Naturally Yours

I LOVE MY HAIR!!!!!!

2010-10-14T13:46:00.001-04:00

A friend shared this with me on facebook and I thought it was so appropriate to share with the rest of you...way to go Sesame Street!!!!!!!!!!

31 Days of Giveaways

2010-10-12T23:31:00.000-04:00

Hola mis amores....

Though I've been off my game for the last month, if you ladies are anything like me you LOVE a good give away. Check out the latest giveaway from naturallycurly.com There will be a free giveaway every day for the rest of the month. There's a variety of products to meet your every curly haired need. So check it out and ENTER!!!!!!!!! 31 Days of Giveaways

Smooches,
Kira

It's Been A Long Time..

2010-10-12T23:14:00.000-04:00

Hola Chicas!!!!!

It has been wayyyyyyyy too long since I last blogged. For those of you who don't know I am back in school studying for my MSW and I have been SWAMPED. Between all the reading for school, my field placement (internship) and extracurricular activities I haven't had much time for my blog let alone a personal life lol. However I just wanted you ladies to know that I have not forgotten about you. I am still dedicated to bringing you the latest and greatest in natural haircare.

Though I haven't been blogging I have been keeping up with what's going on in the natural hair world and I've met some cool people along the way. I'll be sure to introduce you to all the wonderful chicas I've met on twitter and link you to their websites, blogs, contests and twitter pages.

Well that's all for now... miss u beauties much *muah*

Kira

Hair Tutorial

2010-09-08T22:54:00.001-04:00

Hey chicas...I did a protective style last night w/ two strand twists and flat twists & decided to do a quick tutorial w/ pics (I ain't @ the youtube video stage yet lol) so ENJOY!!!!

1. Part your hair into three sections (2 in the front & 1 in the back)

2. starting from the back part a small section and begin twisting

3. if you have a lot of hair like me you may want to part the middle section into 3 or 4 small sections to make it easier (parts do not need to be perfect)

4. twist hair one section at a time until you have completed the entire middle section

5. begin parting the front section on an angle and twist

6. continue twisting until entire section is complete

7. repeat on the other side until flat twists are complete

I redid the flat twists tonight because they were a little fuzzy since I didn't use any product on them initially....

Finished Product (day 2)

(I have a big forehead LMBO)

Products used:

Isoplus Natural Remedy Tea Tree & Aloe conditioner (for the scalp)

Oyin Handmade whipped pudding (for the 2 strand twists)

Organic Root Stimulator Lock & Twist Gel (for the flat twists)

Feature Friday: Curls Curling Creme by Vigorol

2010-09-03T20:08:00.001-04:00

Heyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy chicas...today's feature friday is dedicated to my ALL TIME favorite styling product

Curls Curling Creme by Vigorol

For the longest I was on the hunt for a product that would help me define my natural curls. Many people told me about Miss Jessie's, Kinky Curly and the like. While everyone sang their praises I just was not willing to spend a fortune on a product that may or may not work in my hair. Eventually a friend introduced me to Vigorol and bought me a jar. I INSTANTLY fell in love. Not only did it smell good but it left my curls defined, light and oh so soft. In addition it was ONLY $4!!!!!!

It's been a year and I haven't stopped using it since (thanks Ang). So all you curly hair beauties go pick up a jar from your local beauty supply store and have at it!!!!!

The Perfect TWA

2010-08-31T19:13:00.001-04:00

Today's post comes from a guest blogger, my homegirl Nina of NaturalNina.com Here Nina shares her secrets for the perfect TWA....

The Perfect Curly TWA

After searching for a super long time, I finally found the right product to give me a well defined curly TWA. A while back, I purchased Knot Today, and Kinky Curly Curling Custard. At first I was a little skeptical of what the results would be, so I was sure to read the directions before I used the products. My first attempt didn't go so well. I put too much product on my freshly co-washed curls, without realizing it. I was just trying to rake the product through small sections of my hair . The KCCC dried hard, and it left little gel globs in between my curls. I knew then that it would take a little more practice to see, what amount of product would be right for my hair. After a few trial and error practice runs, I finally came up with the perfect amount of product to make my curls pop! This is how I style my perfect curly twa.

First, I apply a quarter sized amount of Knot Today through my freshly co-washed hair.

2. Then I part my hair down the middle with my fingers, and dip my finger tips into the Kinky Curly Curling Custard.

3. I rub my finger tips together, and proceed to gently rake the product through the curls on both sides of the part

4. On the left side of my head, I start another part that goes from the front of my head to the back. I push the hair up in a mini Mohawk, dip my fingers again, and continue to rake the product through the curls on both sides of the mini Mohawk.

5. I continue the same mini Mohawk sections from front to back, making a total of 4, and applying the product the same as I do in step 4.

6. After My sections are complete, I scrunch and massage my curls into place eliminating the parts from the sections.

7. I wait for my curls to air dry, and my perfect curly twa is complete!

Be sure to check Nina out on the web
http://www.naturalnina.com/
www.twitter.com/naturalnina

M.I.A.

2010-08-29T17:24:00.000-04:00

Heyyyyyyyyyy chicas!!!!!!! I have been M.I.A. for the past 2 weeks...enjoying some much needed me time!!!! However, no worries because I will be back in full swing this week. I have a few guest bloggers and other things in the works so stay tuned!!!!!!!

Hasta luego mis amores *muah*

Hair Journey: Crystal

2010-08-17T17:00:00.000-04:00

Hola chicas!!!!! Welcome to our very first Hair Journey featuring Crystal, a poet and teacher from Brooklyn, NY. Crystal is a beautiful, afro-centric, politically conscious, intelligent naturslista. Go with us as we take a trip down memory lane as Crystal recounts her very own Hair Journey....

