Thursday, October 22, 2009

Co-washing 101.. Pt.3 Final~


So as I close my week long discussion on the importance on Co-washing..

I do hope everyone was able to get a few more tips to help you along your Hair Journey...

The simple Truth is I have noticed a huge difference when my hair is washed with conditioners versus shampoos very often…

So to close out here are some instructions to Co-washing:-

Instructions to Co-washing:-

1st wet hair really well get it nice and saturated. (to add extra softness you can use a pre-poo oil 45 minutes before co-washing)

2nd use conditioner number 1 and begin rubbing it in at the roots. Slowly and gently use the ball of your fingers as massage scalp. This removes the dirt and the build-up. Do not use nails as this may irritate the scalp! Continue and wash the shaft (the length of the hair). The rinse the conditioner thoroughly!

3rd use conditioner number 2 same process as step two; this time apply a generous amount of conditioner to the entire scalp and shaft. Use the hair clip and let it sit for 2 minutes or so.

Then use your wide teeth comb and gently comb and detangle the hair. Start at the ends and work the comb up to the roots. Rinse thoroughly!

4th use conditioner number 3; apply to the entire scalp and hair shaft. Try not to tangle the hair up, since you just spent your time detangling it. Use clip and let sit for 1-2 minutes… Comb thru again to be sure you got all the tangles out! Rinse thoroughly!

5th gently squeeze as much water out of the hair. Use a generous amount of leave-in-conditioner, applying to the scalp, hair shaft and the ends. Comb through hair one more time. Use hair clip and let sit. You’re all done!!!

Congratulations you just did your first successful Co-wash!!!

You can now whip the hair into a protective style... BAM..!!!

Leave comments and let us know how did you like your results..

Questions to ask your self and your hair:-

How does your hair feel?

How about the next day, how does your hair feel when it dries?


*Look out for my instructional video on Co-washing 101. - posted shortly*

Peace and Love

Anaiyah~


Sunday, October 18, 2009

Co-washing 101.. Pt.2

The method behind the madness and this is my logic and crazy system.

I choose 3 conditioners (these can be changed up till you find the right combination) I place them in a what I call a Co-wash Order”.

I use 2 or 3 because all conditioners are not created equal~ So here is the breakdown..




Conditioner number 1:

This is the conditioner that leaves my hair really dry; it almost feels like I shampooed my hair. So cool, I use this conditioner to act as a shampoo but not as harsh and it will remove dirt and build-up in the hair.

Conditioner number 2:

This conditioner acts as a replenishing conditioner. As it restores the softness and moisture that conditioner number 1 took out.

I know you’re probably wondering why use conditioner number 1in the first place. The reason is you want to wash the dirt and build up, just not all your sebum as well and if you can get this done with minimum damage then awesome..

Conditioner number 3:

Has a nice smell and will leave my hair feeling super soft as it adds to the moisture left by conditioner number 2.

Instructions to Co-washing:-

1st wet hair really well get it nice and saturated. (to add extra softness you can use a pre-poo oil 45 minutes before co-washing)

2nd use conditioner number 1 and begin rubbing it in at the roots. Slowly and gently use the ball of your fingers as massage scalp. This removes the dirt and the build-up. Do not use nails as this may irritate the scalp! Continue and wash the shaft (the length of the hair). The rinse the conditioner thoroughly!

3rd use conditioner number 2 same process as step two; this time apply a generous amount of conditioner to the entire scalp and shaft. Use the hair clip and let it sit for 2 minutes or so.

Then use your wide teeth comb and gently comb and detangle the hair. Start at the ends and work the comb up to the roots. Rinse thoroughly!

4th use conditioner number 3; apply to the entire scalp and hair shaft. Try not to tangle the hair up, since you just spent your time detangling it. Use clip and let sit for 1-2 minutes… Comb thru again to be sure you got all the tangles out! Rinse thoroughly!

5th gently squeeze as much water out of the hair. Use a generous amount of leave-in-conditioner, applying to the scalp, hair shaft and the ends. Comb through hair one more time. Use hair clip and let sit. You’re all done!!!

Congratulations you just did your first successful Co-wash!!!


You can now whip the hair into a protective style... BAM..!!! Your'e done...

From this step you can also t-shirt dry, then blow dry and style as usual as well~~~~

Try it out and let me know how did your hair respond...

You will notice less breakage and less shedding with a week.. I did..

* Note always moisturize and lock and seal.... details next blog!

Anaiyah~

Thursday, October 15, 2009

What is Co-washing 101, Pt.1

I am a huge advocate when it comes to co- washing!!! It is one of my favorite hair routines. I have been using the co-washing technique for many years.

