Aloe Vera: A One-Stop Beauty Aid

Aloe has been used for its medicinal properties for over 3,000 years. The Egyptian queens and well known beauties Nefretiti and Cleopatra used it as part of their regular beauty regimens. I don’t know about you ladies, but if it’s good enough for royalty, it’s good enough for me! Aloe serves as both an internal and external beauty aid. Sort of like a one-stop beauty aid. No need to hoard a myriad of facial moisturizers or hunt for the best hair conditioner – Aloe vera does it all! The gel of the aloe vera leaf contains over 75 nutrients and 200 active compounds, including 20 minerals, 18 amino acids, and 12 vitamins. Aloe vera is one of the best anti-aging herbs available, helping to rejuvenate aging skin and combat wrinkles. Let aloe vera juice surprise you as it: cleanses and supports your digestive system, infuses you with energy, hydrates your skin, soothes and promotes skin renewal, promotes weight loss, and supports your immune system. Just 2-4 ounces per day can yield noticeable changes quickly. For best results, look for the highest quality of organic aloe. Although many believe that a high quality aloe vera gel or juice contains only the nutritious inner gel; not the “whole leaf”, I have seen notable results from using just the “whole leaf” aloe vera juice. After all, how can I go wrong with the “whole” plant?

Aloe Vera is also very beneficial for your hair. It not only stops hair falling, but creates a good healthy scalp as well. It maintains the Ph balance of the hair and cleanses the pores. Massage the gel or juice ( try a spray bottle for easy application) onto the scalp and leave it for 10 to 15 minutes or overnight before shampooing your hair. Do this every time you wash your hair, because aloe vera has the ability to seal in the moisture content of the hair thus preventing it from drying and frizzing. It also stimulates hair production and can treat alopecia. It has amazing conditioning properties and can be used as a leave- in conditioner after shampooing. Plus, it’s a heat protectant! Use it as a hair serum or as a protective gel before using any heated instrument like hair dryer or flat iron. The well-known preparation of aloe vera gel, wheat germ oil and coconut milk is used as a shampoo and has traditionally shown great benefits for the growth of healthy, thick hair.
Additionally, a 2:1 preparation of aloe juice/gel and extra virgin olive oil or coconut oil makes a great softner/detangler for new growth.

So don’t let this timeless, inexpensive beauty secret slip by! Some common brands are Fruit of the Earth, GNC Natural Brand, and Nature’s Way. Pick up some today at your local market or health food store and reap the wonderful benefits!

A No-Nonsense Guide to Choosing the Right Protein Conditioner

Many people may not realize the mechanics of a good hair conditioner. In all honesty, conditioners are far more complex than most other hair products, such as shampoo. Conditioners are designed to treat the hair after shampooing or cleansing occurs. Conditioners often help replenish the look and feel of the hair after shampooing. Conditioners can help moisturize, add shine and manageability. Much like a fabric softener does to your clothing, after being washed in a detergent. A conditioner should, generally, only be applied to the hair shaft and the ends, especially, the ends. Never apply a hair conditioner to the scalp, it may build-up and create a limp look. However, when managing new growth or varying textures, applying protein deep conditioners to the roots is a highly effective way to ensure strength and lessen breakage at the line of demarcation (where the two textures meet).

