What the pH?!

So now that I understand a little bit more about porosity and how important it is to hair growth, I have decided to make a few changes. Before I explain what those changes will be I wanted to highlight some information on pH balance, as porosity and pH balance go hand in hand. 

Without getting too technical, it is very important to understand how pH aids in maintaining optimal hair balance as this affects hair growth (length retention), its appearance (shine vs dull, frizz vs sleek, curl definition) and how your hair responds to products/ingredients (styling results). 

Healthy hair is naturally more acidic, falling between a pH of 4.0-5.5. Several environmental factors can negatively affect the pH balance of our hair, such as  chemicals, harsh shampoos, styling products and heat. When the hair is pH balanced, the cuticles remain slightly closed allowing it to remain strong and healthy and shiny. When the pH balance of the hair is too high the cuticles are raise and the cortex of the hair shaft is exposed, which can lead to tangles, frizz, knots making the hair more susceptible to damage and breakage. Similarly, when the scalp's pH is too high, you will experience various scalp disorders (e.g. dry, itchy, dandruff).

One way to create and maintain a healthy pH balance is by using products that is close to the appropriate pH range to help maintain (or restore) the hair's ideal pH levels when it is too high. The cuticles on curly hair tends to remain open as the curl pattern make it difficult for the cuticles to lie flat. Therefore, the products we use is very crucial. Learning this information has been a tremendous help to me as I try to get my hair back on track because similar to porosity, it has helped me understand why my hair is reacting to certain products in a negative way. 

Armed with my pH testing strips, I tested all of the products I currently use. I recommend that you do this as well since very few companies post the pH level of their products.Testing strips will come in handy for another reason as well, which I will explain below. I also included the ideal range for these products. 

Shampoo (6.0-5.0):

Shea Moisture Organic Raw Shea Butter Moisture Retention Shampoo 7.0

Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl and Shine Shampoo 7.0

Conditioner (5.0-4.0):

Aubrey Organics Honeysuckle Rose Conditioner 6.5

Shea Moisture Organic Raw Shea Butter Restorative Conditioner 5.5

Cantu Shea Butter Mask 5.0

Aubrey Organics White Camellia Ultra-Smoothing Conditioner 4.0

Leave In Conditioner (4.5-4.0):

Knot Today Detangler 7.0

Shea Moisture Organic Coconut & Hibiscus Hold & Shine Moisture Mist pH 6.5

Giovanni Direct Leave-in pH 6.0

Moisturizer (4.5-4.0):

Shea Moisture Organic Coconut & Hibiscus Curl and Style Milk pH 7.0

Qhemet Biologics Amla & Olive Heavy Cream 7.0

Qhemet Biologics Burdock Root Butter Cream 6.5

Shea Moisture Yucca & Baobab Volumizing Hair Milk 6.5

Oyin Handmade Honey Dew Lightweight Quenching Lotion pH 5.0

Stylers (4.5-4.0):

Komaza Care Califia Styling Pudding 7.0

Komaza Care Coconut Hair Pudding 7.0
Camilla Rose Naturals Almond Jai Twisting Butter 7.0

Entwine Coutour Jellé Styler 6.5

Lily of the Desert Aloe Vera Gelly 6.0

Eco Styler Gel (Olive Oil) 6.0

KCCC 4.5

As you can see a lot of the products I use do not fall within the appropriate pH range. Pair this information with the issues associated to high and low  porosity I can understand why I have been struggling with frizzy, brittle, dry hair for so long.  

So what does this mean for my hair? Well, I don't think it would be practical to run out and buy a slew of new products, but I do need to find a solution to address the issues I am having with my hair if I hope to retain my lengths. One solution would be to "create" pH balanced products that will work best on my hair. This best way to accomplish this is to simply add ingredients that test higher in acidity to my hair products in an effort to lower its alkalinity. This would include ingredients like:

Aloe Vera Juice 4.0

Vinegar 2.5

Lemon Juice 2.0

ACV 3.5

This is where those additional testing strips I discussed above will be helpful. Once you've added one of these ingredients to your products, retest it to make sure it falls within the appropriate range. For example, I add some distilled water and 1/4 tsp of lemon juice to approximately 4 oz of shampoo lowering it from a 7.0 pH to 5.5 pH. I've noticed a difference in how my hair feels after shampooing when I've done this over a period of time. 

