Avocado Magic

Now that I am going natural washing my hair seems to be a bit more of a chore sometimes. Eh, there are pluses and minuses with any hair type, so I have no real complaints.  Its all about finding a routine that works for you. My last protein treatment was about 6 weeks ago (which was a mild conditioner) and my hair was just feeling a bit off, so I decided to do an avocado mask treatment and I loved the results.

The last time I did the mask I was relaxed, so I wasn't sure how my hair would respond this time, but I must say, I am still loving this treatment for my hair.  Once again, my hair felt very dense/full. It also felt strong and the curls definition/shine after the mask was washed out was very impressive (see pics below). My hair doesn't shine like this without the support of hair products.

This is my hair prior to adding my leave conditioner (pics). Similar to before, I blended 1 ripe avocado with oils (EVCO, EVOO and JBCO), 1 egg and some honey. The mask was thick, smooth and silky and looked like a green coloured creamy mayo--it will smell like that too.

I applied the mask to dry hair, from root to tip, wrapped my head with saran wrap, a plastic cap and then two scarves to protect my pillow. I left it in over night and in the morning rinsed it out. I then used a moisturizing shampoo gently on my scalp in sections allowing the suds (not my fingers) to wash my hair and followed with my moisturizing conditioner/oil mix for 2 hours with and without heat. I don't actually think you need to moisturize for that long, I just got caught up on my computer and lost track of time. Finally I applied my ACV rinse as a final rinse, (I did not rinse out the ACV herbal rinse), applied some Giovanni Leave in and air dried as usual. That's it.

Even as I was washing out the mask I could feel the difference in my hair. My curls felt so defined, dense and strong. I was careful not to over manipulate my hair while washing it though because it wasn't very pliable, but not as stiff/hard like most protein conditioners.Overall, I am happy with the results. Moreover, I am happy that I can keep one of my favorite conditioners in my regimen despite my walk to natural side.

JBCO Challenge: Week Nine and Finale

I wanted to give a quick update regarding the JBCO challenge, especially since I did not initially feel I had committed enough the challenge to see a difference in my hair. Well I must say, although the growth was minimal (due to poor diet, lack of sleep and a much needed "trim"--LOL), the difference in the thickness of my hair was significant though (comparison below). With that being said, clearly JBCO can have an impact on your hair--or at least mine, in terms of the thickness; length/growth is a completely different story. Diet, sleep, adequate exercise all play much bigger roles in you reaching your maximum potential growth (e.g. 1/4-1/2 inch/month)  than any "growth aid".



So there you have it, thicker, but no real growth. Even my hairdresser commented on the change in the fullness of my hair. All pics were taken right after my relaxer, and you know how flat and lifeless your hair can look right after a relaxer. My hair was also styled the same way with the same products in all of the pics as well (e.g. blown dry and flat ironed).

In light of these great results I want to emphasize the fact that no product can permanently thicken up the strains that have already sprouted out of your head, it can only help enhance the new growth you will achieve, which can make the overall hair look thicker. With time, as you continue to use the product you will begin to have thicker strains as the hair continues to grow in thicker. For this reason alone I think I will continue with JBCO as I am finally a believer (in its ability to thicken hair) and I have given it a because I definitely think its worth using, just don't expect wonders*.

*some women have reported significant thickness and growth.

Stylista's rating:

- = not worth the money, don't waste your time.

- = neither hit or miss; just okay

- = good product; really worth trying.

= amazing product!

Relaxer Day

Well it's relaxer time again! A bit early, but necessary because I have a wedding coming up and I want to avoid the drama of getting my hair done days before the big event. As well, my hair is very limp and lifeless after a fresh relaxer, and giving it a few washes seems to plump it up---don't know why, but it does.

I must say I was pleasantly surprise by the fullness of my hair. Even my hairdresser noticed and said he sees an improvement in the health of of my hair (I have posted pic below). I specifically asked my hairdresser to style my hair exactly the same so I could really see the difference. It looks thicker to me. In terms of growth, nothing to brag about, but it could have been much worse (e.g. breakage, shedding). I had to get a light trim (1/4-1/2 inch) because my ends were a little ragged, I also notice that one side of my head (at the back) grows significantly faster that the other side. I think at this stage of my hair journey I am beginning to see the importance of achieving and maintaining the health of my hair oppose to just trying to achieve length.

So it appears that I will not achieve my goal of full SL by July because my sides are just ridiculous in terms of growth--they DON'T!!!! My sides have not budged at all since my last relaxer. I don't understand it. So I will be adding that to my list of hair goals. I am happy to see that the back of my head is progressing well though.

JBCO Challenge: Week Eight

This week has been the same as the past three weeks...Unfortunately, I have really been sleeping on the whole scalp application/massage procedure. I am planning to relax my hair this weekend and I'm not sure what to expect. I am a little disappointed in myself. I think over the last three months I just tried to do way too much. You know the saying, "Jack of all trades, Master of none". I've been driving myself crazy trying to prepare for this special event and really I just made myself sick in the process. Literally and figuratively. So, there you have it, I have "mastered" (or accomplished) very little in the process in terms of growth, thickness over the last two and a half months. The unfortunate thing about it all is that at the end of this challenge I won't be able to say I achieve or didn't achieve results because I wasn't very committed to the process. For example, this week alone I didn't apply any JBCO to my scalp at all! I know...what have I been doing? I mean I truly don't believe growth aids exists anyway, while others swear by it. I will say I love how my new growth feels. It is very soft, my curls are very defined, my scalp feels good--when I use it--so no complaints. Has it helped in terms of growth and thickness, the jury is still out.

Now for the moment I've been waiting for October. Will I reach my first goal of full SL? I can say without a doubt, I will not reached "full" SL by July. For me "full SL" is sides and back all touches my shoulders--not necessarily a blunt cut/style--but similar in nature. Oh well, it will come. I had some setbacks, made some mistakes trying to do too much, but it's all good. I've learned more about my hair in the process. As long as I learned from my mistakes and just let things flow I will get there.

JBCO Challenge: Week Six and Seven

Well I have really been slipping on this challenge. I guess I have just been a little frustrated and fed up of this whole hair thing. There are times when I just feel soooo lazy. But I know, I won't see any progress if I don't keep working on it. I will say that my hair doesn't seem anymore thicker than it was before, but I haven't been applying the JBCO as often as I am suppose to be applying it (1x week vs. 5-7x/week)...I know....Well it's a new week, so I can get back to it.

