Three things to do after a trim to prevent new split ends

This whole micro trimming thing has really got me thinking.  Since I'll slowly be eliminating a decent amount of length, I want to make sure the process is as effective as possible. What I want most is to protect the hair after each trim to ensure that retention is at its highest.

For a while now, I've nagging question about whether I should take additional actions right after trimming to prevent new split ends from forming.  Last week I picked up one of those mini sewing kits.  I had quite a difficult time threading the needle so I tried trimming off the end of the thread to make it easier.  But each time I cut a bit off, the end of the thread began to split. When I trimmed off the split, the same thing happened again.



Then I wondered if this was happening to my hair without my knowledge every time I trimmed. Next I reflected on what I could do avoid that dreaded outcome from taking place.  My very first thought was how glad I was to have found Nexxus' ProMend products.  If you recall correctly, they have the ability to actually bind split ends together, preventing them from moving up the shaft.  That would be a perfect post trim treatment.

If I want to take things to next level, I could cauterize my ends using an actual flame.  After first learning about this technique of permanently sealing the ends, I became super curious.  Curious enough to try a couple of times. No. My hair didn't burst into a huge ball of flames, like I first thought it would. My assessment is that the technique is effective in preventing splits from moving up the shaft.  So, if I wanted to use an extreme method of split end prevention, this would be it.



One last thing that I MUST do to protect my ends is practice heavy sealing.  Keeping the ends highly lubricated is the secret to retention.  This fall and winter I'm going to step it up and reach for thicker oil for my ends.  Maybe shea butter, castor oil or vitamin E.  Whichever the case, I'm sure my  newly trimmed ends will love it. Basically, I will be babying my ends before, during, and after each trim to make sure that everything stays on track.   And I vow to stick to this routine even if I know that I'll be trimming them off anyway.  This is so I can maintain the habit even as I slow down the frequency of my trims.

The end goal is retention, retention, retention.  I see this whole micro trimming thing as a serious weapon in this war on breakage.  Especially if you aren't big on protective styling like me. 

Micro Trimming Part II - Keys to making the process sucessful

We're on the topic of micro-trimming and how that could possibly be the answer to getting rid of thin ends for ever. I'm committed to taking off about 1/4 of length a month for the next six months (maybe more).  My goal is to cut off my current ends, over time, as my new growth comes in.  In essence, one should not lose much (if any) length using this process.

thick ends inspiration

Honestly, although this method is simple, it isn't easy.  I know that I'll be battling the mental block of having to cut ends that aren't breaking simply for the sake of thickness.  I can almost foresee the need for length taking over, tempting me to go back to my old ways.

I plan to make micro-trimming a dual focused process.  While trimming on a monthly basis, I'll also employ various strategies to promote healthy growth to balance the loss of length.  Wouldn't it be great to have thicker ends AND gain length at the same time?  That's literally a dream come true.

I actually think this is VERY possible.  It's been 1 day since my first micro trim.  When I manipulate my hair now, one very noticeable difference is how much breakage has reduced.  I anticipate a reduction of daily manipulation related breakage + a reduction of detangling related breakage on wash day.  As I remain consistent in the monthly micro trims, this reduction in breakage will be multiplied over time. Meaning, I will retain length simply from having trimmed, healthy ends for such an extended period.  Even though I'm cutting of 1/4 inches of hair a month,  I may actually retain more length in the long run.

But what's most important is that I focus on maximizing growth over the next six months.  Since we are entering into the fall & winter season, I've got to be even more diligent.  As part of my strategy, I will be going back to regular supplementation.  I can't wait for my first shipment of Beautifully Bamboo Hair, Skin & Nails supplement to arrive.  It's a supplement that I've formulated to include everything I've ever wanted in a hair vitamin.  More details on that later but the vitamins should be ready in early October (*EXCITED*).  I've also gotta make sure to eat healthy, drink loads of water and keep circulation high by focusing on cardio sessions.  Obviously, I'll be doing scalp massages and other growth promoting activities as well.  

I remember feeling terrible, a couple of years ago, because of having to chop off several inches of unproductive length.  Although my hair looked great, I was depressed over the whole ordeal.  Micro-trimming should provide me similar results while retaining/gaining length.  That's why I chose an aggressive strategy in the beginning.  Eventually, I'll then my trimming schedule to bi-monthly or quarterly once I've nailed the process.  

Let's do this!

Happy Endings | The Micro Trimming Method for Thick Full Ends

Let me ask you a question.  If you could be the same length as you are now (or maybe a little longer) but instead of tapered, uneven, or thin ends, you can have a full thick ends.  Would you want that?  Of course you would. What if I told you that there could be a way to achieve that. Would you be interested?

Before I explain the specifics let me first set the tone for our conversation.  I have had many internal conversations wondering how those of us who chemically treat our hair can have thickness all the way down to our ends.  It seemed almost impossible short of doing a major chop.  But even after a chop the length seems to eventually return to its former state.  Notice how many people are doing mini-chops after a touchup to eliminate wispy ends.  It just seems like a never ending problem.