If you are going to add anything to your products to lower its pH level, it is highly recommended that you separate a small amount of the product you would like to use and gradually add one of the ingredients listed above to ensure that you do not "spoil" the larger batch. 

I hope this helps you out as much as it has helped me.

HHG!

The Secrets of Emu Oil

Yesterday I was catching up on some of my subscriptions on You Tube and I was quite impressed with a natural hair diva's progress on growing in her edges with the support of JBCO and Emu Oil. As you know my edges have been a problem area for me for some time so I've decided to add  this area to my hair new growth challenge (starting August 28). Before I take on this challenge I wanted to do some research to ensure I am using the most effective product on this area to get the best results. Now I already know about the various benefits of JBCO and I've posted the results I've received the first time I used it. However, I have never heard about Emu Oil. So I went to work....

To my surprise Emu Oil has gained significant attention in the natural community for sometime, said to provide great benefits for the skin and hair. Sourced in Australia, Aborigines have been using it for years to help alleviate achy muscles and joints and as a salve to heal cuts and burns. Emu's Oil's biggest claims however, lie in its ability to cause cellular regeneration in the skin--sounds good so far. So what does any of this have to do with hair?

As it turns out, hair can also benefit greatly from regular use of Emu Oil treatments. Its regenerative capabilities it said to have nearly three times the normal cellular activity on the scalp helping hair look and grow in more healthier and become more resilient to environmental and hormonal stresses. As well, Emu Oil has anti-fungal and antibacterial properties, which help to break down undesirable buildup and residue at the scalp and roots, thereby increasing volume and manageability. 

Now, Emu Oil does not have the ability to regrow hair if the hair follicle has died. So if damaged follicles is the cause of your thinning hairline, it probably will not help much there (some argue otherwise). However, if the hair is simply weakened by environmental or hormonal stress, then Emu Oil has been said to help the skin (or scalp in this case) become alive again.   

As with all products, natural or otherwise, PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE do your research before attempting to use it. Although Emu Oil is an all natural product, the benefits outlined here are only available if the product has been processed correctly. Unlike EVCO or shea butter for example, this product must be refined to free it of any hormonal contaminants, blood, meat residue or any extraction solvents that may be used while processing the product. The best oils, whether it be Emu Oil or vegetable based oils are made WITHOUT solvent extractors to prevent unwanted tran fatty acids from being produced. As well, pure Emu Oil will  not have any synthetic anti-oxidants or preservatives added to it. One way you can tell the difference between refined and unrefined Emu Oil will be the colour and odour. Apparently refined Emu Oil is a very light (almost white) cream in colour with no odour, while unrefined Emu Oil has a strong odour and is a yellowish cream in colour.

Given the many benefits am I going to jump on the Emu Oil bandwagon? I don't know yet....I don't know if I like the idea of using a animal by product on my skin/scalp with even the smallest risk of contacting some nasty disease/bacteria, especially since I've decided to stop eating meat for that very reason. Refined or not, abstinence is the only guarantee I can get from contracting something, regardless of FDA standards or company promises. Maybe I'm just being paranoid, but contaminated products slip by testing machines all the time--can we say food recall. I will stick to my simple JBCO for now and continue to look into it....I just thought this was worth sharing.

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The Benefits of Using Infused Oils

Most recently I have been in the kitchen experimenting with various items; playing around with homemade products. The other day I had a friend over and as she was looking at some of the changes I did to my kitchen she asked me why I had all the jars on my counter (my friend is so nosy, but so am I--two peas in a pod I tell you LOL). Well, each jar had oil and either herbs, dried flowers or vanilla pods. To the average person it would look a bit weird, but to anyone that enjoys using natural products (chefs and hair diva's a like) you  would already know what I was doing; I was infusing my oils. 

