What I’m Lovin’……Natural

What I’m Lovin’…

Hey guys!  Back again!  One thing I’m definitely Lovin’ is my Natural Hair journey!  I’ve had several requests to blog about my transition from my friends in my personal life and in the online community.  I‘m really enjoying all of the versatility that my natural hair has.  I never even knew that my hair could do all of this!  It’s hard work sometimes but learning new styles can be so fun! 

Here’s my story:

I first did a big chop in 2006 after listening to my mom’s insisting that I dye my hair blonde.  hmmm…  Well, it was damaged so bad that I had to cut all of my once beautiful shoulder length hair off about an inch from my scalp.  That was a painful day that was full of tears.

But I accepted my short ‘do and did the old “mousse and water” trick until it just didn’t work anymore.  So…. 

Then I got a leisure curl, which I really enjoyed and got lots of compliments on BUT I kept losing hair!  Every time I would brush, I’d pull out strand after strand.  I finally said that this isn’t working!!  ARGH!!!

So, for the next two years, I experimented with wigs and ponytails while my hair “transitioned”.  I didn’t even know that I was transitioning, I just was too uninterested in hair care to go and get a perm or nice hair cut.

Well, one day I decided to take out the ponytail and whaddaya know?!?  My hair was now in a natural state that had enough length to take part in all of the various styles that I always admired from “natural sistas”!

So, I started with the “puff”…  which by the way, I thought looked super regal!

Then to an awesome “twist out”….

Then to the ever daring, “wash and go”

There are so many other styles that I have yet to try but I’m having a blast (well, most of the time) with my natural hair!

Here are some of my favorite styling products, tools and styles that have helped me into my natural hair transition!  I’ve also included some of my favorite videos that have been super helpful to me, to show how to use them!

Olive Oil Moisturizing Shine Serum & Olive Oil Eco Styler Gel

I like to mix these two products together in another jar until I get a mixture that looks a little like whip cream.  I use this mixture to do a simple “wash & go” or “twist out”.  Check the two following videos for instructions.

 

A simple water bottle and a Denman Brush

I use my spray bottle a lot for various styles.  The Denmen brush is something new that I’ve been turned on to through YouTube.  This is a must for ultimate curl definition!  Check out the video below on how to use your Denman brush!

 

 

 

 

Silk Elements Shampoo & Condition and a VERY WIDE tooth comb

This is the shampoo that I’m using now and wide tooth combs are perfect for detangling.  I’m on the hunt for the perfect deep conditioner for natural hair so if you guys know of one, please leave me a comment!  Check out the video for a tutorial on how to effectively detangle your hair without hurting yourself or ripping too much hair out!  OUCH!   

 

 

Kinky Curly Curling Custard

 

This is what I first used in my original wash & go but I don’t really use it that much anymore.  It’s a great product but it’s a little pricey!  Around $18 for an 8 oz. jar and $30 for a 16oz jar.  It’s worth the price but I like the Eco Styler a little better and it’s much easier on this barganista’s pocketbook!  If you’d like to try it out,  Here’s their website and check out the video below to show you how!

 

 

 

Here are a couple more tutorials for natural hair styling that are in my favorites!  The first one is for a side puff and the second is for a nice “braid out”!

 

Side Puff

Braid Out

 

Some miscellaneous styling tools and products…

These bands are perfect for updo’s like the puff!

Always protect your hair, especially while you sleep.  Even if you don’t cover up with a headscarf, use a satin pillowcase.  Cotton pillowcases can rip hair right out.  I love my bonnet!  It’s ultra easy to put right on.

Found at Sally’s.  This is a lifesaver for rough edges.  Slick it on like deodorant and it lays those suckers down!

Most importantly, make sure that you are drinking plenty of water!  This ensures that your hair and body stay moisturized from the inside - out!

Don’t forget!  Hot hair accessories make natural hair styling FUN!

Here are some of my favorite blogs and vlogs that are dedicated to the natural hair transition and journey!  Always look to others for inspiration!  There’s a whole community out there that is sharing their story and helping others along the way!

As I come across more information, such as videos, tips, pics, and tutorials, I’ll definitely pass them along!

Many smoochie boochies to you all and I love you guys! Don’t forget to “like” me on Facebook, catch me on Twitter and Lookville!!! And now on BlogLovin’ and in your inbox!