As a black woman, since I was a very young girl I learned one thing very early on: There was something wrong with my hair. I remember being 11 years old and for the first time I got my hair pressed. For those of you who are not familiar with pressed hair, it is when a hot iron comb is placed on fire and passed through the hair to make it straight and silky. The hot comb was invented my Madam C.J. Walker in 1905. A hot comb was supposedly necessary for black women to make their hair straighter and more appealing to the eye. I remember that day when I got my hair pressed. For some reason, I felt more beautiful when I saw my hair swing, when I saw the way it moved. There was something magical about my hair in this free-flowing way, or so it seemed.Time passed and I graduated from the hot comb to permanent relaxers when I turned 13. A permanent relaxer is a strong chemical containing lye which is used to permanently alter a curly or wavy hair pattern. According to the US Food and Drug Administration's Office (FDA) of Cosmetics and Colors, chemical hair straighteners are a serious problem among consumers. Many customers complain of hair breakage, and scalp burns which often require Emergency Room treatment. With that background information, why then did I at such a young age get a permanent relaxer, just to have straight hair? Why do so many black women all over the world, continue to chemically straighten their hair every 6 weeks in order to avoid the lovely texture of our natural tresses? This is a question that could take centuries to answer. However, there is one reason that is at the root: self-hate.

As a black woman I can say this is in fact true. We are taught early on that our hair is "nappy" "ugly" and "unruly." Family members pass these negative adjectives regarding our hair down to us and we internalize these words to mean one thing: Who we are naturally is not beautiful; therefore we must permanently change ourselves, beginning with our crown of glory-our hair. All of the women in my family always had relaxed hair and all of them still do. They served as my guide as to what a beautiful woman looked like, so of course I wanted to mirror their representation of beauty. Also, everywhere I looked, whether it was on television or in a magazine, every woman had straight tresses. Thus what was I to do but straighten my hair?

It was my uncle Gerald who told me what I dreaded hearing one day, two years after my straightening ordeal: "So I see you want to be white!" I looked at him and I yelled back: "What are you talking about? I don't want to be white!" He looked right into my eyes and stated: "Yes you do, you just don't know it yet." Up to this day, I always remember those words, because they haunted me. I can honestly say that I never thought of straightening my hair as wanting to be white, but I do understand now that by straightening my hair I was adopting a more European ideal of beauty. I hated when my roots (new growth as it is mostly called in the black community) were visible, and I wanted to straighten my hair as soon as I saw my roots. Many black women complain saying things like: "My roots are coming in! I need to get my hair done soon." These statements are accompanied by head nods and understanding by black women alike who understand the pressure to upkeep their silky smooth hair. This is in fact a form of self-hate.

Finally, after finishing high school, keeping my relaxed hair in tact, I went on to college in Vermont. While there, I realized that it was impossible for me to get my hair styled by someone who had a clue about black hair. This led me to doing my own hair every weekend. My roommate, who happened to be a middle class woman from Connecticut, was often amazed by the amount of time and energy I put into my hair. My routine consisted of 2 hours! The first hour consisted of washing and styling my hair. The second hour consisted of sitting under a hooded hair dryer (in my broom closet sized room) for another hour so that my hair could dry. After the 2 hours, I would then wrap my hair around my head and tie a scarf over my hair so that it would look extra silky smooth the next day. Whew. What a routine! It took so much out of me every weekend, but I never stopped, because I felt like I had to look this way. I put so much pressure on myself to have the "right hair." I also had fans. Many black women on campus would often admire how well-kept my hair always was in a place like Vermont. They often asked me for hair tips and suggestions. For some reason, this added fuel to the fire and encouraged me to keep up my 2 hour routine, despite the fact that I had loads of studying and extracurricular activities.

During my junior year, after coming back from spending time abroad in France, I decided that I would, like so many other black women on campus, get my hair braided (with the aid of hair extensions.) Braids made my life so much easier because I didn't have to worry about doing my hair at all and I could have the braids in for months! I was finally at peace while at school. One day while sitting in the school library, a friend of mine, who always wore her hair natural approached me and asked: "Are you going natural? I noticed you have been keeping it braided. Is that because you are growing out your hair?" This idea had never even occurred to me. Why on earth would I stop chemically relaxing my hair? There wasn't any other option for me. "No" I replied quickly while shaking my head in a mocking way. My friend just acted as if it wasn't a big deal and we changed the subject, however, she didn't know that in the back of my mind, I was considering the true meaning of her question.

Fast forward to senior year of college; it was the month of April, and I was about to graduate in a few weeks. I looked in the mirror to see my chemically straightened hair. It had been 9 years since I first made the switch to silky smooth. I was 22 and ready to do the big chop. All of my dead, chemically straightened hair had to go. It was like an epiphany. I woke up in the morning, looked in the mirror, and I knew that I was finally ready to accept the real me, not the me I was trained to be. I made my way to a barbershop in Burlington, Vermont with 3 of my closest friends, two of them were black women, so they knew just how big of a deal this was. We got there and I told the barber: "Shave it all off, now!" He looked at me like I was mad and asked me if I was sure. I said I was and that was the best day of my life. Upon seeing my shaved head, I felt beautiful, and truly free, more free than I had ever felt with silky smooth hair.

I had forgotten what my natural hair looked like at all. Seeing my extremely hair made me smile. My hair was beautiful and there was absolutely nothing wrong with my "naps" as far as I was concerned. When my family saw me for graduation, they actually loved my new look and they were very supportive. From that day on, I grew out my natural hair and finally started locking my hair in May of 2006. Now I wear medium length locks and I love my hair! Every day I learn to love myself more and appreciate who I really am without chemically altering my natural hair pattern.

Because I personally choose to wear my hair natural does not mean that I no longer feel pressured by all of the European ideals I see around me on a daily basis. However, because I have a much stronger sense of self, it is much harder for me to be swayed by popular demand. It still bothers me that everywhere I turn I see black women with straight hair or long weaves which is now the trend. It is as if we believe we are cursed and have to hide who we really are in order to fit into mainstream society. A lot of women I talk to say things like: "It's just hair; it's not a big deal." Some black women even go as far as saying: "I don't look good with natural hair." My question is: How can you not look good with your natural hair that you were born with? Does that even make sense? I wish more black women would love their natural hair because it is beautiful and unique. Now I must say living in a society where European ideals are often celebrated: Straight hair, straight noses, thin lips, etc. it is much harder as a black woman to love who you are, without feeling like you need to change. However, we need more role models in our communities who embrace natural beauty and most importantly, we need positive role models in our families! Perhaps if I grew up in a family where I saw women with natural hair, I would have never chemically relaxed my hair. Or maybe I needed to go through my straightening madness in order to really appreciate my hair when I discovered it again. Who knows? But one thing remains true, black women we are beautiful as our natural selves. Keep that in mind!

http://crystalbellepoet.blogspot.com/
www.twitter.com/nappypoet

Feature Friday: Hair Journey

2010-08-13T13:54:00.001-04:00

Happy Friday beauties!!!!!