The solution to this issue may come in the form of a method called micro trimming. This is where one trims off 1/4 to 1/2 inches of hair monthly, every other month or quarterly for the purposes of creating thicker, fuller ends.  Essentially, the regular trims will remove my current ends, and, as new hair grows in, my new length will take over the place where my old (thin) ends once were.

This method is one that requires a long term commitment.  No longer will I only be focusing on the short term needs of my hair (such as dryness, breakage, etc) I must also have a long term strategy in place.  Since it's #FearlessFriday, I decided to institute microtrimming starting today.  I actually washed my hair at 6:00 am so I can trim during my roller set.  After my first micro-trim session, I'm already loving how much better my hair feels.  Can't wait until next month until I do it again.

In my case, I think I'll take the aggressive route and start with monthly trims.  Yes. Every month, I'll take off 1/4 of an inch.  I'll do this for at least 6 months then assess my progress. Essentially, my length could remain about the same while my ends appear fuller.  Notice I said,"could" remain the same.  In the back of my mind, I'm devising a plan to achieve both length and thickness!

We'll discuss this more in part II of this post. But for now, I invite you to reflect on your journey to see if this method could be beneficial to you.  Is anyone already doing this now?  Please share your experience.

Why I love Tiger Protein Reconstructor so darn much

In my Banish Breakage post, I mentioned a little known product by the name of Tiger Protein Reconstuctor.  The moment I saw the price tag, I knew I had to have it.  To me the high end price probably was related the quality of product.  Although I own dozens of hair products. The only thing missing was a super protein leave-in spray.  I had no other choice but to get it.

When my package arrived, I immediately wanted to try it.  But not before I turned the bottle to check out the details.

Product Claims:  Covalent/Permanent Bonding of Protein into hair  + Rebuilds All Hair Types + Strength + Volume + Shine + Color Lock

Directions:  For Maintenance and Repair Treatment apply & massage into clean, damp hair dry & style as usual.

For Maximum Treatment: Apply & Massage into clean, damp hair. Cover with plastic cap & heat for 5 minutes. Remove plastic cap and style as usual.

I just love the fact that a spray leave in can be used as an intensive treatment by applying heat.  The ingredient list itself contains various types of proteins including soluable keratin, hydrolized wheat protein, hydrolized keratin, wheat amino acids, betaine (we mentioned the amazing benefits this ingredient in a previous post) and much, much more.

My first experience was on dry hair.  I misted a little on "dirty" hair to see if I would experience stiff, brittle strands.  Instead of brittle strands, I experienced stronger hair but without the feeling of protein overload.  Mind you, I did layer on some moisture on top of where I misted just to make sure nothing crazy happened.  But overall, I was very pleased.

The second experience was on wash day.   I washed and conditioned as usual then, during the rollerset I sprayed the length of my hair with the leave in.  Again, I experienced none of the "heavy protein"  feeling that I fear so much.  I'm guessing the size of the proteins are small enough to penetrate the strand instead of staying mainly on top of the hair.  Hence, my hair still remained it's old self, only stronger.

I felt pretty good about using Tiger Reconstructor as a final step during the roller set but this week, I had an ever better idea.  Remember my post on using different conditioners during the pre-poo based on how strong or weak the section is?  Well, this strengthening spray is perfect for such a scenario. Currently, I have healthy sections and I have weak sections.  Weak sections are those that, when manipulated, suffer casualties (broken strands).  Strong areas I can detangle without a care in the world.

During my pre-poo, whenever I came across a weak area, I sprayed a little bit of the reconstructor into my hand and distributed throughout the section.  The reason I misted into my hand was so I can be intentional about where the product goes. I also use less product this way.  After applying the reconstructor, I layered some moisturizing Kanechom and moved on to the next section.  Once done, I steamed then jumped into the shower to rinse.  My breakage in the weak areas reduced dramatically!  I'm beyond pleased with the results.  I love Babyface Pure Protein for an all over strengthening treatment but this gives me a laser-like focus to target my weakest areas.  I also remembered how Yahya mentioned targeting her ends with protein because to aid with retention.  I tried that over the weekend and today, my ends feel stronger as a result.

This type of product was exactly what was missing from my regimen.  Someone, like me, who over manipulates their hair needs a product that can help neutralize my potentially damaging actions.   How on earth did I go so long without it?

Currently Loving | CapriClear Coconut Oil Spray

One of new finds from my last Instagram Beauty Secrets posts that I was most excited about was CapriClear.  If you've been reading my blog over the past few weeks, you know that I've been fascinated with the idea of spraying oil on my hair instead of using manual application.  The Misto Sprayer has changed my life.  Incidentally, I was planning on investing on a second sprayer to house my coconut oil when I learned of CapriClear.  Right away I placed my order on Amazon, and from the moment my package arrived, we've been inseparable.

Girl, this stuff has been sprayed on my hair, my cuticles, my scalp, my feet, my elbows, my face, everywhere. This morning I even sprayed a little on my finger tips and rubbed on my lips as an all natural lip conditioner.  When my dermatisis strikes again on my scalp and hair line, I'll be ready.

