The American Parlor | Black Hair and Skin Care |

Removing Facial Hair for Women of Color

2010-03-12T22:07:00.005-05:00

Hair Removal can be a tricky thing, especially facial hair removal for black women. There are alot of hair removal products out there, but none designed for black women.... there may be a few posers who say their products are for all hair and skin types, but they're lying, lol-- you people can't fool us. Anyway, I digress....

One of my close friends gets hairs on her neck, a few on her chin, and she has semi-thick sideburns. She's absolutely gorgeous, but she really hates the extra hairs, she's always like "why me!?!" lol. She found out that she got the neck/chin hair issue from her grandmother (though her mom and aunt have absolutely no hair on their face or legs for that matter-- crazy huh, lol) and she got the sideburns from her dad who has a full very think beard even in his old age. Very unlucky stuff.

When she was younger she would just shave the hair on her neck-- bad decision because more hair ended up growing back and it was thicker. She didn't know what else to do so she kept this up. After a few years, she stopped shaving and began using the mini-scissors you find in a manicure set to cut her hairs. She's tried self-waxing, but it didn't always work sufficiently and she's tried Nair, but it burned her skin, so for the past 5-6 years she's just been using the mini-scissors with the occasional shaving (maybe once a year, though she knows it is very bad).

She's fed up with the arduous and consuming task of sitting in front of the mirror with tiny scissors clipping her hairs, she doesn't want to have to spend $20 weekly at the salon to get the hair removed, and she doesn't have the funds to get it surgically removed yet (laser hair removal)... so we've discussed some things, researched some things, and have came up with some possible solutions that she will be trying over the next few weeks-- and I'll report back with the verdict.

Just in case some of you want to follow along and try too, here's what we're going to purchase:

1. Facial Hair Removal Threading Tool

Alot of women are swearing by this little gadget, so I'm crossing my fingers and hoping that works. The price is slim and it was featured in Oprah Magazine.

R.E.M Spring Facial Hair Removal Tool

other versions of the same tool:

- Bellabe Hair Removal Tool

- Epicare Hair Removal Tool

- Facial Hair Threading Tool

2. Brazilian Bikini Wax Kit

I don't know what it is, but alot of women with thick dark curly/coarse body hair recommend using brazilian wax kits for facial hair. I'm thinking these may work well because Brazilian waxing kit would be designed for the most sensitive area or your body-- which is, well, down there so it should definitely work on your face.

Gigi Brazilian Bikini Wax Microwave Kit

Surgi-Wax Brazilian Waxing Kit

3. Creme Hair Removers

There are many types of creme hair removers, but she has only used Nair. So we'll have a stab at using Surgi-Creme Hair Remover for Face. There's a lot of youtubers swearing by it, though some say it may burn a bit.

4. Epilator

Epilators are basically mega tweezers. It's a both of little tweezers in a row and mimics the look of a shaver. My friend who will be using all these products, I will probably use them to, is not a tweezer-- neither am I. And from the reviews of most epilators, they are quite painful two tweezing virgins. The key to epilating is getting one that really does work and the Braun 5270 Silk-épil X'elle Body System Epilator has gotten quite a few great reviews.

Remove dark spots from shaving/tweezing/waxing/bumps:

I'm always against any type of skin-lightening agent, dark skin is absolutely gorgeous and is literally made for the sun meaning it was made for God and in his exact image. But I know that if you have dark scars or dark bumps then you will want to remove them. Alot of women and men from different ethnicities say that Ambi's Fade Creme really does just lighten your dark spots. So removing unwanted hairs from your neck or face then try using Ambi Skincare Fade Creme to clear up the dark spots that you may have acquired overtime.

Check out all the items Here.

So we'll be ordering a few of these products today and will come back with reviews soon. Feel free to try them out as well and leave reviews.

Product Review: Organic Root Stimulator's Olive Oil Deep Penetrating Conditioner

2010-03-08T13:49:00.004-05:00

Organic Root Stimulator (ORS) Olive Oil Deep Penetrating Conditioner.

This stuff, this stuff right here? Yeah, this stuff right here is Great, lol. It smells absolutely delectable and makes your hair feel like silk. This a very important conditioner to put in your hair after a relaxer or shampoo. And this a good conditioner to use if you just want to condition your hair only.