Today's Feature Friday is dedicated to a new segment here at Naturally Yours entitled: Hair Journey. We have all had those moments where we absolutely LOVE our hair and then there are the days we hate it and want to shave it all OFF!!!! We face challenges on a regular basis, whether it be with styling, maintenance, growth, dry scalp or anything else you could possibly think of. There are so many choices to make and so many things to learn so why not share so that we can grow together?

It's often been said that we learn from one another. Hair Journey is an opportunity for you to tell your story. Talk about the road to becoming a naturalista. What are some of the joys and pains you've experienced? What have you learned? What are some challenges you faced during your transition period? What are your goals? Talk about it ALL!!!!!

So have @ it chicas....send all submissions along with 3-5 pics to naturallykira@gmail.com. I look forward to hearing from you!!!!!!

~Kira

Heat Damage via Chi-Chi "Gechyohurdid" McDonald

2010-08-12T12:21:00.000-04:00

Beautiful Day mis amores,

In the natural community we often hear and read about how we should avoid heat when it comes to styling our hair. We're told by some that though the heat may be helpful at the moment it can have long term damaging effects. Personally, it is very rare that I use heat on my hair. I normally use it when getting my hair pressed out in the winter months and even that is sparing. The reason for this is that I do NOT want my hair to become "trained" and then run the risk of losing my naturally beautiful curls. So for all you chicas that are struggling w/ the decision of whether or not to use heat here's a stylist's take on it:

STOP STOP STOP!!

STYLISTS, QUIT TELLING YOUR NATURAL CLIENTS THAT YOU ARE JUST "TRAINING" THEIR HAIR TO STAY STR8 LONGER!!

UR A DAYUM' LIE!!!!!

SO MANY TIMES I HAVE CLIENTS THAT ARE NATURAL AND WANT NATURAL STYLES (TWISTS, TWIST OUTS, FROS, ETC.) AND CAN GET THEM!!! YOU WANNA KNOW WHY? BECAUSE YOU'VE FRIED THEIR HAIR TO SHYT AND DIDN'T TELL THEM THE TRUTH ABOUT WHAT HEAT CAN AND WILL DO TO HAIR. QUIT TRYING TO TAKE PEOPLE'S MONEY AND KEEP IT REAL!!! WHEN YOU HAVE A NATURAL CLIENT THAT COMES TO YOU WANTING A FLAT IRON, WARN THEM OF THE DANGERS OF HEAT AND GIVE THEM THE RIGHT TO CHOOSE WHAT HAPPENS TO THEIR HAIR!! THEY NEED TO BE FULLY AWARE THAT THERE IS A CHANCE THAT THEIR HAIR CAN END UP PERMANENTLY STR8 IN SOME PLACES (MOSTLY THE ENDS) OR ALL OVER; EVEN WITH HEAT PROTECTANT. THOSE ARENT' A GUARANTEE THAT YOUR HAIR IS TOTALLY SAFE. THINK OF IT LIKE BASING YOUR SCALP B4 A RELAXER.. UR TAKIN THE PROPER PRECAUTION, BUT THAT SHYT WILL START BURNING IN SOME PLACES BEFORE YOU'RE READY TO WASH IT OUT. IT AIDS IN SOME PROTECTION BUT NOT %100.

IF YOU HAVE A CLIENT THAT'S IN THE TRANSITION PHASE, ASK THEM IF THEIR INTENT IS TO HAVE STR8 HAIR W/ OUT THE CHEMICALS OR IF THEY WANT TO WEAR NATURAL STYLES ONCE THEY DO THE BIG CHOP. THEY NEED TO KNOW THEIR OPTIONS UP FRONT. IF THEY COME TO YOU AND GET THEIR NEWGROWTH PRESSED OUT ALL THE TIME, WHEN IT'S TIME FOR THE BIG CHOP THERE'S A GREAT CHANCE THAT THE NEW GROWTH WILL HAVE LOST MAJOR CURL PATTERN AND IN MOST CASES BE ALMOST AS STR8 AS THE RELAXED HAIR AND GUESS WHAT, THAT CLIENT IS BACK TO TRANSITIONING FROM BURNT NEW GROWTH.

CLIENTS QUIT SAYIN STYLISTS DON'T KNOW WHAT THEY ARE DOING B/C SOME OF YOUR HAIR STAYED STR8 AFTER SHAMPOOING. WHAT DO YOU THINK CAN HAPPEN WHEN YOU HAFTA USE A HIGH DEGREE OF HEAT TO GET COURSE/NAPPY HAIR STR8 LIKE YOU WAN IT? IF IT DIDN'T GET STR8 ENOUGH THEN YOU'RE HOLLIN' THAT YOU WASTED YOUR MONEY. THAT IS EXACTLY WHY STYLISTS NEED TO HAVE OPEN COMMUNICATION WITH THEIR CLIENTS. IT ALWAYS COMES TO BITE THEM IN THE AYASS!!

