Hair

Do You Love Your Hair?

According to a recent survey, only 7% of women love their hair, which means that a whopping 93% are dissatisfied with it. Of course, this only includes the 1,000 or so women who were polled, but still, that's a seriously low percentage of women who adore their tresses.

Hair

Ebonyline.com is Having a Blowout Sale! 

Ebonyline.com is having a 50% off sale on wigs and hair pieces. Plus, you get free shipping on orders over $70.00. Check out some of the cute styles available:

Trips

Indianapolis, Indiana and The Madam C.J. Walker Theatre

Hey peeps! Today I'm going to share with you some details of my recent trip to Indianapolis, Indiana, where I had the awesome chance of touring the Madam C.J. Walker Theatre. If you recall, I provided a brief history lesson on Madam Walker when I featured her as the Black History Month Spotlight back in February. I now have more info to share on this fabulous pioneer.

The pic at left is of me standing inside the lobby of the Walker Theatre, which, by the way, is chock full of African American history--history that many of us most likely never learned about, and will never learn about in any history class or book. But first, let me share with you a pic of what I saw as I approached the Walker building while heading down Indiana Avenue by foot:

Hair

Hair Throughout The Ages 

 

From infancy up, our hair can go through many changes. It's said that our hair actually changes, on average, every seven years. Just as our body ages and can go through different phases due to hormonal changes, so does our hair.

Celebrity Hair

ANTM Makeover Sabotage?

If any of you have had a chance to catch an episode of the latest season of America's Next Top Model, then you know that this cycle is all about the All-Stars. Tyra and her crew have brought back the most memorable competitors from previous seasons to compete for the title of America's Next Top Model. Among them is one of my hair inspirations, Bre Scullark.

Hair

More Bad News for Brazilian Blowouts

The latest issue of Essence magazine features a new warning for the hair straightening system known as the Brazilian Blowout. I recounted my introduction to Brazilian Blowouts in my video, Thanks & Brazilian Blowouts, and even discussed my reservations about the process. Now thanks to new data, my reservations and skepticism about the safety of the process have been confirmed.

Hair

Are Afros Uncivilized?

I'm sure many of you are already aware of the Nivea ad that got many naturals in an uproar last week. It's the one you see above which depicts the image of a clean-cut African American male holding, or rather, preparing to toss aside a decapitated version of himself sporting an afro. The words "Re-civilize Yourself," which are displayed in all caps across the front have been deemed highly offensive.

Hair

New Ultra Black Hair Products!

Author and hair guru Cathy Howse has added a few new products to the Ultra Black Hair line. Now that sulfate-free cleansers have become all the rage, Ms. Howse has decided to offer her own sulfate-free cleanser, which you can check out here: UBH Cleansing Shampoo. In addition, there are some paraben-free products now available for those of you who are particular when it comes to those things ;-).

If you're interested in purchasing these items, be sure to use the following coupon codes to receive great discounts:

• Enter code GD820 to receive 20% off your purchase of $100 or more (offer ends 8/15/11)
• Enter code GD815 to receive 15% off your purchase of $50 or more (offer ends 8/15/11)

Hair

Ulta Wants You to Love Your Hair!

I love Ulta because I consider it to be a one-stop shop for all things beauty. Being an Ulta rewards member means that I receive coupons and circulars in the mail featuring all the latest and greatest products and events Ulta has to offer. In their most recent catalog, they have announced their upcoming Love Your Hair event that will be taking place in all 400 of their stores across the country. This is a fabulous opportunity for curly heads, wavy heads and straight heads to learn how to style and care for their natural texture. Peep the schedule of events below:

Week 1: May 8 – May 14

The focus is on CURLY hair as live demonstrations will be held on Wednesday, May 11 and Thursday, May 12 from 5pm – 8pm. Redken and Chi products will be featured.

HINT: Have the curly hair, blow dryer blues? Try showering at night before bed and while hair is wet, apply a curl creme. Section off hair, twirl each section around fingers and use a bobby pin to secure to scalp. By the time the sun rises, you are sure to have luxurious frizz-free curls!

Week 2: May 15 – May 21

WAVY hair is the star this week. Learn tips and tricks on how to define waves and add shine. Live demons will be held on Wednesday, May 18 from 5pm – 8pm and Saturday, May 21 from 12pm - 3pm.

HINT: Define those waves! Finish off a wavy look with a non-aerosol fixing spray for long-lasting humidity resistance and all-day frizz control. Twirl hair around your fingers to shape curls in front of face for a more polished look.

Week 3: May 22 – May 28

Get your STRAIGHT hair looking and feeling luscious thanks to live demonstrations that will be held on Wednesday, May 25 and Thursday, May 26 from 5pm – 8pm.