The ORS replenishing paks are relatively inexpensive costing between .79-1.59 depending on where you go (usually .99 cents or $1.49). If you just want to try it out or are going out of town then just get a pak, otherwise it's smarter to buy the big bottle.

Product Review: Nairobi Essential Botanical Oils

2010-03-06T13:15:00.004-05:00

Alrighty guys, so I've been mixing my own "secret" batch of hair oil for the past few months: 1/2 extra virgin olive oil, 1/2 pure coconut oil. I would put this in my hair almost daily and add the mix to my conditioners, as well as put it on my hair before my little semi perms.

The drawback of putting my "Olive Coco" mix in my hair before going to bed or throughout the day is that little bumps would begin to show up on the tops of my forehead. That is a no-no.

So, I went to the beauty supply store to find a new oil (I hate going in these places by the way, I wish SO bad they were colored-american (black) owned).

And I saw one bottle of Nairobi Essential Botanical Oils left. So, I scooped it up! (It was between this and the Kemi Oil).

And y'all-- this stuff is great so far. Not only is it very light-weight, it has a very pleasant smell, and has the BEST ingredients of any designer oil I've used (compared to keracare, mizani, etc).

Ingredients: sunflower oil, peanut oil, canola oil, coconut oil, aloe vera oil, olive oil, almond oil, sesame oil, jojoba oil, and fragrance.

Now, that's really are a list of Essential oils.

Size: 4 fl.oz

Cost: $11.99

I loooove this stuff. And this will be my go-to oil for now until forever, lol. Why? Because it has all the natural oils in it that I was self-mixing, plus more. Yeah, I could easily make this myself and have more of it, but I don't want to be bothered buying 9 different types of oil (not right now atleast).

Be sure to give this a try and tell me what you think :-)

Intellectual Conversations: Why Chris Rock's "GOOD HAIR" is a BAD movie

2010-02-14T04:51:00.005-05:00

Here's a continuation of the first post on this
and the views on the movie "Good Hair".

I feel as if most educated people of color don't like the foolish imagery Chris Rock leaves the viewer of this movie-- especially viewers that are not black.

But of course, in this country, where many blacks are still suffering from the effects of slavery and jim crow, there is a want to not be publicly humiliated and degraded-- especially "in front" of non-blacks... and that is understandable b/c who wants to be exploited for laughs? no one.

It's not a "what will whites think of us now" mentality it's a-- "why do our own people insist on judging us and belittling us for the things that are being done by so many other races"... its a "white women do it so why is it self-hate on every level when a black woman does it?". Trust that we know "what white people think of us", and that's why certain issues, if addressed publicly (like in a movie), should be addressed in a thorough intellectual manner.

THE FACTS:

1. This film is NOT about black women and their issues. If it was, it would mostly receive authentic praise. What I have realized is that this movie, above all else, is about the insecurity of black men. And as a black man-- I can see this.

I believe in modern day, this hair issue is actually a black man's issue. Many black women (like my mother, girlfriend, sisters, friends) have found peace with their hair, whether its going natural or wearing extensions like all of hollywood. In 2009, this is a self-hate problem that plagues black men and we (not I) indirectly and directly pass on that self-hate to our women... and Chris Rock capitalized on his own insecurities and used his daughter's "question" as a front. As one woman thoughtfully said, "Chris Rock's daughter gave him an idea, she did not inspire him-- an idea and inspiration are two different things."

... I realized this reflected self-hate when I was talking to a group of my friends this weekend. They saw a fine girl and was wondering if that was her "real hair"... it made me think about why they placed so much importance on that. When I'm with my white friends they never ponder about a woman's "real hair" even though their women always wear weaves. But even forgetting the latter (about white women) I realized that there has always been this type of dissatisfaction and resentment with black men to black women.

A perfect example is my old high school buddy Troy. He's a cool dude and everything, but exemplifies the negative stereotypical black male-- multiple children w/o marriage, unemployed, always "hustling", barely got out of high school and won't finish community college, etc etc. Even with his many shortcomings of decidedly not being able to provide for his children, jail record, and incomplete education... he still seems to somehow bring up wishing his children's mother wouldn't wear a weave in conversations, and his preference for redbones with long hair. This is fully perplexing when she's the one with the education and job who's taking care of the children--- this is the type of tom-foolery that is happening all over.