JBCO Challenge: Week Five

I have been slipping on this challenge a little bit. Last week I only applied JBCO to my hair three times, which isn't bad, but comparatively it isn't even 50% of the time that I should be applying it to my scalp (e.g. I am doing the Ultimate Level of the challenge). I must say that my scalp was sooo irritated. I couldn't wait to wash it again. It feels much better now, but itchy in spots. What a disappointment with the henna (how did I miss this issue for so long)--I am so sad, especially because of the benefit it has had on my hair. I swear, my hair feels absolutely amazing. It is silky, soft and so moisturized, and I haven't put anything in my hair all week. Oh man...why is it so hard for me to find products for my hair?! I never had this problem before, so I really do not know what to do right now. I am tempted to use the henna one more time, but rather than just rinse my hair I will shampoo my hair to remove any traces of the henna that may be sitting on my scalp. Hopefully, this will help, but if I have no luck with that I'm just going to shave my damn head!

JBCO Challenge: Week Four

Oops! I totally forgot to post an update on my JBCO Challenge. Well I will say something interesting is happening to my scalp, but that may be more related to the henna treatment I did on Sunday than the JBCO. My hair growth has slowed to a crawl over the last few months, which is disappointing to say the least. So much for increased hair growth. Clearly other things are at play when it comes to hair growth. I will admit I have not been taking care of myself over the last few weeks. I have been eating waaay too much junk food, exercising like crazy, but not eating enough food--healthy food. I also have not been getting enough sleep or drinking enough water. All things that influence hair growth, whether I am using JBCO or not.

Anyway, I am glad this is happening. Of course I want my hair to grow, but at least this has confirmed what I already know. There is no such thing as a growth aid. I will say that it has been helping with my itchy scalp (but I seem to be having an issue right now). For that reason alone I will continue to use it.

JBCO Challenge: Week Three

It is funny how one week my hair seems to be struggling and all of a sudden I have a new growth spurt, my itchy scalp has been soothed and my dry crispy hair feels moisturized and strong. I have since increased the JBCO ratio to my scalp blend concoction without incident. I guess my scalp has now gotten use to it because I no longer have scabs or itching like I did the last round of this challenge in which I made reference to the issues that can occur when you begin putting just anything and everything on the scalp in an effort to make your hair grow. As it stands now I can actually put 100% JBCO on my scalp without having to dilute it. I will see if that garners greater results.

JBCO Challenge: Week Two

So it is week two of the JBCO Challenge. I've noticed that on days I don't oil my scalp I have some itching. So far so good. It concerns me of course because I am looking to stop my itching not do anything to increase it, but it's not horrible. I have noticed a little (and I do mean a little) bit of new growth in certain sections of my hair, which feels soft. Pretty good sign if you ask me, because I never see new growth this early (I am currently 3 weeks post). Can I attribute this to the JBCO, yeah perhaps. I mean I have also used some EOs as well, which are also known for enhancing hair growth and I also have other oils added to my mix (e.g. jojoba and EVCO).  I am also trying (not doing too great) to eat better and I am exercising at least 4-5 times a week. All factors that contribute to achieving maximum hair growth. You notice I didn't say increase hair growth I still believe nothing can help you go beyond your maximum growth rate. Some may disagree, but whenever someone reports they got 1/2-1 of growth from a product, it is more likely that the product help create a situation that allowed them to reach their full potential, whether it was keeping their scalp clean (e.g. JBCO, MN), helping with circulation, adding additional nutrients to the hair follicles (e.g. EO); It was not the product in itself. I mean we all know a clean scalp, circulation, moisture and nutrients are key to hair growth (or any cell for that matter), which can all be achieved by eating a balanced diet high in certain nutrients, regular exercise, scalp massages and regular shampoo (or co-washes).  While JBCO may have something to do with my mini spurt of growth I can't really tell. Unfortunately, past experience has shown me that I can't use JBCO on its own, but I may try to use more of it in my mix to see what happens. We'll see....

JBCO Challenge: Week One

Today was wash day and I must say I am surprise to feel a little bit of new growth. Nothing major mind you, but considering I typically only grow about 1/4 an inch a month, I should not feel anything this soon (approx 2 weeks post). I used the Burt's Bee Pre-poo once again, and let's say, not too impressed, even after using if overnight. I will be writing a review shortly after I complete this post.

Of course I will be applying my oil blend mix to my scalp after I style my hair. I will say my scalp was a bit itchy last week. Nothing major, but enough for me to say--"hey what's going on, I thought I dealt with this". I have made a few changes to the EOs I am adding to the blend, so hopefully that should address my scalp issues. I have also decided to reduce the amount of jojoba oil I am using and increase the amount of JBCO I am using. Nothing major, just a tsp for each to see if i can tolerate the JBCO bit better. I have been using it long enough that my scalp should have adapted to its "power" by now. One step at a time.

New JBCO Challenge

So I've joined yet another JBCO Challenge on HI. I know, I know, the last time I did the challenge I didn't see very much difference in terms of thickness and growth, so why do it again? Well, there are a few reasons: One, since the challenge ended I have continued to use JBCO in my scalp oil mix, because I found it was helpful in alleviating my itchy scalp and made my new growth really soft, so I figure why not continue, but just increase the application/quantity?

Secondly, as you know, I tried a "scalp growth aid" last month, which had disastrous results on my hair (shedding, dryness and breakage---OH MY!), so I've decided to go back to the basics. Regular all natural hair care remedies and daily massages to improve (because nothing can truly increase) my hair growth. When I was doing this at the beginning of my hair journey this seemed to  be helping me out just fine and my hair was doing well. I guess I was a little (or very) impatient, and truthfully I did more damage than I care to acknowledge. I should have just left well enough alone. Alas, I digress. 

So there you have it. I figure since I am using JBCO anyway I will continue, but be more conscious about how and when I am using it. I will also modify my mix a little, adding a bit more JBCO, and try to apply it to clean scalp to see if I garner any more benefits. We'll see. I won't post daily progress reports like I did before, but I will post weekly updates just to see if I have a different experience. I will also post a "before" and "after" pic to see if there is truly any difference...