Co-washing - is simply “washing” your hair with conditioner instead of washing with shampoo.

Yes, you read that correctly! I know what you must be thinking because I thought the same thing when I started washing with conditioner during a routine hair washing.

I always felt by not using the shampoo I was cheating or skipping a step. Until I did some research and found out that there was actually a term for washing with conditioner only.

It was then I realized that I was actually doing a good thing for my hair all these years!

The Truth is washing your hair with conditioners once or twice a week is actually very good for the health and silky shine of your hair. Especially if your hair type falls into a 4 or 3 category.

The main benefit of co-washing is to lock moisture into the hair and not strip the hair of its natural sebum to often.

Sebum:- the natural oil your scalp produces

*Side Note:~

Hair types in the 4 and 3's already have a somewhat low production of this " golden sebum" and so Co-washing more than 1 a week may works wonders!!!

Shampooing strips your hair of dirt and build up which is a very good thing, since dirt and build up can clog pores, which can lead so very slow growth.

The challenge is that many shampoos are not ph balanced very well and contain evil sulfates that dry up your hair by stripping too much of the sebum.

Through trial and error I came to this realization and I choose to co-wash my lovely locks 5 times a week. (This works fantastic for my hair type am a 3c)


I love the super softness I get from this technique versus shampooing. ..

Many times people ask me how I get my hair to grow so long and so fast!!!

Well part of my secret is that I listen to my hair….

I know, I know this sounds crazy.. but it's not.. .. As a matter of fact it is crucial to get healthy hair..

I try to hear what it is asking me for… it’s like talking your dog, your plant, yourself

( yes I know you do :-) )


My hair tells me when it’s dry, when it needs a trim, when it wants to be straight and so on…

*Note if the hair feels mushy and limp then discontinue the co-washing. Revaluate your hair routine. * Listen and see what your hair is asking for....


Tools you need to conduct an Awesome Co-wash:-

- Get 2-3 of your favorite conditioners

- Wide teeth comb

- Hair thingy (clip)

- Leave-in-conditioner



Look out for Part 2 on the instructions to Co-wash…..


Anaiyah~

Friday, October 9, 2009

Transitioning 101 - Pt.1

Transitioning is sorta the way it sounds.
It is the transition from chemically treated hair or processed hair back to the natural texture.

With this technique the new growth comes in and no touch-up using any relaxer or texturizer is done.

New growth is left un-tainted and natural.

After a few months many women do what is called the "Big Chop" to ONLY the chemically treated portion of the hair. Leaving only the beautiful natural new growth to flourish.

Transitioning can be a bit of a challenge. Due to the fact you must balance two textures of hair at the same time.

The trick is to have a stable routine of washing, co-washing, moisturizing and sealing on a daily basis.
This minimizes the breakage, dryness and shedding.

Mentally you also begin to worry, as you feel the difference from the flat chemical hair and your new alive new growth.
Don't be afraid, it will take some time to get familiar with your new growth.

Here are some quick tips I use as to maintain my hair during my Transitioning Journey:-

Co-wash 3-5 times a week.
Use a Leave-in-conditioner
De-tangle hair with a very wide teeth comb ( in shower with conditioner in the hair)
Air dry or T-shirt dry ( I prefer the Air dry)
Moisturize and Seal - Key is to Keep hair moisturized at all times!!!
Oil scalp- (Extra Virgin Olive oil, Castor oil)
Use protective styles- like Bantu-knots, twists, buns ( have fun find the style that works for you)


*Notice*: If you begin at any point experience severe breakage or shedding stop and evaluate your steps and product ingredients. Do a protein or moisturizing treatment assess your hair and see what it may need.


Ask these questions:

  • Does my hair shaft feel dry and tangle? (Need more moisture or a pre-poo)
  • Is my scalp itching? (may need to use a clarifying shampoo to remove product build up)
  • Did I change my diet? (Garlic supplements are good for shedding and multi-vitamins for overall health)

Remember everyone's hair is not the same. So you will have to do research and see what technique is right for you!

Anaiyah~

Just My Thoughts Pt. 3

Nappy, natural, kinky short, long, healthy hair is ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL....no matter the texture, length or color...

If you are wondering if the Big Chop is right for you do some research first.
Look at other women with the Big Chop style, as they will offer you a level of self-confidence.


Ask yourself this, do I have the strength to be myself?

Do I have Love myself enough to look in the mirror and Love my Kinky curls?




Oh wait don't assume I am talking just for the sake of sake of saying this..

I did the Big Chop and let me tell you it was one of the most FREEING experiences I ever felt.