2. And yes you are correct wigs have been worn since the Bible days and all over the world. Indeed Egyptian royalty wore adornment type crowns that are similar to wigs, but were usually engrossed with gold and jewels-- that was a status of royalty and wealth. In Europe the whites wore wigs everyday-- royalty and commoners and so when the 13 colonies were formed, when America was formed, all the white that came over wore them... and that's how the idea of these wigs came into this country. And of course overtime it continued, they wore wigs in the "wild wild west" and hair extensions and wigs have been around since.... this idea of "extra hair" is not new in any form or fashion.

3. I concur on Chris Rock not really being any good. I never thought about it before-- I have always found him funny in some regard, but it feels as of late he's just been going too far and perhaps with age is dealing with his own issues and that is being translated into his comedy act. I still can't erase the joke he made about not feeling like Barack should have married Michelle... because a "black woman wants control and will stand in front of you or beside you, but Becky will get behind you." It was low. Unnecessarily low in my opinion. Is he a comedian? yes. Was it funny? not to me and many people in the crowd started to actually boo... but I get that he has to make money and has to play off these stereotypes to continue to make millions, I get that everyone isnt perfect and that moreover everyone doesnt care about the plight of black people in this country. Chris Rock does a decent job of integrating some issues into his standup, but overall he's just another airhead with no real intelligence (and that is thoroughly shown in this movie).

Mar Nita, I guess I'm just tired of black men not being black men. I'm tired of us not standing behind and supporting our black women. My girlfriend and I mentor innercity kids and to hear what these young kids are saying about each other, especially these boys about black girls is disturbing. I sometimes ask myself if I was the same way growing up. The point is, I, feel like its time that black men stood up, picked ourselves up and started building back our community and that starts with us loving, embracing, and adoring our women. Sometimes I feel as if I'm a singular entity in this fight to restore love and togetherness in our community. I know, as always, there are plenty if black women but where are the black men? My 3 college roommates are the only group of men that I know, besides me, that are empowering our women and taking steps to mentor these young guys--- these fatherless boys.

I may not be able to change the ignorant mindset of people like Chris Rock and his crew, but through my actions and words I can help change the next generation. Don't get me wrong its hard to compete with Lil Wayne, TI, and Jay-Z on certain days, but at the end of the day I'm the one who's there for these kids-- they can feel that I care. And they see the beautiful dark brown woman with curly hair that I bring along to their football games and programs... that I always call beautiful (in front of them) and that I admire and respect. And so because of these things they don't have to be fooled into thinking that in order to be successful one has to, as Chris Rock stated, "Marry a white woman or almost-white woman".

4. You're right, there are truly a plethora of serious issues in the black community, and for Chris Rock, a black man, to try and tackle a "black woman issue" is tom-foolery at its finest. This movie, "Good Hair" is truly a mockumentary as it has been dubbed by the erudite people of the world, especially the educated african-americans. I can appreciate his attempts at useful information with the facts about the damage of lye perms, indian hair market, and stingy racist asian business owners, but that is all, and I mean all this movie offers.

I can only hope that Chris Rock and his crew realizes the mockery this film exudes and will cease the distribution of it-- as it is hindering our people and deriding our women just for profit. Must we continue this incessant cycle?

Chris Rock is BULLSH*T, "Good Hair" is Trash.

2010-02-14T04:16:00.005-05:00

The shameful Chris Rock

Okay,

So I HAVE to start my first post off with the truth about Chris Rock's degrading MOCKumentary. I was super excited about the movie initially-- thinking that it would talk about the known issue of "Good Hair"-- where the term came from, slavery, etc. Then I figured it'd touch on perms (which in did), but then also talk about the natural hair movement that has been going strong since India Arie's "I Am Not My Hair" (around 2005). But NO it did not, it was Shameful, just downright shameful. That movie deals with the self-hate black men have for themselves and their women more than anything else.... Black women are comfortable with themselves-- natural, perm, or extensions. I think most of us are just over it.... but its the black men that have the issue. Men like Chris Rock... ergo movies like "Good Hair" that in NO WAY deal with the actually issue and history behind "Good Hair". I am no longer a Chris Rock fan by any stretch of the imagination. Chris Rock, like some blacks before him, has sold out, embarrassed, an degraded his people just for some quick bucks.... if I was the queen, I'd have to "Off with his head". But forget my word... I ran into some great comments about the movie from a conversation I peeped in a website:

Here's the link to the conversation HERE. But I'll place a few major points below...