I'll keep you posted!

Building a Basic Regimen

When I first started my hair journey I was really struggling to figure out this "healthy hair thing". I didn't know what to do, what products to use or even how often to use these products to transform my hair. Truth be told I am still trying to figure all this stuff out. Over time I have been able to gather the following information that I thought might be helpful as you start your journey. It actually isn't too hard, the trick is:

1) Finding the right products for your hair type (3c, 4a, 4b or LOIS)
2) Current hair condition (high, normal, low porosity)
3) Current hair needs (dry, breakage, etc)

Then if that doesn't seem tricky enough, you also must figure how best to use these products for your hair (e.g. add oils, weekly vs bi-weekly, etc--the manufacturer's directions should be a start, but in some cases still need tweaking). In any regimen you should always have the following products:

1 Gentle/Moisturizing Shampoo. This should be used at least 1/week* depending on your schedule and hair needs. Choose a shampoo that is Sodium/Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate free. These ingredients tend to strip the hair making it feel squeaky clean. Your shampoo should leave your hair detangled and soft, not stripped. Here are some examples:

Abba Pure Moisture Shampoo
Abba Pure Color Protect Shampoo
Abba Pure Basic Shampoo
Alba Botanica Coconut Milk Extra Enrich Hair Wash
Alba Botanica Gardenia Hydrating Hair Wash
Alba Botanica Mango Moisturizing Hair Wash
Aphogee Deep Moisture Shampoo
AtOne Botanical Hydrating Shampoo

Aubrey Organics Island Naturals Replenishing Shampoo

Aubrey Organics Honeysuckle Rose Moisturizing Shampoo
Avalon Organics Extra Moisturizing Olive and Grapeseed Shampoo
Avalon Organics Nourishing Lavender Shampoo
Avalon Organics Awapuhi Mango Moisturizing Shampoo
Avalon Organics Tea Tree Mint Treatment Shampoo
Aveda Scalp Benefits Balancing Shampoo

Aveda Dry Remedy Shampoo

Bee Mine Peppermint & Tea Tree Nourishing Shampoo
Burt's Bee Color Keeper Green Tea & Fennel seed Shampoo
Burt's Bee More Moisture Raspberry & Brazil Nut Shampoo

Califia Care Shampoo 
Cream of Nature (red and green label)

Design Essentials Moisture Retention Shampoo
Elasta QP Creme Conditioning Shampoo

Elucence Moisture Benefits Shampoo
Giovanni Smooth as Silk Shampoo
Giovanni 50:50 Balance Shampoo
Jane Carter Solution Hydrating Invigorating Shampoo
Jason Natural Plumeria & Sea Kelp Shampoo
Kenra Moisturizing Shampoo

KeraCare Hydrating Detangling Shampoo
Kinky-Curly Come Clean Moisturizing Shampoo
Mane N Tail Deep Moisturizing Shampoo
Motions Weightless Conditioning Shampoo
Motions Lavish Shampoo
Mizani Botanifying Shampoo
Neutrogena Triple Moisture Cream Lather Shampoo

Nexxus Therappe Luxury Moisturizing Shampoo
Organix Smoothing Shea Butter Shampoo
Organix Hydrating Tea Tree Mint Shampoo
Oyin Grand Poo Bar
Shea Moisture Raw Shea Butter Moisture Retention Shampoo (currently using)
Silk Elements Luxury Moisturizing Shampoo
Silk Elements MegaSilk Olive Shampoo
Vatika Conditioning shampoo

*Some women choose to wash their hair once every 2 weeks or once a month vs once a week with some success. In these cases these women have chosen to co-wash in between shampoo sessions to keep the scalp clean. They then use shampoo to remove the build up (or "clarify") when needed. I have found that I must wash 1x week for my hair/scalp to feel its best.

1 Clarifying Shampoo. A clarifying shampoo should be used 1x/month*. By using this shampoo you will remove dirt, build up. It's a great way of starting your hair off fresh for the month. Your hair should feel squeaky clean after using this product. Here are some examples:

Alba Botanica Daily Shampoo
Aubrey Organics Mosqueta Nourishing Shampoo

Avalon Organics Lemon and Shea Butter

Carol's Daughter Rosemary Mint Purifying Shampoo
Design Essentials Organic Cleanse Deep Cleansing Shampoo
Elasta QP Scalp Stimulating Shampoo
Hydratherma Naturals Herbal / Amino Clarifying Shampoo
Ion Clarifying Shampoo
KeraCare 1st Lather Shampoo
Kenra Clarifying Shampoo

Nexxus Aloe Rid Shampoo

Organic Root Stimulator Uplifting Shampoo
Pantene Pro-V Purity Shampoo

Suave Daily Clarifying Shampoos

VO5 Herbal Escapes Kiwi Lime Squeeze Clarifying Shampoo
VO5 Herbal Escapes Kiwi Lime Squeeze Clarifying Conditioner

*If you are heavy handed with your products/oils etc. or use products with silicones you may want to use this more often but no more than 2x/month. I use a clarifying shampoo as needed.

1 Moisturizing Conditioner & 1 Protein Conditioner*. You should follow up with one of these conditioners after* every wash. Use either one depending on what your hair needs at the time. I have found deep conditioning my hair for 30 mins with heat (hooded dryer) has worked best for my hair. Protein conditioners are used for rebuilding the hair and giving it strength and moisture based conditioner softens and replenishes dry hair. Protein conditioners should be used when your hair feels mushy, spongy and limp. In some cases a protein conditioner needs to be followed by a moisturizing deep conditioner to restore moisture and elasticity to the hair.

*ETA August 23, 2014: I have learned that a separate moisturizing and protein conditioner is not as necessary as I once believed. Now, I only use and moisturizing conditioner and add a small amount of hydrolyzed wheat protein when I am completing a protein treatment, which is known to penetrate the hair shaft much more effectively. I have seen great benefits with this approach. I can control the level of protein in my conditioner, it's natural and it has saved me a lot of money.  I also save time because I do not have to follow up with a moisturizing conditioner. Win, win, win in my books.

** ETA August 23, 2014: I've recently learned that any "basic" conditioner can be turned into a "deep conditioner" by simply adding penetrating oils. In truth, most companies use the words "deep conditioner" when in fact the ingredients do not penetrate or fully condition the hair.