In order to choose the right protein conditioner for you, you must consider the type of hair you have dry, oily, or normal. You must also consider whether your hair is thick or thin. However, knowing the condition of your hair is most important, whether normal, or mild to severe damage. This will help in defining the type of ingredients you are looking for in your conditioner. Look for ingredients that address your hair’s specific needs. Wheat protein, silk amino acids, and collagen proteins are all useful in increasing moisture retention and elasticity. These types of proteins are safe for weekly use. While keratin, vegetable and animal proteins act more as heavy strengtheners and should always be followed by a moisturizing conditioner. These types of proteins are ideal for those with damage and breakage. Proper application of the conditioner is very important, as well. It is important to either follow the directions on the contents or follow these simple steps: Pour the conditioner in your hands and rub them together, never apply a glob of conditioner to the hair directly. Apply even amounts of conditioner to the hair shaft and ends. As mentioned earlier, do not apply to the scalp and always condition the ends or tips the most. Since the ends of the hair are the oldest and longest exposed parts of the hair, concentrating on this area will certainly increase your growth retention. Additionally, most conditioners, even instant, need to be left on the hair for at least 1-3 minutes. But many women will attest to the sustained benefits of conditioning hair with heat for 15 minutes or more. Lastly, leave-in conditioners stay in the hair until the next washing and do not require a rinse, they offer extended . Just as important as the type of conditioner is the rinsing. It is important to rinse the conditioner off completely and as directed by the packaging instructions. Often times leaving residues of conditioner on the hair can attract dirt and dust, as well as leave you with a "greasy" or hard feel. When combing the hair while wet, be very careful, you're hair is at its most vulnerable state when wet, even after a good protein treatment. This is often when the most damage can occur. Remember! Choosing the right products for your hair is the first step to a successful hair growth journey.

Hair Steaming

Well, I’m sure you guys are familiar with the term hair steaming. It seems to be all the rage in the healthy hair care world. But why?

Hair steaming is the process of conditioning the hair using steam. Using steam helps your favorite oils and conditioners penetrate the hair shaft and follicles more deeply, infusing your strands inside and out with moisture. Steaming also stimulates the scalp by causing increased blood flow and circulation. It helps to loosen and relax the scalp. There are mainly two different types of hair steamers, a table top version and a professional, like those you see at a hair salon. While many like the convenience and space-saving benefits of a table top steamer, many of the professional ones are quite affordable and much sturdier. I personally, prefer a stand up steamer because it's larger and seemingly more powerful than its tabletop counterpart. Still, no matter what type of steamer you choose the benefits remain the same, the most common being increased moisture. I’m sure all of us realize that moisture is often the main culprit of shedding and breakage with afro-textured hair. Afro-textured hair is more prone to drying out and resulting breakage. However, any hair type can certainly reap the benefits of hair steaming. Steaming makes hair more manageable. It’s an excellent regimen addition for anyone “stretching” their relaxers or transitioning to natural hair.

Now the how, while many may not have access to table top or professional steamers, you can still reap its many benefits by using an alternate method. You might try wetting a towel or Turbie Twist, placing it in the microwave 30-60 seconds, carefully place the hot towel/cap on clean hair, “smothered” in your favorite conditioner or oil, and cover with two plastic caps. Adding a knit cap or scarf will also help hold in the heat and moisture. Allow the cap to remain on for 15-30 minutes. Note: Once your done steaming, rinse my hair with cool water to help close up the follicle and hair cuticle and leave the hair shiny and smooth. If you haven’t tried steaming yet, stop delaying! Check out its many benefits:

1. Moisture, Moisture, Moisture!!

2. Increased Shine

3. Increased manageability of new growth

4. Softer hair

5. Less hair breakage
6. Decrease in dandruff cause by dry scalp

7. Easy detangling

Check out LCL Beauty for affordable professional steamers at http://lclbeauty.com/

