web site Beautify Bit by Bit.

Also check out her blog Beautify Bit by Bit.

To see details of her nautural hair journey, you can view her hair care album at http://public.fotki.com/Chicoro123/hair-care/.

See blog reviews below:

http://www.agrlcanmac.com/2009/01/kinky-kurly-ladies-lets-grow-it-in-2009.html

http://afroniquelyyou.com/?p=177

http://afroveda.blogspot.com/2009/03/grow-it-by-chicoro.html

http://newlynatural.com/blog/?p=830

http://www.textureplayground.com/blog/?p=1012

Review: Darcy's Botanicals Madagascar Vanilla Styling Creme

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
Our hand whipped Madagascar Vanilla Styling Creme is an all natural hair butter cream for moisturizing, styling and conditioning your natural coils.

It absorbs instantly into hair to replenish much needed moisture, provide softness, sheen & encourages health hair growth.

This highly moisturizing creme is very thick & concentrated so a little goes a long way. It is perfect for type 3-4 naturals:)

It has a very thick concentrated buttercream consistency with the sweet smell of gently infused African Madagascar Vanilla that is truly heavenly! Our customers love the scent. Many say it smells like vanilla ice cream, some say it smells like a sweet bourbon vanilla, depending upon how long we infuse the vanilla:)

Once you try it, you'll be hooked!

PRODUCT INFORMATION
-------------------
HOW DOES THIS WORK?
Our Madagascar Vanilla Styling Creme is a luscious blend of all natural oils that will provide healthy conditioning, add sheen, softness & moisture to your naturally curly hair.

WHAT'S IN IT?
Organic Palm Oil, Organic Aloe Vera, Organic Madagascar Vanilla, Vegetable Emulsifying Wax, Candelilla Wax, Organic Castor Oil, Rice Bran Oil, Organic Jojoba Oil and Potassium Sorbate.

HOW DO I USE IT?
*Use it as a hair moisturizer to naturally condition dry curls, locs & waves.
*Use as a styling butter for twists, braids, afros, and locs.
*Use to promote healthy hair growth
*Many of our customers also use it as a body butter!!! Works great as a multi-purpose hair & body butter:)

REVIEW
If you are a fan of hair butters, you will probably love this product because it is the texture of a thick creamy butter.

The product has a very pleasant fragrance that is rich but subtle. It had great hold for a two-strand twist setting but my hair requires a bit more moisture. I had already used a natural leave-in conditioner under the product. I probably could have gotten better results if I had used a creamy moisture on top of the leave-in.In addition, I'm not a fan of waxes so I could have passed on the Emulsifying and Candelilla waxes.

If you are fan of butters, I ask that you give the product a try for yourself because we all know that different heads of hair thrive on different things.

Natural Hair Community Entrepreneur, Sonya of Epiphany Frostings

I first met Sonya on Nappturality. She is another one of my online friends whom I quickly to a liking to as she often came to my fotki hair album to leave the nicest comments.

Sonya radiates a warm spirit in addition to be funny and very personable. She has developed a fabulous line of natural products called Epiphany Frostings that can be used from the top of your head to the tip of your toes.



Current offerings include:
Aloe Butter Frosting, Mango Butter Frosting, and Muscle Rub. Cocoa Butter Frosting will be offered in the very near future.

You can request a choice of essentials oils in a scented/unscented base.

All products are made using 100% organic ingredients.

Products are currently available in a 2 oz. sample or 4 oz. 8 oz. jars are coming soon and I can't wait.

Be sure to stop by Sonya's Blog A day in the Life of a Bored Nappy. You can also visit her hair album at http://www.fotki.com/diman99.

On to the interview!
********************
What would you like the natural hair community to know about Sonya?

I am one of the coolest, laid back people you could ever meet! I'm a single mother of 1 awesome 10 year old boy. I work full time as a debt collector, and part time as a skiptracer & repo woman. I dont really meet any strangers. Some years back I started saying hello to each and every person I met (because I was really shy), after that I would stop at least 1 person a day to compliment them (ya know, just pay it forward). Since then I think I've become a bit more outgoing and extroverted. I love to see people smile, so I do my best everyday to make that happen!

