Pretty Wrap

Pretty Wrap is a 100% silk bonnet that covers your entire head but looks like a typical head scarf. Nonabsorbent fabrics like silk, are 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.

You know longer have to be embarrassed to protect your hair at night when your man is visiting because it's much sexier than the typical satin bonnet. It's also perfect for running errands on days when you don't have time to do your hair.

The wrap is available in four colors. Customer service is excellent and shipping is quick and inexpensive.

They also offer a variety of silk headbands.

http://www.prettywrap.com/

Amla Oil

Amla (Emblica Officinalis)

The Amla fruit yields an oil that has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine to condition the hair and scalp.

Benefits of Alma oil:

Penetrate the scalp to strengthen hair at its root

Promotes stronger, healthier hair growth

Enriches pigmentation to prevent premature greying of the hair

Reverses abnormal hair loss

Prevents dandruff

Increases the strength of hair follicles (and thus preventing hair-fall).

Prevents split ends

Rejuvenates dull and damaged hair

Apply a small amount of Amla oil after washing to obtain a rich, natural shine and soften the texture to the hair.

Karen's Body Beautiful Leave-In Conditioners - Buy 2, Get 1 Free

Hair Milk, Hair Nectar, and Super Silky

The Many Uses of Herbs for Hair

By Reesa babe'

Many of us will always have issues with our hair. As the Golden Book says "your hair is your beauty" and many of us truly believe that. We spend thousand of dollars per year on products and services that promise to improve the look and texture of our hair. Many times we attempt to grow it out while other times we cut it off, it's a never ending cycle with hair.

Herbs have been used in hair and on the body for the past 500 hundred years. Before there were perfume, people would use herbs to disguise the "stink" odor on those that had not bathe for months. Since it was the norm to not bathe more than twice per year.

Herbs use was as a medical remedy, it was used for everything from A to Z. The persons administering these herbs were once classified as witch doctors. In our modern day herbs are the norm to use and are being used as herbal remedies taken orally or topically. The urge or the need comes from the over use of chemical sand the effects-it as had on society.There are various herbs that are used to combat certain issues .

I will name some in the category in which the work to accomplish the goal that's needed.

Oily hair is the over production of oil, produced by the glands. It protects your hair from breakage and keep your scalp in good condition. However, not everyone likes their hair stringy and looking dirty.

Peppermint,bergemont,witch hazel, basil,rosemary, thyme and lemon grass.

Hair growth is what most women thrive to achieve when caring for their hair. This is possible with the right treatments and the right proceeder's.

Camphor, nettle, sage,lavender,aloe Vera,dandelion and colts foot.

Astringents use to clean the scalp with irritations such as fungal infection, eczema or oily scalp.

Rosemary, tea tree,nettle, sage, peppermint, chamomile, lavender and lemon juice(not a herb but very important)

Hair loss is the most feared occurrence in both male nd female and can be caused by many factors including diseases, not taking proper care of your hair and genetics.

Kelp, nettle, sage, rosemary and thyme.

Moisturizer is any concoction use to add moisture or add hydration to the hair.

Comfrey, chamomile, basil, and lecithin. Use avocado oil, Shea butter or almond with the infused herbs to create a moisturizer.

All these herbs must be infused individually and mix no more than two or three to make hair tonic, it should be left in the hair.

Source
Use Cosmetic herb for skin care, hair care, beauty care and toiletries.
Cosmetech, Institute of National and Modern ed. 2000. HSIDC shed 138

2009 © Associated Content, All rights reserved.

Beware: Three Grades of Glycerin

Information was provided by natlfro on yahoo.com on Mon May 26, 2008 10:50 am (PDT)

Please be aware that there are 3 grades of glycerin.

Food "vegetable" glycerin

USP glycerin

Technical glycerin

Vegetable glycerin is chosen solely by some as it is made from a vegetable base and is used internally by some.

Plain usp glycerin is produced synthetically and uses petro chemicals and can be purchased from any local pharmacy very cheaply.

Technical grade glycerin is produced from three different processes and mainly unregulated.

Although usp glycerin is safe and is in tons of consumer products, it
is distinct from vegetable glycerin. If your product does not
specify 'Vegetable Glycerin' it more than likely is not vegetable
glycerin.

During the past several years, products from China being imported
caused alarm as the news reported that some of these products contained
deadly ingredients.

Below is a link from the FDA where glycerin also is a the list of
suspected substances. Initially products from Panama were suspected
but later traced to Chinese manufacturing. The links below will assist you in making your purchase decisions:.

http://www.fda.gov/ora/fiars/ora_import_ia5502.html

http://www.cleaning101.com/oleo/USPGlycerin.pdf

Top Five Waysto Achieve Healthy Natural Hair by Diane Da Costa

What are the top five ways to achieve healthy natural hair?