Product Review from HarMoni Speaks: Getting back to basics with Essentious

Essentious delivers the best without all the mess! No petroleum, no sulfates, no mineral oil, no silicones, and no parabens! Who could ask for anything sweeter? And while we’re on the subject of sweet, Essentious fragrance is reminiscent of delicious butterscotch candy. So you can smell sweet and have sweet looking hair too. Essentious offers a power-packed team of products that are sure to restore the thirstiest, most damaged tresses. The lineup includes the Essentious Exonerate Moisturizing Shampoo. The Exonerate shampoo ingredients: Aqua (Water), Decyl Glucoside, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Phenoxyethanol, Jojoba Oil, Calcium d-Pantothenate (Pro-Vitamin B5), Hydrolized Wheat Proteins, Xanthan Gum (Polysaccharide Gum), Tetrasodium EDTA, Citric Acid, and Fragrance. Essentious Rejuvenate Protein Conditioner ingredients: Aloe barbadensis (Organic Aloe) Juice, Cetearyl Alcohol, Ricinus communis (Castor Seed) Oil, Stearalkonium Chloride, Phenoxyethanol, d-Calcium Pantothenate (Panthenol Vitamin B5), Hydrolized Wheat Protein, Hydrolized Keratin, Collagen Amino Acids, Cocos nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Kosher Vegetable Glycerin, Limnanthes alba (Meadowfoam) Oil, Fragrance. Essentious Hydrate Moisturizing Conditioner ingredients: Aloe barbadensis (Organic Aloe) Juice, Cetearyl Alcohol, Ricinus communis (Castor Seed) Oil, Stearalkonium Chloride, Phenoxyethanol, d-Calcium Pantothenate (Panthenol Vitamin B5), Hydrolized Wheat Protein, Cocos nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Organic Honey, Kosher Vegetable Glycerin, Jojoba Oil, Limnanthes alba (Meadowfoam) Oil, Fragrance. And last but not least, Essentious Shine Daily Moisturizer ingredients: Coconut Oil, Grapeseed Oil, Jojoba Oil, Fragrance.. Now as with all products, we know results may vary, and Essentious is no different. After using the full line of products on my two daughters, my son, and myself, I am glad to say that each of us was very pleased with our individual results. In my oldest daughter’s coarse 3c/4a hair, Exonerate delivered much needed moisture and smoothness. While for my youngest daughter, a badly damaged 4b, with scalp issues Exonerate thoroughly removed the visible residue on her scalp without stripping her hair of moisture. My young son was left with a nice clean scalp and the shiniest oil-free hair. For me, Exonerate helped to soothe my scalp and remove all residue from my weekly castor oil treatments. Since the demise of my beloved Cream of Nature, I have been on the prowl for a new love and I think Exonerate is my star player. But my true love is the dynamic duo – Rejuvenate & Hydrate. These two products deliver just the right balance of strength and moisture. I noticed fewer hairs in the shower even after the first use; these two have stolen my heart. The only downside is the small size. My hair is protein friendly and I’m a bit heavy handed, so the small size doesn’t last too long. Still, everyone knows, a good cake needs a good icing and Essentious has that covered too! The Shine Daily Moisturizer kept it simple, fragrant, and, yes, shiny! With just four ingredients, this oil leaves your hair feeling buttery smooth and blinging in the sun. While many may think these products are a bit pricey, I think my crown and glory is worth the investment. So if you’re looking to step up your hair care game and move to more natural products, don’t miss out on the many benefits of Essentious. You can order by dialing 1-877-621-7843.

What’s in Your Arsenal? Arming for Growth

So you’ve finally decided to lay down the brush, nix the gels, pull of the wigs, and give the weave a rest…you’re ready to grow your own beautiful head of hair! But you’re wondering how to gear up for your quest. What route to take to get you on the growing path? Well look no more! Before embarking on your journey, we’ll share with you some basic essentials every hair soldier needs in her survival kit. And yes, keeping it simple can and will get the job done!

First, finding the shampoo that works best for your hair type is going to be very important. You want to make it sure that it thoroughly cleanses the scalp without robbing your hair of its vital moisture balance. Look for natural soaps or less harsh soaps that do not contain drying sulfates. Or for you militant chics who just can’t give up that favorite shampoo, bathe your hair strands in light natural oils for up to 24 hours before shampooing to help lessen the drying effects.

Second, you’ll find that leaving out your deep conditioner is a lot like leaving your gun in the holster during the shoot out. Look for conditioners that direct you to leave on hair for 8 or more minutes or to apply heat. Deep conditioning weekly is the single most effective and quickest way to steer your hair back to the path of blissful health. Deep conditioning for as little as 15-20 minutes with heat every week will help to heal damaged strands and restore vital nutrients to the hair. The trick is keeping it balanced. Hair is made of keratin protein, it’s the thing that keeps fragile hair strong, and thick hair shiny and resilient. While everyone may not need protein weekly, by incorporating it into your regimen bi-monthly, you’ll begin to notice stronger, thicker hair in no time. And don’t forget the moisture. Moisturizing conditioners help to restore the smoothness and pliability to the hair after a protein treatment. During the hair growth phase, many women believe that our hair requires different degrees of each of these to reach our hair goals. For example, consistent moisture treatments may help the slowest hair grower get passed the shoulder length hump, while those reaching beyond arm pit length may require more protein to keep those old hair ends strong and free of splits.