What motivated you to start your own online retail store?

Well, I went natural August 21, 2007. From that point I became a lot more mindful of how I took care of myself. I frequented several hair boards each and every day for tips and pointers. Everyone was looking for their own "holy grail" product lists, so I would buy as much as I could afford to get perfect hair & skin. I tallied up my receipts and realized that I had spent hundreds of dollars on products and the great majority did NOT meet my expectations. Everything was so expensive. My hair and skin was becoming high maintenance & I didn't like that. I started by trial & error making my own "concoctions" that would double as hair & skin moisturizer (just to try and save some money). I started giving jars away to my mom & best friend and they loved it. One morning, while playing kitchentian, I just felt a sense of peace & I felt so excited all of a sudden. I just felt the phrase, "if it's meant to be, everything else will fall into place." I called my mama and she said, "I think it's time to start your company." What I had was my "Epiphany" and what she gave was my "Confirmation." I started giving out more samples and I got really good reviews, and "Epiphany Frostings" was born.

What will one find at Epiphany Frosting?

I feel that each and every person who tries "Epiphany Frostings" will find something they can appreciate in it. You will find a product that looks like whipped frosting, but feels like silk against your skin. It doubles as both a hair and skin moisturizer. Most of the women that I meet are looking for something to give the perfect amount of moisture and shine but doesn't cost an arm and a leg.. No one likes cluttered closets, so with this product you get everything you're looking for all in one jar. It's something the whole family can use. I'm also offering a muscle and joint rub that may not cure your pain, but it will help to lessen the pain. The ingredients are all natural and I will add scent based on the individual's specifications, so you won't have to walk out of the house smelling like a medicine cabinet. I'll also offer a Total Body Care Oil again that can be used from the top of the head to the bottom of the feet. This oil can be used as a massage oil, bath oil, moisturizer and in hot oil treatments.

Where do you hope to see the store a year from now?

A year from now, my goal is that "Epiphany Frostings" will be a household name. I want to know that people everywhere are using my product and their skin and hair is thriving because of it. I would love to be able to focus my attention full-time to the creation and preparation of new products. I plan to also expand my product line to offer all natural hair & body shampoos and conditioners and to also offer bath salts and soaps.

Anything else you’d like the readers to know?

No tree nuts will be harmed in the making of these products! lol I am severly allergic to nuts as well as so many others in the population. It can be daunting to find a product that doesn't include nut oils or butters. Because I want everyone to love this product as much as I do, each batch is made just the way you want it. This is like my baby. Everything I do is by hand, no mass production, so if you have a specific allergy and you express that to me, I will definitely take that into consideration when you place your order.

My review!
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For me, a true test of a fabulous moisturizer is one that it not greasy and that you can still feel at least three days later. The aloe butter frosting that I tried was all that and more. I had Sonya blushing when I told her that the whipped texture very much reminded me of Karen's Body Beautiful Hair Cream. Of course, Sonya found that statement to be quite flattering.

When I first received my sample, I quickly opened it and the energizing smell of mint flooded the air. I was so tempted to dig in to the product for use on my old twists but waited until the weekend to use it on a fresh set of twists over alba leave-in conditioner and castor oil to seal in my moisture. I air dried and later used my homemad spritz to moisten and the fabulous frosting to twists. A moisture test for me is to squeeze my twist and see if I feel and see moisture on my fingers. With Sonya's frosting, I was still able to feel and see the moisture on day three, which was wonderful.

zainab1

Stop through and check out my girl zainab1's fabulous and EXTENSIVE post "How to Oil Your Hair Properly". Be sure to visit her blog Au Naturale again soon! You will not regret the visit.

And, she posted the image below of my NEW HAIR IDOL. OMG! I'm in LOVE, AGAIN. LOL

Natural Hair Community Entrepreneur, Ekua of AyurNatural Beauty

I met the beautiful and elegant Ekua on Naturallycurly.com's Curltalk Hair forum and we immediately became online friends.

Ekua has a beautiful spirit that shines through from a far and I'm privileged to have the honor of debuting her new oline Ayurvedic market, AyurNatural Beauty.