You may have noticed from my posted hair regimen that I infuse my jojoba oil with various herbs to boost my oil blend. It is a very easy process and adds tons of beneficial herbal properties to your oils as well as a pleasant smelling aroma to your final product. 

My main purpose for infusing my oils is to incorporate it into my homemade lotions, creams salves and balms, which can be used for healing dry and irritated/inflamed skin, healing skin aliments (acne, eczema, psoriasis, chapped skin, ect) and relieve burns. They can, of course, also be used for scalp aliments as well:

Lavender and Chamomile 

Oils infused with these flowers can be used for its antiseptic, calming and soothing properties

Coltsfoot & Horsetail

The leaves contain silica and are often used in hair products. it is believed to have regenerative properties, strengthens hair and reduces shedding

Nettle

Encourages growth by improving circulation and reduces shedding

Calendula  
Oils infused with these flowers can be used for dry, inflamed and irritated skin/scalp

For additional herbal properties please review my post on plant oil benefits and explanations

 There are a few ways you can infuse your oil, I prefer to do cold infusions (which I have outlined below), but I may explore other methods in the future. However you choose to do your infusion you need to make sure you meet the following guidelines: 

• First and foremost: You must sterilize all jars and utensils used in the process.This can be done with a 1 part bleach/4 part water mixture, alcohol or boiling water.
• Fresh herbs must be slightly wilted before infusing, which is an indication that your fresh herbs are completely dry.  Any moisture in the oil will cause mold.  To dry your fresh herbs place them on a clean paper towels to absorb any moisture from the plant.  You can also place one on top and gently press. Allow your herbs to sit for a couple of hours and then place in your oil.
• Dry herbs may be used as is in the oil.
• Always check your herbs for any foreign substances before adding to the oil.
  
  
  Method:
  • Place your dry herbs in a clean sterile glass jar
  • Add your herbs to the jar filling approximately half way
  • Slowly pour your oil of choice (e.g. jojoba, caster oil, olive oil, etc) covering the herbs. Stop once inch from the top rim of the jar.
  • Stir your oil to ensure the herbs are completely covered. Wait a about few minutes before covering the jar.
  • Shake the jar for a few minutes, label (date and ingredients) and set aside in a dark cool place
  • For the first week you want to smell and shake the jar everyday to ensure it does not smell off.
  • Allow to sit for 3-8 weeks depending you taste. The longer the infusion, the more medicinal properties will be present in your batch.
  
  As you know I do not have a video camera so I have posted a video by Mountain Rose Herbs to give you a visual tutorial. I have been following Mountain Rose Herbs for a while because they offer great tutorials  and publish a monthly newsletter. I hope it helps!

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!

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.

Henna Treatment

Today I decided to do a henna treatment. My hair has been feeling blah, looks a little thin and it was time for a "protein" treatment. Although henna is not truly a protein, it appears to have the same properties as one in terms of adding strength and structure  to the hair shaft. Well as I was pleased with the results as I usually am. What I found even more interesting was the state of my ends. Usually when my hair air dries it looks frizzy and over processed, which is why I twist my hair and let it dry that way. However, today my ends dried pretty well. It was straighter (in some places) than it usually is and looked fuller. Overall, I am happy.

ETA: Well something weird is going on with my scalp. All this time I thought it was the Hydrafuse irritating my scalp, largely because of the ingredients, but over the last few weeks I have been using the last little bit I have left to moisturize my hair, and truthfully there hasn't been an issue. However, this week my scalp is driving me crazy! The more and more I think about it I am realizing that it is probably the henna that may be doing something to my scalp. My hair was so dry and flaking over the last 2 days , and it is itching me like crazy. There are also parts of my scalp that feel irritated/inflamed. This is disappointing because my hair feels so incredibly soft and silky right now, but what can I do? Back to the drawing board.....

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!

