^.^Loc Journey One Month with AfroLuv0708 (Loc Buddies!!!)

Hiya faithful buddies,

I started a new set of locs after shaving my head once I removed my first set (3 wks old). My last update was of my shaved head which I enjoyed quite a bit. Now that I have that look out of my system, I am ready to begin my  Loc Journey anew... Below is Part Deux of my One Month Update with my Loc Buddy (LB) Afroluv0708.


The Link below will lead you to Part One (Recorded on AfroLuv's Camera).

http://www.youtube.com/user/afroluv0708#p/a/u/0/pu4X8XuK9i0

I hope you enjoy & Thanks for your support.
Ciao Bella x

I SHAVED my head!

I shaved my head on May 10th 2011... I've been wanting to do this for a while. It was so liberating, once I started, I simply couldn't stop. I have never seen myself this unveiled...

Here are a few photos on the first day. I have come footage of the process but cannot upload on YT or computer for some frustrtig reason...

.

May 10th 2011- 1st day bald

May 10th 2011, side profile.

I first cut it this short but was not fully content so the next day, I took the guard off the clippers.

One month update to come!


<3 EbonyCoils

April Hair Updates

Happy Friday Flowers!

I hope you are all blooming beutifully this spring! ;O)                

My apologies for my absence this month! I have an exciting update to share...

I shaved the sides of my hair on 22/04/11 and I love it! My partner suggested it a year ago and I wasn't ready but  since February I have been ready for change. My starter locs installed in February did not not feel like enough change for me, and I was impatient with pace of the change I was seeking. However, I still love the look of locs.

I contemplated going to a salon in Preston, North England for a professional to shave the sides but decided against it because it's not brain surgeon and I am not willing to pay the quoted , £37! A heaper alternative is a barber shop for less than £10. Instead, purchased clippers from Argos for under £10 and my partner shaved the sides for me! At work, many people though I slicked my sides back which is strange to me. lOl..
It is because of my hair texture, which is very tighlty coiled and so not much of my scalp is showing. I would saw, I have manyber 1/8th of an inch of hair on the sides or less. I love the way my texture feels and woud be happy to shave it all... BUT for now, I will maintain the coool dudette style. I owe it to my under £10 argos clippers!

PLEASE KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR A SLIDESHOW OF MY NEW HAIRSTYLE.

25.04.11 At the Staio Tavern in Lytham- waiting for the Train in BPL.Wash&Go Style!

I hope you are well. ;O)

What is your favourite Hairstyle this month?? Please share in the comment section ;O) x


Upcoming Blogs:
Slideshow of my shaved sides hairstyle
Review on  BeeMine's Deja Hair Mlik
10 Day Detox by Louloutmatou

March 2011 Updated Hair Routine/Products.

My routine is not carved in stone because it is based on how my hair feels/ and my schedule. This is a typical routine that changes according to my hair's needs/seasonal changes.

Prepoo: With a mixtuer of oils [such as coconut, olive,vatika oil] and/or conditioner. I typically detangle in sections as I apply the prepoo or after it has conditioned my hair.

Detangling Tools: Fingers, Paddle Brush* (new found love thanks to 1mits1 on the YT), Tangle Teezer, Wide Tooth Comb (See Detangling Tools Blog).

Detangler: a light conditioner, currently using Tressemme Naturals- I do NOT dilute. I braid it up as I detangle

Washing: Shampoo at least once a week in the same braids. Clean scalp with witch hazel as needed/inbetween washing. Depending on the style I have in, I may rinse my hair/scalp especially to remove sweat from working out.

Shampoo: Dr. Bronner Castile Soap (Baby Mild)

Deep Conditioning: I use a protein/moisture conditioner on a regular and tie a plastic bag on my hair. I use the hair therapy wrap for heat.

Deep Conditioner: Organic Root Stimulator Replenishing Conditioner. Works well on its own, I sometimes stretch the product with oils. 

Aryurvedic Treatments: I plan to do this once a month [ last week of the month prefereably] using: amla, Henna, or Kalpie Tone[it's what I got]. I freeze it and defrost with hot water for easy access. I rinse with Tressemme Conditioner- will try shampoo if it's taking too long. I get most out when I detangle again w. leave in.

Protein Treatment: I do this when my hair feels weak and does not bounce back quickly when I gently tug and release. I may opt for Henna or Elasta QP intensive serum or even a homemade egg/mayo mix. When in doubt, moisture over protein or a balance such as ORS replenishing conditioner.

*Always follow a protein treatment with a moisturizing treatment such as Tressemme Naturals and/ or Honey/Olive oil mask*

Final Rinses: Apple Cider Vinegar (I use spritz it on my scalp and hair and massage after rinsing shampoo/conditioner. **Back again** Black Tea Rinse. I steep 2-3 bags in hot water overnight and use as a final rinse after rinsing ACV with water (oprional). I focus on my scalp and pour excess on hair shaft to strenghten it.  I DON'Y RINSE OUT THE BLACK TEA-*optioal*.

 Black Tea and Shedding:

I get alot of shedding and caffein in black tea is meant to slow down the hormone ADT which causes hair loss/shedding. Do your research. I will update you on my progress.


Moisturizing:

H2O
I seal damp hair with an oil (such as sweet almond or Trex- massage in scalp oil). If my hair is mostly  dry after using a Cotton T shirt, I spray with water/aloe mix then seal in the moisture.

I may use shea moisture Leave in on top or use it on its own as a leave in styler [ I like this stuff but will not repurchase after this bottle bc I have alot of sheabutter in my arsenal].

