5 Natural Hair Journey Tips

Hey naturalista's! Hope everyone is blessed. Today I'm coming at you with a top 5 post about how to make it through your natural hair journey. 

I've been natural my whole life, never put heat to my hair, but still I suffered and unfortunately my hair fell out. I had to shave my hair completely bald and start again, I did this on April 8th 2016. That wasn't too big a deal for me, but a genuine issue I had was my hair did not grow, it was stuck at 5 inches. Not that it was breaking and not growing, my hair was so damaged it didn't grow for five years. 

I resulted to protective styling and left my hair alone after five years of trying and eventually as I said decided to shave it off. Best decision I've ever made, truly. I still have a problem area though, the back of my hair is VERY thin. I think maybe too tight braiding, breakage and just a sensitive area of my head and constant ripping out of hair got the best of it. It is definitely better than it was before, but as I said my hair is very thin in that area, and grows much much slower. I've started putting Jamaican black castor oil and on the strands in that area at night in hope to improve it. 

This is a journey and my hair is still very short, its too early to tell at this point with that area. I'm just happy it's better than it was before, and i'm just going to keep trying to restore more hair in that area, it's a process right! So that's a lil background to my hair, I'm 6 and a half months in and to be honest it feels like it's been much longer! I thought I'd give you some tips on how I've been managing.

1.

I know you don't want to hear it, but patience. YOU MUST BE PATIENT. Focus on the process rather than the end goal of a full head of hair. It will happen, growing afro textured hair is not easy, it takes a lot more effort and care, but if you are diligent it will grow. My hair grows very slowly compared to the rest of the natural hair guru's I've seen on youtube, I only retained 2 inches in 6 months, so that's my hair growth rate. My routine is perfect for my hair, I don't struggle with dry and brittle hair although I did in the beginning, avocado oil does my hair wonders, it keeps it soft and conditioned, so I'm doing everything right. I'm diligent, and my hair just grows slowly and I'm really OK with it :)

2.

Don't compare your hair to other peoples. Ever heard the saying comparison is the thief of joy? (Don't just apply this to your hair, apply it to your life!) Looking at other peoples hair growth will drive you insane, I was guilty of this in the beginning, I was totally happy with how my hair was growing until I started looking at other YouTubers, blogs and what not, I thought there was a problem with my hair because my hair didn't look like theirs at the 4 month stage etc. It's nonsense, I've been really lucky finding products that work for me so early, but I did have an additional 5 years prior experience of knowing what products just did not work for me. My point is if you look at other people's hair, you will psych yourself out. Focus on your own journey.

3.

Protective style. I gave protective styling a go on my six months, I did some really cool grey faux dreads, before I shaved my hair that was my go to protective style. It stops you from watching your hair like a hawk and just have some fun. However I must admit, I protective styled way too prematurely. My hair is still far too short and most of the locs fell out, some of them fell out when I was in lectures :/ They only made it for 3 weeks but I have seen a significant difference, my hair definitely seems thicker and the textures changed, it's actually really nice, I have 4z hair and if it's possible it made it even thicker and curlier!

4.

Do not be a product junkie. I cannot stress this enough. Firstly, you will waste a ton of money on products you will never use again. Secondly if you're using a ton of products at once, and you use something that's actually working for your hair, how are you going to know what's working? You also need to use some products for a while to see their benefits, you could have the magic ingredient and you will never know because you're using too many things!

5.

Document your journey. You don't have to be taking snapshots on a daily basis, but I take a photo monthly and this has really helped me, because my hair has the ultimate shrinkage. The shrinkage is REAL, my hair is so tightly coiled. When I see some naturalista's wash their hair in sections I am amazed because as soon as a bit of water touches my hair it recoils like BAM, if I washed my hair in sections they'd come out for sure. But because I get so much shrinkage, between my 4 months til now I thought my hair hadn't really grown but because I had my pictures I can see that it has! Like I said just focus on your own journey, pictures will snap you out of your delusion, your hair is growing!

Thanks Samia for your guest post! You can read more from her blog here, https://samiaghana.wordpress.com/blog/

7 Books That Will Change Your Life!

The following books are just a few of the countless books I have read during this journey of self discovery that I am currently on! I promise you that at least 1 of the books below will spark something off to make a change in your life or reinforce what you already knew but haven't been practising. 