Using Essential Oils for Hair Growth

I came across this article  on essential oils a few years ago that I have found really helpful while on my hair journey. I have been using essential oils for years in my hair and body care products, which has helped me alleviate a number of hair and skin issues (dandruff, thinning hair, itchy scalp, acne). I enjoy sharing information, so I thought I would dig it up fro my stash and post it here to help my fellow divas out.  I think it is important to point out that the title of this post may be misleading. I do not believe products, natural or otherwise can make hair grow; hair grows regardless of what you are putting on it (unless you are suffering from a particular scalp disorder). Essential oils, however do have the ability to enhance you hair as it growing, which is achieved by stimulating the scalp or by healing the scalp to help it reach its optimal health. By taking care of the scalp and the hair will benefit as well.

It goes without saying that you should always, always use caution when attempting to use any new product, natural or otherwise. Pregnant women need to take even more precaution. For more information about this article and related topics please click the link ("source") below.

The Ananada Apothecary
Therapeutic grade essential oils hold the promise for a great many people of stimulating the growth of bountiful healthy hair. Whether one is regrowing hair after hair loss, preventing the loss of hair, or just looking to make their hair more beautiful and lustrous than ever, essential oils and the carrier oils that comprise therapeutic aromatherapy formulas are very much worth investigating.

To use essential oils to to stimulate hair growth, try one of the following:

1. Use an oil treatment blend: You can easily formulate a custom recipe by following the instructions on this page. This means selecting one or more essential oils and carrier oils, and measuring the essential oils into the carrier. 
2.  Add essential oils to shampoo or conditioner: Many people add a little essential oil to their current hair care products. The upside is that this is very easy to do, the downside is that little of the oil is absorbed by the scalp. They certainly will leave your hair smelling wonderful. The amount of essential oil you add is really up to you.

Each formula  use should the same therapeutic and nutritive base oils, to which the essential oils are added. To make the base formula, mix equal parts of EVCO (gently warm to a liquid), Rosehip Seed Oil, and Evening Primrose oils (or any oil you choose). If making 4 ounces of base, just fill your bottle approximately 1/3rd of the way with each of these oils, then add your essential oils as described below. All these formulas can be massaged into the scalp 3-5 times a week. It can be done before bed with these left in (put a towel on your pillow!) or kept under a warm moist towel for up to an hour then washed out - the towel isn't necessary, it just helps with absorption.

To make a formula more specific to your hair and scalp condition, keep reading to find out more about each essential oil and how they may work for you...

EVCO Challenge: Week Eight

Day 50 (Feb 21, 2010)

My hair is still holding up despite a minor setback. With every wash I am noticing shinier healthier hair. Still can't believe it's attached to my head, LOL! I have noticed that my scalp doesn't even itch anymore either, which I am totally loving.

Today marks my four month anniversary since I started my hair journey. Here is what I have accomplished so far:

1. Eliminate (or at least seriously reduce) dry/itchy scalp 
2. Increase moisture in hair 
3. Reduce breakage
4. Achieve strength/moisture balance (almost there)
5. Reduce shedding (under control)
6. Increase thickness 
   
7. Daily 1 min scalp massage (almost there)
8. Increase growth and retain hair length (full SL by Summer 2010)

Not too bad for four months of (somewhat) consistent hair care. 

Day 51-56 (Feb 22-26, 2010) 

Hair still looks good and feels strong! No complaints. My roots do feel a little dry and the itchiness seem to have come back, but that is because I have been slacking with my scalp massages and oil applications. Will get back on track.  

Day 57 (Feb 27, 2010)

Well my hair continues to feel soft despite the fact that I do not moisturize and seal everyday like I should. I will need to work on that, but for now...When I applied the EVCO I did notice some breakage, which concerns me. It wasn't a huge amount, but any amount is more than enough to make me concerned esp since I have yet to really see any breakage (minus my little mishap last week) since I've started the EVCO challenge. I think I know what's going on, so I am going to have to modify some of the products I am using to pinpoint the culprit. We'll see what happens after my wash tomorrow.