 It's made of 100% coconut oil and nothing else.  It sprays in a fine mist that releases just enough product.  Because it's fractioned coconut oil, it doesn't actually carry the coconut oil scent.  So, no matter how many times I sprayed it, there was no trace of coconut scent to be found.  Fractioned coconut oil also doesn't become solid in cooler temps so it's perfect for nourishing dry skin in the winter. 

I love this product so much.  Instantly, it became an item that I will carry around with me at all times.  I knew I was sprung when I left home for an overnight trip and went out to buy a replacement after realizing that I left my CapriClear at home.  Now I have the travel size an the 5oz bottle. Honestly, this is the most versatile product I own.  Often, when I travel, I battle drier skin and hair due to the change in climates.  I can't tell you how long I've dreamed of having a way to bring coconut oil with me on the road.  Finally, my dream has come true.   What I appreciate most about CapriClear is the liquid consistency.  Since warmer weather is coming upon us, I'm not looking forward to slathering on lotions that cause build up and feel heavy on the skin.  I can keep a bottle in the fridge and mist to refresh my skin while creating a nice glow (not greasy).

Because of my obsessive excessive use, I suspect that it won't be long before I'm repurchasing again (for a third time).  I think I'll experiment will buying larger bottles of fractioned coconut oil to refill when run out (which won't be long).  The convenience of this packaging is worth it's weight in gold.  Add to that to how versatile this product is and you have the recipe for a must have beauty product.  Everyone needs this......even you.

Strong Healthy Ends at clearance prices?

I'm here to make a public service announcement.  Yesterday started off like any other day.  While on my way to a get together at a friend's house, I opted for an impromptu stop at a local Target.

"Just need a few things", I thought to myself as I wandered down the aisle.  After I added a few items to the cart, I began to make my way over to the checkout.  But instead of taking the main aisle, something deep inside me told me to stroll by the beauty section.

I stopped abruptly the moment I laid my eyes on what I thought was a vision.  There before me was what appeared to be my beloved Nexxus' split end repair line, ProMend.  If you've never heard me speak of this product before, you HAVE to go back and read my post.  Basically, it has a miracle complex which actually has the ability to repair the split ends.  Claims of healthy hair are one thing but this product actually makes your hair feel smoother and more manageable.

via my instragm
Anyway, so there I was standing with my mouth half open as I stared at the red clearance tags.  I couldn't resist.  Moments later my cart was filled with three bottles of the ProMend conditioner and three bottles of the ProMend leave-in (two of my favorite products from the line).  As I kept searching for more, I happened to also find Oscar Blandi's heat protectant spray on clearance.  Lastly I grabbed a bottle of Umberto Beverly Hills Collagen Pre-Shampoo Treatment.  Not sure what to expect with this product but I thought it would be good to have a strengthening Pre-poo. All the others I currently have are moisturizing pre-poo treatments (including my fave: Philip Kingsley).

I'm saying all of this so you can heed my words!  Check your local Target clearance section to see if you might as fortunate as to save a few dollars on such an amazing product.

Best of luck to you all!

7 Day Challenge | Regular Moisturizing + Sealing

The other day I thought back to my first 7 day challenge. Basically, I picked an action and challenged myself to do it every day for a week. My first challenge was pretty successful.  I made the commitment to work out daily and followed through on my promise no matter what it took.  At the end of the 7 days, I felt a strong sense of accomplishment and knowing that anything was possible.

So I said,  why stop there? Why not keep this going with other challenges?  After a few minutes of contemplation, I decided to partake in a daily moisturizing challenge.  My motivation was to recreate a time, long ago, when I would apply a small amount of oil to my hair a couple of times a day.  After a while, others noticed that my hair appeared healthier and the compliments poured in.  Since that time, I've strayed far away from that habit.  In fact,  when I was bunning almost daily, it was not uncommon  to go days without moisturizing. 



My first action was to grab my trusty Iphone so I could create a daily reminder. A total of 3 daily reminders were set.  One in the morning, one midday and a third in the evening.  If the timing was right, I would moisturize and seal up to 3X daily.  But, honestly, I was happy to do it even once a day.  A week has now past and now it's time for reflection.


 Because of the frequency in product application, I chose Gleau oil blend which is light enough not to weigh the hair down. As  expected, my hair looked and felt better overall by the end of the week. Normally, by wash day my hair is pretty dry. But this past weekend, things were different.  Overall my hair still retained moisture and had some "hang time" even on wash day (which never happens).  The best part of this experiment came as I conducted my pre-poo session.  Since I don't do much combing during the week, my pre-poo usually results in lots of broken and shed hairs due to all the manipulation.  Not this time.  In fact, this was probably the most successful pre-poo to date.  I've never lost this little amount of hair during the pre-poo before.