I usually share hair product gems with you guys but how about some life hacks! Check out the below,

The Secret - Rhonda Byrne
http://amzn.to/2fdtcRE

I found this book around 5 years ago whilst studying at Uni, I remember I was in my second year and was quite depressed at the time and wasn't even sure if the course I was studying was really what I wanted to do. This book came at the right time as it taught me the BASIC skills and manuscript to follow to make my dreams/ambitions come true. I followed the dream board advice in the book and made post it notes all over my room, lets just say they all came true and I swear to you this is no lie.

I wanted an internship with MTV (This came to me a year later.) I wanted to go to Miami for my birthday in 2015 with my best friend (I have now been for the past 2 years for my birthday and with the same friend), I wanted to start my own business (I now have my blog and hair accessories online store). I could go on and still to this day write down my goals and dreams to put into the universe and they always comes back around.

This is a great book to start with!


The Science Of Getting Rich - Wallace D. Wattles
http://amzn.to/2fdAHrY

If I could choose 1 book that has changed my life and mindset it would be this book and only this book! I don't remember how it came into my hands around 2 years ago but I am SO thankful that it did. This book isn't a scam that promises you riches, it is a really easy to read and understandable mindset you must have when it comes to attracting money into your life. I love so much that it teaches you to not be in competition with others or use the teachings to do bad in life.

It is great for entrepreneurs and those in general with negative mindsets. Positive thinking about money is so important and this book explains why. Certain points that changed my life were the fact that we shouldn't worry about money, there is enough for EVERYONE to be rich, also we should not concern our minds with war and poverty when we ourselves are not in the position to help. We must first attract riches into our own lives and then we can contribute (much like helping yourself first in an emergency.). It is such a thin book and after reading I forced and still try to force my loved ones to read it.


The 4 Hour Work Week - Tim Ferriss
http://amzn.to/2ezmGmG

One I am still currently reading but have wanted to read for a long time! This is the kind of lifestyle I aspire to have (working for myself at my own pace and at anywhere in the world). Financial freedom is my goal. This book shares Tim's own success story. I love the fact that it also includes worksheets and excel spreadsheets to help you plan your goals and finances.


Curly Girl Handbook - Lorraine Massey
http://amzn.to/2fhe5oO

For my curly girls! This book is a great introduction to the whole 'Curly girl method' also a great starter kit for your natural hair journey. This book explained the whole 'No Poo' method and techniques of styling curly hair. It caters to all types of curls and has a DVD with tutorials and step by steps.



The Alchemist - Paul Coelho
http://amzn.to/2fE1sZo

A great one if you are in a weird space in life! This book is fiction but the story has so many life gems you can read it again and again and it will remind you of why you should trust in what God has planned for you in life. This helped me to let go of my fears and anxiety (I should actually read it again lol). Took me a while too finish but it all makes sense when you really get in too the story. Often a favourite book of your favourite idols/entrepreneurs.


How To Get Out of Your Own Way - Tyrese Gibson
http://amzn.to/2fdxvg6

I finished this book over a weekend break I had away last year. I always have a clear memory of reading a certain chapter on the plane. Tyrese's story is so inspirational he actually does it all acts, sings, writes and is successful at everything he does!

You learn that Tyrese came from a bad situation and start in life but made it to the top by changing his mindset! He used his talent and 'got out of his own way'. I love the fact that their is also a chapter aimed at women on how to deal with relationships that we often set ourselves up for failure with. It is also a great introduction to his book with Rev Run 'Manology'. I recommend this if you need an extra push to get things in motion or are feeling down about your current situation in life.



Fabulosity 'What It Is and How To Get It' - Kimora Lee Simmons
http://amzn.to/2e1Gp2i

This book is for you if you have the urge to achieve so much in life and be the BOSS woman you often admire from a distance. This was me before reading this book and honestly Kimora's journey and advice gave me the confidence to go ahead and KILL it. As someone who is naturally quiet and sometimes shy in new social situations this book gave me great tips on how to 'fake it til you make it' and get what you want out of certain opportunities I would have missed out on due to fear. Definitely one for the budding female entrepreneurs.

I hope you try to read at least one book from the above as I found them life changing please let me know if their are any books you found life changing that I missed out!

#FREEBIEFRIDAY

Good news!

I have started a new series for those who are signed up to mailing list. Every Friday you will receive a free printable/ebook/guide weekly that will help you on your natural hair journey. This series is all to celebrate the launch of my book coming very very soon! 