* Always shampoo and condition with a hydrating or moisturizing system. Locs and braids require a cleansing or detoxifying shampoo first, then follow up with a hydrating shampoo. Try a steam herbal conditioning treatment at least once a month. Relaxer shampoo and conditioning systems generally contain too much protein to soften natural hair and are really not the best, unless they are botanical in nature. Natural hair thirst for moisture and humectants.

* Never comb through your tresses while completely dry. Always mist with water first, then apply a light leave-in-conditioner or mist like, Tai Texture Lavender Mist or Jane Carters Solution Revitalizing Leave-in-conditioner.

* Always use a wide tooth wooden or hard plastic comb to dangle and style. This is one of the number one reasons why natural hair breaks--combing through with a fine tooth comb. Remember NATURAL does not mean maintenance free. You still have to comb through your hair at least by using your hands as a claw comb or tool.

* Try to schedule a cut or shaping at least every 2 - 3 month. Curly hair can be very tricky!! Most times you can't recognize split ends until you have around 2 inches of damaged hair. Any time you are combing your mane from root to ends and you notice the comb struggling to easily pass through the hair strands, then you have split ends and they must go. If not, they will continue to ride up the hair shaft creating more damage. Don't wait until the last minute to handle this matter.

* Protect your tresses at night with a silk or satin scarf, satin pillow case or a satin pillow. For natural set styles, especially twisted out styles, always wear a shower cap in the bath or shower and use your hands, not a comb to style your perfectly spiral curly look. Combs and picks will ultimately disturb the curl pattern of the fresh set.

Donna Marie Lock & Twist Pudding

Beauty by Donna Marie

You asked for it, and its here! This pudding cream is perfect for making silky, soft locks and twists. The Lock & Twist pudding provides enough hold to mold your locks and twists as well as super conditioning and moisturizing elements that help keep your hair shiny and soft.

Paraben-free

mineral oil-free

Phtalates free

Ingredients: Deionized water, aloe vera gel, carbomer, kokum butter, mango butter, sweet almond oil, glycerin, flax seed gel extract, hibiscus extract, carrot seed extract, burdock root extract, agave nectar extract, silver citrate, potassium sorbate and natural fragrance.

Review:

This is my new favorite product for two-strand twisting. It contains my favorite products all combined into one. My hair thrives on aloe vera gel, butters, oil, glycerine.

I apply the product to small sections of hair concentrating on the roots and ends when two strand twisting. It provides a strong hold but it not at all drying.

I've gotten the best results of a twist set ever. I'm usually frizzy by day three but I have been able to keep twists in for five days and the majority still look fresh.

I tie them down and night and let shower steam and spritz plump them in the morning.

I'm hoping to make it until Friday with this set of twists.

If a product can help my twist to last eleven days, I'm a fan for life.

The product is all natural and the list of ingredients used are easy to obtain from the Donna Marie web site.

Natural Preservatives

Essential Oils - Some essential oils can be considered as natural preservatives. This is because of their antiseptic qualities. Ti tree, Eucalyptus and Lavender are probably the most well known oils used in this manner.

Grapefruit Seed Extract - This oil is obtained from the crushed seed of the grapefruit. It is reputed to be a natural antibiotic as well as an antiseptic and disinfectant. This is a safe preservative for use in beauty products that contain water.

Neem Oil - This oil is relatively new on the health scene, but it has been used in India for a long time. It is reputed to be antifungal and antibacterial.

Rosemary Extract - is a powerful antioxidant. It also helps to minimize the oxidation and of some vitamins and amino acids.

Vitamin E (d-alpha Tocopherol) - This is probably the most well known natural preservative for oils. It contains antioxidants that can prevent oils from going rancid.

The PJ in ME

Early November 2007, close to two months after my last

The PJ in me has tried many products and its time to share some reviews with you.

The product lines that I will be reviewing include:

Asha's - Hair Creme Dress

Aubrey Organics - Honey Suckle Rose Conditioner, White Camelia Conditioner, Rosa Mosqueta Shampoo, Island Naturals Conditioner, Mandarin Magic Hair Moisturizing Jelly

Aveda - Be Curly

Blended Beauty - Curly Frizz Pudding, Happy Nappy Styles, and Soy Creme Shampoo

Burt's Bee - 2 minute Deep Conditioner

Curls - Milkshake, Whipped Cream, Quenched Curls

Donna Marie - Lock and Twist Pudding

Giovanni - Direct Leave-in

Jane Carter Solution - Hair Nourishing Cream and Nourish and Shine

Jason Natural Cosmetics - Biotin Shampoo and Conditioner and Color Enhancing Red Shampoo

Kinky Curly - Knot Today and Curling Custard

Kiss My Face - Upper Management Styling Gel

Nature's Gate - Conditioner

Naturtint

Oyin Handmade - Honey Hemp Conditioner and Whipped Pudding

Qhemet Biologics - Alma/Olive Heavy Cream, Olive/Honey Hydrating Balm, Creme Detangler

Taliah Waajid - Twist and Lock Gel, Herbal Cleanser Shampoo, Protective Mist Bodifier

It's My One-year Nappiversay Ya'll.