AyurNatural Beauty is a beauty and health boutique carrying Ayurvedic herbal essentials for the hair, face, skin, & overall health. Product offerings range from Ayurvedic remedies for hair loss, hair growth, anti-aging, clear skin, digestion, weight loss, and others.

Some of the products you will find at AyurNatural Beauty are:

Hesh Pharma Herbals including Amla, Brahmi, Neem, Shikakai and many others.
Mehandi Henna
Herbal Hair Care
Herbal Skin Care
Herbal Supplements
Herbal Hair Loss

I myself have often went to online Indian stores to order an Ayurvedic product after reading the rave reviews on many of the popular hair boards, but have quickly backed out my order due to outrageous shipping prices. Often times, the shipping is as much or more than the actual product so I'm excited to find a supplier that will meet the needs of us all. INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING IS ALSO AVAILABLE!

Now, on the the interview...
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What is it that the online Natural Hair community should know about you?
Hi, I’m Ekua, pronounced (eh-kwee-ah) even though most people say (eh-koo-ah). It’s an Akan (Ghana) name for a Wednesday born female. Now that the name curiosity is out of the way... lol….

In general, I’m just a woman trying to navigate through this thing called life and have fun in the process. I’ve been described as that cool sister that people would like to have. I think that comes from a combination of things, like my humor, my loyalty, my insight and keen intuition, and my protective ways. For me, I just like helping people and if I’m not helping, then I don’t feel like I’m serving my life’s purpose. I want people to be better from having known me. That’s how I operate my life.

I’ve been natural for over a year now. It’s been an interesting experience of personal rediscovery. Learning your natural hair truly is a journey, sometimes sweet, sometimes frustratinG. Although I have a ways to go, I already know that I’m committed to my natural hair for life. I really have come to love my hair and in that, I’m loving myself even more.
Oh yeah, I’m also married, mother of one handsome son, and I own a smart, but crazy Jack Russell terrier… she’s barking at a neighbor right now… lol

What motivated you to start your own online retail store?
The experiences and stories of women on various hair boards.

I’ve only been on hair boards since late last year. I lurked a lot at first before becoming active. From then until now, no matter what hair board I visit, there’s this common reoccurrence of women who would love to try ayurvedic and herbal products from India for their hair and skin, but they don’t have local access to a store that sells them. Many of these women report that most online alternatives have been either unaffordable, didn’t have all of the products they were looking for, or just had poor customer service -- sometimes a combo of things. I felt really lucky to be able to find what I needed locally, but once I experienced how beneficial ayurvedic herbs were to my hair and skin, I started selling a little of my personal stash on the side, just so they could share in the benefits too. The thing is, there is only so much you can get at the Indian stores on ground, and only so many offerings per store, so I knew I wasn’t going to really make a difference.

It’s funny how divine ordinance works. When your intentions are really true, the solution does come. Not even a few days later, I was out trying to refill my own stash after just having sold all that I had to a nice sister online. It was that day I met the person who could give me access to much of what I was looking for. From there I went to work with a partner, doing research, building the store, competitive analysis, and all the other necessary tasks that need to take place before doing business.

Thus AyurNatural Beauty was born. It’s my hope that AyurNatural Beauty will bridge that gap to provide the access, for great prices, with great customer service. It’s really just that simple.

What will one find at AyurNatural Beauty?
You will find popular health and beauty herbal products directly manufactured in India where Ayurveda has been a way of life for thousands of years. We carry all Hesh brand powders for hair and skin, ranging from alma to brahmi to rose petal powder to manjishta to kalpi tone to kapoor kachli and so forth. You’ll find a number of hair oils by Dabur. We also have a private label Rajasthani mehndi henna in a fine and even finer premium sift for great prices! You’ll also find interesting offerings that are lesser known, such as Vicco Tumeric Skin cream which is great for skin irritations including eczema. We have a new hair fall solution by Parachute, Kalonji Oil (black seed oil), a number of herbal supplements and more!