Next, you need to stock up on a good water-based moisturizer. Moisturizing your hair in-between conditioning treatments will help retain both moisture and hair length. Some women prefer creamy moisturizers or sprays, but whatever you choose, make sure water is the #1 ingredient. Remember to moisturize your hair in sections so nothing gets left out. Concentrate on keeping your ends hydrated because this is where most breakage occurs and length is lost.

Lastly, seal it up! Sealing in your moisture with a good natural oil is imperative. As water evaporates from hair and can leave it feeling dry as the Sahara, you must always remember to lightly coat your hair with oil to help lock that moisture into your hair shaft. Some natural ladies even choose to seal with pure shea butter. The variety of oils available is endless, so find the one that works for your hair. However, for the beginners, extra virgin olive oil and coconut oil are great ones to start with.

Bald Edges

Hey Ladies I have found a problem that some of us suffer with, and that's balding edges. Some may think they have tried everything but some of the simplest things can prevent and even help those edges to grow back. If you love micro braids or braids of any kind for that matter just don't do it. Braids causes stress on edges from the pulling. In some cases the hair can actually be pulled from the scalp from the excessive stress. Another thing give up the phony pony. Usually when trying to put hair into a pony tail we try to get it as smooth as possible, which means tugging until all parts lay down. Stop. You are hurting your edges. You also do not need to keep putting gel on the thinning hair, while it may give you a satisfying appearance, your edges are still suffering. Try to refrain from getting a touch up while your edges are in a weak state. Adding chemicals to an already thinning hair will just speed up the process. While not having a touch up may seem like a hard task you should not turn to the flat iron. A flat iron can be just as bad as using chemicals, because of the high temperatures involved in flat ironing. Show your edges you care by massaging the affected area. Make sure to massage and not rub, because rubbing the affected area will further the problem. Moisturize the area and wear styles that require little to no stress on the edges. Remember you must maintain your regime to get your edges back, because if you don't then the hairline will keep receding. Getting back those edges takes time and patience, and chances are it will take several weeks before you begin to see improvement. However, do not be discouraged, because in the end you will have a head full of healthy locs.

Silicones

African American women are known for having dry hair. If you are natural then you should know that although your hair maybe be stronger, it is susceptible to breakage at every point the hair bends. The coils of the hair makes it almost impossible for the sebum from the scalp to reach the ends of the hair. The looser the coils makes it alot easier for the sebum to nourish the ends of the hair, thus maintaining a balanced pH. Those that choose to relax their hair also have to worry about the end of their hair being nourished along with the overall strength. The chemicals in relaxers not only weaken the hair, but it also dries it out. So what does breakage lead to? It leads to the notorious split ends. Everyday we are bombarded with ads that claim to mend split ends. Alot of products that is said to mend split ends contain silicones.
When most of us hear the word silicone we think of them as being used on the body. However, silicones are used in some of our everyday hair products, especially in those claming to mend split ends. Anyone that knows how hair grows and functions also knows there is no way to repair damaged hair. Once the hair has broken it will remain that way until those scraggly ends are chopped off. Silicones act a glue, and temporarily seal the split ends of the hair. The silicone causes the hair to look healthy, because it not only falsely mend the ends but it also give the hair shine. Once the product wears off the breaking ends will fall off, and sustain damage. The best way to prevent damage is to keep the end moisturized. If you get split ends just get rid of them, because it improve the overall health and appearance of your hair.

Exotic/Natural Hair Ingredients: What’s it all about?