Stylers: I am not big on stylers. I use aloevera gel or shea butter to set my hair. Works well for me. I have tried flax seed gel  but it spoils too quickly. I may revisit and make a very small batch to refrigerate.



PRODUCTS I WANT TO USE UP:

• Mane n Tail Deep Moisturizing Shampoo/Conditioner/ Afro Detangler (I will use together bc sulfates wash out cones).

• Care Free Curls Moisturizing Shampoo [*New*-Full Bottle].
• Honey Hemp Conditoner ( I have had for a while bc I was saving for summer).Uses:Deep Conditioner /Leave in. 
• Avon Naturals Moisturizing  Hair Spray (Macadamia & aloe).[*New* Full Bottle].
• Jamaican Mango & Lime Cactus Oil  (New formula with mineral oile tc.) [ Full Bottle, uses- sealant, prepoo*].
• Bottle of Jasmine scented Mineral Oil [**New, gift**Full Bottle, May try to wash hair w. it].
• Dry Shampoo (**New** Full bottle, I bought it for the bottle (£1 lol It's an applicator bottle-green.white).

Products for next few wks.till finished. After the hennawax is done (green jar) I will use Honey Hemp as DC/Leave in. I will do rinses after washing then apply it. I may even try shea moisture leave in as dc/leave in b4 hand.

 
NOTE: I have put most of the above products  in the bathroom to use for the
next few weeks [I will do my ACV/Black tea rinses weekly]. I will return to my more natural products/products I know are working.
If after a few weeks they are causing irritation, I will discontinue use. I use a mixture of products ranging from commercial, ayurvedic and natural- depends on what works for my hair.

My goal is to keep it simple. I am not one to jump on product bandwagons without deep research/need.

Q: If you have tried any of the above products, how did you find it?

How I store my products w. the exception of the basket in the bathroom.

~Akwaaba/Welcome to my Arsenal.~ -------------------------->
 Top shelve: contains mostly Tools, accessories
Middle: contains mostly raw material ie. Sheabutter,mango butter/carrier,essential oils, mixed oil, prepoo oil etc
Bottom: Products I can easily grab for regular use, homemade shea butter/ unused products. My aloevera gel is stored here too but not in the picture. Notice the pink tangle teezer. lol

Loc Diary: Month 1 Starter Locs Thoughts (Locs are Out).

*These noted were typed when I still had in the starter locs*.


Washing:

First Wash: 24.02.12 (2 days after installing starter locs).

I confirmed my inkling that it is fine even for starter locs, I suppose it depends on one's hair texture and loc'ing method. My tightly coiled hair works to my advantage, as the size of my twists will not unravel when washing. Some loc newbies put a stocking cap on ther locs and wash in that manner. I have yet to try that. I love the feeling of water on my hair and scalp. Also, water tames and encourages my starter locs (2 strand twists) to lay down. H20 also encourages the locing process since clean hair causes more friction, especially clean tangled hair.

Second Wash: 28.02.11  Apple Cider Rinse
Not sure whether the black soap bar is leaving residue... because I saw a white film under my nail at a front section on my hair. I may have to do a buildup treatment  using applecide and bakingsoda  within the month or next wash. Now sure if its too abrasive for my baby locs though.



Conditioning: I have not used conditioner and plan to keep it at bay until my hair starts to loc. I will do this unless I find enough sources that say otherwise. Hot oil treatments are a GO.



Moisturizing: I have been using a spritz I made for my gf who has mature locs to combat dry itchy scalp.
Ingredients: Cool Boiled water/aloe gel/sweet almond oil/rosemary/teatree/lavender essential oil. I made my own using the same ingredients except sweet almond oil. The bottle is 100ml and I added lot of kettle water so had no room. I oil my scalp with a blend I made using emu and other stimulants.

Retwisting: I don't plan to retwist my roots after every wash. I will try and stretch it too 8 weeks/end of Month 2. I did some research to see which direction one should retwist and I found that retwisting to the right or clockwise is fine because most people's hair grows in a circular motion. However, the lovely 'FollowingHerBliss' on the YT explained that a loctician at the salon she visited retwisted to the left or anti-clockwise, claiming that all salons do this.

Whatever direction you retwist in, be consistent.

B.A.B.Y L.O.C.S- D.E.V.E.L.O.P.M.E.N.T.S

27.02.11 : A few shed hairs seem to have travelled to the end of some twists. I think it will form knots which is fine with me.


28.02.11 I started using lemon juice spritz on the baby locs to encourage loc'ing. The lemon juice is meant to stiffen the locs, making it more course so it will loc.Ha! As if my hair needs help at what it does best! Still, this works for all hair types. I have heard rave reviews and I hope to rave about it soon.

I think I have figured out which direction to retwist! Anti clockwise because of how I twisted by  starter locs. I have caught myself play twisting my dry locs.Its necessary that I run my hands in my roots to seperate creeping strands so they don't cross over to other starter locs. Retwisting establishes a spinning/loc system for starter locs. My hair is looking a little frizzy unlike the first few days I had in my started locs but I don't mind. I like the way them lay down and the hand time when freashly washed. March 22nd will be month 1 of my locs!