I can't deny results like this.  Even though a week has come and gone, I will continue this practice as much as possible. It's definitely a keeper for me.  One thing I will do differently going forward is part my hair in sections when I apply product so every strand receives the benefits.  Another opportunity missed, that I will do more, of is seal my ends every 3rd day or so to further protect from all the manipulation.  Since this 7 day ritual was so successful, I've begun thinking of future experiments to  conduct.  Maybe a 7 day inversion challenge or a 3 liter of water a day challenge.  Who knows? The sky is truly the limit.  If you are battling chronic dryness, I urge you to try this for a week and see how your hair responds.  

Staple Status | A Nexxus ProMend Review

After learning that split end repair is actually possible, I immediately sought out to get my hands on this magical ingredient.  The first purchase I made was a conditioner and leave-in from the Nexxus Pro Mend Series.

Check out the product's claims according to the Leave-In cream packaging:

"Transition split ends into healthy-looking hair with Nexxus ProMend.  The first product line to focus on true split end repair. It binds split ends back together in one use.  ProMend Leave-In Creme provides daily repair for split end problem areas. Use after each shower to bind up to 92% of split ends back together before styling, so ends look beautifully healthy and strong." 

There's also a nifty illustration on the box of a hair strand with several splits throughout the shaft, then one with the ProMend Technology wrapped around the follicle, and a third image of a perfectly healthy hair strand after treatment.

You all know I can get excited about stuff but I don't think I've ever been as excited to try a product as I was with ProMend.  So far, I've used it twice, and let me tell you, ProMend will be part of my regimen for LIFE!  I can't say for sure if I actually have hairs that were once split but now fully healed.  But I can tell you that my hair has felt amazingly smooth and healthy after each wash. I feel confident in saying that my cuticle layer is much smoother now than before ProMend came along.

On wash day, I mixed the conditioner in a small bowl with my Kanechom Shea Butter, Biolage Conditioning Balm, Baby Face Pure Protein and silk amino acids.  Everything comes together to make an amazing hair treatment.  Once applied, I steamed my hair and used my conditioning iron. After rinsing, I finish off with the ProMend leave in treatment and proceed to roller set.  Based on the short video, I showed in my previous post, it appears that the technology is best used when heat is involved.  I'm only saying this because the video showed the hair being repaired as it someone dried it using a blow dryer. When I'm rolling the hair, I don't notice anything different. But when I take down my rollers, man oh man!

My hair is smooth and silky.  Before I would experience some post rollerset breakage as I ran my hands through it.  Not no more!  The most obvious change to my hair, besides the smoothness, is how soft it is.  Not sure why that is but my hair seems softer, less stiff, than before ProMend came along.  Breakage has certainly reduced. I have way more confidence now when I'm man handling my hair. Since I already know that my hair loves ProMend, my next objective would be to pick up the overnight treatment.   Everyone within the sound of my voice should go out and get this.  You probably don't have anything in your possession that claims to heal the hair the way ProMend does.

Although I am beyond pleased with ProMend, my insatiable appetite won't let me rest until I've tried the Joico Split End Mender.  Since it's a professional level product, I'm curious to see if it's even better than ProMend. The Joico is on it's way to me as we speak so look out for a follow up review in the future.

*p.s. Nexxus also has a ProMend Curl Defining Creme as well for those who rock curly hair.*

Happy Endings: Proof that Split End Repair is possible!

I never thought I would live long enough to see something this incredible happen.  Ladies,  the 21rst century, with all of it's technological advances, has finally brought us the ability to actually repair split ends.  You heard me correctly. Split end repair is now humanly possible thank to a mending complex consisting of polyelectrolyte complex (PEC).

Image taken from my hair analysis earlier this year.

Split ends occur from normal manipulation related to styling. As we know, the ends are the oldest part of our hair making most susceptible to breakage, peeling and splitting.  Oh, and let's not forgot about those "mid-shaft splits" which is the source of our hair breakage. Can you imagine how much benefit this PEC complex could have on our hair journey if it really does what it claims?

Researchers utilized hair samples with obvious splits in the hair shaft and applied a solution of positively and negatively charged ions knowns as PEC. (By the way, the splits observed were not just at the end of the hair but along the hair shaft as well).  I'm guessing that the oppositely charged ions were drawn together allowing it to mend the hair as they combine.  Those doing the testing  measured the effectiveness of the solution immediately after application and during styling (using a comb).  They found that the repaired hair strand was able to better withstand the manipulation & stress of combing.  They described the repair as semi-permanent because the solution rinses off the hair after a shampoo treatment.

THEE most exciting thing about their results was the durability of the solution post styling.  Meaning that repaired splits remained in tact even after combing  (I can't contain myself right now).  See page 9 of this report for pictures demonstrating both complete and partial split end repair after the solution was applied.

If the pictures weren't fancy enough for you, check out this video that actually shows a split end being repaired under time lapse.


VIDEO CAPTION: The researchers applied a drop of 2% PEC solution on a split end that was mounted on a glass slide and placed under 50X magnification. A video was then recorded using high speed recorder software as a blow-dryer was aimed at the sample. When the polymer film dried, it contracted, binding the split end back together. 