(I love Duke's opinion... why can't we have more men like this???)

DUKE:
I saw the movie with the moms and wifey and though I think you're funny Chris- the movie was biased and lacked any real historical content- where was the slavery? and the origination of "good hair"?

Where were the India Arie's, Tracee Ellis Ross's, Solanges, Jill Scott, Lauryn Hills and all those type women, the HUGE amount of black women that are natural and have been natural forever... it was sort of disrespectful towards women like my mom who have been "natural" since I can remember and all the women in my life who went natural during the whole "India Arie- I am Not my Hair" movement- as it has been dubbed. (and not to mention all the white women who have worn wigs and weaves since the beginning of time, calling out the black actresses when white actresses wear weaves and wigs more was also a point that you left out).

My man, you slacked heavily, and I gotta admit that I don't like the fact that now any white person who sees this movie is going to leave wrongfully thinking that all our black queens have perms and that if their hair is long its a weave- thats bullsh*t bruh... you could have done better. Most people in our movie theater left really disappointed. If you did somehow get good reviews its from white people- who eat up stereotypical ish like this.

I still can't get over how your really didn't go into the REAL meaning and history of "good hair"... anyway, I'll give you a C- for effort. But like everyone has been saying- you need to do a PART II ASAP.

LEA:
Most of the black women I know have naturally long hair, while my white friends wear more weaves and wigs than the black ones... especially since white women invented wigs and weaves... even the founding fathers wore wigs. Miley Cyrus, Heidi Klum, Britney Spears, Megan Fox, Paris Hilton, every playboy model, etc etc they all wear them... I was listening to my local radio station today and the white hosts were quoting these "facts" - "most black women have perms" :if a black woman has long hair its fake"... it was sickening to listen to.

You really NEED to do a part II of this silly one-sided documentary and cover the historical context of good hair and how it stems from slavery... then you should end it with the fact that many many (I would say atleast half) black women these days are "natural" and no longer use 1950s lye perms (lol at you for having that in the movie- who uses lye perms anymore???)). I know I may sound more knowledgeable than the average nonblack woman, but thats the good thing about having a diverse group of friends- you aren't as ignorant. So Chris, I suggest you widening your group of friends... so you won't be as ignorant- because your movie is doing more bad than good.

THINE:
Did you even see the movie or are you pulling stuff out the air? Where are you getting your information that supports your assertion that half of black women are natural? The movie clearly states that black women make up about 6.5 percent of the population, but they buy up to 40 percent of all hair care products. I don't think that half of this ... Read More

DUKE:
I think she's pulling it from what she sees... just like me. The majority of the women in my life are natural- and its beautiful. And to be honest when you go to the top schools in the country you see the same thing.. I went to MIT, my best friend went to Princeton he's now at HBS (harvard business school)... and about 3 years ago we both noticed how all the women on our campus were going natural.(it was sort of weird at first, but then we got used to it... i remember it like it was yesterday- every girl even the girls with the "mixed curly hair" cut off their perms) And even out in the "real world" i see just as many natural women as i see with perms/relaxers... I say all that to say that I think people of color with higher education and people of color who are more progressive thinking have many friends that are natural.

And as far as Chris's statistics... c'mon now, i know you're smarter than that- you know statistics are not always right.. sometimes people have stats and they only base them off a sampling of 40 people. So his 95% of black women etc etc... is probably just based off some random sampling of women he surveyed (most likely from hoodish type areas).

And as far as the "natural hair care products"- my wife uses the same stuff as her friends with perms use. All because your hair is natural doesn't mean you have to use some kind of "special product"- you can if you like but it's not necessary.

I do get Chris's point though- if we're buying most of the products we need to make sure that we're selling it- keep it in the community (my wife hates going into those asian owned beauty stores b/c they always have bad attitudes).