18.03.11 No noticeable budding. Roots are marrying their neighbours, parts are disappearing. Popping /seperating must be done on wet hair. Unsatisfied with parts but don't want maicured locs and pay the price of thin/weak locs from over twisting.
19.03.11  I decided to seperate the two strand twists and soaked them with Tressemme Naturals (loving it) and detangled with paddlebrush/Tangle Teaser, braids, popped on satin scarf and stocking cap and called it a night! This is the end of these locs. Young, nearly 1 month. I will miss them.

I will post a piccies ( word adopted from TheNaprika) slide show on the very short journey. lol ^.^

Be Blessed! x

Why I took my starter locs out after nearly 1 month.

I took them out because I wanted to. lol I started them with wax which made me paranoid and I washed them after 2 days. My parts are very uneven and as my thick newgrowth came in, I know it would be hard to keep my hair twisted. I had imagined semi forming and planned to re-twist after 4-8 weeks. I rinsed and washed them alot. Hair loves water, locked or not. I learned alot in the 3 2 weeks. March 22 2011 would have been one month loc'ed. I had no noticeable budding. I know it takes time.

I had alot of unfinished business with my loose kinks such as: Frozen henna/Kalpie Tone to use, Molasses treatment and products to go through (new and old [ Most can probably be used on locs but recommended for more mature locs]. I like to keep it simple and with loced hair this principle is best. However, I had buildup from the wax and prehaps my artificial black soap bar even after using ACV rinse . I tried lemon juice which turned my scalp white from dryness. Lemon juice is meant to loc hair faster. I used it for a few days and said, 'HELL NAW'. LOL. I use it on my skin as a toner alternating with ACV.

Anyways, I guess the three weeks can be seen as a protective style. [ a friend of mine had her sisterlocs in for 5 months an coincedently took them out a few days before me- very long protective style indeed. She's loving her new lenght.] ;O)].

My hair started to look rough as I knew it would and I managed fine. I originally planned to take them out, wash with newly arrived 'Dr. Bronner Castile Soap in BabyMild' and put them back in, taking time to have even parts. Instead, I decided to keep my fro out and thought of putting them back in next winter when hats are very much a common-do. I may and I may not. Tis my perogative.

Thanks to all for the support. ;O)

I will post an entry on the notes I had on my starter locs (observations) during the almost 3 weeks and some pics of them.


Much Love <3 [Remember, it's hair at the end of the day. I missed my fro' and it's back.


-EbonyLocs are currently out. ;O)

*February 2011 Updates on the YT[video].*

Dearest Ebony Coils,

If you have read my recent letter, you will know that I am making some changes this month. I feel it in my bones that it is the best thing for me at this point. I am just flowing with the force...

 I will write future letters on my baby loc phase. x


Stay Blessed,


<3 Ebony Coils

Why I am Choosing Locs'.

 There are many reasons why I chose to embark on a loc' journey. It is by no means an easy process but I have decided that it is for me at this point in my life. I will attempt to elaborate below.

 I decided to lo'c it up because I knew I needed a C.H.A.N.G.E and this was the best time for it ( not 5 yrars from now like I originally guestimate for locing my hair). My hair likes to matt up especially in protective styles and detangling is a nightmar!. So, I thought my hair would do fine in locs because ts in its nature to loc together. A good friend of mine shared with me Daoism's view on nature and our relationship with nature. Often, we challange and attempt to prevent the forces of nature. I decided that it was quite an ambitious task to fight nature as it is such a powerful force.  Our attempts are almost laughable. I want to live in harmony with nature. Loc'ing my hair is a step towards this.

I  heart the look of locs and mine will be uniquely me.

I' ve been thinking about loc'ing my tightly coiled  tresses since beign natural. The recent detangling incident  try locs since I have a bit of length and If I decided I didn't want them , I can always have a Low Fade.reintroduced to me  one of two options:,locs OR a low fade. After weighing out the pros & cons, I decided to

It's my perogative.

I want a low fade some other time in my life. I want to see my hair bloom like a flower without ripping it out while detangling. Locs need to be left alone to do their own thing (whether one chooses freeform or retwisting) and that what I need to do with my fin e& fragile strands. With this epiphany came the decision that I will nolonger use extensions in my hair as it prevents me from embracing my hair as is. I have worn braid extensions all my life, in my late teens I wore a few weaves (sew ins and glue in's) and since being natural have worn two wigs (very short & very long).

As a result, I am always shocked when my hair is revealed after hiding it in a protective style. I don't wear my hair out much due to tangles and such, since the average head of hair sheds 50-100 strands daily and combing my hair daily is not an option for me. So locs are a good option for me and my lifestyle. With this in mind, If I wanted to remove my locs, I would end up with a LowFfade because that is just my personality- I do not enjoy tedious tasks! And I hope to be comfortable with myself, hair or no hair. After all, I came out slightly bald-headed  [like a full moon shining-I heart India Arie].

It's me. So there can't possibly be anything wrong with that.


Ofcourse there will be opposition in every choice you make, but as long as you're hppy with it- it's all cheese & broccolli or Ying & Yang. What ever you do, do it for yourself. So long as you are not harming others.

This journey will definitely test my patience and perseverance to carry on even on the bad hair days, which will come... However, I have done my research and learning my loc'd loved-ones. I will not be surprised as I will be seeing my hair everyday and we will have to learn to get on. All 88 [divided 4 twists on 24.02.11] [originally 79 on 22.02.11] of my baby locs and I want to live in harmony. lol I couldn't help it! ;O)

I want my hair to do it's thang, so I can focus on other aspects of my life. This is not to say I won't maintain them. I will probably do a combination of freeform and retwisting. I don't want to retwist every time I wash because I will wash often because I work out a sweat.