Tuesday February 17, 2009 represents a pivotal moment in history for me.

I begin my transition to napptural hair beginning August 24, 2007 after receiving my last chemical fire cream fix.

I BC'ed (did the Big Chop) on February 17, 2008.

Please view my hair album by clicking "here".

I dedicate the first year of my napptural success to YOU!!! My internet sistahs, for helping me make it this far in my journey.

Without the community of my online napptural hair families, I wouldn't be here.

Rhonda

Vatika Oil

Dabur Vatika Hair Oil is a premium coconut hair oil enriched with Henna, Amla Indian Gooseberry), Lemon and five other trusted herbs. Vatika's unique natural formulation ensures deeper oil penetration. Giving your hair and scalp complete nourishment for problem free, healthy hair. While Henna forms a protective coat to prevent oxidation, Amla strengthens the hair-roots and the astringent action of Lemon prevents dandruff.

Vatika Hair Oil Benefits

o Herbal oil for nourishment to the scalp and hair

o Superior to coconut oil as it contains vital herbs and milk with coconut oil base

o Herbs provide nourishment, prevent overall hair damage


Vatika Hair Oil Key Ingredients

Henna - colorant, hair conditioner & restorative

Amla - hair nourishment, delays graying & hair fall

Harad - protects from UV rays, delays graying

Bahera - maintains hair color

Neem - anti-microbial, fights dandruff & hair fall

Brahmi - hair vitalizer

Kapur Kachari - antiseptic

Lemon Oil - astringent, fights dandruff

Coconut Oil - promotes hair growth & nourishment

Cow's Milk - natural nourishment for scalp & roots


Vatika Hair Oil Usage

Take 8-10 ml of oil, depending upon hair length and volume. Apply and massage gently using both the palms and fingers.

Take another 2-3 ml of oil if required. Also apply the oil into the scalp and massage gently using your fingers. The application can continue for 5-7 minutes.

Preferably apply the oil in the night and keep the oil on the hair overnight. In the morning wash the hair with shampoo.

However, if you don't feel comfortable with oily hair, wash the hair after 30-40 minutes.

Apply 2-3 times in a week.

In case the oil solidifies in cold climate please immerse container in a bowl of luke warm water.

How to Use Henna in Hair

Henna is a popular way to dye your hair. Not only will it add a nice color of red to most hair colors, but it also conditions your hair. Henna is all natural so it will not harm your hair like the dyes found in stores today. Some other benefits of henna as a hair color is that it strengthens your hair, makes it easier to manage, and can even get rid of dandruff.

1. Henna is red in its natural state. With the addition of walnut plant dye or coffee, henna can be brown. With the addition of chamomile, saffron, or senna, you can use henna to dye your hair blonde. If using just the pure henna, blondes will gain a natural red color, redheads will have a boost of color, brunettes will get an auburn color, but those with a full head of grey hair will only get orange hair. If you have ten percent or less grey hair, henna will dye the grey hair so that it looks like highlights.

2. Buy henna from a special store online, a beauty store, or possibly even a Middle Eastern specialty shop. You will need 100 grams of henna if you have short hair, 200 grams for collar length hair, 300 grams for shoulder hair, and 500 grams for waist length hair. You will be able to buy the henna prepared or in a powder which will come with directions on how to prepare.

3. You may want a friend to help you because henna can get really messy. Drape your shoulders with a towel and wear plastic gloves. It is a good idea to do a test on hair from your hair brush before actually dying your hair. Start at the bottom layers of your hair and work your way up. Keep hair not ready to be dyed in a clip on top of your head. Apply the henna paste to thin strips of hair at a time. Apply evenly. Keep doing this until all your hair is covered.

4. Wrap your hair in saran wrap or a shower cap. Now you must wait two to four hours.

5. Rinse your hair with cold water and a good conditioner. This will seal the hair shaft and make it shiny and healthy looking. Rinse until all of the paste is out.

6. Now that your hair is colored with henna, you must avoid any chemical processing and products, such as getting your hair chemically straightened or permed or putting dye in your hair. This will counteract the henna and damage the hair. Your hair can be safely dyed over and over with henna to achieve your desired color.

http://www.howtodothings.com/fashion-and-personal-care/a3437-how-to-use-henna-in-hair.html

My First Henna Treatment

I did my first henna treatment this weekend and that straw-like after effect that everyone talks about is nothing but the truth.

I mixed 100 grams of henna with 1 1/2 cups of cool green tea (recommended by Curly Nikki)and olive oil. I forgot to add the honey. I let the henna sit for 2 1/2 to 3 hours. I applied the henna with a applicator brush. I left it in my hair of about 5 1/2 hours.