Everywhere we look new products tout some new tropical oil, fruit, or veggie that’s guaranteed to make our hair 100% better. Well, what’s really up with all these “nature’s finest” products? What does it mean when new see things like pearl extract, oyster shells, green tea, algae, kelp, papaya, sugar cane, babbassou or Abyssinian oils? What do we know about these products and what is the true significance of them on our hair? Many of today’s products contain a blend of natural oils, exotic extracts, and hydrating humectants needed to create healthy supple hair. Let’s look at few and try to decipher their special purposes in hair care:

• Aloe Vera - Vitamin rich moisturizer (B1, B2, B6, C, Choline, + 18 amino acids)
• Green Tea Extract – Soothes and moisturizes dry hair and scalp.
• Calendula Extract - Increases hair shaft elasticity and flexibility to prevent breakage. Penetrates the core of the hair shaft to help restore keratin levels.
• Chamomile - Strengthens hair, adds sheen.
• Coconut Oil -Rehydrates hair, and restores shine and bounce.Also offers protection from sun damage.
• Soy Protein – Reinforces and strengthens hair. Stimulates hair growth.
• Coconut Milk - Natural curl moisturizer that softens, moisturizes and defrizzes hair.
• Mango & Shea Butter - Ultra rich emollients that provide intense conditioning from cortex to cuticle.
• Avocado Oil - A natural moisturizer is an excellent conditioning oil and contains large amounts of vitamins A, D, & E. The purest oil provided by mother nature! Naturally protects hair from ultraviolet rays.
• Kukui Nut Oil - An emollient obtained from the Hawaiian kukui nut. Helps deter moisture loss.
• Algae Extract -Rich in minerals, and very moisturizing.
• Lecithin - helps maximize hair growth and strength.
• Oyster Shells & Pearl Extract – Used for their mild protein. Strengthen the hair, while increasing elasticity and porosity.

Our list only gives you a peak at the ever expanding list of natural and exotic ingredients found in many commercial and all-natural products today. So don’t be uninformed! Know your hair products and what they offer for your hair. Happy growing!

Heat-LESS Hairstyles for the Summer

If you want to keep your healthy beautiful hair, frequent use of your curling iron or straightening iron is a big NO NO!! Many of us need to ease-up on excessive use of heat stylers, and give our hair a much deserved break. Our suggestions are actually quicker and easier than heat styling! So if your hair is damaged or suffering from sun exposure, the less additional heat you apply, the better your hair will be. Check out these simple solutions:

• Loose Braids: These easy to do braids create volume and wonderful waves on any hair type. They can be done on damp or dry hair. Just apply your favorite water-based moisturizer or styling cream. Form 2-4 loose braids around your head. Keep the braids loose at the top (so there isn’t a pronounced kink where the braid begins), and tighter from the middle down. When hair is almost dry, take out the braids, shape the waves with your fingers, and let hair dry the rest of the way.

• Tight Braids/Crimping: These braids yield a beautiful “z” shaped curls. Separate hair into sections—make medium-tight braids on the top and bottom layers. This one works well overnight, to help produce some serious crimps.

• Rag Curls: I bet your grandma did it too! Rag curls may take some time to get the hang of, but next to foam rollers, nothing gives your longer lasting curls. Cut an old t-shirt or satin cloth into 6-inch strips. Take a small piece of hair, place the rag strip at the bottom, and roll your hair up towards your scalp. Secure the twist by tying the two ends of the cloth, so the twist is snugly held near your scalp. Leave in overnight for a head full of wonderful curls in the morning.

• Bantu Knot Curls: Want a roller set look without rollers?. Apply a bit of cream moisturizer or setting lotion ( conditioner works great too!), and start twirling sections of your hair around your finger. Forming your hair into a few large twisted sections. Continue twirling as you wrap hair around itself and secure with bobby pins or an ouchless ponytail holder. Let them dry completely, then finger comb for volumous curls!

So give that hair a break and spend more time having fun, with these simple quick heat-less styles!

Shea Butter: A Hair Treasure

Shea butter, an ivory colored fat, is produced from the kernel of the fruit of the Karite tree that grows wild and abundantly throughout the savannah of central and West Africa. The healing properties of unrefined shea butter are extensive. To get the full benefits of shea butter, use only unrefined shea butter. Unrefined shea butter comes in blocks or can be bought already packed in jars. It is odorless if 100% pure or can be bought ready fragranced with essential oils. Shea butter can be applied directly to the scalp as a moisturizing treatment for dry, itchy scalp & dandruff, and the butter can be applied to the length if the hair shaft to moisturize, add shine, and strengthen the shaft.