So how is this PEC complex different from proteins? From what I gather, proteins repair the external layers of the hair follicle, protecting it from damage.  This miracle complex, however, has the ability to actually penetrate the follicle & cuticle layer.  Once it's inside the strand, it can "glue" the hair together from the inside out.  That's why it has the ability to repair splits occurring  anywhere along the length of the hair shaft.   When the researchers looked at the repaired strand after treatment, the cuticle layer appeared smooth ("and wonderful"--my words, not theirs).  I had to sit down after reading writing that last sentence because it just hit me that only virgin hair has a smooth (not lifted) cuticle layer.  And now, it may be possible to create a similar level of repair to our hair (holding back tears of joy). 

So if you're like me, you're probably like "how do I find this miracle hair elixir?  My hair needs it now!"  Well you're in luck, because there are a couple of products on the market containing this PEC complex including Joico K-Pak Split End Mender, Nexxus Pro-Mend Conditioner & Tresemme Split Remedy Conditioner.

I promise you that I will have one, if not all three products, in my possession by end of day.  Can you imagine what this could mean in regards to retention?  Now, I'm not condoning that we no longer have to trim our hair. Since this is a semi-permanent solution, I see it as an ideal product to use after a healthy trim to keep the ends sealed and in tip-top shape!

We've seen a miracle happen before our very eyes people!  Go and tell the whole world! 



**edit to add:  I've already gotten my hands on Nexxus ProMend Leave-in.  Look out for the review in the future.**

{First Impressions} Thairapy 365 Conditioning Iron

Finally had the opportunity to take my new conditioning iron for a spin.  It looks like a flat iron, but behaves like a deep conditioning treatment.  At least, that's what it claims. There was no way that I'd pass up the opportunity to try such a novel idea, so I made my order on Amazon and waited patiently.  There were two options available to me.  The Jose Eber conditioning tool and the one made by Thairapy 365.  I chose the latter because of my experience with the Clarisonic and my Microdermabrasion machines. In both instances, I purchased the less expensive model, then upgraded and experienced the difference.  This time, I decided to get the "best that money can buy." 

The package itself only came with an iron and some safety instructions.  There was nothing in the box about how to use the conditioning iron.  So I went online and did some research.  The Thairapy website had some videos on the tool which I wasn't able to play.  Instead, I found some videos on how to use the Jose Eber iron.  I gather that it's meant to be used with a leave-in prior to styling.  But  I decided to try something a little different. 

I pre-pooed using Trader Joe's Nourish Spa. Then I jumped into the shower , rinsed, shampooed then stepped out to begin deep conditioning.  In a small bowl, I combined Kanechom Shea Butter and Silicon Mix Pearl Protein.  In went a half a capful of Pure Protein to complete the deep conditioning mix. After applying conditioner all over, I flipped the on switch and waited.  Then I was like "what am I waiting for, this thing doesn't have to heat up."  Just to confirm, I touched the plates which were glowing bright red.  As suspected, they were comfortable to touch. Not hot at all. 

So I took a section and started my first pass.  After the third section, I realized that I was using this thing like a flat iron. Meaning, I was passing it very quickly (as if to avoid heat damage) and I tried to avoid spending too much time on the ends.  I had to retrain myself to use this in a different way than I would my flat iron.  I took my time on each section and began to pay even more attention  on my ends.

When I close the iron, the lights change from bright red to a mix of red and blue. There's also a very slight 'frequency sound" as you use the iron.  Other than that, you feel like it's not doing anything.  It doesn't straighten like a flat iron although it does give a very slight straightening effect. Could be due to the pressure of the plates against the hair. 

After I completed "ironing" my hair with the deep conditioner in, I jumped back into the shower then prepared for the styling process.  I decided to pop open my last tube of Biolage Cera Repair so I can seal the ceramides into the cuticle.   Again, I used the tool in sections over my entire head.  This time, I started noticing a difference in my hair as it began to dry.  My hair seemed a little stiff.  Similar to when my hair starts behaving after a deep protein treatment.  Not sure how I felt about this. I told myself, "OK, at least I know my hair will be stronger after this, 'cause my hair absorbed the protein really well." 

I dampened my hair again in preparation for the roller set.  The amount of hair I lost during this process was so minuscule it was laughable.  A couple of months ago, I was concerned about my hair loss when I roller set.  I was going to write a post about it but thought it'd be better for me to test various solutions before sharing my thoughts.  So far, this experience has exceeded my expectations in that area.

While I was under the dryer, I thought to myself.  I think it's a good product but I'm not sure it should be called a "moisturizing tool" because my hair didn't feel extra moisturized.  Little did I know that I would be eating those words when I removed my rollers and over the next couple of days.  Indeed my hair does feel moisturized.  The stiff hair I had earlier was gone.  My hair does feel like it experienced an ultra deep conditioning treatment even though I used zero heat or steam. Based on the review on Amazon, and the information on the box, the results will continue improve over the next 30 days. 