Check out the first 2 freebies below and sign up here to receive yours next week and the following Friday's.

Guide To Transitioning

Hair Length Guide

Facebook LIVE Q&A With Boucleme @ Stylist Live!

Yesterday I attended Stylist Live to host a Live Q&A on Boucleme's Facebook page! It was so fun! and all of the footage was captured for you to replay below.

I answer hair questions sent in via social media about length, products, maintaining health and more.

You can see me styling my hair with the Boucleme products here

Watch the Q&A 2 parts below :) (The owners name is Michele NOT Gemma I got the names messed up lol!).

Part 1:



Part 2:

Haircut Review With Lindsey Hughes 'The Curl Whisperer'

1 Year On Haircut – Lindsey Hughes Review

So last weekend I had my second ever curly hair cut with the same stylist who did my first ‘chop’ during transitioning to natural curls. It has been just over a year since the first haircut (VLOG) and my hair has grown so much!! 

Take a look at the comparison below.

I had decided to have another haircut not for health reasons as my hair is so healthy and no dead ends needed cutting (Thanks to treatments, no heat and no chemicals). I simply needed a reshape and Lindsey kindly listened to my needs. I wanted to keep the length as I am so proud of how much its grown and would like to see how long I can actually get it to grow! She explained that if she lifts the top layers of my hair and gives them a cut so I still have length but now more of a shape.

As always Lindsey makes you feel so comfortable to express what you would like and talks you through every step. She has been a hairdresser for years before specialising in curls. She now has her own section in the beautiful 'Beauty Rose' salon in London, New Quebec Street surrounded by curly hair products, accessories the essentials and wash bowls. She cut my hair whilst dry firstly (so I suggest you arrive with your hair in its natural wash and go state) no need to wash as she will co-wash or cleanse your hair for you after the cut! The cut took around 20 minutes/30 max and then we went straight onto washing.

Lindsey had her lovely assistant with her Kizzy, who made the wash process much quicker. Lindsey talks through what products she is using (my past experiences stylists would usually not share what products they will wash your hair with!) she takes the time and care to reach each curl and finger combs through. She then applied some of the SheaMoisture Manuka Honey Intensive Masque (I now need to purchase) and used a wide tooth comb only on the ends of my hair to make sure they are completed detangled from single strand knots and saturated in the treatment. She then rinses out (not completely) and brings you over to style.

The drying process is fun, I usually air dry but Lindsey and Kizzy were able to both diffuse my hair at the same time. She has a great seat that declines all the way back so you can lie down during this process. Once my hair was dry she gave it a once over and got rid of any stray hairs and I was immediately happy with the cut, definition and light feel of my hair!

The visit in total took about 1 hour 30 minutes (Record breaking) and you will have no interruptions, one client at a time! After Lindsey also hands you this cute scroll (with a free hairband) with some tips on how to care for your hair. If you a beginner to natural haircare this visit will be perfect for you!

Huge thanks to Lindsey and Kizzy for my hair and amazing experience. Highly recommended!

You can book an appointment with Lindsey here

 After Styling:

Click below to be alerted of when my ebook has been released, you will also receive a free chapter! 

5 Things To Tell Your Hair Stylist!

5 Things To Tell Your Stylist Before & During Your Next Appointment..

This weekend I am going to get my second EVER curly haircut after my first one last year! 

As a natural (and curly girl) going to a salon and putting your trust in a hair stylist is a huge risk and something we have all struggled with in the past. I have asked countless times for a stylist to not put too much heat on my hair, don’t cut too much, don’t comb when dry, don’t use certain products and as we all know they do not always listen.

However within the past few years their are now more and more great salons and stylists out there who have been awakened and are trained to look after natural curly hair. They know how to cut it when dry, moisturise curls with the right products and not to use high heat.

I know a lot of you may still have reservations so I have put together some tips and things you may want to mention before you go ahead with a hair appointment (with an expert in curls).

1.

What do you REALLY want?! 

Speak now or forever hold your peace! Do not be afraid to speak up and tell your stylist exactly what you want them to do. The worst feeling is when a stylist takes over and does their own thing and you scream inside whilst sitting and watching!

    2.

        Bring your own hair products! With my last appointment my stylist asked beforehand what products worked well for me and made sure she had them along with similar ones she recommended. You too shouldn’t feel embarrassed to bring your favourites it shows that you care and know your hair, it will also help to build a relationship/conversation with them if you are shy.