HINT: Dry shampoo adds volume and spares you shampoo time leaving hair smelling and feeling fresh. Whether you use a powder or spray-on product, the oil-absorbing dry shampoo will keep your blowout looking beautiful for an extra day.

NOTE: Attendance to live demos is free, and no reservations are needed.

For more info, visit: www.ulta.com/loveyourhair and www.facebook.com/ULTA.

Hair

Recap of "The Curly Girls Rock" Event

On Friday, April 29, 2011, three Atlanta based natural hair bloggers hosted the natural hair meetup at the Harlem Nights Lounge located at 201 Courtland Street, NE, Atlanta, GA 30303. Attendees received complimentary makeovers, hairstyle tutorials, mini manicures, and mini massages. Donations were collected for Beauty Recycled.

The hosts of “Curly Girls Rock” have been known to put on fabulous natural hair events in Atlanta, and this was their debut as a collaboration to show ladies that natural hair can be fabulous.

This mixer included ladies who are fully natural, transitioning, or relaxed aspiring naturals. Upon arrival, guests received gift bags with samples from various companies including Pooka Pure and Simple and many more. Several lucky attendees won awesome giveaways of beauty products and tools, making Curly Girls Rock the ultimate mixer in Atlanta for natural women.

To top it off, several of the top natural hair bloggers and owners of popular natural hair brands, such as Shea Moisture, Tea and Honey Blends, and many more were present. GoodGirlPR, a natural hair care publicist, was the proud public relations sponsor of Curly Girls Rock.

About LexiWithTheCurls
Starting off in 2008 on Youtube, Lexi decided to start a blog CurlsCoilsAndKinks.com. She provides hair style tutorials, product reviews, and natural hair conversations. In addition to her blog and videos, she hosts several natural hair events and is expanding her brand.

About MahoganyKnots
Having over 10 years of experience with natural hair, and realizing no two natural heads are alike, MahoganyKnots brings two unique perspectives and information on natural hair care, styling, and product reviews as well as sneak peeks into hair and beauty happenings around the country!

About Me, My Hair, & The City
Me, My Hair & The City provides its readers a fresh take on beauty, style, and natural hair. With product reviews, recent event recaps, style advice, and hair care tips, this beauty blog is a one stop shop for all things fab!

Celebrity Hair

The New Spokeswomen for Carol's Daughter

Okay so, I may be super late on this, but apparently Lisa Price has appointed Cassie, Solange and Selita Ebanks as the new spokeswomen for Carol's Daughter. I guess Jada Pinkett-Smith is too busy whippin' her hair back and forth to promote the brand :-P. I must say that Jada's hair is the reason why I became curious about the Carol's Daughter line in the first place, because I figured if the products could get her hair looking as fab as it does, then perhaps it could do the same for my hair...

Well the only product I've ever tried from the line is the Hair Milk, and it left much to be desired. Granted, I did try it years ago when it first came out, so there may be a new formula to go along with the new packaging. Have any of you ladies tried products from Carol's Daughter? If so, which ones, and how well did they perform?

For more info on the new spokeswomen for Carol's Daughter, check out Carol’s Daughter Spokeswomen Cassie, Selita Ebanks And Solange Discuss “Good” Hair.

Hair

Ingredients: Use at Your Own Risk

When I was twelve years old, my mother allowed my girlfriend's mother to straighten my hair. When I say this woman could press some hair, I mean she could press some hair! There are fully licensed stylists who don't know how to do a good press, but my friend's mother could get your hair so straight that it looked like a relaxer. Although this was many moons ago, I still recall the product she used to achieve a silky smooth look: Hair Culture Solution by Lustrasilk.

For years I wondered what this stuff was, since it's not a cream, oil, or serum. It's a pure liquid that you're supposed to apply to damp hair prior to drying and straightening. The only thing I hated about the process was that this product would sting something awful! That's mainly because my friend's mom would scrub my scalp so hard to get my hair squeaky clean, and then spray the solution on my hair, which would get into what I'm sure were open cuts on my scalp. Well as they say, no pain, no gain, 'cause despite the torture I had to endure, my hair came out looking fantastic!

Recently, I was very happy and eager to purchase some of this elusive product when I spotted it on the shelf at my local beauty supply store. I was going to use it on my mom's hair to straighten it, but something told me to do an ingredient search first. After all, I wouldn't put anything on anyone else's hair that I wouldn't put on my own. I've always heard that the first five ingredients of any product are the most crucial, so when I saw that something as harmless as water was the first ingredient, I assumed I was on the right track...