Thanks for reading my inner thoughts.


Have a great weekend! ;O) x


Sincerely,

Ebony Locs <3 x

Detangling Woes Leads to Changes...

Dearest Ebony:

It has been a while. I have not had much to update you on but now I do.

I took my yarn braids out a few days ago. My hair strands were sticking out of the yarn because of frequent washes after working out (cardio). I had them in since Jan 26/11. That’s about as long as I can stand extensions in my hair.

I was happy to take them out and see my hair, and it took no more than 3 hours to remove which was about the same time it took to install them. I sprayed a section with water to cause less friction when untwisting to remove the yarn and finger detangles to remove shed hairs. Before going to sleep, I applied Africa's best herbal oil/an my own blend t my hair focusing on the ends. This method can be classified as 'prepooing'. The next morning, I went to the gym with a plastic bag, under my bandana and even relaxed in the sauna/steam room to work some magic on my hair with the help of the oil.

Before washing my hair in the evening, I had decided to try Lisa Akbari's 'Get the Length' method to baby my dry hair. I washed my hair with twists in, but they slipped out with the help of my fingers after washing and adding Tressemme Naturals Conditioner. I dried using a trusty cotton T shirt and proceeded to apply a protein treatment called Elasta QP Anti breakage Serum followed by Organic Root Stimulator Replenishing Conditioner. As prescribed by the hair doctor, I popped on my Heat Therapy Wrap for 10 minutes with a conditioning cap (courtesy of 1mits on the YT-Xmas contest. I applied more conditioner after 10 minutes and repeated this step once more ending with a total of 30 minutes heat conditioning. I noticed that my hair was taking in the conditioner well, and it was soft... and I imagined that detangling would be a breeze, but I held off because as the Hair Doctor prescribes in her book, the best time to detangle while using the hair growth program is AFTER conditioner is rinsed and leave in as been applied (wait for 5 minutes). Prior to this method, I had learned to detangle BEFORE Shampooing with a light conditioner (pre-poo) and then plait my hair for washing.
Anyway, after rinsing the conditioner, my hair was still soft but was drying quickly with the help of my Cotton T shirt which I used to blot dry. I then applied my leave in, diluted Giovanni Direct Leave in.
I ran my fingers through, but I felt knots... I left the leave in sit for a few minutes and proceeded to detangle while watching Misfits in bed with my partner. I put my hair into 4 parts, and each of the four would further divided for more manageable detangling. This is when I realized that I was living a N.I.G.H.T.M.A.R.E.!!!!! AAAAH my hair was so tangled and matted... it was as if I was attempting to remove mature locs form my head.

I was UPSET (WELL DOWNSET.. haha.) A hideous seen followed... I could not stop the salty water from running from one eye and weirdly both eyes were bloodshot. I wanted to cry out from the depth of my soul... I recalled a similar situation last time I removed yarn braids and the hair loss induced by detangling that followed. I knew then and there that something had to change. I cried because I was sad, sad that I couldn't stop my hair from tangling, matting. I had always joked around that my hair wasn't meant to be combed or detangled and always struggled to do so- even with techniques I had learned and people swore on.

I could not deal with it at that late hour (my suggestion: do your hair when you have time and your mind is clear). I added more conditioner to the four sections, wrapped up and rolled around in bed until morning. The tossing and turning was due to several facts:  sleeping with a plastic bag topped with a bandana and soft hat is uncomfortable; my mind was processing the events of the night; I knew change was coming because that event changed my relationship with my hair and my perceptions and fears.

Please read the Next blog to see the changes I am making.

-Ebony Coils <3

Valentine's Weekend 2011

 Dearest Ebony:


Happy Valentines! I hope you're all feeling loved- wether its platonic or not!  (Family, Friends- Loved Ones).
I personally think V-day can be overrated and comercialized in that it's yet another time to spend money you may or may not have I am usually single on February 14th, but not for the past couple years.

To celebrate the weekend, my baby and I went to Central Manchester (Picadilly) on February 12th  and shopped till we almost dropped. The best was not spending all that money, but it was going to 'Little Yang Sings' in Chinatown for dinner at 6pm. This was the very first restuarant we went to as a couple back in February 2009. It was tres romantique, the restaurant was decorated in flamming red and above out table was a 'Be My Valantine Heart' and 2 roses. The ambience was lovely! Great food. We could barely move afterwards...After dinner, we met a few friends for drinks at pubs.

The night unfortunately ended on the 'hell bus' which is the one from Manchester to Blackpool where we encountered drunk people talking foolishness and shouting at the top of their lungs most of the 1:40 minute trip until bus driver lost it and took one for the team..lol

Today is a much more relaxed day for us. We exchanged tokens of our love- in the form of a teddy bear holding a hear in a cute woven basket' for me (basket is not a practical bathroom organizer, the finest Ferrero Rocher for my partner and some lovely cards from oneanother which are now displayed.

How sweet it is to be loved by you!

Reminder to tell and show the ones you love how you feel all 365 days a year! Valentine's day is not enough y'all. <3 

 HAPPY VALENTINES DAY FROM MY FAMILY TO YOURS. XOXOXOXOXO 


With Love,

12.02.11 Sat on Train ;O)

12.02.11- Sat on Train ;O)

Ebony Coils <3 xxxxxxxxxxxx 

12.02.11 I wasn't ready for this one:train to Mancs.

In Manchester w. Minie Mouse. hehe

On Train Motion photography.