I had long dread locks down to the middle of my back!!!
Yes, it was a shock to many of my friends, family, co-workers.

Did I lose friends YES, did I have crazy stares YES, and did I care NO!!!
Did I wonder how people were going to accept me or reject me.. Yes I did..

I did not let that stop me from remembering ..that I was Beautiful no matter what ..



I gave myself positive Affirmations!!!

Let me share a few of my affirmations in hopes that they can help you as they did for me..when I did my Big Chop..

When I look in the mirror I see beauty.
I know who I am ..
I know I am A STRONG BEAUTIFUL WOMAN OF COLOR...

I am in Love with my curls, I love the way they bounce back
They stand at attention on the top of my head...Just like a CROWN

I am so much more than my hair
My hair does not define the powerful being that my God has created me to be...
However, I am forever grateful...

I can use my hair to enhance my beauty in whichever way I choose.
Because I AM BEAUTIFUL!!!!

My thoughts Anaiyah~

Help to get your Hair Journey started on the right Track..

If you want healthy hair you have to have the right routine
that will give your hair the maintenance it needs.

Here are a few basic products you will need to stock up on:-

You Will Need:

1 Clarifying Shampoo (ph balanced between 4.5 and 5.56.5.)
1 Moisturizing Shampoo (ph balanced between 4.5 and 5.56.5.)
1-3 Moisturizing Deep Conditioner (for co-washing days)
1 Protein Deep Conditioner
1 Leave-in Conditioner
1 Moisturizer
1 Natural Oil (to replace the sebum in the scalp)

Wide tooth comb
Satin/Silk Scarf and/or Satin Bonnet
Satin/Silk Pillow case
Extra long hair pins

*Note everyone's hair is different and so you can custom these steps to fit
your hair and your lifestyle.
*Try to get to know your hair and see what works best.
*Be patient as this may take some time (1-2 yrs) !


Here is a sample routine you can follow:-
  • - Shampoo your hair with a sulfate free moisturizing shampoo 1-2x/week (this depends on the health of your hair, may need to shampoo less )
  • - Use a moisturizing deep conditioner with heat (minimum of 30mins) after every shampoo
  • - Always follow up with a leave-in conditioner
  • - Use a water-based moisturizer 2x/day (morning & night) then seal in the moisture with a natural oil
  • - Always wear a satin/silk scarf or bonnet to bed - (or you can leave hair open, but use a satin/silk pillow case to sleep on)
  • - Touch-up at least every 12 weeks (the longer you can stretch it, the stronger the new growth)
  • - Do a protein treatment when needed (If the hair feels very limp, mushy, overly soft etc.)
  • - Trim when needed (every 6-8 weeks no more than 1/2 and inch)
  • - Use a Clarifying shampoo as it removes buildup 1-2x/month
  • - Use a wide tooth comb to comb/de-tangle your hair. This will lessen the breakage.

Anaiyah ~ Happy thoughts, Healthy Hair~


(cr:Saleemah Cartwright, Hairlista Inc)

Thursday, October 8, 2009

The Big Chop.. A Hair Crime! Pt. 2


The world of Beauty has been recently rocked by the news that famous celebrity Solange Knowles, the sister of Beyonce has done the "Big Chop". Chopping off all her lovely locks.

Then to add to the buzz Supermodel Tyra Banks on her show the Tyra Banks show. Decided to reveal to the world what her real hair looks like.

As if that is not enough to turn up the heat Chris Rock has joined the mix with his controversial movie soon to hit theaters called "Good hair".

All this has now drawn serious attention to the African American woman’s hair. In so much that Solange also recently made the Oprah show to discuss why she made the choice to chop off all her hair.



A popular website I recently read had an article asking the question
is the Big Chop a Hair Crime or Hollywood trend.

WHAT! Did I read this correctly.. a Hair Crime.. Against what? Against who?
A deceptive world view system... what a joke!

For some women these statements come as no big surprise but for others it should be viewed as a wake-up call.

What these statements say to our own inner thoughts about the way we feel about our own "Black Beauty".

In the movie "Good Hair" the term "creamy crack" is joked about as it shows women of color getting their hair fix off the chemical; by touching up those roots.

My question Ladies the term "creamy crack" how does that term make you feel?

For me one thing I know is that crack or a crackhead is not an up-lifting term.
So now we have yet another demeaning term thrown at us in a laughing light sorta way.

So I guess it should be ok.. I think NOT!!!

Well Ladies I hate to bring the reality check!!!

But the numbers do not lie.

The amount of creamy crack (relaxer and texturizer) sold each year is enough to make the chemical industry that produces these products a very successful billion dollar industry.

