Top 5 Benefits of the Big Chop!

Hello my beautiful sistasss, I’ve missed you all so much! I first want to start off with apologizing for my absence on the site. So to start things off, I’ll be sharing with you the benefits of the Big Chop. If you haven’t heard the term, “big chopping” before, let me explain what it is for you guys. The big chop is the act of taking your natural hair journey from transitioning to officially natural. The term “big chop” is the act of cutting off all of your relaxed hair, leaving only your wonderful new growth, which is natural hair.

This is the quickest way to go natural. It’s not only effects you in the physical approach, but it’s also effects you mentally. To “big chop” you have to emotionally detach yourself from your hair’s length and understand that you are taking a huge step in your natural hair journey. There are a lot of misconceptions when it comes to a women’s hair length. For those of you who decide to take the plunge and big chop here are some benefits of the Big Chop.

5. Immediate Satisfaction

As you know, we now live in a world where people want immediate results. We don’t want to wait for our hair to grow but rather install weave to have immediate length. If this sounds like you then the big chop is definitely for you. When you big chop, your natural hair journey starts instantly. Big chopping is like starting on a new foot, which gives you the chance to do whatever you want with your hair; grow it out, cut it some more, or even dye it. You have so many options with your new found hair journey, you will absolutely love it.

4. Celebrity Status

            Have you ever wanted to feel like a celebrity? If so, you should definitely big chop. Everyone who knows you will want to discuss your new hairstyle. People you know will be amazed at your new cut and will probably view it as a badge of courage. People who don’t even know you will come up to you asking all types of questions, and even ask to take a picture of your hair. You will feel unstoppable with your new cut, TRUST ME!

3. Products

One of the biggest benefits of big chopping is that you only have to deal with the texture of your natural hair. It’s very difficult to cater to both relaxed hair and natural hair textures. With only natural hair on your head, you will have a better understanding of how products actually work for you and your hair. The amount of product you use will also decrease because you have less hair on your head. That also saves you some money as well, so it is a win-win at the end of the day.

2. Get up and Go!

Accessories Accessories Accessories!!! You can dress it up with; head bands, slinky earrings, eye catching lip gloss and cute eye shadow. Big chops allow women to highlight their natural beauty which can often be covered up by our hair at times.

1. Confidence

A big chop is like a fresh breath of new found confidence for a woman. When you big chop you need to own that hair style and wake up like every day is New York fashion week. Need I say more?

So, women. If you were asking around and questioning what your next move should be, give the big chop a go! we are all rooting for you!!!

Hair Diary of a Natural Sister!

 

As requested, AfroMadu has a segment specifically for natural hair. Here is the open forum to comment, discuss, and inquire about natural hair, its politics, how to manage it, and seeing people overall everyday maintenance with natural hair. Please feel free to comment and share things you would like to add to this segment at afromadu@gmail.com. 

 

 

Crochet Braids 101

Hello my Natural Sisters,

Can I tell you how I just fell IN LOVE with this new protective style called Crochet Braids! One of my friends from school had them in, and I just had to try it out for myself. I absolutely love it! This protective style is very easy to do and manageable for all my busy working women out there. I suggest using Marley hair which you can purchase from your local hair store for only $5.99 a pack… did I mention this was a cheap hair style?!?! Depending on the size of your head you will only need 2-4 packs of hair, if you haven’t noticed my head is kind of big so I used 3 packs. Marley hair comes in all different colors so you will be able to add a little spice of color with this hair style and keep it fresh. This protective style is very helpful when it is time to oil your scalp because of the braids all you have to do is separate them and apply the oil. Here is a video on how to do these wonderful Crochet Braids: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=phJvNpzAo-Y#action=share

Once you have done the first step you then want to begin to think of what size curls you want. If you are try to have more of a smaller curl I suggest using a smaller perm rod (The pink one), But if you are try to have more of a bigger curl I would use a bigger perm rod or a flexi rod. Here is a video step by step on how to produce these wonderful curls: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=txCk7c2Wn4U . How every you do not have to curl your hair I know a lot of women that leave the Marley hair in its natural state and rock it just as well. I hope you ladies enjoy this hair style as much as I am, until next time cutiessss.