12.02.11 -This is out corner at 'Little Yang Sings after making a mess if the white table cloth.

12.02.11 Soo much food!

13.02.11 My Vday gift:  teddy in a practical basket!x

Protective Style Maitenance (Yarn Twists) & Styling Video.

Dearest Ebony:

I cannot wait for this upcoming weekend as I will be heading to Manchester with my baby! I am excited...because I deserve some fun after working hard and YOU do too! ;O)

Anywho, I posted a vid on the YT of Yarn Twists Styling. The front of my hair is getting messy.

Maitaining Protective Style:

*Prepoo/Hot Oil Treatment.
*Detangle (Will detangle front of my hair by mid week where I have in Flat Twists).
*Wash with shampoo (currently using sulfates to prevent wastefulness) every 2 weeks.
*Condition with Tresemme Naturals.
*Rinse with Apple Cide Vinegar.
*Spritz with water or apply waterbased leave in conditioner.
*Seal with Oil/Trex.
*Oil Scalp with  Emu oil blend.
*Moisturize and seal with oil morning/night.
*Cleanse scalp with Distilled Witch Hazel inbetween washing (leaves a cool sensation).


I plan to redo the Flat Twists fortnightly/bi weekly and keep in the whole style for 4-6  weeks.The roots are already starting to jump, meaning I see newgrowth and/or slippage due to washing.

Here's the Yarn Twists Styling Video. I hope you enjoy ;O)
 What is your winter protective style of choice?x

I hope you had a relaxing weekend & are energized for the upcoming week. x


<3 Ebony Coils x

Hair Trauma: The Satin Bonnet.

Dearest Flower:

This is just a quick update on my hair happenings. I sleep with a satin bonnet. Many of us  know the importance of covering our tresses at night to protect our delicate strands from the evil cotton pillow case. However, Satin Bonnets can actually dry out hair. Have you ever woken up in the morning with dry/brittle straw-like hair after having moisturized before hay-town the night before??(no pun intended). I have!

My Satin Bonnet obsorbs moisture even better than my cotton pillow case... So what are the other options? In my humble opinion, Silk Bonnets would be the best fabric to sleep on, whether it's made into a Pillow Case, Scarp or Bonnet. The next challenge then is that I am a ROUGH sleeper- In fact, I have been accused of elbowing my partner in the head consistently in 2010. I no longer do this because my arms get tied down with my useless satin scarf at night... LOL I am just being silly..or kinky depending on how you take this! And I digress...

 Solution # 1

  Anywho, I need a solution... I thought I had found one for £2.99 on Afrodesire.com.
Link: http://afrodesire.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=180&products_id=3776

Stay-On Satin Bonnet.

But... I am back to square one because although the Satin Bonnet claims to be smooth on the inside- I do not know whether the internal material is Satin or Silk. ): Has anyone used this bonnet before? Please Share your experience. I do like that it has a drawstring so it can stay on all night-at least I hope it will.

Solution #2 

I may tie my hair down with Silky Scarf and pop this Bonnet on so that I wake up with it on rather than at the foot of the best or on the floor.

Solution #3

Apply the above method (solution # 1& 2)  and use a Silk Pillow Case as backup! AHA!

Seems like a brilliant idea,RIGHT?!  However Silk is slippery (therefore repels moisture=good for hair) and I can imagine my head slipping and sliding. Actually, my mum once bought me a Silky Play Boy Pink Bedding including Silk Pillow Cases I used to sleep on- but I don't currently have them... I don't think she knew the message behind the cute pink bunny.  ;O)



My  Current Solution: I tie my hair down with my Satin Banana, then wear the Bonnet on top, followed with pantyhose stocking. I have also tied my make-shift Silk Scarf  on my pilow. I will look around for Silk Pillow Cases- if not fabric to make one myself. I don't have a sewing machine, so good ol needle and thread may do. I will also look for a Silk Scarf and see if it'll stay on throughout the night.

Also, I will take a look at Poundland for a reusable bag as suggested by 'TheNaprika' on the YT.

My Satin Bonnet (Grey/Black).

Satin Bandana(Actually bought it for  my partner a while ago). ;O)

I also wear this banana under my hats/headband to keep my hair down as it is getting messy (after washing them).  I will be redoing the flat twists at the front next week.

Any ideas or tips on the subject disccussed? Please leave a comment below. x


TGIF! Have a great weekend!x ;O)



<3 Ebony Coils

Dairy-Free February Challenge [2011]

 Dearest Ebony:

My partner and I started a dairy-free challenge today. Why? Because I am lactose intolerant, and many people probably are without being conscious of this. Being lactose intolerant means that the enzymes in your body that break down milk products do not work well in digesting dairy products. When I consume milk products, I am often left with an achy tummy that only rest or a bowel can resolve. I have done Ultra-Sounds and nothing appears to be the problem. I even started taking lactose pills, which are overpriced for the amount required to digest dairy products. Being dairy-free is a big jump from my current diet although I am Vegetarian and my partner is 95% by association. I love cheesecake, and I have always used that reason not to be dairy free! However, there are dairy free cheesecake recipies among others. But I don't know if they are as good as dairy cheesecake.

We eat alot of cheese because we like it. ;O) But milk products also can make you bloated! And we have experienced this. Also, we have gone back to drinking alternative to cow milk such as rice, almond, and soy milk. Currently drinking soy milk as it is affordable and accessible as compared to rice or almond milk. If you like your milk creamy, it is as creamy as whole milk. I prefer rice milk as there is controverial research on soy milk and its negative affects. I will provide a link below for your information.