Where do you hope to see the store a year from now?
Well, this first year will be about establishment of relationships with my customers as well as with other vendors and suppliers. A year from now, I’m hoping to expand AyurNatural Beauty’s offerings to not just include brand names, but also ingredients as well. I’ve already received a few requests to get in more ayurvedic and herbal oils and additional botanical powders and believe me, I am working on it! Eventually, I’d like to provide offerings from Africa, and not just shea butter and cocoa butter, but also lesser known herbs that have great beauty and health benefits. Still that may be a while coming. Ultimately, I hope to be a one stop shop, offering access to ayurvedic and herbal product brands as well as herbal ingredients that aren’t widely available, while keeping it all relatively affordable.

Anything else you’d like the readers to know?
Hmmm…

I’m working on a blog that will provide news on store updates, specials, and more information about the products that are carried in the store. One of the features that I will have is an Ayurvedic Herb Spotlight, where I will focus on one herb, such as amla or brahmi, provide information, and share experiences and allow for readers to share their experiences as well.
From time to time, I may add something random, but the blog will be primarily an extension of AyurNatural Beauty – The Store.

For those who like to add cassia and indigo to their henna mixtures, we will have cassia and indigo powders to offer very shortly!

Also, there will be a One Day Sale sometime in late August! More details will come soon, so stay tuned!

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A giveway from AyurNatural Beauty will be announced in the near future so, STAY TUNED!

Special thanks to you Ekua!

I wish you much success with this endeavor.

Avocado Oil

Avocado oil is know to promote healthy, strong, thick hair. It is rich in amino acids, proteins, and vitamin A, B1, B2, D, E, and Beta carotene. It is one of the few oils that act as a humectant so it adds moisture to the hair.

It is commonly used as a lubricant in both cosmetics and hair products due to it's moisturizing and regenerative properties. It feels light and is an excellent emollient. It is comprised mainly of linoleic acid, oleic acid, palmitic acid. It also contains several other fatty acids.
It can be used on both dry and wet hair. Based on my research, many people find it to be better for dry hair.

You can also use it to infuse herbs resulting in a rich conditioner. You can also use it to treat scalp problems because it penetrates to nourish the scalp. It also encourage healthy hair growth and women overseas have relied on it for years.

Yes To Carrots Pampering Hair Mud Conditioner

On the manufacturer web site:
Feel glamorous everyday with C is for Conditioner, ideal for smoothing and taming even the most wayward hair.

Our C is for Conditioner combines Dead Sea Mud, organic carrot, organic pumpkin, organic sweet potato, organic melon and organic orange – simply delicious.

On the bottle:
Why we C?
Hair should be touchable, like a big plate of yummy carrots. C is for Conditioner because C is ideal for smoothing and taming even the most wayward hair. C is for Conditioner will nourish, condition and soften, inspiring tangle free and healthy hair. Excellent for soothing dry scalp.

How to C?
Directions: After shampooing, apply conditioner generously to your hair and massage onto the scalp for 2 minutes while thinking about your next vacation. Leave for 2-3 minutes. Wash thoroughly and comb while wet.

Now you C!
Yes to Carrots is a new concept in skin and hair care that combines vitamins and minerals with juices from the “orange color” product group and Dead Sea Mud. Dead Sea Mud has world renowned detoxifying properties including 26 minerals which cleanse, detoxify and mineralize the hair and skin naturally. Orange fruits and vegetables are rich in Beta-Carotene, well known for its anti-oxidant and anti-aging properties. Contains no animal ingredients. Paraben Free.

Ingredients
Water (Aqua), Dead Sea Water (Maris Aqua), Silt (Maris Limus), Magnesium Chloride, Chamomila Recutita (Chamomile) Extract, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Oil, Olea Europaea (Olive) Oil, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Calendula Officinalis Oil, Daucus Carota (Carrot) Seed Oil, Daucus Carota (Carrot) Juice, Cucurbita Pepo (Pumpkin) Juice, Ipomoera Batatas (Sweet Potato) Extract, Cucumis Melo (Melon) Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract, Honey (Mel) Extract, Fragrance (Parfum), Dimethicone, Triticum Vulgare (Wheat Germ) Oil, Imidazolidinyl Urea, Cetrimonium Chloride, Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Peel Extract.