Here are some examples of moisture based conditioners:

KeraCare Humecto
Abba Pure Moisture Conditioner
Abba Pure Color Protect Conditioner
AtOne Botanicals Reconstructor

Aubrey Organics Honeysuckle Rose Conditioner  (currently using)
Aubrey Organics White Camellia Ultra-Smoothing Conditioner  (currently using)
Aubrey Organics Rosa Mosqueta Conditioner

Aussie Moist Conditioner
Avalon Organics Awapuhi Mango Moisturizing Conditioner
Avalon Organics Lavender Nourishing Conditioner
Aveda Color Conserve Conditioner
Aveda Dry Remedy Moisturizing Conditioner
Bee Mine Bee-U-Ti-Ful Deep Conditioner
Biolage Hydratherapie Conditioning Balm
Burt's Bee Super Shiny Grapefruit & Sugar Beet Conditioner
Carol's Daughter Tui Hair Smoothie
Creme of Nature Moisture Extreme Conditioner
Dove Advance Care Sheer MoistureConditioner
Dove Moisture Rich Color Conditioner
Dove Damage Therapy Daily Moisture Treatment
Deep Brilliance Moisture
Elasta QP DPR-11 Deep Penetrating Remoisturizer

Elucence Moisture Balance Conditioner
Frederick Fekkai's Shea Butter Moisturizing Conditioner
Giovanni Smooth as Silk Conditioner
Ion Color Defense Hydrating Moisture Treatment
Jane Carter Nutrient Replenishing Conditioner
Joico Moisture Recovery Conditioner
Joico Moisture Intense Treatment Extra Conditioning Conditioner

Kenra Deep Penetrating Moisturizing Conditioner
KeraCare Humecto Creme Conditioner
KeraCare Moisturizing Conditioner for Color Treated Hair
Keratease Nutritive Masquintense Nourishing Treatment
Lustrasilk Shea Butter and Mango Cholesterol
Motions Moisture Plus Conditioner

Mizani Hydrafuse Moisturizing Conditioner

Mizani Moisturefuse Moisturizing Conditioner

Neutrogena Triple Moisture Daily Deep Conditioner
Neutrogena Triple Moisture Deep Recovery Mask
Nexxus Humectress

Oyin Honey Hemp Conditioner
Pantene Relaxed & Natural Breakage Defence Mask
Paul Mitchell Super Charged Moisturizer
Queen Helene Cholesterol
Redken All Soft
SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Restorative Conditioner  (currently using)

Silk Elements MegaSilk Moisturizing Treatment

Silk Elements Mega Cholesterol Conditioning Treatment

Here are some examples of protein based conditioners:

light = can be used 1-2x/week**
medium = 1-2x/month
medium-heavy = 4 weeks
heavy = every 6+ weeks or as needed

Aubrey Organics GPB (light)
Aveda Damage Remedy Conditioner (light)
Africa's Best Organics Hair Mayonnaise (light)
Creme of Nature Conditioning Reconstructor (light)
Elasta QP Fortifying Conditioner (light)
Elasta QP Breakage Control Serum (light)
Homemade Avocado Mask (light)
Homemade Banana Mask (light)
Hydratherma Naturals Amino Plus, Protein Deep Conditioning Treatment (light)
Joico K-Pak Reconstructor Conditioner (light)
Lekair Cholesterol Plus (light)
Mane N Tail Original Conditioner (light)
Motions Moisture Silk Protein Conditioner (light)
Neutrogena Triple  Moisture Recovery Mask (light)
Organic Root Stimulator Replenishing Pak Conditioner (light)
Organique Amla & Holy Basil Conditioner (light)
Vital Olive Oil Hair Mayonnaise (light)

Aphogee 2 min Reconstructor (medium)
Giovanni Smooth as Silk Extreme Protein Treatment (medium)
LeKair Cholesterol Plus Strengthening Conditioning Cream (medium)
Motions CPR Protein and Repair Treatment Conditioner (medium)
Design Essentials 6 N 1 Reconstructive Conditioner (medium)
Ion Repair Solutions Hair Reconstructor Treatment (medium)
Queen Helene Cholesterol Hair Conditioning Cream (medium)

Organic Roots Stimulator Hair Mayonnaise Treatment for Damage Hair (medium-heavy)
Henna (medium-heavy)

Affirm 5 in1 Reconstructor (heavy)
Aphogee 2 Step Protein Treatment (heavy)
Dudley's DRC 28 Hair Treatment and Fortifier (heavy)
Elucence Extended Moisture Repair Treatment (heavy)
Motions CPR Protein and Repair Treatment Conditioner (heavy)
Nexxus Emergencee (heavy)

Nexxus Keraphix Restroative Strengthening Conditioner (heavy)
Mizani Kerafuse Intensive Strengthening Treatment (heavy)

*Some women choose to DC before washing their hair, as they feel the hair absorbs more of the conditioner when dry. They then follow up with a regular moisturizing shampoo or co-wash.

**Depending on your current hair structure/chemistry and current condition (e.g. damage, low porosity) even mild protein conditioners may be too much to use weekly. Always assess your hair condition regularly.

1 Leave-in conditioner*. This should be used after washing the hair and remain in the hair as it dries.

Here are some examples of moisture based leave-in conditioners:

Aussie Leave-In Conditioner
Elasta QP H-two Leave-in Spray
Herbal Essences Break's Over Strengthening Leave-in Creme
Herbal Essences None of Your Frizzness Leave-in
Hollywood Beauty Carrot Oil Moisturizer
Hollywood Beauty Olive Oil Moisturizer
IC Fantasia Aloe Complex Leave In 
Jane Carter Solution Hair Nourishing Cream
Live Clean Argan Oil Smooth & Shine Cream
Luster's S-Curl No Drip Activator Moisturizer
Mixed Chicks Leave-In Conditioner
Neutrogena Triple Moisture Leave-in Creme
Organic Root Stimulator Olive Oil Moisturizer
Organic Root Stimulator Carrot Oil Moisturizer
Oyin's Frank Juice Nourishing Herbal Leave In
Oyin's Greg Juice Nourishing Herbal Leave In
Oyin Handmade Honey Dew Lightweight Quenching Lotion
Sunsilk TLC Cream
Profectiv Damage Free Anti-Tangle Leave In
Creme of Nature Lemongrass & Rosemary Leave-in
Silk Elements Megasilk Leave In Moisturizing Creme
Water-Aloe-Glycerin mix 