What does DAIRY FREE mean?


DO's   (Dairy-Free Products)                                              
                     
*Soy/Rice/Almond Milk                                          
*Dairy Free Butter                                                        
*Fruits/Veggies
*Fresh Orange Juice

* Soy Cheese
*Pasta
*Tomato Sauce
*Milk free cocoa


*Multivitamins
* Peanut Butter (If not allergic*)

DON'TS (All dairy products including...)

*Bread containing milk
*Milk chocolate
*Cheese
*Rose/creamy pasta sauces
*Cow's Milk
*Eggs
*Store bought snacks containin dairy (You can make your own dairy free snacks at home).
    *Biscuits/Cookies
    *Certain Cereals

*NOTE* This diet (way of eating) is my choice and I am in no way endorsing it however, it may do some good if you have indigestion problems. It is up to you what you put into your body. However, you are free to join in. Let me know. ;O) You can be dair free for a month starting from the day you join.

Meals of the day:

Breakie: Museli Mix Cereal/Soy Milk

Lunch (Missed it as I was working ):)

Snack: Pear/Tangerine

Tea or Dinner: Brown Rice/ Green Cabbage/Corn kernels/Peas  Stirfry (With soya sauce).

Take Care! x

-Ebony Coils <3

*For your Information: (Always encourage you to do your research and what is best for YOU:)

http://www.vegetarian.org.uk/campaigns/whitelies/dairy-free-guide.pdf

http://www.buzzle.com/articles/soy-milk-dangers.html
 
http://www.milkfree.org.uk/

http://www.dairyfreeuk.com/forum/index.php






                                              

January 2011: Update/Check-in For Hair Challenges.

Dearest Ebony:

I am such a night owl... I should have been sleeping 2 hours ago! Ok, just a quick post before hitting the hay. ;O) I posted a Check-in vid for my two Hair Challenges this year:

1) Protective Style Challenge (By: GrowBlackHairNet ) Youtube.
Duration: Dec 2010-April 31st 2011

2) 6 INCHES IN 2011 (BY: NaturalHairGrwthShow) Youtube.

Below is JANUARY UPDATE/CHECK-IN:

I hope you enjoy this vid, and join a challenge of your choice. ;O) x

Goodnight! x zzzzzZzzzzzzZZzz

Detangling Tools Review Including the Tangle Teezer!

Dearest Ebony:


I hope you are well! ;O)

I am writing to  compare and review my detangling tools. 1) Fingers; 2) Wide Tooth Comb; 3) Denman D31; and last but certainly not least, 4) Tangle Teezer. Detangling  is one of the main steps of maintaining and perserving hair strands. It is estimated that humans shed 50-100 hairs (from scalp) per day, this varies from person to person. Removing these shed hairs is important in order to avoid tangling/matting of the hairs that still remain on the head. Proper detangling also ensures that hair does not loc if this is not your intention and also that hair does not break from stressful handling.


Fingers: I use my fingers to detangle my hair before using any other tool. I did not always conciously do this, in fact I became aware of the importance of this technique within my first year natural through online research and reading educational books on natural hair care. This is especially important after hair has been in a protective style and has not been detangled for a week or more. I finger detangle on dry or before and after prepoo treatment prior to shampooing. This can also be done in the shower when water is running down the strands or conditioner has been applied.

Hands down the most important detangling tool because you can feel knots whereas a comb cannot. Therefore, finger detangling is the priliminary step to removing shed hair followed by the wide tooth comb then Denman  D31 or Tangle Teezer.




Wide Tooth Combs:  

# 1 (Seams) (3 Stars*).

# 2: Small wide tooth comb. Mine is slighlty bigger from Savers. Great for travelling. 4 stars).

#3 Wide tooth shower Comb (Seams) (3 Stars*).

 

I have 3 Wide Tooth Combs (sizes vary and can be matched with hair length), a staple for many naturals. The spaces between the comb are meant to be kinder on the hair as opposed to a closely spaced comb. You can can buy one with seams or seamless (not currently as accessible). The ones I have are not seamless, however I am unsure of the difference it would make. I have been using wide tooth combs for ages and it works well. However, if not used in conjunction with finger detangling and or with a brush, shed hairs may remain in the hair. Before discovering the importance of finger detangling, this style of comb was not kind to my hair at all as it can rip hair out! Being gentle and finger detangling prior to using a comb should limit breakage and ripping of hair.

Old Denman (0 Stars).

 Denman D31: This denman brush unlike a make-shift or styling version is great for detangling because the teeth are widely spaced. It works a lot better than the closely space one I purchased from the drugstore, which I gave a makeover by removing a few rows to make it widely spaced. I stopped using my make shift Denman because it pulled out too much hair, I binned it when I purchased the Denman D31. Unlike the Tangle Teezer it has a handle for easy use however the TT fits well in the palm of the hand. I will continue to use my Denman D31, it i a good detangling brush and can also be used to remove the shed hairs from the TT. Ofcourse I use the Denman D31 after finger detangling and using a wide tooth comb (ends to roots). The brush was purchased on amazon for under £10.

Denman D31 Detangling Brush (4 Stars).

Tangle Teezer (5stars!).