Honestly, even if my hair doesn't continue to improve beyond this, I would still be happy.  But, since the best is yet to come, I will be a bit more intentional next time and use even smaller sections.   Overall my hair feels like my cuticles are smoother and the strands are softer.  To me, this is the epitome of deep conditioning.   I'm very happy.

HAPPY ENDINGS: Sealing your ends for ultimate length retention

Life has been pretty darn good ever since I learned of Yayha's technique of applying additional protein products to the ends of our hair.  I've seen a noticeable improvement in the number of the small broken hairs that I used to be plagued with.  I didn't think things could get any better....until now.

Somehow, I stumbled upon another technique that also fortifies our ends and I'm excited to share it with you today.  This technique, my friends, is known as "sealing the ends." 

 

 

Here's how it would work.  You moisturize your hair as you normally would.  Perhaps you are employing the L.C.O. method where you start with a liquid, then your moisturizer followed by some oil to seal in the moisture.  But wait!  You're not done yet.  Finally you go back and apply another layer of oil to the ends, sealing them with even more moisture trapping goodness. 

 

Which oil should I use?

Preferably, when you are sealing your ends, you might want to reach for something that's a bit heavier in consistency than what you normally use on the rest of your hair.  I've experimented for the past several days using my Unpetroleum Jelly, which basically consists of castor oil, coconut oil, beeswax and vitamin E.  It has a thick consistency like Vaseline so I "diluted it" by mixing a little coconut oil into the mix and applied it to the last 3 inches of my hair. 

 

I also experimented with just plain coconut oil and pure vitamin E.  So far, I really like how the vitamin E feels in my hair.  As the weather conditions get harsher, I may experiment with even richer products like castor oil or pure shea butter.  This idea reminds me that I need to whip up another batch of my "Mega Omega" oil blend which I know my ends will love.

 

If some of you are concerned with walking around with greasy, oil ends, may I suggest to you to try this method at night if you want to experiment with heavier oils.  This gives the product ample time to absorb into the strand overnight.  It's been a few days since I've been utilizing this method and so far so good.  Depending on how your hair responds, you may only need to do this every few days. Or perhaps nightly, if you normally wear your hair out.  Maybe you find that you only need to seal once a week if you are constantly protective styling.  Your hair will tell you what to do. 

 

 I have a new found sense of confidence in the health of my ends.   First I learned a way to make them stronger, now this method for keeping them moist.  The timing couldn't be more perfect since drier air is fast approaching.  I should also mention that this method has been long revered by naturals to keep their ends in tip top shape.  Add this to the list of lessons we've learned.  I will keep my eyes and ears open for any other tips on creating amazingly healthy ends and post them as a part of this series. 

 

Do you have any special tips to keep your ends in tip top shape?

 

 



Happy Endings: Can this process help stop your ends from breaking?

This  post is the third installment in a series of conversations we have with a hip length blogger by the name of Yahya, If you haven't had a chance to read Yahya's regimen in this post, stop whatever you are doing and head over there now.....I'll wait.

Her regimen is so detailed that I'm sure everyone learned from her sharing.  Me included.  Days prior to learning about her regimen, I was going for a walk when a thought crossed my mind.  I reflected back to scalp massage session I was engaged in prior to bed.  The good news was that my hair didn't shed much at all during the session.  I attribute that to my daily scalp massages.   Now here's the bad news, the amount of short broken hairs, although not excessive, was too much for my taste.  I thought to myself "if there was a way to stop, or minimize the breakage to my ends, I would be forever grateful."  After sharing my intentions, I allowed myself the freedom to continue to focus on other thoughts, knowing the answer would somehow appear.  
 

Little did I know that a solution would come to me within days.  As I'm reading Yahya's regimen, I happen upon a line that stopped me dead in my tracks.  When she said "another thing I do to my ends is to treat it with more protein than the rest of my hair," it was like a bolt of lightning struck me.  Everything she said made complete sense.  I was so intrigued by her comment that I reached out to her to find out more detail around her process.  

Here's what she stated:

"In between every other wash, like every week and a half, I co-wash my ends with a protein conditioner. Only my ends.  This also helps give my hair  some volume.  Sometimes, if I feel my ends really need it, I'll baggy them after co-washing, like a little deep conditioning treatment.  Half the time when I use protein throughout my hair, I don't apply to my new growth, especially if it's a medium or heavy protein.  When I start flat ironing my new growth, what I will do is add some protein ingredients to my caramelization treatment to give it a little extra strength against direct heat." 

 I was not privy to her exact process last week when I first posted her regimen.  But I was still excited about the idea of focusing protein on the ends.  So I decided to do something a little different last wash day.  It was time to do a strengthening treatment using my Pure Protein.  (*Side note* I love Pure  Protein because it can be used with my favorite moisturizing conditioner.  This helps me avoid having overly stiff hair following my by-weekly protein treatments.**)   I added half a capful, to a small portion my Silicon and Kamechon mix and proceeded to apply the deep conditioner  to the ends of my hair (probably the last 3 inches or so).  Once done, I waited for 15-20 minutes before mixing in more conditioner to the blend to dilute its protein contents. Then I applied it to the rest of my hair.  So the conditioner on my ends had greater protein levels then on the length of my hair and the conditioner remained on my ends longer than the rest of my hair.