     3. 

When it comes to the haircut, show some pictures of the kind of cut you would like. I recommend that you get your curls cut whilst your hair is dry. It gives you a better idea of how your hair will look day to day. Cutting it straight will make it look good when its straight but off shape when curly. Cutting your curls whilst wet can also do the same, mine was cut partly dry and partly wet (once the curls had been styled just to touch up).

     4.

Come with your hair styled out and curly (how you usually have it) this will give you a great before and after picture along with reinforcing to your stylist how it looks day to day so she can work around your look.

       
  5.

        ENJOY! I had the best time ever on my first curly cut. I felt really relaxed and it was amazing to have someone else go through the wash, deep condition, detangle, wash and dry process. I wish I could have someone do that for me weekly!

I will be sure to update you on my appointment, make sure to follow me on Instagram for all the juice.
 

Top 5 Tips For Curly Kiddies

 I often talk to you all about looking after my hair and my content is aimed at adult/teen haircare but what about the curly kids? A lot of you guys struggle with having to care for kids curls so I have put together 5 simple steps that should help to make kiddie haircare easier.

1. Detangling

This for me was always the worst part of wash day as a child. I would cry as my hair was being combed and it always felt like such a chore! After years of dealing with my own hair I know a simpler way to make detangling less painful and stress free.

If your child has very thick or long hair it can be much easier if you detangle on soaking wet hair and add a ton of conditioner! This adds slip to the tangles so they are easier to slide apart. I then would begin from the ends upwards smoothing a wide-tooth comb (or your fingers) through the hair until all knots are out. 

The key to this is patience so make sure you detangle when you aren't in a rush.

2. Deep Condition 

I understand that this might not always be practical for kids when they just want to run around an not sit patiently for 30 minutes but try to do this at least once a month. Now there are amazing tools like a favourite of mine, the 'Thermal Haircare Hot Head' which now sell kid sized versions.

https://www.myluxekids.com/collections/hot-head-thermal-hair-care/products/little-hot-heat-cupcakes-reversible

The great thing about the hot head is that it is cordless so your curly kiddies can still run and play whilst it works its magic!

3. Protective Styling

Lets face it, everyday fro's are not practical for your kids at school and playing around all day they are bound to get a bunch of tangles and frizz! I would definitely opt for a fro once/twice a week and have your child in protective styles throughout the school week just to maintain moisture and help with growth.

You can have fun with styles by adding some braids to a simple bun or bunchies, braid outs and twists. Check out this simple hairstyle I created below that can last a few days out of the school week.

4. Ingredients

When choosing products for your kids you really want to be strict and careful with what ingredients you are using. You don't want to expose them to harsh chemicals as their hair is already very sensitive. 

Opt for products that are organic, natural and free from chemicals like sulphates and parabens. The online retailer 'My Luxe Kids' only sell products from brands that follow this rule so you have a great selection to chose from here, https://myluxekids.com/collections/kids most of our favourite brands have a kiddie line so check them out!

5. Moisture

Keep your child's hair moisturised if you want to keep it healthy and promote hair growth. I think the easiest way for this is to make your own moisture spritz (or buy a ready made one). It will be easy to apply to the hair quickly in a spray bottle and won't give the hair product build due to it being diluted with water, saving you until the next washday.

Follow the 5 steps above for your curly kiddies hair routine and I guarantee you will find maintenance easier. 

Looking for products and tools to help with the tips above? My Luxe Kids have kindly given my readers 15% off any purchase using my code: UKCURLY15                               https://myluxekids.com/ 

Braided Headband Hairstyle Tutorial

Need a quick an easy hairstyle to spruce up your curls or even cute for work and school? Check out my braided headband tutorial below!

Step 1: Section off a middle parting and then 2 diagonal partings down towards your face.

Step 2: Apply some conditioner/styler to 1 of the sections and detangle ready for braiding.

Step 3: Starting from the scalp begin braiding down towards your face all the way to the root and repeat for the section next to it.

Step 4: Pull both braids back to the back of your head and tie together tight enough to stay or use a thin hairband/bobby pin to keep in place.

Step 5: Perfect your edges with some gel or edge control.

You can also style this into a bun for day 2/3!

Challenge! Try this hairstyle and tag me in your results, I will then share on my Instagram page @ukcurlygirl

Check out some already posted below..