Wave Nouveau Finishing Lotion

Here are some examples of protein based leave-in conditioners:

Aphogee Green Tea Reconstructorizer

Aphogee Pro-Vitamin Leave in

Cantu Shea Butter Leave-in Conditioning Repair Creme
Chi Keratin Mist
Elasta QP Mango Butter

Giovanni Direct Leave In

Hydratherma Naturals Protein Balance Leave-In Conditioning Treatment
Infusium 23 Original

Herbal Essence Long Term Relationship Leave In

Kenra Daily Defense Leave-in
Komaza Shea Butter Hair Lotion
Mane N Tail Original Conditioner (can double as conditioner and leave-in)

Profectiv Break Free Leave In

Profectiv Mega Growth Treatment

Profectiv Healthy Ends Treatment

Salerm 21

Shea Moisture Organic Curl and Style Hair Milk 

Shea Moisture Organic Hold & Shine Hair Moisture Mist

*Some women use more than one leave in conditioner (e.g. protein based and moisture) with some success.

1 Water Based Daily Moisturizers Use daily to hydrate the hair. It can be used 1-2x/day depending on your hair needs. Due to the texture and structure of my hair I used this 1x/day other day depending on the hair style I am wearing and the moisturizer/styler I used.

Here are some examples of moisture based moisturizers:

Hollywood Beauty Carrot Oil Moisturizer
Hollywood Beauty Olive Oil Moisturizer
Jane Carter Solution Hair Nourishing Cream
Luster's S-Curl No Drip Activator Moisturizer
Neutrogena Triple Moisture Leave-in Creme
Organic Root Stimulator Olive Oil Moisturizer
Organic Root Stimulator Carrot Oil Moisturizer
Oyin's Frank Juice Nourishing Herbal Leave In
Oyin's Greg Juice Nourishing Herbal Leave In
Oyin Handmade Honey Dew Lightweight Quenching Lotion  (currently using)
Profectiv Damage Free Anti-Tangle Leave In
Creme of Nature Lemongrass & Rosemary Leave-in
Silk Elements Megasilk Leave In Moisturizing Creme
Water-Aloe-Glycerin mix  (currently using)

Wave Nouveau Finishing Lotion

Here are some examples of protein based moisturizers:

Aphogee Green Tea Reconstructorizer

Aphogee Pro-Vitamin Leave in

Cantu Shea Butter Leave-in Conditioning Repair Creme
Chi Keratin Mist
Elasta QP Mango Butter
Infusium 23 Original

Herbal Essence Long Term Relationship Leave In

Komaza Shea Butter Hair Lotion

Profectiv Break Free Leave In

Profectiv Mega Growth Treatment

Profectiv Healthy Ends Treatment

Shea Moisture Organic Curl and Style Hair Milk   (currently using)

Shea Moisture Organic Hold & Shine Hair Moisture Mist   (currently using)

Natural Oils are used for sealing in water based moisturizers. Apply by adding a light coating of oil to the ends of the hair and work your way up.Oils can also be added to conditioners and used as a pre-poo.

Here are some examples:

Avocado Oil  (currently using in DC)

Argan Oil (currently using as in DC)

Extra Virgin Olive Oil (currently using in DC)

Extra Virgin Coconut Oil (currently using in DC)
Shea Butter

Jojoba Oil (currently using on scalp)

Jamaican Black Castor Oil/Castor Oil (currently using JBCO on scalp and Castor in leave in)
Macadamia Nut Oil 

Safflower Oil

Basic Regimen to Get You Started!

You Will Need:

1 Clarifying Shampoo
1 Moisturizing Shampoo
1 Moisturizing Deep Conditioner
1 Protein Deep Conditioner
1 Leave-in Conditioner
1 Daily Moisturizer
1 Natural Oil

Additional items:
Wide tooth comb
Satin/Silk Scarf and/or Satin Bonnet

• Shampoo your hair with a moisturizing shampoo 1-2x/week (Preferably sulfate free)
• Use a moisturizing deep conditioner with heat after every shampoo
• Always follow up with a leave-in conditioner
• Use a water-based moisturizer 1-2x/day then seal in the moisture with a natural oil
• Always wear a satin/silk scarf or bonnet to bed
• Relax no sooner than 8 weeks
• Do a protein treatment when needed (whenever the hair feels very limp, mushy, overly soft etc.)
• Trim when needed
• Use a Clarifying shampoo (remove buildup) 1-2x/month (depending on the amount of product you use)
• Use a wide tooth comb to comb/detangle your hair. You'll experience less breakage.

That's it!! Remember to take a step back and re-evaluate your hair and your methods. LISTEN to your hair. It will tell you when something is not working well for you (i.e. dryness, breakage etc.) Give your hair time to get adjusted. It's all about trial and error until you realize what your hair likes, then you'll see improvement.

Happy Hair Growing!!

Source (Thanks SunShyne!)
*The Science of Black Hair 

© copyright 2009-2015; All rights reserved ManeDiva

EVCO Challenge: Week Four

Day 22 (Jan 24, 2010)

OMG! Can I say my hair feels so much better than it has in months. I made a few changes (yet again), which will definitely become staples. So as usual I applied my EVCO to (mistakenly) wet hair and slept with it in my hair overnight. In the morning my hair was (still) damp. I'm not quite sure how much my hair actually absorbed, so I will need to make sure my hair is actually damp and not wet next time. Aside from that, it was all good; hair felt a'ight. I proceeded to follow my regimen, but ended it with a ACV/hair tonic tea as my final rinse and can I say my hair was noticeably stronger. I was amazed! I was a little scared at first because as I poured it over my hair it felt very stiff. But once I rinsed it out (after massaging for about a minute) it softened up. Even better (well I'm not sure how much better you can get), I seem to be retaining moisture. If you remember from my previous post my hair would dry up really quickly (literally in minutes) and my ends were quite dry--this is not an indication of healthy hair.  Now? As I am writing this my hair still feels moist and damp! Huuuuge difference from just last week and that is despite deep conditioning with oils, heat, etc....I will be continuing this process for sure!