WHAT HAPPENS IS THE HEAT DAMAGES THE CYSTEINE BONDS WHICH PROVIDES THE INTEGRITY TO HAIR STRUCTURE THAT ADDS NOT ONLY STRENGTH BUT GLOSS AND SHINE AS WELL. PEOPLE'S HAIR REACT TO HEAT DIFFERENTLY, SO PEOPLE MAY SEE DAMAGE AFTER JUST 1 FLAT IRON (ME) AND OTHERS COULD DO IT MULTIPLE TIMES AND THEIR HAIR REVERTS BACK. ONE THING'S FOR SURE, OVER TIME YOU HAIR WILL LOSE SOME CURL PATTERN OR EVEN ALL. IT WILL BE HARDER TO HOLD MOISTURE AND YOU'LL GET SPLIT ENDS OUT THE WAZOO. SOME PEOPLE SAY YOU CAN TRAIN YOUR HAIR BACK ONCE IT'S BEEN STR8NED. THAT'S A LIE. ONCE YOUR HAIR IS DAMAGED, THAT'S IT. IT'S JUST LIKE YOU'VE GIVEN YOURSELF A RELAXER WITH HEAT. THERE'S NO TURNING BACK. THE ONLY OPTION IS TO GROW IT OUT AND CUT IT OFF. SORRY BUT THAT'S THE SAD TRUTH. DONT RELY ON THESE TREATMENTS AND MIRACLE CREAMS. THEY'RE SELLIN' DREAMS TO MAKE $
CONDITIONERS AND TREATMENTS AID BY "HELPING" BUT NOT "HEALING".

Click here for the full article and pics

So what say ye ladies???? heat or no heat??? let's Chop it up

Hot Oil....No me gusta

2010-08-10T17:35:00.000-04:00

Hola mis chicas favoritas!!!!

Here I am with another product review, this time a hot oil treatment...*sigh* Let me start by saying that a hot oil treatment is generally used to restore the natural oils in our hair and to add moisture to the scalp. I really didn't need the treatment but reading all these blogs and such has me on a product high lol. I'm like oh she does THAT? Ok maybe I should do it too. FAIL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

s/n: growing up we hear stuff like be a leader not a follower..be your own person etc...well the same can be said when it comes to haircare. Just because everybody's talking about this regimen and that regimen does not mean its for YOU. Obviously there's nothing wrong with trying new products but I feel as though sometimes we naturalistas get caught up in the hype and want to try everything. If you're not having a problem in a particular area why buy products for it??? Find what works for YOU and stick to it

...ok back to my story lol

so I purchased a bottle of Queen Helene Jojoba Oil hot oil treatment. I should have known better b/c I don't even mess w/ her products...I feel like they're low grade and non effective yet I spent my $ anyway (jumping on the dern product bandwagon). Let me tell you chicas, I was TOO upset once all was said and done. I massaged the warm oil into my hair and on my scalp then covered my head w/ a plastic cap for about 10 mins. I washed that mess out and my hair felt so matted and WEIRD. Like I literally cannot even describe it. Since it was late and I had a wedding to attend in the morning I simply styled my hair and went to bed. But let me tell you, as SOON as I got home from that wedding I headed straight into the shower and washed that mess OUT. Redid my bantu knots and my hair came out just as soft and fluffy as ever. So JUST SAY NO to Queen Helene Jojoba Hot Oil Treatment lol.

Hasta luego mijas

Feature Friday: Chi-Chi "Gechyohurdid" McDonald

2010-08-06T14:59:00.034-04:00

Hola Chicas!!!!!!! Today's Feature Friday is dedicated to Ms. Chi-Chi "Getchohurdid" McDonald. I was first introduced to this beauty through a contest on fb being sponsored by Strawberri Curls. We were asked to post pics and the person w/ the most photo comments would win some cool haircare products. Well I submitted my pic and then went to check out the competition. I soon found out that Chi-Chi was the one to beat lol. I friended her on fb and must say that she has become a real natural hair inspiration for me. Check out our interview:

Tell me about YOU: Name, where your from, what you do etc...

My name is Chi-Chi. I'm originally from High Point, NC (Fantasia's city LOL) - I'm an ARMY brat so I don't really have a "home" But it's cool, that's one of the things that aid in my individuality. =). I am an ARTIST..I paint, write poetry, make jewelry, & I'm a licensed cosmetologist..

So Chi-Chi, how long have you been natural? Why did you go natural?

-I've been natural for 11 years. I went natural because I was so tired of getting relaxers and one day I asked my self, "why? What am I doing this for?" I simply got tired of being some person I wasn't. I was also inspired by Ms. Lauryn Hill and Erykah Badu - my first mission was to lock my hair; which I did for 4yrs

Locs huh? Cool so did you grow out your locs out or cut them?

I cut them...

What made you ditch them?

I had something life changing go down and I "thought" that cutting my hair would help rid myself of the experience but it didn't =(..I realized no matter how much we try to start anew physically, it comes from w/ in. I totally miss them and kinda regret cutting them..

Judging by your albums on fb you work with natural and relaxed hair. Do you have a preference for the type of hair you work with?

Hmmmmmm..I relaxed hair is fun but my passion is natural. No matter what, I put my all into any creation. I enjoy doing a style and hear people say, "WOW! You're making me want to go natural. I didn't realize there were so many options.)

What do you love most about your mane?

The LONGEVITY; I love my hair's ability to be styled a certain way but then I get 3 or more hairstyles out of that one..So it lasts me a while..

As I was browsing your fb page I saw some pics labeled ErthTonez. Is this your company? Tell us about it

ErthTonez started as just my jewelry company in 2004. I named it so, because I use anything from the earth that I can get my hands on. Also the different colors, textures, and tones of the earth inspire me. When I was trying to think of a name for my salon, it was only fitting to name it the same and just have everything function under one umbrella. I chose to keep the name for my salon because we are all from the earth and we come in different colors, tones, shapes, and sizes. Plus, I'm down to ERTH so it just all goes. =)

Which came first the jewelry company or the salon?
The jewelry company

When did you open your salon? Was this always a dream of yours?

I opened it in May 2010..Owning a salon has always been a dream of mine. When I was in college (University of Louisville) that's all i thought about. I KNEW that once I got my degree, the salon was next in line..This particular one is definitely going in the direction of my dream salon. you gotta do it big one step at a time.

If you could use one word to describe your hair what would it be?

TIGHT! - Literally and "ebonically"

When talking haircare in general what is the best advice you can give?

Keep your hair moisturized, hydrated (H2O), conditioned, and LEAVE IT ALONE! do protective styles for the majority of the time and let it out and be free sometimes. Remember that curly hair tends to be drier and of course more fragile and prone to breakage. The more u manipulate (comb, brush, pick, wear out, heat, etc.) and not keep it moisturized, the more you will break it off and not retain any growth..