Did this work?  You bet it did!  I have noticed less breakage overall but more importantly, fewer of the little broken pieces which have plagued me for so long.  I manipulated my hair quite a bit with finger styling just to make sure my eyes weren't playing tricks on me. Although it didn't stop my breakage 100%, I do see the potential in this process adding even more strength to my hair as time goes on.  It's been a while since my ends have felt as strong as they are now.  This will make a huge impact in retention in the long run.  Thank you again Yahya, for helping to inspire us.

{MEGA Omega Power} My newest hair treatment revealed!

Now that I'm back in good graces with my hair.  I decided to go all out this past wash day.  I was inspired after learning about a product called Neal Yard's Beauty oil.   Their Beauty Oil is a blend of carrier oils that are rich in Omega 3 & Omega 6 Super Power! The original intent of this product was that it's taken internally which will ultimately create healthier skin and nails. 

Of course my mind started running rampant with ideas about how my hair would respond to topical application of an omega 3 oil fusion.  Could my hair benefit from using these oils as a pre-poo treatment and even a deep conditioner booster?  My immediate response was "sure, why not."  We add all kinds of to our hair topically to receive benefits. From eggs and mayo to avocados, apple cider vinegar, relaxers, and even nutrients.  Our hair definitely responds to what we put on it.  If we see changes in our hair from consistently taking omega rich oils internally, why wouldn't it  also respond well to omega 3 as an oil treatment?

Once I found a list of ingredients, it was on.  I immediately went about the business of amassing the necessary oils.

-Avocado oil? Check!
-Flax Seed oil? Check!
-Hemp Seed oil? Check!
-Evening Primrose oil? Check!
-Pumpkin Seed oil? Check!

What I love about this list is that most (if not all) of them are not part of my normal regimen.  In fact, many of those oils (with the exception of avocado + hemp) have never even touched my hair before.  I love the diversity of this concoction.   And, of course, I had to take it up a notch by adding a little vitamin E to to the mix.  I did no measuring whatsoever, I just poured a little of each into a bowl and stirred using my Sprush.  The mix was actually kinda thick. It saturated my hair weighing the strands down as I applied it.  If I had to use one word to describe my mix, it would be nourishing.  It felt so decadent like a high end salon treatment.

(due to the dark colors of the Flax, Pumpkin & Hemp oils, my blend turned out dark green)

After an acceptable amount of time passed, I jumped in the shower and washed the mix out of my hair (with ease).  Then I poured some of my leftover oil mix into my deep conditioner. Finally I added a half a cap full of Pure Protein and blended everything together.  After my final rinse I roller set my hair.  When the rollers came out, I was all smiles.  I'm four months post so, normally, I'd be battling with my hair right now.  Instead, it feels so moisturized and healthy. I dipped a couple of fingers into my mix and rubbed a little more on my ends for good measure.  In my mind I was thinking "this would be a great night time treatment."

The only thing I could do to make this blend even better would be to add the all mighty Omega 9 by way of macadamia nut oil.  Then my fusion would be complete with Omega 3, 6, and 9! Should I also mention that hemp seed oil also contains the wonderful ceramides that protect our precious cuticle layer.  If this wasn't amazing enough, I should also share that I picked up most of these oils in food grade quality so I can "double dip" by adding them to my smoothies for internal hair/skin  benefits as well (I'm a freakin' genius!). 

Can protective styling actually hinder your hair growth journey?

During my hair analysis consultation, I received a piece of advice that I thought was worthy of an entire post.  We were talking about my stress point breakage when I mentioned that I was wearing buns to work pretty much on a daily basis  for quite a while (over 2 years).  As soon as I said that, she immediately gave me two pieces of advice.

1.  Try to move the location of my ponytail to avoid stress on the same area day after day.
2.  Try to wear my hair down for at least part of the day.

After she made her second point, I asked if she could repeat her statement because I thought I heard her wrong.  When she spoke again, the consultant shared that she recommended that I wear my hair down as often as possible. Her reasoning behind this is:

"when the hair is pulled up all the time, it slows the growth of the hair by placing too much tension and restraint on the follicles, which can stun growth."

She used her daughters as an illustration of her point. One of the girls, has type 3B, 3C and type 4A hair.  The other only has one texture, 3B.  The one with the 3B hair, wears a ponytail all the time and is currently shoulder length.  The other, wears a loose braid and have very long hair.  We've all heard the advice not to wear our hair pulled back too tightly for the sake of our edges and hair lines but could wearing ponytails, tight buns, etc impact our growth?  After a quick search online, I found a couple of sites that supported this argument.