I was able to quickly combat it by doing a deep conditioning treament. I used Aubrey Organics Honey Suckle Rose mixed with olive oil to dentangle and section while wet then left it on for a good 30 minutes after covering with a plastic cap and toboggan.

Prior to the deep conditioning treatment, I rinsed the henna out in the shower and shampooed with Karen's Body Beautiful Shampoo Bar in Juicy.

For moisture, I added Qhemets Biologic Alma/Olive Heavy Cream and Hydrating Balm and sealed with a homemade herb-infused oil.

I could immediately tell the difference in my hair before and after the henna treatment. I had very little shedding.

I'm curious as to whether the hair always feels like straw post henna or does it eventually get used to it. Hmmm!!!

It wasn't nearly as messy or hard to rinse out as people made it out to be.

I love the red highlight that it added to my two tone hair and will begin doing henna treatments every four weeks for three months to see if there is a remarkable difference in my hair as proclaimed by others.

My Moisture Routine

1. Detangle dry hair using conditioner. While detangling, put hair in six sections using cloth covered elastic ponytail bands. I'm currently loving Trader Joes Renew Citrus conditioner.

2. Poo/No poo each section removing bands. Replace bands after rinsing each section. I'm currently experimenting with two shampoo bars; Swastik Shikakai and Karen's Body Beautiful Bodacious Shampoo Bar in Juicy.

3. Condition each section using Conair Shower Comb to distribute conditioner throughout each section. My favorite conditioner is my never fail Aubrey Organics Honey Suckle Rose.

4. Apply leave-in conditioner to each section. My favorite is the discontinued Qhemet Biologics Olive Cream Condtioner and Detangler.

5. Apply moisturizer and oil to each section. Band each section as you go along as this is the the final step pre-styling. I love Qhemet Biologics Alma/Olive Heavy Cream mixed with Olive/Honey Hydrating Balm. I use a mix of oils to seal such as homemade growth oil, coconut oil, and vatika oil.

Neem Oil, Hair Growth And Hair Loss. Does Neem Hair Oil Work?

Author: Birgit "B" Bradtke
http://http://www.discoverneem.com/

Neem hair oil regularly receives rave reviews from customers.

The benefits from using neem oil on hair can be impressive. Neem oil can relieve dry and itchy scalp, dandruff, the symptoms of scalp psoriasis, as well as giving you silky, shiny, stronger hair and encourage growth. It really makes a big difference, and it does so seemingly over night.

People who have already tried everything to help their thinning, dry hair are besides themselves when seeing the immediate improvements after using neem oil hair products.

Neem oil can even help with hair problems like hair loss and premature graying, where loss of hair or loss of color is caused by imbalances and health issues, rather than normal aging. (Sorry, even neem oil won't stop the aging process...)

How Does Neem Hair Oil Work?

Healthy hair is the result of a healthy scalp, and your scalp is part of your skin. Everything that's been said about the use of neem oil for skin care is also relevant to using neem oil for your hair. But don't focus only on the neem oil.

Traditional Indian hair beauty treatments use neem leaf.

A watery extract, basically a tea made from neem leaves, is used as a rinse to prevent hair loss, and neem leaf pastes are used like conditioning packs. Those neem hair treatments soothe any irritations, prevent dryness and flaking, nourish the scalp and improve its general immunity and health. Exactly as they do for the skin on the rest of your body.

The neem treatment also leaves your hair shiny and silky, soft but strong. The downfall, neem oil stinks. But, it is easier to obtain and can be scented with the use of essential oil.

Most people's skin/scalp is dry from too much exposure to harsh chemicals, environmental toxins, not to forget the stuff in your average shampoo... Oil is good. Oil is a rich, nourishing treatment. Regular warm oil treatments, say with for example olive oil or coconut oil, are beneficial for your hair in any way.

How To Use Neem Oil On Hair

A neem hair oil based on other oils and enriched with neem leaf extract is probably the ideal way to use neem on hair. You have the benefit of an oil treatment and the benefits of neem, combined with ease of use and a beautiful scent.

Add some of it to your shampoo to make your own neem shampoo, or dilute it in a light carrier oil to make your own neem hair oil. (Olive, almond, coconut or jojoba all make great hair oils.)

For an intensive treatment massage neem hair oil into your hair and scalp, leave it for 30 minutes at least, up to over night, and then wash your hair with neem shampoo. You'll love the difference.

Olive Oil

There are some benefits of olive oil for hair. It is greenish in colour due to the small amount of chlorophyll present in the flesh from which the oil is extracted. Olive oil has emollient properties which makes it a perfect choice in hair care. Though it is a little heavy for scalp massage but it can be added in 50/50 concentration with some other base oil like, coconut oil, jojoba oil.

Olive oil is also great for Treating Dandruff and Hair Loss and for Controlling Frizz and Creating Shine. Olive oil does two things for your hair: it increases strength and improves overall flexibility.