8 Struggles Only a Natural Girl Would Understand.

This week me and my hair have been going through the STRUGGLE, so I narrowed it down to 8 struggles I know you would all understand:

1. Shocking people with your new hairstyles EVERY week.
2. Product Junkie!!!
3. People ALWAYS touching your hair
4.  Trying a new hairstyle you saw on YouTube but it doesn’t come out right
5.  THE STRUGGLE OF DETANGLING
6. Wash day really being ALL DAY
7. When you wake up and your twist are not dry
8. When Bae wants to sleep over and you introduce him to the “Night time” you

 

Product of the Month: Shea Moisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil.

So I decided once a month I would highlight a natural product that I highly suggest for you all. Being a college student I understand the struggle of being natural on a budget so trust me these products will be in your price range.

The Product of this month will be Shea Moistures New Jamaican Black Castor Oil line. This new line is what every natural hair sister has been waiting for. This line targets healthy hair growth and restoration with its special blend of organic sourced ingredients. Some ingredients include Rice Protein which makes your hair thicker and smooth’s hair stands. Another ingredient is Peppermint Oil which stimulates your scalps circulation.

Products (6 Total Items):

• JAMAICAN BLACK CASTOR OIL STRENGTHEN, GROW & RESTORE LEAVE-IN CONDITIONER

Conditioners provide a protective layer that improves the appearance of split ends. Peppermint oil stimulates the scalp for an invigorating experience

• JAMAICAN BLACK CASTOR OIL STRENGTHEN, GROW & RESTORE STYLING LOTION

Ultra-moisturizing formula protects against the damaging effects of heat styling. Increases hair’s resistance to breakage, so hair can grow strong and healthy.

• JAMAICAN BLACK CASTOR OIL STRENGTHEN, GROW & RESTORE HAIR SERUM

Revives dull, damaged or chemically treated hair. Promotes growth by strengthening and conditioning hair, increasing resistance to breakage. Rosemary Oil stimulates the scalp to help support healthy hair growth.

• JAMAICAN BLACK CASTOR OIL STRENGTHEN, GROW & RESTORE EDGE TREATMENT

Blocks the effects of humidity, while controlling reversion and flyaway hair for sleek, frizz-free styles. Nutrient-rich formula helps promote growth by strengthening and conditioning hair.

• JAMAICAN BLACK CASTOR OIL STRENGTHEN, GROW & RESTORE TREATMENT MASQUE

Helps promote growth by supporting hair’s elasticity, reducing the appearance of breakage and shredding. Peppermint oil stimulates the scalp for an invigorating experience. Leaves hair soft, manageable and shiny.

• JAMAICAN BLACK CASTOR OIL STRENGTHEN, GROW & RESTORE SHAMPOO

Promotes growth by nourishing and strengthening damaged or chemically processed hair, reducing the appearance of breakage and shedding. Apple Cider Vinegar aids in regulating and balancing pH levels on the scalp, while softening hair to promote enhanced growth.

I hope that this product shows as much love to you as it has done for me. You can find these products at your local Walgreens or CVS. Until next time my loves!

Back To School Natural Hair Styles (For ALL Ages)

 

Hey my natural sisters! Yes, summer is almost over (or is over for some) and school is already in session. During school, we tend to neglect our hair for our work, which is totally understandable, so we highly recommend protective styles because it is less maintenance. In order to make your back to school preparations a bit easier I’ve listed some natural hairstyles ideas for naturalistas of ALL school levels.

Elementary Cutie Pies

Around this age group, children tend to be more of a free spirit. These are “the good years” because there is less homework and more play. Between the playground and arts and crafts time, your children’s hands will be in everything and that includes their hair. Beads or any other accessory to her hair that she can play with (But not too much that can be a distraction to other students) can be very useful and protective for those everyday play dates. Braids or ponytails are always easy and fun, but below are something new that can spice up your daughters hair style choices.