My consultant and a few online sources confirmed that hair has a "natural growth direction."  Meaning, when left in it's natural state our hair grows in a set direction as determined by the placement of the follicle.  When we put our hair in certain styles like tight ponytails and high buns, we pull our follicles in a direction that goes against the natural flow.  This added weight and pressure can restrict blow flow to the scalp and slow growth if repeated daily for long periods of time. Those of us with thicker stands need to be extra aware of this risk.  In my situation, I can say that I've been guilty to throwing my hair in tight buns and calling it a day.  By the time I let my hair down, my scalp feels tight and welcomes the newfound freedom.  Immediately, I have to engage in a scalp massage to bring some much needed relief.

Is wearing your hair down the secret to longer lengths?  It would be if not for the fact that doing so also invites other factors that work against your progress.  Manipulation related breakage is one of the first things that come to mind.  Wearing your hair down also allows for constant friction to your ends. Both of these destroy our ability to retain length so even if grow is improved, retention goes out the door.  For this reason, we must operate in a way that makes both sides work for us.  On the one hand, we want to avoid wearing a daily style that could restrict blood flow to our follicle, on the other, we want to keep our ends fully protected from friction & manipulation.  It's a delicate balance.

I'm trying out new ways of wearing my hair that doesn't put excess strain on my follicles.  This does not mean that I won't wear my blessed high bun again. But the high bun won't be my go to style day after day.  Or, I will just take the bun down when I get home, moisturize my hair and do a scalp massage to allow the blood to flow freely to my hair strands.  Ultimately, I don't want to sacrifice growth for retention and vise versa. So I plan on being very intentional whenever I wear my hair up or down.

What do you think of this theory, does it make sense to you?

MUST SEE!! My Komaza Hair Analysis Results (PIC HEAVY)

This is one of the most exciting posts that I've written in a while.  A dream of mine finally came true.  For the longest, I've wanted to have my hair analyzed and now I can scratch it off my bucket list.  You may remember from part 1 of this series that I sent over some hair samples to the good folks at Komaza hair care.  Once they received the hair and analyzed it, I was contacted to discuss the results via phone consultation.

To be honest with you. I was deathly afraid of what would come back. Why?  Because for the past 4-6 months, I've been pretty negligent with my hair.  I haven't been giving it the attention it deserves and was experiencing, first hand, the result of my actions.  I was so nervous, in fact, that I trimmed (cut) around 2 inches so I can get a head start on getting everything back on track.

The person on the other line was super friendly.  She took her time to discuss my results and answer any questions.  There were lots of pics but I wanted to show you the most interesting ones.  So without further adieu, let's get started....

There were several slides of my hair roots included in the summary.  She stressed that they look closely at the root to see if there are any signs of thinning.  All of my shed hair had a full, healthy bulb. In her words, "healthy root means healthy growth."  I'm glad to hear that.

This was probably one of the coolest images. Check out this knot.  Years ago, I was plagued with single strand knots but lately, not so much.  In fact, if I hadn't seen this pic, I wouldn't even thought about single stand knots as a concern. But now that I'm confronted with this image, I will be on the lookout to determine if this is a random occurrence or something I should be worried about.

There were several pics depicting various types of breakage.  Some at the end of the strand, some in the middle.  Just looking at these pictures make me cringe.   The stress point damage (below), she said, could be caused by me wearing a bun in the same place day in and day out.  The mid shaft breakage could be contributed to over manipulation coupled with lack of protein.

Another thing she mentioned was that I seemed to have obvious product buidup.  She invited me to introduce a baby shampoo into my regimen. The recommendation of a baby shampoo is so my scalp does not get irratated due to my seborrheic dermatitis.

Even with the graphic images depicting violent breakage, the consultant told me that overall, I had healthy hair.  I was shocked.  These pics completely freaked me out.  Honestly, I thought I'd have to shave it all off and start all over again.  She told me that she had to search the samples to find examples of breakage for the sake of the discussion.  Believe it or not, she said that, overall, my hair had good elasticity and took several firm tugs before the strand broke. Although most of my distressed strands showed signs of cuticle lifting, she said that severity of the lift was relatively minor (considering that I was relaxed) and could be easily be addressed. 

Oh, she also acknowledged me several times during our conversation for the amount of water I drink daily (takes a long swig from water bottle).

We talked specifically about what actions I should take based on my hair's strengths and opportunity areas.  I took copious notes and will discuss my next steps in full detail in a follow up post.  Even though I'm a veteran at this hair game, there were still some new insights that I got from the consultation. Can't wait to share with you!!!!

What do you think of these pics, pretty crazy huh?

If anyone is thinking of of doing this in the future, you can use the referral code 8n2sA6 to receive a 5% discount off the cost.

7 ways to fiercely rock the braided protective style

I'm telling you right now that I have no plans on wearing a plain ol' boring bun this spring & summer.  Protective styling is a high priority but that doesn't we have to settle for the basic bun.

In lieu of the bun, I'm going for jumbo braids.  This style can work on pretty much any length and looks absolutely fabulous.  Would you like to take a moment and become inspired to find your newest signature summer look?

With all the options available, how can anyone get bored?  What I also love about this style is that it can last several days with little to no manipulation. This style also give me the option of wearing my hair in loose waves once I've unbraided.

 Let's all join me in saying goodbye to the bland bun.