JESSICA L. THOMAS: I agree with you, brotha...

THINE: Chris indicated that he made the movie to address his daughter's perception of why she didn't have "good hair" not a question/concern of if black women wear natural hair. If we are honest we all know that in "our" communities natural hair isn't considered to be "good hair" unless it is a certain texture. So the movie would have been better if he ... Read More

DUKE: well maybe your in the wrong community... because in my community natural hair is good hair. its funny because my sister used to talk of the good hair back when we were younger, my mom gave her perms and all that.

then she went natural about 2.5 yrs ago and she actually has the "good hair" that she and so many other women have always wanted. its ironic because black women's natural hair is the "good hair".

then they use those products to make their hair even curlier... i hope im not saying this wrong, but i think she and my wife uses a product by "miss jessie"? it brings out their natural curls and make them really soft (and no its not a perm)... some people (men and women) use the texturizers which are light and only partially straighten the hair.

black women naturally have "good hair", just find the products to make it curlier i guess.

DUKE: And should Chris place blame on people? no.
But should Christ answer the real question of "good hair" and its origination? yes.

I don't like when people present half-truths... If you're going to do a "documentary" make it a real one. Make it meaningful- present the question, the problem, the background, and the solution.

It was a cowardness move on his behalf (his production, writers, etc) to not discuss the historical content that is very relevant. See African-American history.. which is just American history is not taught in school.. there's maybe one chapter in most grade school history books. Our people need to be educated... they need to know why, they need to be challenged: "why do i think this type of hair is good hair" "where did this phrase good hair come from" "how can i change my thinking so that i don continue to perpetuate something that is hindering my race".

What's that quote- you can't move forward without knowing where you've been and where you're going... I probably am saying it all wrong, but its a famous quote by some famous African-American person... my point is-- history is important. And that's what "our" community lacks- we forget our history, we let "outsiders" trick us into thinking that if we discuss it then we're placing blame, they guilt us into thinking that it is not important... but it is. We must learn from it. We must realize where certain behaviors and mindsets derived from, we must ask ourselves why we think this way... and that is what Chris Rock did not present.

That is why his "documentary" was entertaining and perhaps helpful from an economic view point, but was vacuous in really helping "our" people to understand the true nature of the "problem" and what "we" can do to fix it.

_________________

Pretty intense stuff, huh? What do you all think? I'm going to post more of Duke's conversation in the next post...

1 black parent + 1 white parent = 1 MIXED child

2010-02-14T04:14:00.000-05:00

I've been reading some of my comments, since I just got back from a blogging hiatus, and I want to thank everyone for giving their opinions on products and what not. That said, I ran across a very disturbing comment when reading the comments from the Dominican article...

"I am the product of a white mother and a Dominican Republic father basically I am african american. Anyway Dominican Republicans do have a healthier way of taking care of african american hair in my opinion but it's all in the way you care for your hair anyway and too much heat on any hair is bad. My hair grows out very thick and long and not thin on the ends but it has also been damaged before and thin on the ends so what is that guys point. Anybody can grow their hair out hopefully after it has been damaged that doesn't mean that their hair didn't grow back out long and thick."

See anything wrong with this comment? Maybe you don't, it seems pretty harmless, but that's to a person who has accepted some racist tendencies forced upon people of color. While most of her comment was perfectly fine, the beginning of it was, well, crazy.... "I am the product of a white mother and a Dominican Republic father basically I am african american."

If you have one parent that is white and another that is Dominican... then you are MIXED. If you want to be specific then you are Dominican American (if your mother is American and/or if you are American).

It peturbs me on so many levels when people -- white, black, whatver... automatically call people who are MIXED, black... I rarely see the opposite. It's not about being ashamed of being black, its about denying ONE WHOLE part of who you are. You are MIXED and do not ever let anyone make you choose between one race or the other. If you have one mixed parent and one white parent-- if anything you're white. But somehow the "one-drop" rules created during horrible slavery racism Jim Crow times has oozed it's way into the psyche's of sooooo many people. If the one-drop rule were true then we could all just be whatever we wanted--- most "African Americans" have a white grandfather somewhere down the line... so I guess they would all be white, huh?