 

Middle School Divas

While puberty and realization hits these small teens, middle school becomes a point where appearance and the beginning of their socail lives matter. They become little divas and believe they know everything and can do everything on their own. They tend to ask for more of a “grown-up” look which means they want to look older then what they really are. I suggest box braids, twist-outs, or maybe a bun. Just avoid adding any type of heat to her hair and DO NOT I REPEAT DO NOT put a perm in your child’s hair.

 

High School Sweethearts

High is a time when not only are they STILL decoding their social life and appearance, but change and growth is often very common. Trying new things certainly with their hair such as; color, weaves, blow outs, and many more. Their hair styles tend to reflect their personalities and how they are feeling. Along with set trends and following them, these high school sweethearts adore the idea of being popular and looking their best.

 

College Naturalistas

In college you should most definitely be very focused on your studies but do not neglect that fro, ladies! In college you will some many other natural hair sisters that you can connect with. You will find new hairstyles through your new found natural hair community. I suggest high puffs, braids, Havana twist, quick weaves, and a variety of up-dos. All of these sweet years embracing your hair and protecting will be glorious. Taming that mane and protecting that fro was ALL worth it after all!

 

So have a safe and protected school season. Protecting your hair will give you more time to focus on studies and not new hairstyles everyday. Happy Back to school!

 

Healthy Ways to Color your Natural Hair.

Ladies aren’t you just craving that burst of color in your hair? Dying your natural is a very big step but it can also be very exciting and something new. This process might require some chemicals but fortunately there are many ways to ensure that your color will come out just as bright as if you used a chemical. There are two main types of color, permanent and temporary.

            Permanent hair coloring requires the hair cuticle to be lifted by chemicals and alters the proteins that give us our natural hair color. As a woman with natural hair I am not totally against permanently dying your hair as long as you take care of your hair then you should be fine. If you do decide to permanently dye your hair remember to protect and condition your hair and, also use color enhancing shampoo to maintain the color. Also try not to put too much chemicals in your hair, so if you dyed your hair try not to use any other chemical in your hair for a long time.

Temporary color however puts a layer of color on top of the hair strand these are also known as “rinses,” and will fade with  several washes. This is a safer approach to coloring your hair and is very common among the natural hair community. However, the down side of henna is that the color might not come out as bright as you would want it. These can be found in any of your local hair stores in any color. You could also use Henna to temporarily dye your hair which is much safer because there are fewer chemicals. You may have seen henna used as body art on the hands, but it can also be used as a hair color. It has been used for centuries as a way to add color to skin and hair. Henna can be available at any African or Asian ethnic market, but you can order it online as well.

 

No matter what method you used to color you hair, make sure you take care of your hair after. I advise you get in the routine of deep conditioning your hair once or even twice a week. Make sure that you keep your hair moisturized as possible because color tends to strip the moister out of your hair and leaves it dry. A color enhancing shampoo is best so it can maintain the level of color and not fade or turn a different color. I’m actually think about dying my hair a blue/purple color myself so I will definitely keep you guys posted with that. Until next time my natural hair sisters, love yourself and most importantly your hair!

Natural Hair Tips for the Summer.

Well ladies, Summer has arrived. Is your natural hair ready? Summer comes with fun outdoor activities so AfroMadu wants to make sure your hair looks both beautiful and healthy! I will be giving you some tips on how to keep your hair beautiful, free of frizz or damage, and protect it from the harsh sun!

Tip 1: Don’t Fight your Hair! Don’t waste your time this summer trying to do twist-outs because it will turn into a big fro-out. Instead of that I suggest wash-n-go’s or any other style that goes with your hair texture. Protective styles such as; braids, Havana twist, quick weaves, or any updo’s are very good for the summer time. Styles as such will keep your hair from your face and neck which will keep you cooler.

Tip 2: Co-Washing is a MUST! If you already co-wash, do it more frequently in the summer. It gets rids of all that sweat and chlorine from the pool fun you are having. After co-washing, shake and go and have fun in the sun.

Tip 3: LOTS OF HATS! Natural hair can be so unpredictable, especially in these humid Summer days. Hats are a great accessory that goes with any and everything. I suggest beanies, sunhats, or even caps. 