The Asians are making a killing as well selling synthetic, real, real fake, Indian hair,
and wigs to just to name a few.

Why is it that women of color buy so much weaves and wigs?

Why do we run and get that touch-up on time every single time?

Some will argue I just want to change my look and that may be the surface Truth.

However, there is a deeper meaning as to why we touch-up those roots as soon as the kink is coming in.

It's the same reason why we torture our daughters and put the chemical to their hair as soon as we can.

Ladies sad fact is "we are afraid of our nappiness".
We are afraid we may not be accepted by society if we bare our natural curls.

I am not saying this is the case for ALL of us.
However, this is a True fact for so many of us...
So many that the Hair industry is a billion dollar business.

For those you that may not know what the term Big Chop means.

The Big Chop is simply chopping the hair off.

Many women going natural allow their new growth to grow in enough so they can chop off the processed portion or chemically treated part of the hair.

This is usually a very drastic look from any look they had previously.

This move usually causes quite an uproar with friends, family, co-workers and so on.
Sometimes you get praised and other times chuckled at, OK real talk laughed at.

Called names like tennis ball head, man head, not cute... and I can go on...

Many times you have to defend your Big Chop position to others.


This is a very serious step Ladies...

Many women that do the big chop like Solange say they no longer want to conform to what society sees as Beautiful.

They no longer want to be slaves to the deceptive world view on Hair and what they define is Beautiful...

Free at Last, Free at Last...Thank God Almighty we can be Free at Last...

I commend the Ladies like Solange and so many others...
Thank you for giving women of color everywhere the courage..
To take this step towards True Beauty..

For some African American women and men it remains a more controversial issue.
As African American women are almost not considered beautiful if they wear their natural unprocessed kinky curls. The risk being rejected not only by society but there men as well.

This theory goes as far back into history if any of you dare to go there.


Anaiyah~

Wednesday, October 7, 2009

What is Good Hair... Reality Checka 1,2....Pt.1




So what does this mean Ladies..women of color don't think they have "good hair"..???

We have to wake up ladies.. and change that perception for our next generations...

I think this a light and funny way to bring attention to a serious issues.

Can women of color have have long beautiful hair?

Can we have healthy hair?

Like Chris says his baby girl is already thinking she does not have "good hair"

Wake up call.. Ladies..Sistas...

Personally, good hair is healthy hair. Natural, relaxed, braids, locks to me it's all about have healthy hair... Ladies I think we can truly do this.. This is my main goal to show women of color we can do this.I did it and so can you... Mama's Organics is dedicated to showing ladies how to achieve these goals...





My thoughts..Anaiyah~

Monday, October 5, 2009

What's New in Mama's World!!!!

Up coming Blogs topics
  • Know your hair type.. (how can you care for your hair properly if you don't know your hair type)

  • More confusing terminology un-covered and made simple...
  • Healthy Hair Journey on the right track...
  • Up coming Video Blog:- Co-washing and my favorite conditioners!!!
Announcements:-Excited launch of my sista site:- Tishkainc.blogspot.com ... Yippie ;-)

Happy thoughts, Healthy Hair..

Anaiyah~

Always remember to Count those Blessings....




And every Strand that GROWS!!!!

Natural Relaxer: Real or Fake?



Recently I have noticed many products advertising to be 100% natural promising un-real results. People if it sounds to good to be true guess what, am sorry to tell you- it may just be!!!

Products promoting their product will wash your hair straight, remove the kinky natty and make your curls lay flat like soldiers. One product said it would can creme your hair to the relaxed state without any chemicals!!!

Researchers have proven in order for hair to become relaxed, texturized, flat we have to part take in the "creamy crack ritual". Don't waste money on these 200.00 dollar plus products, they are a waste of your money.

-I would say spend your time looking for an excellent hair care specialist (not stylist, there is a huge difference).

-Also if you want to wear curly with the flexibility to go straight.
I would suggest trying a texturizer. A texturizer relaxes the natural curl without pulling it bone straight like a relaxer. This is an awesome way to get comfortable with your curls in the curly periods. What I love is to go curly all you do is co-wash with a good leave-in-conditioner then follow-up with your seal and moisturize steps. The results are Amazing.



-If you want to go natural try some stretching out techniques- this is where you go without the chemical touch-up for as long as you can hold out 6-8 weeks (maybe longer). This gives your new growth or natural texture time to build thickness and regain it's puppy power.

Don't get stressed out pray and do your research. You can always check back on here or on my sista site www.tishkainc.blogspot.com for tips and update techniques...

Stay tuned- Happy mind, Healthy Hair!!!

Anaiyah~