Basically, people, DO NOT call people who are mixed by one race. DO NOT let people put you in a category and tell you what you are.

Halle Berry is NOT the first "African-American" Oscar winner, she is the first MIXED Oscar Winner, the first 1/2 African-American Oscar winner. A "black" woman has not yet won.

President Barack Obama is NOT the first "African-American" president of the USA, he is the first MIXED president of the USA. A "black" man has not yet been president.

These type of list go on and on... and yes I love both our president and halle, but it's not fair to deny who you are... especially when in most cases like this... the mother or the mother's family (often time white) are the ones that end up raising them.

Now I know many mixed people feel more love and acceptance in the black community, often time more comfortable. That's understandable... its fairly easy to feel alot of love from black people who are still dealing with the effects of slavery when you have light mixed skin-- they may put you on pedestal. But it's a lie to say you're black or "African-American" when you have one European-American parent-- you are mixed. Don't deny yourselves, don't let someone else define you... you define you.

This post may seem random, but I just wanted to address that.

Finally Back

2010-02-14T04:13:00.003-05:00

Finally back....

Life has been great and busy.

I have updates on products I've used, some new things I'll probably add to the site and just more opinions and facts... I have soooo much to say.

Happy Valentine's Day Everyone :-)

coming soon

2009-09-05T19:05:00.001-04:00

sorry for lack of posts... but i have some good tips and reviews coming soon. including my new guide on using weaves/wigs to grow your hair.

ttyl

Solange Knowles: Free at Last, Free at Last, Thank God Almighty I am Free At Last

2009-07-24T02:07:00.005-04:00

(solange twitter page, click to enlarge)

So I finally peeped Solanges twitter page... and can I just say again, that I heart her. Like really really heart her. I feeeeeeeeel this girl, like she doesn't even know. The reactions of people, the negative energy is just horrible and we must ask ourselves as people of color in America- when will we finally free ourselves from bondage.

Now I'm not preaching to say "everyone should wear natural hair, and weave and perm is the enemy" NO that is NOT what I am saying.... but we shouldn't be a slave to our hair and we should learn to love our hair in a way that's most conducive to our pockets and lifestyle.

Solange better WERK that cut!

Solanges New Hair Cut: "I Am Not My Hair" (Now if her sister would just follow in her footsteps, our world would be a better place :-)

2009-07-24T01:22:00.005-04:00

Hey Guys... so as big topic today has been Solange's new do. I give two snaps for it- cuz I love it. Why you may ask? Well as I said earlier, "I applaud Solange. Her hair cut is daring, cute, and will inspire many girls- girls of color around the world. Most importantly these hairstyles push our men (and women) to re-think their "slave-mentality brain-washed" version of what beauty is and it will allow them to really embrace one of God's greatest gifts on earth- black women"

I checked around to see what some people had to say, and what a Takiya said from Fact, Fats, and Fries caught my attention:

"Yeah she cut off her "hair", I put hair in quotations bc nowadays that's a bit questionable. How long was hair to begin with???

What celebrity have you seen rocking their natural hair????

Even kim kardashian laces that ish up, and she's Armenian!!! That tells you this is is global!!! LOL!

I can't count one, can you???

Some peoples claim to fame is just what they can do with their do. A$$IE
What crazy design they can shave into their scalp. LA LA
What punk rock Mohawk they can rock with their ill fitting clothes. Rihanna

OKAY, we get it.

You're different....

I however, as of late, cut my lush locs short and their was much reason behind the end result.

To each is their own. Ya kno, and to each person they have their own reasons for a hairdo. Whether it's because it's the newest fad or because it's time to restart again.

We all have our own selfish reasons for styling ourselves which ever way that we do.

But the reason for the mid week break, seeing that I post like every other week is in regards to ignorance begetting ignorance.

Today would be the second time in 2009 when the blogsphere have missed the mark. (The first was with the Rihanna incident. See my other post for that one.)

Matter of fact, not the blogs but the comments that have been given.

It cuts real deep when women of African descent refer to Solange's new do as a field nigger effect.

Comments that insult natural beauty outside of weaves, fronts, and wigs.

This comes from a one time relaxer, twice a natural sister, neva rocking a weave working woman type gal, if you get my drift.