Where can we find you on the web?

Welp..I have a website - www.erthtonez.com STILL under construction because I'm merging the two businesses. However, I can be found on:

www.facebook.com/iamchistyle

www.youtube.com/napngo

www.twitter.com/chi_style

Thanks for a great interview Chi-Chi

Natural vs. Relaxed

2010-08-05T19:01:00.003-04:00

Natural vs. Relaxed....."good hair means curls and waves bad hair means you look like a slave...."

There seems to be a common misconception that naturalistas feel as though we are "better than"our relaxed counterparts. I can't front when I first went natural there was a sense of arrogance. Part of me thought "oh I don't NEED a relaxer. My hair is beautiful." I'm almost ashamed to admit that but it's the truth. I was arrogant, uneducated and just plain stupid lol.

I now realize that it's not about natural, relaxed, curly, straight, or kinky. It's about HEALTHY HAIR period. I know several chicas with relaxed hair that is strong and healthy. While I'm still an advocate for natural hair I now realize that this road is not for everybody. When people talk to me about transitioning I do find myself encouraging them to @ least try the natural route. Bottom line is that you have to find what works for YOU.

I no longer define myself by my hair. My hair is an extension of a bigger better more beautiful ME. It is what it is and I love it but like my girl India said: "I am NOT my hair...I am the soul that lives within". Does your hair define who you are? Can you still be YOU whether relaxed, natural or BALD? Whatever your hairstyle of choice OWN IT!!!!! So chicas what's your take on the whole natural vs relaxed debate???

Dust Yourself off & TRY AGAIN

2010-08-04T15:55:00.000-04:00

Hey chicas!!!!!!

Just a quick tidbit for today. Yesterday I was talking to a fellow naturalista and she was telling me how she's not as good @ doing her hair as I am.....PAUSE!!!!! I had to put an end to that myth right there lol. As I told her I am FAR from a stylist and everything I do with my hair is TRIAL & ERROR. If it doesn't work the first time I simply take it out and try again.

I get in the mirror with one style in mind and end up w/ something totally different. Just like me I'm sure you all scour youtube in search of the perfect style and try to recreate the style to a tee. Well that does NOT always work. I've learned that the more I play with my hair the better I understand what works and what doesn't work. Remember we all have different textures, lengths and features. So what may work for you may not work for me and vice versa. In short here are a few rules I live by when styling

1) if it doesn't work the first time TRY AGAIN
2) ACCESSORIZE (flowers, pins, headbands, ribbon, clips etc....)
3) be unique, create your own style, don't be a carbon copy...be YOU
4) HAVE FUN!!!!

So go style and have a BLAST while doing it!!!!!!

Ciao bellas *muah*

Thank You

2010-08-02T09:17:00.000-04:00

Good Day Chicas!!!!!

I just want to take a moment to say THANK YOU. Thanks to everyone who has supported my blog thus far. I have been natural for the past 6 years but it was not until about two years or so ago that I really started getting into it. I never knew how many people I've "inspired" to go natural. This past weekend I had people coming up to me asking for advice on natural haircare, products, styling and the like. I also had someone tell me I was their hair mentor/hero. I would have never thought so but I'm glad to be an inspiration to so many. That is exactly what this blog is all about. Embracing our natural hair and just figuring out what to do with it. I just want to be able to learn, share and grow. So let's keep doing it together chicas!!!

Naturally Yours,
Kira

Feature Friday: Oyin Handmade

2010-07-30T09:40:00.003-04:00

Heyyyyyyyyyyyyyy beauties...TGIF!!!!!!! Is it just me or does it seem like Friday took FOREVER to get here...UGH...well it's finally here and it's time for Feature Friday!!!!!

Today we're taking a look @ a company I was introduced to by a dear friend of mine. I've been on the prowl for some new hair products and after talking with my friend (my lil personal hair guru lol) I was introduced to Oyin Handmade . Oyin Handmade is a wonderful bath and body company dedicated to bringing us yummy products that can be used head-to-toe. Oyin is a Yoruba word meaning honey. As stated on their website "Honey has been used for centuries to not only soften and cleanse, but to also tone and hydrate the skin. It softens and moisturizes skin and as a humectant, helps skin to retain water. Honey dissolved in water is an excellent moisturizer, so we find it perfect for bath, skin and hair care products"

Naturally I'm leery of trying new products but I figured hey what the heck so I went on the site and saw that they sell sample packs. What better way to test a new product than to get a sample. I ordered the 2-by-2 sample pack which comes with a 2 oz jar of Shine & Define coaxing serum and Whipped Pudding (which can also be used for the skin). Let me first say that they both smell DELICIOUS!!! Shine & Define has more of a sweet fruity type scent while the Whipped Pudding smells like tasty chocolate.

Tuesday night I decided to 2 strand twist my hair using the Whipped Pudding. O-M-G!!!!!!!!!! It did everything it said it would do and I was THRILLED!!!! I've done 2-strand twists before but could never get them to stay tight @ the root. Whipped Pudding is a thick moisturizing cream and like I said it smells like CHOCOLATE. I applied a little to each section of my hair and combed through then began to twist. The end result was a head full of thick, well defined, SOFT twists. It did not weigh my hair down or leave it feeling sticky. It was simply perfect and I will definitely be purchasing a standard size for future use.

So if you're in the market for some natural hair and skincare products try Oyin today!!!! I did ;-)

Day 1:

Day 2:

Web: http://oyinhandmade.com/

Twitter: http://twitter.com/oyingoodies

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/oyinhandmade

Top 10 Natural Ingredients for Your Hair

2010-07-27T17:08:00.003-04:00

According to an article posted on naturallycurly.com here's a list of 10 natural ingredients that promote healthy hair:

1. shea butter

shea butter comes from the nuts of the Shea-Karite tree found only in the tropics of Africa. When used in haircare shea butter acts as a scalp moisturizer (which natural hair desperately craves) and also helps to repair damaged hair. Shea butter can be purchased pure and raw from various street vendors and health food stores. Haircare products containing shea butter can also be found at your local beauty supply store

2. coconut oil

like shea butter coconut oil also helps keep to seal hair's moisture, whether natural or via added products. In addition the oils and proteins found in coconut oil work well to help keep hair from losing protein, which is one of the major contributors to hair breakage and hair loss.