Shea Butter is an excellent deep conditioning treatment for dry hair. This thick and super rich emollient is great for parched dry hair. Melt shea butter, and apply to hair as a hot oil treatment after shampooing. Comb through and rinse for silky soft tresses. It moisturizes hair from roots to ends, and adds shine and healthy luster. It helps stop hair breakage and split ends. Although it can be applied directly to the hair, it tends to be a bit hard in its natural state. You can also make shea butter easier to apply by melting it on a low heat, adding natural oils like extra virgin olive oil or coconut oil and stirring until thoroughly mixed. The natural oil should make up about ¼ the amount of the shea butter. Pour the mixture back into a jar. By adding the additional oil, the shea butter will remain relatively soft when completely cooled and be easier to apply to the hair.

You can also make a wonderful shea butter cream by melting unrefined shea butter and combining it with an equal amount of natural oil. Cool the mixture over a bowl full of ice, while you whip it with an electric mixer. Whipping it as it cools will yield a velvety smooth cream that can be used for your hair and body. This recipe also makes an excellent hair moisturizer and sealer for both natural and relaxed black hair.

The Basic 5 of Healthy Hair Care

Proper hair care will lead to healthier, longer and better-looking hair. Bad hair care tactics, or not taking care of your hair can lead to breakage, fly away, frizziest, split ends, dull hair, and early hair loss. When it comes to hair care, there are a few basic rules that everyone should consider adopting for the long-term health of their strands. Although, everyone’s hair is different in many ways- texture, length, condition- all hair types, generally, require the same basic elements for a well-rounded, effective hair care regimen. Those elements are listed and explained below:

Lubricate- Oiling the hair is a fabulous way to keep the moisture content high from root to tip. There are a variety of oil choices...the two main ones tend to be Jojoba Oil, and Coconut Oil. Safflower, Almond and Grape seed oils are also excellent for oiling the hair. Oiling may be done before a wash to protect against harsh detergents or afterwards to help condition the hair and maintain moisture.

Cleanse-Cleansing the hair helps to maintain a healthy scalp, remove debris and pollutants, and prepare hair follicles for optimal growth. The frequency of your shampooing depends on your hair type, on the season and on whether or not you live in an area of high pollution. Do not use a lot of shampoo; it only causes depletion of protective oils and moisture.

Stimulate-Massages are a crucial part of your hair healthy program. Massages should be done daily to improve circulation, help stimulate and nourish the scalp and keep the skin loose, thus allowing the blood to flow easily to the roots of the hair. Stimulation can also be done by incorporating “stimulating” essential oils such as peppermint, tea tree, cinnamon, ginger, clove, eucalyptus, basil, or nutmeg, into hair oils, shampoos, or rinses.

Strengthen- Routinely using shampoos and conditioners that contain proteins, keratin or amino acids help ward off weak, damaged hair. These ingredients bond to the hair shaft to fill in the cracks caused by damage and deliver stronger, healthier, longer hair, with consistent use. Deep conditioners with protein, applied for 15-30 minutes with heat, are high effective. They help to strengthen the hair deep inside the cuticle and provide more long-term benefits.

Moisturize- Dry hair leads to breakage, especially with daily styling and manipulation. Moisture is the single most important factor in determining healthy growth and retention of hair. You need to be seeking out products that promote the attraction and retention of moisture. Most moisture based products contain some type of humectants. Humectants are substances that attract moisture. Glycerin, honey, propylene glycol are a few common humectants. Moisture equals water. Oil is NOT moisture (however, it can be used to “seal” in moisture). Many commercial moisturizers will be mainly composed of water. Depending on the needs of your hair and your environment, moisturizing may be need to be done as often as 1-3 times per day or at least every other day.

Long, healthy hair takes dedication and time. Maintaining a consistent regimen will help you achieve the results you desire. So make the commitment today, to treasure your tresses and give them the time and attention they need to thrive.