The penetration level of olive oil is less as compared to coconut oil since the oil is viscid. To promote, lustrous, shiny, thick and beautiful hair, massage olive oil generously on your scalp and leave it overnight. It also helps clear dandruff and stops hair loss.

You can also use olive oil as a serum, take a small coin sized quantity of this oil in your palm and run it through your hair, it will add shine to hair and make it easy to comb. Olive oil tames frizzy hair, use it at least once a week for smooth and silky hair.

Olive oil is obtained by pressing or crushing fresh olives, this is the only oil which can be consumed as it is. This oil comes in different varieties like virgin oil, extra virgin, pure and light.

Extra virgin olive oil means, oil which is extracted in the first attempt by pressing or crushing olives. It is not subject to heat or cold, the procedure is very natural thus it is called the Extra virgin Olive oil. Of all the variants available in the market, Extra Virgin Olive oil is the best.

http://www.allhairlosstreatments.com/blog/olive-oil-for-hair/


http://www.olindaridge.com/Health-Resources/Drizzle-It-On-from-The-Passionate-Olive/Secrets-of-Great-Hair

Herbs for Hair Loss

People have been using herbs for hair loss since ancient times. Herbs, as widely accepted, trigger the body’s natural mechanism to tackle a health-problem. In the case of hair loss (referred to scientifically as Alopecia), the herbal remedies deal with the problem by increasing blood circulation to the area of hair loss, disinfecting the scalp in case of an infection and/or suppressing hormonal activity.

Some time-tested herbs for hair loss are:

Camellia Sinesis, better known as Green Tea is considered a great remedy for male pattern baldness. Catechins found in green tea inhibit the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase that converts male hormone Testosterone into hair-unfriendly Di-hydrotestosterone or DTH. Drink Green Tea or take it in the form of capsule to prevent hair loss.

He Shou Wu or Polygonum Multiflorum, a Chinese herb, has long been used as an effective remedy for hair loss. The herb is also known to promote growth of new hair. Also known as Fo-Ti, it is used in many commercial preparations. It is also available in the capsule form.

Horsetail, a good source of silica, prevents hair loss by making the hair (rather follicles) strong. It also enhances the shine of hair. Horsetail can be used with a baby shampoo.

Licorice extract helps prevent hair loss in women. Other effective herbs for women with hair-thinning problem are herbs such as Astragalas and Siberian Ginseng.

Pygeum Africanum or simply Pygeum is extracted from the bark of an evergreen tree. Like Green Tea, Pygeum too slows down the conversion of Testosterone to DTH, which weakens hair follicles. Available in pill forms, recommended dosage for Pygeum is between 60 mg and 500 mg per day.

Saw Palmetto, also known as Seranoa Repens, is among the most popular hair loss treatments presently available for men. Saw Palmetto works by lowering the levels of DTH. Recommended dosage for Saw Palmetto is two 160 mg capsules daily.

Urtica Diocia or Stinging Nettle is the other most popular name among herbs for hair loss when it comes to treating male-pattern baldness. The optimum dosage is 50-100 mg per day. To achieve best results, use Nettle along with Pygeum and Saw Palmetto.

There are many more herbs, which are used to prevent or retard hair loss – Aloe, Arnica, Brahmi, Birch, Bhringaraj, Catmint, Licorice, Marigold, Mulberries, Parsley, Sage and so on and so forth. Herbs for hair loss, however, are selected depending on the reason for hair-loss.

If the hair loss results from dandruff, then the best remedy will be a mixture of Rosemary and Stinging Nettle. If it arises out of stress, you may try Ayurvedic Antistress Tea by mixing equal proportions of Jatamamsi and Brahmi.

Horsetail for Hair Loss

Simply stalling the hair loss will not be sufficient, you will also need re-growth of hair. Herbs like Burdock, Chamomile, Horsetail, Nettle and Rosemary stimulate hair-growth by promoting blood circulation to the scalp and supplying necessary nutrients. These herbs are as effective as herbs for hair loss but then you cannot expect any miracle, you will have to have patience to see the results.

Remember, once the hair follicles die, reversing the process is simply impossible. Be it herbs for hair loss or herbs for promoting hair growth, you will need to start your treatment pretty soon.

http://www.hairlosstreatmentforbaldness.com/herbs-for-hair-loss.html

Herb-Infused Oil

This is my Recipe for an Herb-Infused Oil

You will need a glass jar and a plastic tip bottle like those used to apply hair dye.

4 oz. Grapeseed oil
1 oz. Emu oil
1/2 oz. Vegetable glycerin
1/2 oz. Aloe Vera Juice
1/2 tbsp. Horsetail
1/2 tbsp. Nettle
1/2 tbsp. Calendula
1/2 tbsp. Burdock Root
4 Rosehips
Lavender, Chamomile, and Rosemary Essential Oil drops

I placed all the oil and herbs in a glass jar. I placed the jar in a pot of boiling hot water after turning the stove off and and left the herbs in the water until the water cooled. After three days, I poured the mix into my squeeze bottle and added the essential oils. I placed a piece of stocking over the top to act as a strainer during use.