3.aloe vera gel/juice

aloe vera is a medicinal oil that has proven to be very helpful in health, skin and hair care. Aloe vera boosts your immune system and also acts as an antioxidant which we know promotes heart health. If your body is healthy, your hair will be healthy.

4. vegetable glycerin

simply put vegetable glycerin acts as a humectant (substance used to retain moisture). It can be found as an ingredient in several haircare products or can be purchased alone at your local vitamin or health food store.

5. jojoba oil

jojoba oil comes from the seed of the jojoba tree. Like vegetable glycerin jojoba oil is a humectant. The oil can be mixed with conditioner to add extra moisture. On dry hair it also adds shine and can be a protectant on damp hair before drying. Jojoba oil also moisturizes the scalp, helping prevent dandruff

6. extra virgin olive oil

EVOO helps keep our hair soft and shiny. It can be added to your favorite shampoo or conditioner for that added touch. In addition there are several products on the market made with olive oil. I personally love products made by Organic Roots Stimualtor.

7. castor oil

we all know castor oil as the yucky stuff Nana or mommy made you drink to clean you out and keep you "regular" and such....but did you know that it's also good for your hair? It keeps our scalp clean and helps to strengthen thinning edges. So go grab a bottle and rub it in!!!

8. honey

now I've tried to add honey to my regimen by mixing it into my conditioner w/ a little olive oil. Though the mixture looked creamy and wonderful the results were disastrous. Or maybe I used too much??? According to the experts honey is good for adding shine to the hair.
Check out this link ---> Honey for the Hair

9. avocado/avocado oil

avocados are good for more than just making a good guacamole. Not only do they promote hydration but they are packed full of vitamins and help with hair growth.

10. tea tree oil

perhaps one of the most popular ingredients in natural haircare tea tree oil is all the rave. Just a drop of tea tree oil in a moisturizing shampoo will help to encourage the flow of the body's own natural moisturizing oils, while clearing away nasty dead skin cells.

If you notice the underlying theme here is MOISTURE!!!!! No matter what your hair care regimen remember that moisturization is KEY.

Be Blessed Beauties

To read the full article click the link --->Top 10 Natural Ingredients for Your Hair

Sunday Style!!!

2010-07-25T21:39:00.001-04:00

Hey ladies...I saw this vid on youtube last night and decided to try my own version of the style...Tell me what you think....

The vid that inspired the look:

Feature Friday Follow Up: EarRidiculous Earrings

2010-07-24T12:04:00.000-04:00

Happy Saturday beauties!!!!! After the interview with EarRidiculous I couldn't wait to order some of their jewelry. After browsing through the shop I settled on a pair of earrings that I felt described me perfectly:

"Curly Cutie" *snaps*

The ordering process was easy and delivery was fast. The earrings arrived yesterday and I was so excited!!! I wore them last night to church and received several compliments so big *thumbs up* to EarRidiculous earrings.

Here are a few pics:

Sorry the wording on the earrings is backwards...my next set of pics will be better lol..Smooches boos!!!

Feature Friday: Alex of Safi Haircare

2010-07-23T14:12:00.002-04:00

Today's feature friday highlights my personal blog shero: Alex from The "Good" Hair Blog Check out our interview below:

NaturallyYours (NY): What makes this journey different from the other times you tried going natural?

Alex: This journey is different for me because I am accepting and proud of my hair. I also know how to take care of it and how to properly treat my hair. Having healthy and strong hair takes work and knowledge; I feel like I have finally learned my hair.

NY: What does your haircare regimen consist of? Do you use heat?

Alex: My regimen is very simple. I co-wash every 2-3 days and I wash with shampoo twice a month. Once I co-wash I coat my hair with Vatika Oil and leave-in conditioner. I have just started using YES to Cucumbers leave in which I LOVE. After my hair is conditioned and oiled I de-tangle with a wide tooth comb and twist it up in medium sized twists. In the mornings I unravel and in the evenings I re-twist. I haven't used heat on my hair in over 4 months. I plan on getting it straightened for my one year Natural Hair Anniversary so I can get a good trim!

NY: Tell us about your company Safi Haircare

Alex: I started SAFI in October of last year after I did a "If you could have your own business" project in my entrepreneurship class. I kind of just fell into it after that, it didn't have a plan-I just did it. LOL, I can be very compulsive and random sometimes and this time it paid off. Safi means "pure" in Ki-Swahili and since I use only ALL natural and pure ingredients that's where I got the name. My little business has been a HIT! My fellow naturals LOVE my products and I think they really appreciate that I make each jar by hand, in my kitchen ALONE. I have no help so each jar is FILLED with love and hard work.

NY: What inspired you to start your own business?

Alex: As I said previously, I was in a entrepreneurship class in college. My major is Media Journalism Communications and this class was a required course. I had a awesome professor who owned his own bakery and just seeing his drive and passion for his business sparked major interest in me. Safi started as a spoof and I never intended on going through with it until I got an "A" on my presentation, then I toyed with the idea that I could really be on to something; I guess I was... :-)

NY: Where can we find your products?

Alex: My products can be found here> www.safihaircare.etsy.com.

NY: Aside from Safi Haircare products what are some other products you use?

Alex: I LOVE LOVE LOVE "Shea Moistures" Hair Care Line. I have the whole line and it has yet to fail me. I also can't live without my Eco Styler Gel, Ohm Sweet Hair Pudding, Miss. Jessie's Baby Buttercreme, my Oyin Handmade's Frank Juice and Burnt Sugar Pomade. I am a HUGE product Junkie so what I listed is not even close to EVERYTHING that I love. LOL

NY: If you could use one word to describe your hair what would it be?

Alex: Fun. :-)

NY: Lastly, what advice would you give aspiring naturalistas?

Alex: Keep on KEEPING on sistahs! Our hair is BEAUTIFUL and we should embrace and be proud of it. So if you are transitioning, already natural or thinking about make the change-- keep up the good work!