 

ACV: Natural pH Balancer

I wanted to share this article because as you know I have had great success with ACV. It has helped my hair retain moisture, leaving it silky and smooth. Given my success (especially considering the state my hair was in just a few weeks ago), I wanted to share some of the information I have found about ACV. I have also included a few recipes that you may want to try. I have highlighted the recipes I have tried and the results I received. Please share your thoughts if you give them a try.

Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) has long been used as a natural hair care product to promote healthy hair in both men and women. Its acidity is close to that of natural hair, it's a good conditioner and cleansing agent and it's also an effective germ killer. 

Hair is on the mildly acidic side of the pH scale and has an ideal pH of 4.5 to 5.5, while that of an apple cider vinegar rinse  is pH 2.9-4.0 depending on the dilution. On the other hand, many of the hair care products we use, such as soap-based shampoos, bleaches, hair colors, permanents and relaxers are strongly alkaline.

Rinsing with apple cider vinegar will help balance the pH of your hair and remove the buildup that can result from the use of these styling products and inexpensive shampoos. Rinsing will also close the numerous cuticle scales which cover and protect the surface of each hair shaft. This imparts a smoother surface which reflects more light and as a result leaves your hair shinier, smoother and easier to manage.

Rough hair shaft with open cuticles compared to smooth hair shaft with closed cuticles.

Make your own healthy after-shampoo hair rinse by mixing 3/4 tsp of ACV into 2 cups of water. You can then store this mixture in a plastic bottle and keep it in the shower for ready use.

Don't worry about the slight vinegar smell you will notice after rinsing. It will disappear completely as your hair dries.

Apply the vinegar rinse after shampooing and then rinse it all out, or for extra conditioning, you can leave the rinse on your hair. This natural hair care product can be used once or twice a week or more often as needed.

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Hair Herbal Rinse (Stylista's favorite*)

By infusing various herbs into the vinegar rinse, you can enhance different hair colors and strengthen and condition hair at the same time.

Here are some recommended herbs to use with apple cider vinegar:

• For dark hair:......Parsley, Rosemary, Sage
• For light hair:.....Chamomile, Flannel Mullein, Marigold
• For red hair:.......Henna
• For oily hair:......Lavender, Thyme, Witch Hazel, Yarrow
• For dry hair:.......Marigold
• For brittle hair: Horsetail

To make your own herbal hair rinse natural hair care product:

1. Place 2 tbsp of the dried herb (or herb mixture) into a muslin bag or tea ball and put in a warmed tea pot.
2. Pour 2 cups of boiling water over the herbs and infuse for 2 hours.
3. Allow the liquid to cool then pour it into a quart (1 liter) jar.
4. Add 2 cups of apple cider vinegar* and mix well.

To add extra fragrance to the herbal rinse, try adding a few drops of lavender or lemon or rose essential oils.

*I have tried this recipe, but modified it slightly. My results were super strong and very moisturized hair. I love it and it will definitely become a staple in my regimen.

Essential oil vinegar hair rinse – Natural Hair Care Product  

If preparing a vinegar/herb infusion is not your cup of tea, then a faster way to enhance the hair conditioning effect of apple cider vinegar is to add a small amount of certain types of essential oils.

To make a batch, just add 5 drops of the essential oil to 1 cup of apple cider vinegar. When you are ready to rinse your hair, take 1 tbsp of this mixture and add it to 1 cup of warm water.

Types of essential oils that go well in a vinegar hair rinse include:

• Lavender
• Lemon
• Rose
• Rosemary
• Sage

I haven't tried this method largely because I am happy with the herbal method. I have yet to find essential oils for nettle or horsetail, which are two herbs I really enjoy using for my rinse. If I ever find them I may try this rinse since it appears much quicker. 

Dandruff and Itchy Scalp Relief  

The acids and enzymes in ACV kill the "bottle bacillus", a bacteria that is one of the causes for many scalp and hair conditions such as dandruff, itchy scalp, hair loss and often baldness.The bacteria clogs hair follicles allowing dry crusts to form that itch and flake.