It is recommended that you massage the oil into your scalp every few days.

My testimony: I haven't used the oil consistently in the suggested manner and don't have any more growth than expected within the first year of going natural. Average hair growth is 1/2 inch per month.

Conditioning/Moisturizing Spritz

You will need:

8 to 12 oz spritz bottle (can be purchased at the dollar store, Target, and Walmart)
2 tbsp. Aubrey Organics Honeysuckle Rose Conditioner
2 tbsp. Olive Oil
2 tbsp. Vegetable Glycerin
15 Essential Oil Drops
10 Rosemary
3 Chamomile
2 Lavender
Water

Mix all ingredients in a spray bottle.
Fill the spray bottle with warm water.
Shake to blend the ingredients

Shakevbefore each use as conditioner and oils separate when idle.

Amla Oil

According to Ayurveda, Amla is one of the best drug meant for the treatment of viccited Pitta-dosha. The same Dosha is also responsible for hair problems such as hair loss and premature greying of the hair. So Amla in form of oil is of great use in these cases.

Amla Oil is one of the world's oldest natural hair conditioners. As an Indian herb, amla oil has been used in India since a very long time. As Indian Ayurveda says, it is used as hair oil basically for its cooling effect.

BENEFITS & USES OF AMLA OIL :

* Amla Oil enriches hair growth and pigmentation. It prevents premature graying of hair, dandruff, increases the strength of hair follicles (and thus preventing hair-fall). Customarily, a small amount of Amla oil is applied to the hair after washing. This not only brings forth a rich, natural shine and soft texture to the hair, but also helps rejuvenate hairs that are dull and damaged. It also prevents split hair ends.

* Application of Amla oil over the scalp has a cooling effect. As such, it keeps the mind cool and promotes sound sleep.

* Amla oil along with various other formulations such as drugs like Brahmi, Shikakai and Reetha are very beneficial for mind, hair and body.

http://www.garrysun.com/amlaoil.html

Emu Oil

Derived from a substance that is produced by the Emu Bird.
Emu oil has been used for thousands of years in natural medicine and has internal and external healing properties. It is a deep penetrating natural moisturizer which penetrates the hair shaft / scalp quickly and easily. Once emu oil enters the hair's root, it acts as a powerful anti-inflammatory. This anti-inflammatory property helps to stimulate the hair's natural growing ability. Easily absorbed and does not sit on the top layer of the hair strand. Leaves the hair soft and shiny. Conditions and hydrates the scalp also. Studies have shown faster hair growth with the use of this oil. Known as the hair healer it awakens follicles with deep penetration! Excellent for moisturizing scalp and skin. Softens and smoothes while it conditions!
According to Michael Holick, M.D., Ph.D., and Professor of Medicine, Physiology, and Dermatology at Boston University School of Medicine, hair follicles become 20% more active when emu oil is applied and hair thickens when emu oil is applied over time. The effects are cumulative. This suggest that Emu Oil plays a part in simulating growth by increasing scalp circulation.

Some of the benefits of Emu Oil

-Offers the hair and scalp extreme moisture (softens and hydrates)
-Known to promote / stimulate hair growth
-Has Anti inflammatory, Anti Bacterial & Anti Microbial properties
-Penetrate deep into hair and scalp
-Emu Oil contains both Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acids which help
to get hair to the 8% moisture level to prevent breakage
- Helps with minor skin irritation
- Soothes the scalp
- Known to prevent the onset of gray hair!
-Known as the anti-aging emollient
-Emu Oil does not clog pores!
-Help skin and hair to withstand colder climates
-Used to treat multiple skin ailments such as psoriasis, minor skin burns and Eczema

Top Five Ingredients for Moisture & More

Top Five Ingredients for Moisture & More
Teri Evans | June 9th, 2008

It is the thirstiest of textures. Natural curls and kinks always crave mega doses of moisture. And there are many ingredients in curl-centric products that gladly answer that call. Flip over bottles of your favorite curl concoctions and chances are you’ll see the same key ingredients time and time again. But what makes them unique for curly girls? Here is a roundup of the top five ingredients that pack the best moisture-filled punch — and a whole lot more.

Shea Butter

What it does: Tames and clumps curls, reduces frizz.

Works best for: Dry, thick textures; 3B curl types and up. Fine hair? Stay away or find a product where it’s found lower on the ingredient list.

Why curlies love it: “Shea butter is heavy, dense and rich. It is a great emollient and has slight sunscreen properties.” — Stacey Canfield, founder of Blended Beauty, a hair care line for multiracial curlies

“It makes the hair really soft. If your hair is chemically processed, it’s really good for that, too, because it’s so moisturizing.” — Jessica McGuinty, founder of Jessicurl, a hair care line for curlies.