You can also find Alex & her haircare line on twitter:www.twitter.com/Safi_Haircare

"I Look Pretty"

2010-07-20T20:45:00.000-04:00

"I look pretty" that's what a 3 year old tells the camera after having her weave done.

Good evening beauties.....

So I'm browsing the web and run across an interesting article on one of my new fave sites clutchmagonline.com The article/video is about a mom who puts a weave in her 3 year old's head for the hit TLC series Toddlers & Tiaras.

Personally I found the whole thing very upsetting. I believe that putting hair extensions in a child's hair can ultimately distort her perception of what beauty is. Don't get me wrong there's nothing wrong with added hair but for an ADULT. At 3 years old you don't know what beauty is, all you know is what you're shown. I could go on & on about my disdain for this video but I want to hear what you all have to say. So have at it ladies!!!

Sunday Style!!!

2010-07-18T17:02:00.000-04:00

Check out my 6 year old niece Kennedy Najee' the budding naturalista

Isn't she LOVELY!!!!!

Feature Friday: EarRidiculous Earrings

2010-07-16T10:30:00.002-04:00

Hola Chicas!!!!!!!!

As promised here we are w/ our very first Feature Friday. Today we focus on an up & coming accessories company EarRidiculous Earrings Check out the interview below....

Naturally Yours (NY): Tell us a little bit about yourself and your company EarRidiculous Earrings

EarRidiculous (ER): I'm never prepared to talk about myself. Talking about my business is easy though, LOL. I am a NC native, born and raised. I LOVE GOD, my family, friends and ALL things pertaining to helping us as a people LOVE the skin we are in. My sister , Charlsea is my BEST FRIEND and together she and I own EarRidiculous Earrings. EarRidiculous is an accessories company that specializes in trendsetting, fashion forward earrings that gives a unique flair to every bold Fashionista, Naturalista, or just the woman who "Dares 2 B FLY".

NY: When did you start your business?

ER: December 2009

NY: EarRidiculous (ER) is an interesting name. How did you come up with it?

ER: Well, our designs are unique. We love color and wanted to create pieces that the abstract shopper would fall in love with. It’s not mundane, but funky and chic. We didn’t want to overly match colors. We love the idea of rocking colors that don’t necessarily match but rather choose contrast colors that would make for great conversation pieces .Something that really doesn’t make sense …sounds a bit ridiculous (EarRidiculous), right? That’s how our name came to be EarRidiculous!

NY: Where are you based?

ER: Raleigh,NC

NY: Do you design and make your own jewelry?

ER: Absolutely, every piece is handmade; we also design custom pieces as well.

NY: What is your inspiration when creating your products?

ER: The inspiration comes from being tired of the same type of accessories you can find in large retail stores, but rather wanting something with a little more individual flair. Pieces you may not see on every other person around you. So when designing our work we have in mind the fashion forward woman, who dares to step outside the box. We also wanted to design pieces with the natural hair, and transitioning woman in mind.. I like to think that our earrings are mini works of art: pieces that reflect self expression.. Whether she is rocking a trendy pair of stilettos with a blow out or a sassy pair of flats with her curls nicely defined; she will be FLY no matter what with a pair of our earrings

NY: Besides your website, www.earridiculous.com what other ways do u get your name out there?

ER: Word of mouth! Word of mouth! Word of mouth! We have received so much love from women who see our work on customers and they tell someone one, and then they tell the next person..etc.. Social media has also been a great tool as well . Our facebook page boasts over 2,000 friends and we now have a twitter account. We participate in natural hair expos and other events that offer vending opportunities. We are now in the process of planning an upcoming launch party, so look out for EarRidiculous!

NY: If u had to pick 1 word to be synonymous with ER what would it be? Why?

ER: Oh that’s easy! FAVORED! Yes, EarRidiculous is FAVORED. In such a short time this business has taken on a life of its own. There is no way we could have experienced the amount of success we have without the favor of GOD resting on this business. We are truly grateful.

Make sure to check out Chandra and Charlsea on the web at www.earridiculous.com and www.facebook.com/earridiculous

That's all for today's Feature Friday....until next time stay flyy and be blessed chicas!!!!

Hair Diary: Braid Out

2010-07-13T18:48:00.002-04:00

As promised I did a braid out today and thanks to the humidity it was an #EPICfail lol. It looked cute before I left the house but as soon as I got to work I looked like a big puff ball. Nonetheless I was pleased with the outcome (before the humidity) and I noticed that my hair has grown a lot since I cut it in February so I'm happy.

Here are a few pics...ENJOY!!!!

all washed & curly ( I look crazy lol)

braided up

braid out FAIL

WITW???

THANKS humidity lol

ehhhhhhhhhhhhh

LMBO @ myself

ok bye now!!!!

Mi Pelo

2010-07-12T12:44:00.000-04:00

Hola Chicas!!!!!!!!!!

So Saturday I went to Sesame Place in PA and it RAINED!!!!! Thank God for natural hair b/c I was not concerned. The rain finally let up and we got wet on all the rides. I had a BLAST (I'm such a big kid) and by the time I got home I was POOPED. As a result I did not wash my hair (smh @ myself). So here we are on Monday and I still have not washed my hair.

I know I know I need to wash it and I promise I'm going to wash it tonight. I plan to do a braid out since I haven't done one since I cut my hair in February. I'm actually excited to do my hair and I'm very interested to see how it will turn out. Today I just did a twist out, applied some black gel (that I swore I'd stop using for a while *sigh* lol) and headed out the door. I'll update you tomorrow on the braid out.

Here are a few pics from today...Hasta manana mis amores *muah*

Feature Fridays

2010-07-09T15:50:00.001-04:00

Hola my loves!!!!!! In an effort to make my blog more interesting I have decided to start what I am calling "Feature Fridays". There are so many things we as naturalistas do to enhance our beauty. Add a cute flower to our hair, throw on a pair of unique earrings and apply some poppin' eye shadow and we look as if we've stepped out of any fashion magazine.

So in honor of all you natural trendsetters every Friday (beginning 7/16/10) I will feature one naturalista, blog, or website that is duin big things to enhance our natural beauty. Stay tuned for more info. Ciao bellas.......