For a simple home treatment for dandruff and itchy scalp, apply full strength ACV to the scalp, rub in, and leave on for a half hour to an hour before washing your hair.

For an extra strength natural hair care product, apple cider vinegar can be infused with herbs such as stinging nettle, southernwood, goosegrass, plantain and burdock root all of which help prevent dandruff on their own. Tea tree oil is another excellent natural anti-dandruff ingredient, which can be added.

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Natural Hair Loss Treatment  

In her book Apple Cider Vinegar- Miracle Health System, Patricia Bragg recommends trying the following natural hair loss treatment:

For bald and thinning areas apply to scalp an hour before shampooing- 2 tbsp ACV mixed with a tiny pinch cayenne powder.

Then before going to bed, mix a royal jelly capsule with one tsp ACV, pat on bald areas and leave overnight.

The following herbs have also been used to prevent hair loss and stimulate hair growth:

• Burdock
• Catnip
• Chamomile
• Lavender
• Rosemary
• Saw Palmetto
• Thyme
• Yucca

Make your own vinegar mixture as per the herbal hair rinse recipe given above and apply it full strength to the scalp. Rub it in and leave it on for a half hour to an hour before washing your hair.

Apple cider vinegar is just one of many natural products that can be used to treat hair loss.

I would use this recipe with caution. Please research the various herbs mentioned before attempting this (or any of the above listed) recipe(s). As mentioned in some of my previous blogs the scalp is your breeding ground for wonderful things, namely a beautiful head of hair. If you plan to use this rinse I suggest using it on a small area on your scalp to see if you have any allergies or an adverse reaction.

source

Retaining Moisture with ACV

First off, I have to say ACV is the truth! I wanted to wait after a few more wash days before posting my thoughts on ACV as a final rinse treatment because I wanted to make sure the benefits I saw weren't a fluke. Let me say it was not. As I am writing this (approx 1 hour and 30 min after shampooing my hair) my hair is still damp and moist!

I use to read Sunshyne's blog and think, what does she mean it takes 2 hours to dry her hair--whoa, her hair must be mega thick! Little did I know hair density had absolutely nothing to do with moisture retention, which was what I was struggling with. After reading some of the entries on her blog and some of the things she does to retain moisture (she apparently struggled with dryness as well) I had to try some of her hair remedies out. I am glad I did. My hair feels strong, moist--OMG I love my hair right now! This is what I did (I added a few extra things to my treatment):

Boil 2 1/4 cups of filtered water. After boiling, remove the pot from the stove and add 1 tbsp of mix dried herbs (equal parts sage, rosemary, rose hip, horsetail and nettle). Cover pot and allow herbs to steep overnight. In the morning strain herbs from brew then add 1/4 cup of ACV. After rinsing your conditioner pour brew over hair and massage into scalp (be sure not to tangle hair--this brew has no slip). Allow to sit for 30 sec-1 min then rinse thoroughly. Proceed to style as usual. That's it! Magic in your own kitchen. Who would have thought?

Original recipe:
1/4 cup ACV
2 cups water

I am currently very  happy with the results from my regimen now that I have added this final rinse treatment. I need to streamline it a bit--I am doing a lot of stuff to my hair right now (pre-poo, dc, oils, ect...), but I want to continue with it for a while. It works, and if it ain't broke, why fix it?!

ETA: I have since modified this recipe to 3/4 tsp per 2 cups of water after reviewing Kimmay Tube's video on pH balance. I've also changed the herbal mix as well.  Since changing it I have had good results, but now I can use this recipe on a weekly basis vs. once every other week/month. See my updated regimen for details.

HHG!

Scalp Shock

I have been reading a few forums on various hair growth aids: natural (JBCO, nettle, horsetail, aloe, wild growth oil) and unnatural (e.g. mega tek, MN (aka vaginal cream), surge). For some, these aids have brought tremendous growth and thickness. However, what has been seen by all users has been an increase in shedding or hair fall. Now, shedding is a natural process of hair growth. In fact, a healthy head of hair can expect to shed 50-100 hairs a day. Yet, these products appear to produce more shedding than the expected amount. I wonder why that is....