The second ingredient in this product is acetamide, and after doing a Google search, I discovered this bit of info:

• This ingredient is authoritatively recognized to cause cancer, according to the State of California (Proposition 65).
• This ingredient is suspected of causing skin or sense organ toxicity, according to sources compiled by Scorecard (www.scorecard.org)

(Source: www.goodguide.com)

Now, I'm sure I've used many makeup and hair care products that contain carcinogens, but to know it definitely makes you pump the breaks. Needless to say, I won't be using this product on my mama or daddy for that matter, LOL! So ladies, I've said all that to say this: please beware and be aware of product ingredients. As G.I. Joe used to say, "Knowing is half the battle."

XOXO,

DPrincess28

Black History Month Spotlight:

Madam C.J. Walker
(1867-1919)

As a beauty blogger, I find it only fitting that I pay homage to Madam C.J. Walker, an African American woman who was a pioneer in the beauty industry.

Walker, née Sarah Breedlove, created a line of hair care and beauty products for African American women during a time when resources of that particular nature were scarce. Several black women, including Walker, suffered from hair loss because of improper maintenance. For one, most Americans lacked indoor plumbing, electricity, and central heating--components essential for one to bathe regularly. Thus, many developed scalp diseases as a result of infrequent washings. To combat this, Walker took matters into her own hands by experimenting with a variety of homemade remedies that an African American female entrepreneur named Annie Malone created. After working for Malone as a sales agent, Walker decided to develop her own line of hair care products, and soon created a shampoo and an ointment that contained sulfur, a nutritional supplement that promotes hair growth.

Walker's beauty business became widely successful, as she began selling her hair care products throughout the United States. In 1908, she and her husband moved to Pittsburgh, where they established Leila College, a school that served to cultivate other beauty professionals, otherwise known as "hair culturists." In 1910, Walker moved to Indianapolis, Indiana, where she opened up headquarters and built a factory for Madam C.J. Walker Manufacturing Company.

In addition to being a successful entrepreneur, Walker was a social and political activist who fought to educate others on how to successfully grow their own businesses. She partnered with powerful organizations such as the NAACP, and donated her time and money to assist in the advancement of similar organizations, as well as black schools, orphanages, and retirement homes.

Walker, who passed away on May 25, 1919 from complications of hypertension, was the first self-made female American (not just African-American) millionare. Thanks to pioneers like her, black women today now have a plethora of options when it comes to beauty products. Furthermore, women in general now have access to information and resources that can make their dreams of becoming successful entrepreneurs in the beauty industry a reality.

For more info on Madam C.J. Walker's hair care products, which are still available for purchase today, visit MadameWalker.net. Other resources to check out:

• www.madamcjwalker.com
  
• www.aleliabundles.com
• www.walkertheatre.com
• Madam Walker Bio Facebook
• Madam Walker Family Archives Facebook

Hair

Valentine's Day Swag

Valentine's Day is rapidly approaching, and I'm looking for a hairstyle to rock that will send my hubby's heart racing! Below are pics of a few styles I've found that I may just cop for the big day. Check 'em out:

#1. Big Curls

I'm really digging these big curls Kendra Wilkinson is sporting. I like the way she has one side pulled back, with a swoop bang on the other side. I should be able to accomplish this look with either a roller set, or by flat ironing my hair and then setting the hair on rollers. Place a few bobby pins on the side and voila!



#2. Pompadour

I know from experience that styles that place height at the crown are most flattering to my face. Thus, I could see myself wearing some sort of pompadour with big hair all around, much like how Christina Milian has her hair in this pic. The thing I like most about this look is that I could probably recreate it without using heat, as a bunout or braidout would yield similar results.



#3. Fluffy Pony

I love the fullness of Miss Ciara's textured ponytail! This is another look that features height at the crown, and I think I could achieve this style by adding extensions (via clip ins) and doing a bunout on dry, stretched out hair. Heat may not be necessary if I can stretch out my curls while air drying. Slicking all my hair into a bun and wearing a full phony pony would also do the trick!



#4. Sophisticated Updo

If I want to go for a more sophisticated look, I could rock this updo a la Keyshia Cole. This could be duplicated by flat ironing my hair, slicking it back into a high ponytail, and forming large pin curls. I could easily see a pretty flower or some other accessory adding a flirty, feminine touch to the look.



How are you planning to wear your hair this Valentine's Day?

Hair

Heat Protectant?

I have a cousin who is a hairstylist, and she has fabulous looking natural tresses. Although her hair is curly, she chooses to wear it straight most of the time. Envious of her super straight, shiny locks, I asked her what products she uses when flat ironing her hair. Seeing that I was prepared to run out and buy whatever product she named, I was flabbergasted when she said she uses absolutely nothing on her hair. She doesn't use a heat protectant prior to blow drying or flat ironing, nor does she use any moisturizers to protect her ends from splitting. Believe it or not, she's not the first sistah whose locks I've admired that does the same.