Review:

Yes to Carrots was thick and rich, which was a pleasant surprise. It also had a very pleasant light but fragrant smell.

I love thick conditioners so it felt great going into my hair. I deep conditioned with it for about an hour using a store bought conditioning cap.

This was the first time I've use a conditioner with cones since going natural.

It was probably psychological but my hair felt coated after rinsing with my bands in. So, I removed my bands and re-rinsed section by section.

My hair was very soft and manageable after the final rinse. I immediately applied Beauty Without Cruelty leave-in.

Will I use again? Heck yeah, I have a full bottle. lol. But seriously, it was a great conditioner and a little goes a long way. Bonus, you get 16 ounces for $7.99 and, it's available at select Target, Walgreens and Walmart stores and various others.

Aryurvedic Hair Care Remedies

* Henna: conditions and strenghtens.

* Shikakai:
promotes hair growth

* Neem:
relieves dry, itchy scalp
widely used in ayurvedic hair oils
Used to treat scalp disorders and psoriasis
gives you shiny, silky, stronger hair
encourages growth.

* Amla:
promotes hair growth
thickens hair
prevents premature graying.

* Methi (fenugreek):
Reduces hair loss, and thinning
Treats dandruff.

* Bhringraj:
improves the condition of the hair
improves quality of hair color
promotes healthy scalp and hair

* Brahmi:
Improves hair growth
Memory enhancer

* Nagarmotha:
Stimulates hair root
Treats scalp disorders

* Ginger:
Increases blood circulation to your scalp
Promotes faster hair growth

* Hibiscus:
Astringent for oily hair
Soothes eczema
Treats dry scalp conditions

Information obtained from http://hennablogspot.com/

Pretty Wrap is Having a Sale!!!

The ivory and strawberry ice wraps are both on sale for $9.99 for a limited time.

Pretty Wrap is a 100% silk bonnet that covers your entire head but looks like a typical head scarf. Nonabsorbent fabrics like silk, are highly recommended for protecting your hair at night because they help with moisture retention and prevent dryness by allowing your hair's protective oils and moisture to remain in tact...

The company also offers a variety of 100% silk headbands at VERY affordable prices.

Click "here" to read my complete review.

25% off Jamaican Black Castor Oil June 22, 2009 through June 28, 2009...

at Sam's Caribbean Market with code 2009-SN.



I ordered the 8 oz. today for less than $15 total.

http://www.sams247.com/detail.aspx?ID=13291

Review: Qhemet Biologics - Cocoa Tree Detangling Ghee

From the Qhemet Biologics web site:
Softens & detangles with pure Cocoa Butter and nourishing botanicals!

Product Description:
* Restores manageability, softness and elasticity to normal to very dry hair. Smoothes cuticles, improves combing ability and reduces breakage.
* Natural dark chocolate scent.

Ingredients: Distilled Water, Nettle, Barley, Horsetail Extracts, Pure Cocoa Butter, PPG-3 Benzyl Ether Myristate, MSM Sulfur, Cetyl Alcohol, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Behenamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Butylene Glycol, perservatives (paraben and formaldehyde free)

Review: If you like the smell of pure cocoa, you will love the smell of Cocoa Tree Detangling Ghee as it smells very much like an old-fashioned cocoa butter stick.

The product texture is thick and creamy with a slight texture to it.

I used the product as a leave-in conditioner by applying section by section prior to twisting my hair in large twist to air dry.

I was afraid it was going to cause a serious acne flair up because by the next morning. I had a sore spot on the side of my forehead and thought for sure that a big pimple was on the way. Luckily, it passed with and I didn't suffer any major outbreaks.

The product left my hair well conditioned and very moisturized. I found the product to leave my forehead a little oily the first couple of days, which I HATE.

I LOVE Qhemet Biologics Amla/Olive Heavy Cream, Olive/Honey Hydrating Balm, and Amla Oil Pomade and have used all three successfully for quite some time. The retail price is $14 for 5 ounces for so I jumped at the chance to try the product for $10 with shipping when I was contacted directly by a member of Naturally Curly's Curltalk forum.

I will not be purchasing the product again as I didn't like the overly greasy feel but am thrilled that I had the opportunity to try it.