Ladies if you are having issues with moisture retention and dry ends try ACV just be sure to dilute it! I want to try it a few times before posting my recipe just to make sure this wasn't a fluke. 

Day 23 (Jan 25, 2010)

I oiled my scalp as usual. As you know I did my little experiment to see if my scalp was in fact getting over the shock of JBCO and I noticed that the area where I just used JBCO is fine. The back where I used my concotion seems to be have a few issues (very mild itching)...humf, imagine that...

Day 24 (Jan 26, 2010)

 My scalp was fine, but when I massaged it felt tight and had a few "sore" spots where I had the JBCO on it's own. So much for my theory LOL.

Day 25-28 (Jan 27-30, 2010) 
I will say that as the day progressed my hair has been retaining moisture quite well. Itching...ah well. If I am consistent it seems fine. My scalp seems to be really absorbing the oil. I may up the number of times I oil my scalp in these colder months.

Relaxer Day

So today was my relaxer day. I will say I am neither pleased or totally disappointed with my progress because there was some growth . I have included pic below. I am not very happy with my sides though (they are currently at my jaw). Why won't they grow ?!!!! Over the next few months I am going to have to give my sides some serious TLC if I hope to reach my goal by July. 

My new growth was a bit thicker, so perhaps the JBCO was more helpful than I thought, not sure. I was a little peeved at my hairdresser though. Please tell me on what planet the word "just a touch" mean cut 1/2 an inch of hair?! I mean really, you just cut off one month of growth! I was not too pleased . Whatever, not going to make excuses for the lack of significant growth...my hair is my hair; love it or leave it. I just won't "trim" it for the next two relaxers, but I will see how my ends hold up. I don't want raggedy ends in an effort to reach my goal.


I will say my hair felt stronger prior to my relaxer. I think the EVCO has been helpful with that. I also coated my hair and based my scalp with some EVCO, which I think has helped with the silkiness I am feeling right now. I think I will definitely continue with EVCO after the challenge. My hairdresser did comment on the health of my hair-- nothing too positive. LOL! Well back to the drawing board.  He convinced me to up my treatment game by using a specialized treatment that I can use at home (he knows better than to insist that I come in more often--funds are tight). Apparently, you need a license to purchase it, so I will need to buy it from him. I doubt it will be a natural product, so I will have to give it some serious thought before I use it. We'll see how that goes!

ETA: I never did get that magical treatment from my hairdresser....

I know it seems like my hair is thicker in the left pic, but it's just the way it was curled. I will admit the lower pic also looks a little deceiving because the hair isn't curled under as tightly, so I measured it (don't want to cheat myself by saying I have growth that I don't). I achieved about 1 1/2 inches of new growth (not including what was cut of course!). There was also a definite difference after my relaxer in terms of texture as well. It is much shiner and silkier and is it my imagination or does it even seem darker? (I know the lighting is off in the pic, but on the real, my hair is darker). If I could just get my sides to catch up with the back it would be all good.

P.S. the little bump in my hair is because I wear a hat from the hairdresser--Canada is too cold!

Castor Oil Challenge: Week Twelve (Final Week!)

Day 77-83 (Jan 10-16, 2010) 

Well I'm going for the home stretch now. I already gave my review a few weeks ago so there isnt much more I will add here regarding JBCO. 


Making a few tweaks here and there has helped out some in terms of my scalp condition. Ultimately I had to create a JBCO/jojoba/EVCO concoction to alleviate my itchy scalp (ingredients below). I will say that I did add JBCO (nothing added) to my scalp before DCing this week and my new growth still felt amazing 3 days later. So it's not all that bad. Actually, let me correct that. I never thought JBCO was bad, it just didn't produce the results I was told it would produce (minus the thicker hair--I know that will take time). Over the course of the 12 weeks I had mad itching, scabs on my scalp,  shedding, so needless to say JBCO was too strong for me. Please use with caution! You know your scalp and should be able to detect when something isn't right, listen to that and make adjustments accordingly, or just discontinue your use of the oil. There are other natural oils/balms out there that help with growth

Now I did this challenge for as a long as I did because it takes at least 12 weeks to see any real results in terms of length and texture of your hair when trying something new. Despite this, it just didn't do what it was suppose to do--at least not for me. I will continue to use it though, esp now that I have mixed it with EVCO and jojoba oil. My new growth was nice and soft, esp with this last wash.


For anyone hoping to try this out, don't let my results discourage you. Give it a try. My hair may just need more to kick it into shape (in terms of growth). I will post pics after my next relaxer next weekend to show my final results. Will I eat my words?




HHG!

Castor Oil Challenge: Week Eleven

Day 70-76 (Jan 3-9, 2010)

Not too much to report. My scalp continues to itch, so I decided to up the number of scalp massages I do a week to every other day, which seems to be helping. I washed my hair Sunday (Day 70) and I was pleasantly surprised how much new growth I had. It's like it just crept up on me one day! There isn't tons of new growth, so again not sure if I will say the JBCO is to credit for what I am seeing.

The Hair Repair Balancing Act

If you've been keeping up with my progress thus far you will know that I have really been struggling to find the right moisture-protein balance for my hair to no avail. Up to this point I have been killing my hair with protein overload, largely because I was not very knowledgeable about protein based products. I mean I had some knowledge of reconstructors and protein deep conditioners, but I really was lost when it came to most basic daily products (e.g. leave ins, "moisturizers"). As a result, I have been piling on the protein turning my hair into a dry, crinkly, mess!

So I have done my research and I think I may be able to get a handle on this thing. I have to send a shout out to Sunshyne for posting such an extensive list of hair products. The time and effort she put into generating that list has helped me out immensely. Along with a few websites I have come across I have been able to create another hair regimen to see where that takes me...fingers crossed.

Now if I need to make this even more difficult, I am really trying to reach an all natural hair product regimen...but I will take this one step at a time.

For your own reference I have included a few examples of hair products you can try to create your own regimen (this is by no means extensive, and really only include the products I am aware of). Remember, keep it simple and make sure you have the basics "ingredients" to get you started: moisturizing shampoo, clarifying shampoo, 2* deep conditioners** (moisture and protein), leave in conditioner, daily moisturizer (depending on the leave in you choose it may be able to double up and your daily moisturizer instead of buying a separate one), natural oil for sealing. With this in place you should be on your way!