Tangle Teezer: This is my newest and favourite detangling tool other than my fingers. I purchased it at Boots (UK) for £10.20 in brght pink. It comes with a pamphlet with an explanation of how to use it. After finger detangling, it glides through my tightly coiled  hair with ease. I hold it horizontally because it is comfortable for me- especially if you have smaller hands, however it is meant to fit snuggly in your palm (vertically) as it is ergonimically correct.  You can find many reviews on youtube from: TheNaprika, NotoriousLYnappy1, AFRICANEXPORT and many more vogglers. This brush is impressive! Infact, some use it on dry hair but I have yet to try it for myself.

Tangle Teezer: Flexible Teeth long and short.

 How I Utilize The Above Detangling Tools In Order:

Step 1: Finger Detangle.

Step 2: Use Wide Tooth Comb.

Step 3: Use TT or Denman D31.

Step 4: Repeat steps 1-3 if necessary depending on style of choice.

5 DETANGLING TIPS:

Be pateient: Detangle your hair when you have time, do not rush because you may loose more hair thatnnecessary. Remember, hair can only be perserved. The more you keep the layers in place, the healthier the hair.

Shedding or Breakage: Know the difference between the two. Shed hairs are as long (as your length) with white bulb,  while broken hairs are shorter pieces without the bulb of the strand (white bit).

Detangle when hair is moist with water or conditioner or leave in conditioner. Find which method works for you. Some detangle after hair has been deep conditioned  while others detangle with conditioner and plait hair before shampooing in the shower. I have tried both methods. I combine them. I find that it is best for ME to detangle before shampooing in sections/plaits to avoid re-tangling of my coily strands. However, some  choose to detangle on dry hair. I usually finger detangle on dry hair, I have yet to consistently use other tools on dry hair. 

Use your fingers to feel for knots before using a wide tooth comb/brush. If there is a knot, gently romove individual strands from the larger knot. Add more conditioner or moisture as necessary. This may save your hair!

Prepoo with natural oils such as Extra Virgin/Coconut to loosen tangles and aid in removing shed hairs.

Thanks for reading, I hope this discussion was helpful to you.
Share: What is your detangling technique and what tools do you utilize?x

PS: I watched a movie tonight called '127 hours':  

'A mountain climber becomes trapped under a boulder while canyoneering alone near Moab, Utah and resorts to desperate measures in order to survive.'

It was mind blowing and it really made me think about how lucky I am... to have all that I do! Also, the film made me rethink about my hesitance as a teenager to let my parents know where I was going... This is sooo important incase something happens along the way and you need help. Who will come searching if for you?  If you haven't seen it, I recommend it to you and if you have, what did you think of it/ take from it?? ;O) x

Enjoy the upcoming week!x

Sources:
Shedding

http://www.keratin.com/aa/aa015.shtml


127 Hours

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OlhLOWTnVoQ

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1542344/

Natural Hair Inspiration 2011

Originally created on 29.01.11



Dearest Ebony:

I decided to make a Hair Inspiration video to keep me motivated. This is not a tool by which I compare my own hair to others, rather I will use this tool to get over my bad days... while on my journey.
We are all beautifully made. x <3 I hope you enjoy it.

Thanks for watching.  Music by: India Arie (Little Things)

Protective Style Challenge December 2010-April 2011 (YT Videos on the matter).

Dearest Flower,

I hope you are blooming despite these cold months. ;O)

I decided to show a few vids I posted on YT late last year re: the PS Challege by 'Growblackhairnet' as it is still relevant and will be until end of April 2011.

 

 

I loved my yarn braids and will definitely revisit! I am also LUVIN' the effortless yarn twists I have in currently. I will write on the subject soon... Great Winter Styles!x

What are your fave PS? ;O)

Take Care! x


-Ebony Coils <3

Easy Homemade Deodorant Experiment.

24.01.11 Homemade deodorant- cotton round to apply.

Originally written on 24.01.11/updated on 27.01.11

Dearest Ebony:

It's been almost a week since I last wrote. Busy busy week, I have been working since last sunday and will not breathe until the end of work on saturday. It's really not that bad at all! :O*promise*

Anywho...

I decided to make homemade deodorant to combat odour caused by bacteria on underarms. Fun right?!
I have been using unatural, store bought 'antiperspirant' for ages! I do not see how anything could stop me from sweating, which is a process that releases toxins out of the body. Based on my research, you can use natural ingredients that are anti-bacterial, soothing and  a fragrance if you so choose to.

I have chosen to use the following ingredients:    

Anti Bacterial Ingredients:

1.Witch Hazel: a gentle anti bacterial, astringent/cleansing (in a previous post, I used WH to cleanse my scalp), anti-flammatory agent.  USE 1/2 CUP BASED ON THE SIZE OF YOUR SPRAY BOTTLE

2. Tea Tree Oil : AKA. melaleuca oil, Anti-fungal, cleansing-odour protection.

USE 3 DROPS OR 6 IF IT IS YOUR SCENT OF CHOICE.

Soothing Ingredients:

3. Aloe vera gel or juice. 2 TBL SPOON  OR A FEW SQUIRTS OF ALOE GEL.

4. Eucalyptus. 3 DROPS OR 6 IF IT IS YOUR SCENT OF CHOICE.

Perservative:

5. Vitamin E Oil. 2 DROPS, DEPENDING ON THE STRENGTH OF THE OIL.

Fragrance: (Optional): Grapefruit Essential Oil. 3 DROPS. Omitted in my experiment due to being misplaced. :(

Method:

*In a 100 ML bottle, doesn't have to have a spray nozzle, you can use cotton ball or makeup rounds to apply on underarm(also lessens drying time.Small bottle works well, and it allows you to experiment without wasting ingredients.