What's On Your Plate???

2010-07-08T08:42:00.001-04:00

Did you know that the foods you eat can affect not only your body but also your HAIR???? According to Dawn Jackson Blatner (dietician) in an article posted on webmd.com "Your hair grows about 1/4 to 1/2 inch every month, and the foundation of all of our new hair, skin, and nail growth is the nutrients we eat,". So what's on YOUR plate???

For more information check out the article Top 10 Foods for Healthy Hair

2010-07-07T15:18:00.000-04:00

Hair Types on naturallycurly.com

Hair Types

2010-07-07T09:01:00.002-04:00

Hola my beautiful naturalistas,

As always I was browsing the web in search of some new and interesting things to share with you all. As I was browsing I was also playing with my hair (I love to pull the curls and feel them bounce back lol). So anyway, I’m reading different blogs and looking @ youtube vids and I keep hearing (or reading) about “hair types” Did you know that there are actually different classifications for hair???

Noted stylist Andre Walker, author of “Andre Talks Hair” has come up with an easy way to determine what type of hair you have. Remember that the first step to attaining healthy, manageable hair is knowing what kind of hair you have so here goes:

Type 1: Straight

* naturally straight hair

Type 2: Wavy

* falls between types 1 & 3
* not exactly straight but not super curly
* does not have much bounce to it
* has 3 subtypes:2a, 2b & 2c

Type 3: Curly

* well defined curls
* lots of body
* has 3 subtypes
* 3a: loose curls
* 3b:medium curls, usually a combination of textures, can range from bouncy ringlets to tight corkscrews
* 3c: kinky curly (not listed in Mr. walker’s book) tight curls usually in corkscrews, curls can be either kinky or very tightly curled, curls are also densely packed together

Type 4: Kinky

* hair is very tightly curled
* very fragile
* healthy type 4 hair does NOT shine

For more information on different hair types and what products to use visit http://www.naturallycurly.com/hair-types

…Hope this helps!!!!

Ciao bellas

Protective Styling

2010-07-02T17:39:00.002-04:00

So I’m looking through various blogs and I keep coming across the term “protective styling”. Naturally I became inquisitive and wanted to know what this is all about. So I went to good ‘ol google and started typing away lol. In my search I found that protective styling is simply “any hairstyle that prevents the snag and breakage of the hair…” So basically protective styling would be those styles that require little to no maintenance, allow the hair to REST and do not put a strain on key areas (such as your edges). Some protective styles include: straw sets, two strand twists and twist outs, rollers sets, and braids and braid outs. All of these styles allow your hair to rest from combing daily and also helps to retain the moisture that our natural hair CRAVES!!!!!!

So post some of your favorite protective styles with me!!! LET’S SHARE!!!!

Blogs from fellow Naturalistas

2010-07-02T17:38:00.002-04:00

check out some of my fave blogs

http://www.healthyghb.blogspot.com/ and follow her on twitter @Safi_HairCare

http://www.moptopmaven.blogspot.com/ follow her too @TheMoptopMaven

http://strawberricurls.tumblr.com/ and her too lol @MsLizziA

Good Hair vs. Bad Hair...What's the difference???

2010-06-27T22:34:00.000-04:00

So we all know that in the African American community there’s this ongoing debate about good hair and bad hair. As my girl India put it “good hair means curls & waves, bad hair means you look like a slave”. What do you consider “good hair” and “bad hair”???? Let’s chop it up!!!!

Introduction to Me!!!

2010-06-21T19:47:00.000-04:00

Hello Everyone,

My name is Kira, a 27 year old female from the Boogie Down Bronx in the NYC!!!!!! I am a fun loving, God serving, down to earth, full figured NATURALISTA!!!!

So I’ve started this blog after being inspired by so many of the other blogs I’ve seen out there. I’ve been natural for the past 5 years and let me just say that I absolutely LOVE being natural.

I had my last perm February 2004 and in April 2004 decided that I no longer wanted to perm my hair so I began the transition. At first I would keep my hair braided or twisted b/c the two textures were NOT cute lol and aside from that I really didn’t know how to manage or style my hair w/o a perm. I did that for about a year or so. Finally, in November 2005 my godsister (who became my 1st natural hair dresser) began to maintain my hair for me w/ braids (my own hair) and some pressing, she also began to gradually cut the perm out.

Once she moved away I went back to braids and twists because I still did not know how to do my own hair. I also started getting my hair pressed more frequently during the winter months as an alternative. Although I have always loved the texture of my hair it was not until around 2008 that I fully embraced this new style and began to become more versatile with it.

Now, you can see me rocking everything from a puff, to a mohawk, to two strand twists, to a press out. I LOVE MY HAIR and it is my hopes that through this blog we can chop it up, share hair care regimens and products and grow together as the true naturalistas we are.

Peace and blessings beauties!!!!

Naturally Yours

I LOVE MY HAIR!!!!!!

31 Days of Giveaways

It's Been A Long Time..

Hair Tutorial

Feature Friday: Curls Curling Creme by Vigorol

The Perfect TWA

M.I.A.

Hair Journey: Crystal

Feature Friday: Hair Journey

Heat Damage via Chi-Chi "Gechyohurdid" McDonald

*STOP STOP STOP!!*

UR A DAYUM' LIE!!!!!

Hot Oil....No me gusta

Feature Friday: Chi-Chi "Gechyohurdid" McDonald

Natural vs. Relaxed

Dust Yourself off & TRY AGAIN

Thank You

Feature Friday: Oyin Handmade

Top 10 Natural Ingredients for Your Hair

Sunday Style!!!

Feature Friday Follow Up: EarRidiculous Earrings

Feature Friday: Alex of Safi Haircare

"I Look Pretty"

Sunday Style!!!

Feature Friday: EarRidiculous Earrings

Hair Diary: Braid Out

Mi Pelo

Feature Fridays

What's On Your Plate???

Hair Types

Protective Styling

Blogs from fellow Naturalistas

Good Hair vs. Bad Hair...What's the difference???

Introduction to Me!!!

STOP STOP STOP!!