When I was on the JBCO Challenge I experienced some shedding, even scalp sores, which is why I had to dilute my JBCO with another oils. Now JBCO, like the other hair aids I mentioned above is said to stimulate and detoxify/cleanse the scalp. This made me wonder if the reason we experience so much extra shedding with these products is because our scalp is going into shock. 

The process that led me to this theory was my recent body detox. I detoxify every year to help clean my body of impurities and foster a healthier body and mind. Now if you have never completed a detox, let me tell you that the first few days or week (depending on the level of toxins that are in the body) can be difficult. You experience fatigue, headaches, possible breakouts (acne) and irritability--basically your body goes into shock. As you purge more and more toxins from your body you begin stabilize. I believe the scalp does the same thing. To test this theory I applied JBCO on my scalp without any other oils. It seems to be doing much better than it did when I first used it. Now that I've seen this this doesn't mean I am going to just start using JBCO straight. However, what I will do is gradually build up my tolerance towards it. I also suggest that if find you are sensitive to products that you try this method as well. 

We often run out grabbing new products to put on our hair without really knowing how it will respond to our hair or scalp. Obviously the best way to tell if a product works for your hair is to try it, however the scalp is a different matter. The scalp needs to be protected. It is your breeding ground for beautiful and strong hair. If it is damaged beyond repair due to scaring, burning, excessive scratching (all reactions I've heard reported from the use of these products), it won't matter what you put on you scalp after that, nothing will grow. The scalp is resilient, but not invincible. Be mindful of that before you reach for the next best thing that someone is suggesting you use to increase hair growth.  Use these products with care. If nothing else, add a new product a little bit at a time to see how you'll respond and to help your hair become accustom to it. Particularly if it is a product is something you plan on using for a long period of time.

HHG!

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.

EVCO Challenge: Week Three

Day 15 (Jan 17, 2010)

So it's the day after my relaxer and my hair still looks okay despite re-washing with a neutralizing shampoo. As you know I like to be super cautious--seen too many horror stories of women losing their hair permanently due to relaxer residue. It air dried smooth, which has been a change because it was a completely different story pre-relaxer. I also notice that my hair dries incredible fast. I think too fast (e.g. by the time I get down stairs my end are already dried out). I read an article once that suggest that the length of time it takes to dry ones hair is an indication of hair health. In other words, when your hair take a bit longer to dry it is a good indication of health and perhaps my cuticles are not closing causing me to lose moisture, which may also speak to the frizzy hair. The article recommended using an ACV rinse, which includes 1/4 cup of ACV per 2 cups of water. I will give it a try for my final rinse after my next shampoo and see if it helps. As well, no more washing upside down. Even if it means getting in and out of the shower, which I hate especially in the winter !

Anyway, back to the challenge. I oiled my scalp and it was still a bit itchy, but I think that has more to do with the relaxer than anything else. Despite basing my scalp both with EVCO and whatever my hairdresser used, my scalp was mad dry and flaky. It may take a while to bring it back to some form of health. I am determined to use this oil blend consistently though. I added a bit more JBCO (6 tsp vs. 5 tsp). As it stand now I will be oiling my scalp as needed (e.g. right now it seems to need it everyday) but no less than 3 times a week. Well see where that takes me. 

Day 16 (Jan 18, 2010)

Woke up with a slightly itch scalp. Again, I think it make some time to normalize my scalp again. Until then I'll just have to grin and bear it....

Day 17 (Jan 19, 2010)

Scalp was itchy a good deal and I didn't oil it---I was absolutely exhausted. I did the next morning though. Much better!

Day 18-19 (Jan 20-21, 2010)

My scalp seems to be holding up. The itchiness seems to be under control and my hair still feels moist despite not moisturizing and sealing daily (hair are currently in twist). We'll see the results on wash day.


Day 20-21 (Jan 22-23, 2010)
The itchiness still seems to be under control and my hair still feels soft and moist.

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.