*You can also choose to play it by hear and not measure your ingredients. I encourage you to play around with ingredients to make the best deodorant suitable to your bodily PH. We all have different a 'recipie' for odour caused by sweat...*

Update: I decided to  choose the last method, and skip the measuring. I added water to the witch hazel and then the oils and aloe gel. I wore it that day and well it did not work well for me. I walk to work and my underarms sweat. Needless to say I was uncomfortable at work because my underarms felt sweaty and smelly because although sweat is odourless, when left on the skin, bacteria forms especially underarms and genitals.  I suggest you ensure that you use deodorant on clean underarms- you can also put some on a cotton ball, clean your underarms with it then reapply it.

In future, I will omit the water in my mix because the witch hazel may have lost some of its' unique powers. haha! I will continue to experiment with the mix I have made and other combinations.

Note: The measurements in the mix are based on a recipie on eHow. The link is below under sources.

For more information on sweating, odour prevention please do your own research. Below are some links to give you a head start. It is important to do research when making a deodorant that is suitable for preventing odour producing bateria after sweating. Sweat itself is sterile. You don't have to be embarrased about a natural bodily function such  as sweating. There are ways to control it along with preventing odour caused by bacteria. You amy also opt to buy natural deodorant at your local health & beauty shop such as Holland & Barret (UK) or Wholefoods (NA). I have seen a range of natural deodorants at Holland & Barret. There is no need to let odour be a source of embarrassement in social situations while experimenting with your own deodorant mix  right in your kitchen!

Interesting Links on the subject:

http://www.ehow.com/list_7417365_types-sweat_eating-bacteria.html 

http://www.bbc.co.uk/health/physical_health/conditions/bodyodour2.shtml

http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/sci_tech/highlights/011115_sweat.shtml

Additional Sources:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tea_tree_oil

http://www.ehow.com/how_2135743_cheap-deodorant-easily.html

http://www.mountainroseherbs.com/learn/witch_hazel_extract.php

I hope you find the best alternative for you!

Upcoming Topics:

27.01.11 -Kalpi Tone Mix

*Kalpi Tone Treatment Process/Results

* Protective Style Update: Yarn Twists Protective Style

*Lemon Juice Toner

 *Detangling Tools (POSTED 29.01.11)


................And  MANY  more!x

27.01.11 Back view of Yarn Twists

27.01.11 Side view of PS

Peace & Love! x            


Ebony Coils <3

1st Trial of : Organic Distilled Witch Hazel.

Witch Hazel Blooming (parts used leaves and bark).
source: natures-rite-remedies.com

 Dearest Ebony:

Yesterday (20.01.11) I recieved the Witch Hazel I ordered from eBay. I settled on a brand for £6.99 with free shipping. The bottle appears smaller than I imagined, 250 ML is plenty though. Actually, I found a cheaper brand at 'Wilkinsons' in town for £1.50 for 100ML  of non-alchohol WH. My concern with  other store brands I had previously seen is the alcohol content. This brand (photo to the right) however is purely WH, and contains no alcohol in the ingredient list. However, I will purchase at my local 'Wilkinsons' once my new bottle runs low.

For those in North America,  WH is accessible at most department stores like 'Walmart'. If you are concerned with alcohol content, read the ingredients to ensure that you are purchasing pure distilled WH.

My experience using this powerful yet gentle astringent...1st Time:

I used q-tips and cotton balls to apply directing on my scalp.  I gently dabbed and massaged my scalp in a circular motion. I used clean fingers to further massage scalp (optional). Leave it in, do not rinse.

1st impression: My scalp felt refreshed. I will use this scalp cleansing method inbetween wash day or as needed. It is gentle enough to use a few times a week. You can also do spot treatment when you get the itches in one particular spot.

Witch Hazel Leaves- WH extracted from Leaves and bark.

Source

:

Emadethis.wordpress.com

*Tips*

WH should not be completely substituted for washing hair and scalp. I advise that it be used in conjuncton with washing. A clean scalp is the foundation for healthy strands.

If scalp persists to itch after using:

1. make sure you aren't allergic, perfore a patch test before using.

hair.
2. If you are not allergic, you may just need to wash your hair. Try an ACV rinse after washing.

3. You may have dry scalp, apply a non-comedogenic (non-clogging) oil (ie Coconut or Jojoba after using Witch Hazel).

Travelling Tips:

 Pour some WH into a small travel size bottle and bring it with you on holiday and use as needed eapecially when wearing protective styles. This should limit the amount of products you carry along. Simply bring a travel size spray bottle with aloe water or just boiled water and another bottle or small jar of your fave sealeant and you're good to go. For those in the UK, Boots, Primark (£1 set) , Superdrug all sell small travel size bottles to bring along staple products when you are away from home for more than a day. Don't forget a satin bonnet, scarf, pillow-case or even a non-cotton reusuable shopping bag from Poundland (* Creative tip is courtesry of  youtube.com/thenaprika       

Travelling Hair Care Video:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TCfYOgsOIxQ  ) 

Future Uses: Face Toner

(Please refer to the previous intro post on Witch Hazel and do your own research ;O).

Updates: I will provide updates after using WH for sometime.

Close up: Witch Hazel Plant  source: http://blog.landscapestlouis.com/featured/top-10-fall-plants-witch-hazel/

Sharing ;O) : Have you tried  or want to try WH? If you have, how have you used it and what was your experience?

All the best, Happy Friday!!!x

-Ebony Coils <3