Moisturizing Shampoo:

Aveda Dry Remedy Shampoo
Califia Care Shampoo 

Creme of Nature Shampoo 

Neutrogena Triple Moisture Cream Lather Shampoo

Elasta QP Creme Conditioning Shampoo
Jason Sea Kelp Shampoo
Abba Pure Moisture Shampoo
AtOne Botanical Hydrating Shampoo
KeraCare Hydrating Detangling Shampoo
Nexxus Therappe Luxury Moisturizing Shampoo
Motions Weightless Conditioning Shampoo
Motions Lavish Shampoo
Mizani Botanifying Shampoo
Silk Elements Luxury Moisturizing Shampoo
Silk Elements MegaSilk Olive Shampoo
Aphogee Deep Moisture Shampoo
Mane N Tail Deep Moisturizing Shampoo
Hair One Cleansing Conditioner
Wen Cleansing Conditioner
SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Moisture Retention Shampoo (currently using)

Clarifying Shampoo :
Pantene Pro-V Purity Shampoo

Suave Daily Clarifying Shampoos

Nexxus Aloe Rid Shampoo

Avalon Organics Lemon and Shea Butter
Aubrey Organics Mosqueta Nourishing Shampoo

Design Essentials Organic Cleanse Deep Cleansing Shampoo
KeraCare 1st Lather Shampoo
Kenra Clarifying Shampoo
Elasta QP Scalp Stimulating Shampoo
VO5 Herbal Escapes Kiwi Lime Squeeze Clarifying Shampoo
Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen, Grow & Restore Shampoo (currently using)

Moisturizing Conditioners: 

Abba Pure Moisture Conditioner
Abba Pure Color Protect Conditioner

AtOne Botanicals Reconstructor

Aubrey Organics Honeysuckle Rose (currently using)
Aubrey Organics Mosqueta Nourishing Conditioner 

Aubrey Organics White Camellia Ultra-Smoothing Conditioner
Aveda Dry Remedy Conditioner 

Creme of Nature Nourishing Conditioner

Elasta QP DPR-11

Elucence Moisture Balance conditioner

KeraCare Humecto
Motions Moisture Plus Conditioner
Mizani Moisturefuse

Mizani Hydrafuse
Silk Elements MegaSilk Moisturizing Treatment
Silk Elements Mega Cholesterol Conditioning Treatment
Joico Moisture Recovery
Nexxus Humectress
Neutrogena Triple Moisture Daily Deep Conditioner
Neutrogena Triple Moisture Deep Recovery Mask
Giovanni Smooth as Silk Conditioner
Queen Helene Cholesterol
Redken All Soft
Deep Brilliance Moisture
Lustrasilks Shea Butter Cholesterol Plus 

SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Restorative Conditioner (currently using)

Protein Conditioners:

(can be used 1x/week or bi-weekly):
Vital Olive Oil Hair Mayonnaise
Organic Root Stimulator Replenishing Pak Conditioner

Creme Of Nature Conditioning Reconstructor

Motions CPR Protein Reconstructor

Mane N Tail Original Conditioner

Lekair Cholesterol Plus
Elasta QP Fortifying Conditioner

Elasta QP Breakage Control Serum

Aphogee 2 min Reconstructor 

Creme of Nature Reconstructor

Aubrey Organics GPB 

Egg mixed with light conditioner

(can be used 1-2x/month):

Joico K-Pak Reconstructor

Organic Root Stimulator Hair Mayo
Motions Moisture Silk Protein Conditioner

Design Essentials 6 N 1 Reconstructive Conditioner

Ion Repair Solutions Hair Reconstructor Treatment
Natural Henna (currently using)

(should not be used any sooner than every 6 weeks):

Vitale Reconstructor

Affirm 5in1 Reconstructor

Aphogee 2 Step Protein Treatment 

Nexxus Emergencee

Nexxus Keraphix
Komaza Protein Hair Strengthener
Mizani Kerafuse 

Leave in Conditioner:
Moisture based:
Sunsilk TLC Cream
Design Essentials HCO Leave-In Conditioner
Mixed Chicks Leave-In Conditioner
Aussie Leave-In Conditioner
Creme of Nature Lemongrass & Rosemary Leave-in
Neutrogena Triple Moisture Silk Touch Leave-in Creme
IC Fantasia Aloe Complex Leave In
Elasta QP H-two Leave-in Spray
Komaza Shea Butter Lotion
Herbal Essences Long Term Relationship Leave-in
Live Clean Argan Oil Smooth & Shine Cream
Herbal Essences Break's Over Strengthening Leave-in Creme
Herbal Essences None of Your Frizzness Leave-in
Nexxus Humectress
SCurl No Drip Activator
Water-Aloe-Glycerin mix 

  

Protein based:
Nexxus Headress Weightless Leave-In Conditioner
Infusium 23 Original

Profectiv Breakfree Moisturizer 

Profectiv Megagrowth Moisturizer 

Aphogee Green Tea Reconstructerizer

Aphogee Pro-Vitamin Leave in 

Cantu Shea Butter Leave-in Conditioning Repair Creme

Redken Anti-Snap Leave-in

Chi Keratin Mist

Mane N Tail Original Conditioner

SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Hold and Shine Moisture Mist 

Daily Moisturizers:

(Use 1-2x/day to hydrate the hair): 

Moisture based:

S-Curl No Drip Activator

Hollywood Beauty Olive Oil Creme
Hollywood beauty Carrot Oil

ORS Olive Oil

ORS Carrot Oil 

Wave Nouveau Finishing Lotion  
Neutrogena Triple Moisture Silk Touch Leave-in Creme
Herbal Essences Long Term Relationship Leave-in
Komaza Shea Butter Lotion
Water-Aloe-Glycerin mix (currently using)

Protein based:

Cantu Shea butter,

Elasta QP Mango Butter

Profective Healthy Ends 

SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl and Style Milk 
SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Hold and Shine Moisture Mist 

Natural Oil:

Avocado Oil (currently using in DC)

Argan Oil (currently using in DC)

Extra Virgin Olive Oil  (currently using in DC)

Extra Virgin Coconut Oil (currently using in DC)
Shea Butter

Jojoba Oil  (currently using on my scalp)

Jamaican Black Castor Oil/Castor Oil (currently using JBCO on my scalp and Castor Oil in my DC) 
Macadamia Nut Oil 

Safflower Oil

Now just from reviewing this list and what I am and was currently using I can clearly see where I went wrong. For starters, I never clarify, I don't moisturize on a daily basis and as I stated above, I am using way too much protein. I suggest that if you are also struggling to meet your hair goals you also review the list, check off what you are doing or aren't doing and shape it up. Hope that helps you in your effort to reach your hair goals.