Now, most of us in the natural hair community would absolutely resist the idea of not using any product to protect or moisturize our hair, as natural hair tends to be drier than relaxed. However, I recall how I used to "grease" my scalp regularly, as most of us were conditioned to do so during childhood. At one point I would have looked at someone sideways had they told me my scalp didn't need any oil or grease. Yet, I don't put any product on my scalp today, and haven't done so for many years now, as I've learned that my scalp really doesn't need all that product. With that in mind, I'm now wondering how essential a heat protectant really is.

Now, don't get me wrong, I have no plans of going the product-free route, as I really don't think my fine hair could handle high heat with no protectant. I think everyone's hair is different, and although some folks, like my cousin, can be product free and still have long, shiny locks, I don't think that forumula would work well for everyone. I can admit that I've been guilty of using too much product, so I will definitely consider using a lighter touch when it comes to a protectant. After all, in order to get that salon "swang," the hair can't be bogged down with too much serum or oil.

What do you divas think about heat protectants? Do you know anyone who has fabulous hair, who claims not to use one? If so, do you think you would get the same results? If not, what is your heat protectant of choice? I look forward to hearing your responses.

XOXO,

DPrincess28

Hair

Thanks & Brazilian Blowouts

In this video I thank my lovely subscribers for all the well wishes during my pregnancy. I also share my introduction to and opinion of Brazilian Blowouts. For more information on Brazilian Blowouts, check out the links listed below the video.

1. Brazilian Blowout FAQs
2. Have You Had a Brazilian Blowout Hair Treatment?
3. Brazilian Blowout Report on Good Morning America
4. The Brazilian Blowout Allegedly Contains A LOT of Formaldehyde: What Does This Mean For The Future Of Hair Straightening?

Hair

Big Hair!

Hey divas,

I've been in love with big hair lately. In my video titled "Pregnancy & Hair," I shared how my tresses have gained a lot of thickness thanks to the hormonal shift that took place during my pregnancy. I'm really hoping and praying that I don't lose the extra hair, as is often the case once hormones have returned to their normal levels. Whether or not I'll end up losing my newfound fullness is still yet to be seen, but all I know is that I plan to enjoy it while it lasts.

To accentuate the fullness of my hair, I have been rocking bun outs that I set with Organic Root Stimulator Olive Oil Lotion. As you can see from the pic above, I don't mind the wild, untamed look, LOL! The best thing about this look is that it is heat free, and provides me with an alternative to wearing my natural curls.

So divas, how have you been rocking your natural tresses lately?

XOXO,

DPrincess28

Hair

The Truth, and Nothing but The Truth!

I've been watching Brandy & Ray J's new show on VHI titled "Brandy & Ray J: A Family Business." I find the show entertaining, and am glad to see that Brandy is doing well after having been out of the spotlight for some years now. She seems to have really come into her own, and is now a beautiful young woman.

As I'm sure many of you know, Brandy wears lace front wigs, and has even served as the spokeswoman for Pro1o Hair by Sensationnel. Well, as I was perusing through an issue of Sophisticate's Black Hair Styles & Care Guide, I stumbled upon an interview they did with her, in which she explains her "hair care routine."

I was a little put off by the fact that the article, which explained in detail how Brandy cared for her hair, mentioned absolutely nothing about the fact that she wears lace front wigs. I just hate how misleading many of these interviews can be to young girls who want to get the look of the models and celebrities they see in magazines. Now, if she had mentioned how she removes her wig, then washes and conditions her real hair, that would have been one thing. But instead, she explained how she cares for "her hair," all while sporting various hair pieces.

I was just wondering how you ladies feel about this? I mean, it's no secret that many celebs wear extensions, weaves and wigs to protect their real hair (and I don't blame them for doing so!), so why front? Feel free to leave your comments below.

XOXO,

DPrincess28

Hair

Black Hair Products New @ Target

So, word on the street is that Miss Jessie's and Jane Carter's products are now available at Target. I've never tried either line, but I've heard some great things about them. Only bummer is that I hear bringing them to the big bull's eye did nothing in terms of lowering the prices, as a friend of mine noted that she pays the same price for her Miss Jessie's Curly Buttercreme as she does online, minus shipping fees of course. For the full scoop, check out: Miss Jessie's and Jane Carter Hit Target; Kinky Curly at Whole Foods.

Hair

Styling Tips for Every Type of African American Hair

Yahoo! Shine is offering tips on how African American women can keep their hair looking fierce. Whether your hair is short, long, relaxed, or natural, they have some advice for you! I think it's interesting that they mention clip in hair extensions as a style option for those who desire more length, as that is exactly what I'll be talking about today (see below).

To see what the writers and editors at Yahoo! Shine have to say about textured tresses, check out Styling Tips for Every Type of African American Hair.