“It’s very rich and is always best when mixed in a conditioner. Even with the kinkiest thickest hair, though I wouldn’t put straight shea butter on the hair.” — Marsha Coulton, founder of Curl Junkie.

Vegetable Glycerin

What it does: Defines and separates curls, reduces frizz.

Works best for: All curl types. Thick textures should look for glycerin high up in the ingredient list.

Why curlies love it: “It’s a humectant so it attracts moisture from the atmosphere and puts it into your hair.” — Jessica McGuinty, Jessicurl

“It’s highly effective to help encourage the curl and, used in the right amount, it can help cut frizz. So if you’re in a humid environment, it draws moisture into the hair. But it’s tricky when you’re in a dry climate and use a product with a lot of glycerin. You may find it drying because it will take moisture from your hair, if there’s none in the air.” — Marsha Coulton, Curl Junkie

Jojoba extract

What it does: Heals dry or damaged hair, enhances shine. Helps define and clump curls.

Works best for: All curl types, especially thick textures.

Why curlies love it: “It’s the oil that most closely mimics the body’s natural oils so it’s great to use as a natural shine enhancer along the ends of curls, especially for those curlies avoiding cones like the plague.” – Nico Aceves, Bumble & Bumble stylist

“Since it resembles the lipids in the skin, it can help dissolve skin lipids to unclog pores. Clogged hair follicles slow down hair growth so this [ingredient] is nice to have in a scalp oil.” — Stacey Canfield, Blended Beauty

Avocado oil

What it does: Restores moisture to dry or damaged hair, enhances shine.

Works best for: Thirsty curls of all types.

Why curlies love it: “It contains denser lipids and several vitamins… it’s mostly used to enrich products with proteins and vitamins that other oils do not have.” — Stacey Canfield, Blended Beauty.

“It’s very nourishing and enhances the shine in hair. Even though it’s a light oil, it’s very nourishing and it’s okay to use whether your curly hair is thick or wavy and thin.” — Wendi Levy, co-founder of Mixed Chicks, a product line for multiracial curlies

“Fine hair should specifically look for this ingredient because it’s a lighter oil. It doesn’t provide the same dramatic clumping effect like jojoba does, but it improves the health of the hair, adds shine and bounce to the curls. If I had a deep treatment that would be an oil I would include.” — Marsha Coulton, founder of Curl Junkie

Aloe Vera

What it does: Protects hair from heat damage, smoothes hair, defines curls.

Works best for: All curl types, especially fine textures, due to its lighter weight.

Why curlies love it: “It’s lightly moisturizing with a low pH which helps seal the cuticle of the hair and that also encourages shine. It can help with detangling. Although, keep in mind, some people have sensitivities to aloe.” — Marsha Coulton, founder of Curl Junkie

“Aloe can be used to enrich the water content in a product, with vitamins B, C and carotene. It is also great for itchy scalps.” — Stacey Canfield, Blended Beauty

“I love to recommend aloe as a natural gel to impart hold without the dreaded crispy effect.” — Nico Aceves, Bumble & Bumble stylist

Shea Butter

Shea Butter can be used to add and maintain moisture in dry brittle hair. In addition to retaining softness and preventing breakage, it can be massaged into the scalp to stimulate hair growth and help prevent dry scalp symptoms. It also restores luster to damaged hair and helps to maintain hair’s natural shine.

Shea Butter has been used by Africans for many generations to protect and rejuvenate their hair and skin.It provides moisture to dry or damaged hair from the roots to the tips. It is especially ideal for Winter hair care as it repairs and protects against weather damage, dryness and brittleness. Shea Butter absorbs quickly and can be used to moisturize the scalp to without clogging your hair follicles.

Shea Butter is highly recommended for natural hair care but is particularly beneficial for processed and heat-treated hair because it is great for split ends and hair damaged from the excessive use of chemicals. In addition, it help to protect hair and skin from the harsh elements, such as wind, damaging sun rays, extreme heat, and cold weather. It is also used to protect your hair from damaging chlorine before and after swimming.

To use Shea Butter for a hot oil treatment, boil two quarts of water, place Shea Butter in a jar. Once the water boils, turn off the heat and place the jar of Shea Butter in the water until it melts. If the water cools before the Shea Butter completely melts, add more boiling water. Once the Shea Butter is melted remove the jar and apply the Shea Butter directly to your freshly washed hair. Be sure to cover the scalp as well. Place a plastic cap over your hair and let the Shea Butter penetrate into your hair for at least 30 minutes. For extra penetration, cover your hair with a warm towel or sit under the dryer.

Seven Myths About Highly-Textured, Natural Hair

The Truth about Natural Curly, Coily, Kinky Hair

Let us begin with a few basics about natural, aka Napptural, hair. Natural hair is hair that has not had its physical properties altered by chemical processes, including, but not limited to hair relaxers, texturizers, silkeners and jherri curls.