Happy hair growth!

                                 

*ETA August 23, 2014: I have learned that a separate moisturizing and protein conditioner is not as necessary as I once believed. Now, I only use and moisturizing conditioner and add a small amount of hydrolyzed wheat protein when I am completing a protein treatment, which is known to penetrate the hair shaft much more effectively. I have seen great benefits with this approach. I can control the level of protein in my conditioner, it's natural and it has saved me a lot of money.  I also save time because I do not have to follow up with a moisturizing conditioner. Win, win, win in my books.

** ETA August 23, 2014: I've recently learned that any "basic" conditioner can be turned into a "deep conditioner" by simply adding penetrating oils. In truth, most companies use the words "deep conditioner" when in fact the ingredients do not penetrate or fully condition the hair. 

JBCO: Didn't Do it's Magic

Needless to say I didn't end my year on the best note--well not from a recovering PJ standpoint anyway. Oh it isn't too serious, I just spent a mini fortune on a few hair products that I found at Honey Fig in an effort to prepare for my upcoming challenges (product reviews to follow). I was doing so good too, I don't know what happened...The ingredients just looked great (all natural) and the smell of these products smelled like absolute heaven. I just hope its worth the money, but I digress.

As my JBCO challenge comes to an end (two weeks to go) I have mixed feelings about what I have seen thus far:

Promises:

Said to detoxify the scalp providing the best environment for hair growth, also helps to thicken areas where there is hair loss or thinning and will generally thicken thin hair when used over a period of time.

Results:

JBCO helped somewhat with my itchy scalp, but this relief was only temporary. It appear to help with my new growth in terms of making it feel softer and more defined (which may be good if I were natural), so it wasn't all bad. I did not have the increased shedding that I have read about with some ladies, but I did notice some. I think it created some irritation on my scalp initially because I had some scabbing, which I can only blame on the JBCO since I never had this issue before. As a result, I had to add Jojoba oil to dilute it, which helped some. In the end I had to add some EVCO to alleviate my itchy scalp, which helped a great deal ( love me some EVCO!)

Overall, I was not as satisfied as I would have liked. I had so many expectations of this product and it only seem to meet a few---very few and that is why JBCO gets a from me.  True, perhaps this is not fair, I mean my expectations may be unfair because there may be other factors at play here. Perhaps you need to use it straight without any other oils for it to really give you the results I hear about. Unfortunately, my poor tender head couldn't take it. I guess I should have waited to write this review, but who am I kidding? How much more progress can I really achieve in two weeks? I will keep adding it to my DC and using it as a sealer. I may even continue to use it to oil my scalp, but I will need to add it to my beloved EVCO first.

                                 

- = not worth the money, don't waste your time.

- = neither hit or miss; just okay

- = good product; really worth trying.

= amazing product!

Castor Oil Challenge: Week Ten

Day 63 (Dec 27, 2009)

Making my way back to Scarborough and I can't wait to get back home. I don't know what it is about being home, but I just feel like I can function better. Focus and stick to what it is I'm suppose to be doing with my hair. I mean my things are there. I have a groove in MY bathroom.  I am comfortable in MY bathroom.  Once I get home I will oil my scalp, no matter how tired I am. Promise!

Day 64 (Dec 28, 2009)

So that promise I made to myself to oil my scalp no matter what--a bust.... Well there's always tomorrow.

Day 65-67 (Dec 29-31, 2009)

 I have neglected my hair (and this blog) big time. I did not oil my scalp all week and I am feeling the consequences of my actions (or lack there of). My scalp has been dry and itchy all week and you would think that would put a jump start in my butt to do something about it right? Well that would make the most sense, but noooo....It's sad, but true--I can be THAT lazy sometimes. Truthfully, this week has just been tougher than usual. For starters I returned from my trip sick. Also, it's quite cold here in Toronto right now . So needless to say it's been extra hard to drag my butt around anywhere. So when I get home from work I just want to curl up and take refuge and hide under the covers and not come out . Alas, I know that if I want to truly come out on top and give my hair the best possible chance to thrive, then I need to really commit to doing my hair on a regular basis. Well see how that works out. I'll keep you posted!

Day 68-69 (Jan 1-2, 2010)
Not much to report. My hair felt dry, but not as itchy because I got back to regular oil massages.

Castor Oil Challenge: Week Eight

Day 49 (Dec 13, 2009)

Oiled my scalp, which it desperately needed. Boy did it itch!

Day 50 (Dec 14, 2009)

I've noticed that my new growth has changed. As I already mentioned last week it feel softer, but I notice that my hair seems much more moisturized than it has been in the past. can't complain about some of the benefits I am seeing.

Day 51 (Dec 15, 2009)

Scalp was a little itchy so I oiled it and gave it a good massage. I think it really needed it. I was reviewing a few things from my previous post and I think I want to add avocado oil to my oil blend. I'm going to hold off until I've finished this experiment to see 1) if I will even continue to use Castor oil 2) to actually give myself enough time to do a fair comparison of the different oils. 

Day 52 (Dec 16, 2009)

Oiled my scalp, but I cheated a little bit by adding some coconut oil. I can say almost immediately the itching stopped ! Have I found the magical combination? I wonder...

Day 53 (Dec 17, 2009)

 Scalp still feels good...

Day 54 (Dec 18, 2009) 
I decided to stay true to this challenge by sticking to the JBCO only, so now my scalp is a little itchy. I figure one day using EVCO won't matter ...right?

Day 55 (Dec 19, 2009)

Again I will have to do wash day a day early. This month has been really hectic. I have stayed pretty focused thus far, but it is getting colder and I am a Bear in the winter....I don't want to do anything except to hibernate!