The Mechanics of Deep Conditioning

How to Deep Condition Your Hair:

1. Either shampoo or rinse your hair first and gently squeeze out the excess water.
2. Generously apply your deep conditioner to damp hair, and focus on the ends. Work through with your fingers, or use a wide toothed comb to work through your hair.
3. Place the shower cap over hair, and then put the heating device of choice on your head for a full 20 minutes. You need 20 minutes to allow the hair cuticle to open fully, and let the conditioner completely infuse and feed your hair. After 20+ minutes or longer, take off your cap and let your hair cool for at least 5 minutes. This allows your hair shaft to close again.
4. Rinse hair with warm water until about 80% of the conditioner is rinsed out.
5. Do a final rinse with the coldest water you can stand. This is important to seal your hair shaft and get all the benefits of your deep conditioning treatment.
6. Apply a leave-on conditioner and allow your hair to air dry.
7. Do not wash your hair the next day. Give your hair a break after a deep conditioning for at least 24 hours. Let the treatment do its job without interruption!

I suggest deep conditioning weekly. By doing this, your hair will become healthier and shinier. It will regain its softness. Moisture-robbed hair is more subject to breakage and unmanageability.


What you will need:
Time — About an hour.
A Deep Conditioner — I really believe that you should invest in a high-quality deep conditioner. There are several to choose from. Look for natural oils, humectants like honey or glycerin, softening proteins like collagen, silk, or wheat.
Wide Tooth Comb
Plastic Cap — or an old Wal-mart bag if you’re in a pinch
Heating Unit — Dome dryer, Hot, moist towel, Blow Dryer Cap, or a Micro Heat Cap.

Everything You Need To Know About Hair Elasticity

Elasticity is, in my opinion, one of the most important properties of hair. This is the hair's ability to be able to spring back to its original shape and length without damage. Hair's elasticity depends mostly on the keratin levels and sulphide bonds in the cortex of the hair. Chemical services such as relaxers, perms, or bleaching will then create poor elasticity in your hair. This will limit the amount the hair will be able to stretch. The hair may also not curl, be weak, fragile and will break easily. Elasticity is rated as being low, normal, or high. To test the elasticity of your hair, you need to select strands of hair from different areas on the head. Be sure the hair is wet. Hold the strand securely and stretch the hair. If the hair stretches and returns to its original length when released, then it has good elasticity. If the hair breaks or doesn't return to its former shape, you have low elasticity. Poor elasticity can be corrected by the use of good treatment conditioners that contain vegetable proteins such as wheat, rice and corn proteins. Some of the products that have been particularly effective for me are: Roux Porosity Control, Vitale Super Intensive Reconstructor, Apple Cider Vinegar Rinses, Miss Key Wheat Germ Conditioner, Salerm Wheat Germ Oil Conditioner, At One Botanical Reconstructor. So if your hair suffering from low elasticity, implementing small changes into your regimen will really help to increase your hair’s overall health.

The “New Way” to Wash Your Hair

You may not know this, but learning how to properly wash your hair is going to have a tremendous impact on the health and brilliance of your tresses. Start by lightly detangling your hair from hair ends to root with a large tooth comb, then placing your dry hair into large braids to shampoo. In the shower, pour streams of diluted shampoo and warm water from a large cup over your braids. Squeeze the braids to shampoo and rinse. While the braids are still in, add your favorite detangling conditioner to your hair. I like Queen Helene with Ginseng and LeKair Cholesterol Plus. This will make your hair easier to untangle and comb through. Take one braid down at a time and gently comb through with a wide toothed comb, beginning at hair ends and working your way up, and then rinse by squeezing your hair as you pour the water over it. Squeezing will help with the rinse. Braid the section back up. Repeat with all of your braid sections. After you have done all sections, your hair should still remain in the big loose braids. Take each section down to add hair strengthener and oil. Oil will give it more moisture after it air dries. Air dry your hair to keep in moisture. You can also roller set or roller wrap the hair. Look for styles that do not require direct heat; this will help keep your hair at its healthiest.