These products alter the natural texture of the hair by breaking down disulfide bonds, which hold together the keratins (proteins) in hair. We won't discuss the ins and outs of permanent chemical processes, rather this article will discuss natural hair and the myths associated with it.

Natural hair comes in many textures. Some natural hair is very tightly coiled; some is more loosely coiled or curled. Some textures have no curl pattern and no definition. Some textures have very visible definition. One head of natural hair alone can have more than one texture. These are all things to consider when talking about natural hair because actual textures vary just as much as the faces that proudly smile beneath it.

MYTH #1: Natural hair is hard to manage.
This myth probably really is number one. There is a huge misconception that naturally curly or coily hair is hard to manage. Simply, it is not. What many people do not understand is that highly-textured hair is very unique, even from looser, naturally curly textures. Any type of hair is hard to manage if it is being 'managed' in such a way that works against its natural texture. Those who embrace the natural texture of their hair often wear styles that compliment that texture, and are not trying to force their hair to do something it will not naturally do. Extreme manipulation of the hair is stressful not only to the hair, but also to the person who is doing the manipulation. Not understanding the natural hair texture is one of the main reasons many people return to relaxers.

MYTH #2: Natural hair is rough and tough.
Natural hair, contrary to obviously popular belief, is neither rough nor tough. Upon looking at a head of luscious nappturalness, some believe that it is rough to the touch. However, actually touching the hair (which is not recommended without consent) may reveal something entirely different. Most, in fact all, natural hair is very soft if properly moisturized and conditioned. African-American hair tends to be dry, but a good moisturizing and conditioning routine will keep the hair moist and soft. Any texture of hair that is denied proper moisture will be dry. Because natural hair is very full and thick, people often assume that it is super strong and tough. This is false. Each and every little bend in the shaft of the hair is a potential breaking point. When handling natural hair, you must be sure to be gentle because it is very delicate. In an Essence magazine article, Rodney Barnett, a trichologist, states, "'Think of your hair as a delicate piece of thread, not as a rope that can be knotted and twisted (30-Day Hair Repair).'"

MYTH #3: Natural hair is trendy.
No doubt many people choose to be natural for a myriad of reasons, including to be stylish or trendy. But in no way should anyone believe that the only reason to be natural is to be trendy or hip. For those of us who have made the decision not to conform to European standards of beauty, this natural is far from a trend. Many naturals have made a very conscientious resolution to love who they are entirely. Giving up caustic and carcinogenic relaxers is, surprisingly, not something that is favored amongst the African-American community. Enduring comments of disgust and disapproval are oftentimes an accepted part of being natural, and there is nothing trendy about that.

MYTH #4: Natural hair grows slowly and does not get long.
This is one of my favorites because it allows me to explain the wonder of highly-textured hair. Natural hair neither grows more slowly nor more quickly than relaxed hair. What naturals must take into account is what is known as shrinkage. Like a telephone cord, natural hair coils up tightly, more or less, thus increasing the surface area within a given length of hair. For example, six inches of relaxed hair is six inches, period. Six inches of tightly coiled hair could be up to twelve inches long when stretched. Natural hair, because of its density and volume, tends to grow big or out, as opposed to lengthy or down, depending on the actual texture of the hair. It is also a myth that the only way natural hair can be long is by locking the hair or wearing twists. This is very untrue.

MYTH #5: Most naturals wear twists and these twists are unattractive because they show the parts in the scalp.
Wrong answer. As with all freshly twisted or braided hair, the parts show the scalp. The beauty and magic of natural hair is that, within a day or even a few hours, the hair swells and gets a little fuzzy, creating a very beautiful and unique style. The only way for relaxed heads to achieve this look is with synthetic kinky twists. Another beautiful thing about twisting or braiding natural hair is that no product is needed. Using relaxed and synthetic hair, the hair must be spritzed with holding spray or burned at the ends to keep it from unraveling. Although companies manufacture loc and twist gels, many nappturals opt out of using any product other than water to twist or braid the hair. The natural coiliness of the hair keeps the hair from completely unraveling, and the style can last for days or even weeks. Twists are only one of many styles that showcase the versatility of napptural hair.

MYTH #6: Natural hair is not accepted in the work place.
While there have been instances of discrimination against those who choose to wear their natural hair, there are more examples of women who are working in all kinds of positions with their naturals. There are doctors, teachers, cashiers, social workers, writers, lawyers, artists, etc. who are proudly wearing their hair and bringing home checks. This is a completely bogus reason for thinking natural hair is unacceptable. Discrimination against natural hair is wrong and should not be tolerated.

MYTH #7 Natural hair makes one an exhibit or a spectacle of some sort; your intelligence will be overlooked.
False and false. If anything, natural hair entails a sense of self-awareness. Naturals are not societal anomalies. While a person may choose to express herself through her hair, no one should feel that natural hair will make her an exhibit. Any natural would find this belief to be highly offensive, not to mention downright incorrect.

Now, why, again, are you still relaxing?

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