Tip 4: NO HEAT STYLING! Heat from the sun plus heat you apply to your hair is just doubling the damage. Instead embrace your hair texture and try protective styles and wash-n-go’s. 

Tip 5: Hydration is KEY. Make sure you are hydrated inside and out. Please drink the appropriate amount of water in oz. every day. Also
 remember to hydrate your hair with water daily, it’s the best moisturizer.

Tip 6: Oil, Oil, Oil!  While enjoying your summer on the beach remember to keep your hair moisturized. The sun’s damaging rays made fade your color and leave your hair feeling like a straw texture. I recommend you use Argon oil, “raw” Shea butter, Jojoba Monoi Oil, and whipped coconut oil.

 Tip 7: What to sleep on? Sleep on a satin pillowcase or a pillow bonnet to look in the moisture in your hair. This also helps prevent breakage and protects your hair from the damaging summer weather. A satin pillowcase also helps not only your hair but also your skin    

 Tip 8: Moisturize. Ladies after being in the sun for so long make sure you keep your hair moisturized. Apply a hydrated leave-in treatment such as a leave in conditioner that will make your hair softer, free from frizz, and manageable. Deep conditions are recommended every two weeks to rejuvenate your hair .   

 Tip 9: Protect your hair before you swim! Coat your hair with conditioner before diving into a chlorine filled pool or salt water ocean. It’s better to fill your hair strands with proteins and moisturizers. Chlorine and salt can change the color of your hair and cause it to become excessively dry and susceptible to breakage.

  

Tip 10: EMBRACE YOUR SHRINKAGE!!!! Ladies the summer is when you will be experiencing the most shrinkage but embrace every bit of it. Shrinkage isn’t all bad because it’s your hair’s way of protecting itself from losing moisture.

Don’t let summer take advantage of your beautiful tresses! Use our tips to love and protect your hair in the summer!

 

My New Found Hair Journey

 I must say my hair and I have had a love hate relationship these past couple of years. I went from having a perm for five years to transitioning into being all natural. After letting my natural hair grow out I decided to do the BIG CHOP and cut off my relaxed ends. Protective styles such as braids and quick weaves really helped my hair growth. If you are looking for a new protective style or even a fresh new hair style I recommend YouTube and Pinterest. After being three years natural I must say my fro had never looked so big and healthy. Personally the Cantu products really have helped my hair with growth and moisture. I always had a big issue with my hair becoming dry after I do my wash and go’s, but Cantu’s daily moisturizer really gives my fro life.

Recently about two months ago I became bored with my hair and decided to cut my hair. A part of me was scared to cut it because I did not know how I would look with a short cut, but the other part of me was ready for a change. I finally swallowed my pride and went to the hair salon and got it cut. But my sisters if you are going to get your hair cut make sure that it looks good both straight and natural. After wearing my new cut straight for about two weeks it was time to wash my hair and bring my curls back. I absolutely loved my natural hair with my new cut but a big part of my started to miss my big fro.

 On June 1, 2014 I went to the barbershop and cut off all my hair and decided to start all over. This hair cut has got to be the best decision I have ever made in a long time. I have so much confidence in myself now because I am no longer looking at my outside beauty but I am more focused on the beauty inside of me. This is not only a hair journey but this is a journey of self-growth. Don’t worry I will keep you updated with my hair journey, until next time my natural hair sisters, love yourself and most importantly your hair!

 

Are You Using the Right Hair Care Products?

Who said that being natural was easy? It is hard enough trying to find styles that fit you, but it is even harder trying to find the right products for your hair. As a natural hair sister, you have to be conscious of what you are putting in your hair and how much you are putting in your hair. Personally I have found YouTube as a helpful source for new products I could try on my hair. But first before purchasing your natural hair care products remember to read the back of the label to check for harmful ingredients that are not healthy for your natural hair. Here are the top 10 ingredients to avoid putting in your hair:

1. ISOPROPYL ALCOHOL
2. MINERAL OIL & PETROLATUM
3. POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL (PEG)
4. PROPYLENE GLYCOL (PG)
5. SODIUM LAURYL SUFATE (SLS) & SODIUM LAURETH SULFATE (SLES)
6. CHLORINE
7. DEA (diethanolamine) MEA (momoethnanolamine) TEA (triethanolamine)
8.  FD & C Color PIGMENTS
9. FRAGRANCE
10. IMIDAZOLIDINYL UREA and DMDM HYDANTOIN

(Source: nappturality.com)

If you see any of the ingredients above in your products PUT IT DOWN! These products will do nothing but rip your hair from its natural state. Now I will give you some great products that will help you with your natural hair journey. But remember not all hair is alike so find what works for your hair; some will not work for all. Keep experimenting!

Pre- poos: A treatment applied prior to shampooing that consists of oils and/ or conditioners.

• Burt’s Bees Avocado Butter Pre- Shampoo Hair Treatment
• Castor Oil
• Virgin Coconut Oil
• Jessicurl Deep Conditioning Treatment
• Jessicurl Too Shea! Extra Moisturizing Conditioner

Shampoos: Every natural hair sister needs a good, effective shampoo. Shampoo as often as necessary, the more products used the more often your hair should be shampooed.

• Giovanni Shampoo 50:50 Balanced Hydrating- Clarifying
• SheaMoisture Coconut and Hibiscus Shampoo
• SheaMoisture Organic Raw Shea Butter Moisture Retention Shampoo
• Kinky- Curly Come Clean Moisturizing Shampoo
• Miss Jessie’s Super Slip Sudsy Shampoo

 

Co-washes: Generally consists of using conditioner in place of shampoo.

• As I Am Coconut CoWash Cleaning Conditioner
• As I Am Cleaning Pudding
• As I Am Coconut CoWash Cleansing Conditioner
• Hamadi Ginger Soymilk Hair Wash
• Mizani True Textures Cleansing Cream Conditioning Curl Wash

Instant Conditioners: “Instantly” moisturizes the hair and makes it easier to manage

• Aussie Moist Conditioner by Lush
• Herbal Essences Totally Twisted Curls and Waves Conditioner
• SheaMoisture Organic Raw Shea Butter Restorative Conditioner
• Curl Junkie Curl Assurance Smoothing Conditioner
• Miss Jessie’s Crème de la Crème Conditioner

Deep Conditioners: can yield many great results, such as moisturizing hair, which make it more manageable and restores nutrients such as protein.

• Motions Deep Conditioning Mask
• Pantene Curly Hair Series Deep Moisturizing Treatment
• Jessicurl Deep Conditioner
• Mixed Chicks Deep Conditioner
• Organic Roots Stimulator Hair Mayonnaise

Leave- in Conditioner: will provide your natural hair with moisture and nourishment it will need until your next wash day.  

• Cantu Shea Butter Leave- in Conditioner Repair Cream
• Kinky- Curly Knot Today
• Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Leave- In Conditioner
• SheaMoister Organic Coconut Hibiscus Curl and Style Milk
• Mixed Chicks Leave- in Conditioner

Oils and Sealants: Sealing the hair especially the ends is a very important step in your hair regimen. For sealing to be effective use a water- based moisturizer and then seal with an oil.

• Argan oil
• Jamaican Black Castor Oil
• Vatika Oil
• Jojoba Oil
• Virgin Coconut Oil
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• Grape Seed Oil

Stylers: Results in a more controlled, sleeker, and more voluminous look.

• Aloe vera gel
• Kinky- Curly Curling Custard
• Organic Root Stimulator Lock and Twist Gel
• Shea Moisture Coconut and Hibiscus Curl Enhancing
• As I Am Twist Defining Cream
• Aveda Be Curly Curl Enhancer
• Blended Beauty Happy Nappy
• Curls Whipped Cream
• Miss Jessie’s Curly Meringue
• Miss Jessie’s Stretch Silkening Cream

Whether you are transitioning or have been natural all your life this hair product list is a great start. Find a daily routine that fits you and your hair and keep a hair journal to document your beautiful hair journey. Until next time my natural hair sisters, love yourself and most importantly your hair!