I have and will continue to pose the notion that African American women will always be a slave to their hair.

Will neva let their hair breathe without chemically altering it. Or find themselves looking in the mirror to look at the natural beauty without the lush extention they bought at Hair Stop on Washington St.

I'm assuming that most women who do weave up the hair is because their natural hair is to short to be considered beautiful, in their eyes as well as others.

Correct me if I'm wrong, but the excuse you have for my previous statement is probably that, nah, my hair is long enough, it's just that I like to add a bit of thickness to my already "long" straggly hair.

Okay, now that we've established that your in denial, lets move on to the next excuse you conjured up.

It's easier to manage and it's more office appropriate.

Okay, much like the movie Bolier Room, I got a load of rebuttals for the wack a$$ excuses that you can give me.

I did not say you must come to work rocking a fro and an afro pick with tribal paint slathered on your face.

It does not make you look uncivilized or non-American. And as much as you like to continue to lie to your self, trust me your co-workers and human resource could care less. Those heffas are trying to keep their job and you're certainly not on their radar.

Well Miss X, you seem to have all the answers, we can't be as brave as you and machete our hair off.

Okay I didn't ask you to!!! All I want to get through that thick weave cap, is that YOU don't have the right or privileg to comment/ critique on a woman following the route less traveled.

I applaud anybody who goes a drift simply bc they've had enough with what society says we should be.

Don't you see it folks.

We're a country of money hungry consumers and where pumped with we aren't beautiful enough without long straight hair.

While we're chasing straight hair other countries chase curly texturized hair.

Nobody is perfect and we all have our own perception of perfection.

Just 'cause you're drinking the koolaid don't hate because I'm drink running water from a well.

And yes, I (heart) Solange's new hair buzz."

The American Parlor Store: The Best Hair and Skin Products

2009-07-16T01:11:00.005-04:00

Introducing the American Parlor Store! After so many request we decided to create a store for our GREAT American Parlor Readers. Now you'll be able to get the best products... check it out here. We just added the basics for now, and we'll be adding to it as time goes on.

The American Parlor Store
The American Parlor Store

The store features all the best products for people of color:
healthy hair regimen,
healthy skin regimen,
oils, and more.

Hairspiration: Teyanna Taylor

2009-06-29T13:34:00.005-04:00

Go big or go home.... that's the motto of TT's hair. I looooove curls like these, so cute, so lovely. These are some of my favorite Teyanna photos:

Photo of the Day: Vanessa and Angela Simmons

2009-06-27T22:58:00.004-04:00

They always try new hair styles, whether its rocking their own hair in a bob or rocking long wavy weaves. Here's a cute picture I came across today:

Power: President Obama Has Hair Like Me

2009-06-27T22:52:00.002-04:00

A young black boy was invited to the White House and asked President Obama if he could touch his hair to see if it was like his...

via black girl with long hair

L'Oreal is Racist.

2009-06-27T22:36:00.004-04:00

Word on the street is mega beauty Giant- L'Oreal is blatantly racist. They consider black, Arab and Asian women unworthy of selling its shampoo, and are being sued in a French High Court.

Check out the article posted on Black Girl w/ Long Hair:

L’Oréal, the French cosmetics giant, whose advertising campaigns proclaim “because you’re worth it,” was found guilty of racial discrimination for considering black, Arab and Asian women unworthy of selling its shampoo.

France’s highest court was told that the group had sought an all-white team of sales staff to promote Fructis Style, a haircare product made by Garnier, L’Oréal’s beauty division.

The word went out that Garnier’s hostesses should be BBR — “bleu, blanc, rouge” — the colours of the French flag. The expression is widely recognised in the French recruitment world as a code for white French people born to white French parents, a court was told, in effect excluding the four million or so members of ethnic minorities in France.

La Cour de Cassation, the equivalent of the US Supreme Court, said that the policy was illegal under French employment law, upholding a ruling given by the Paris Appeal Court in 2007.

The judgment was a significant blow to the image of the world’s biggest cosmetics group, which has spent millions of dollars in global advertising campaigns featuring stars such as Andie MacDowell, Eva Longoria, Penélope Cruz and Claudia Schiffer.

(L'Oreal's) image already suffered a battering when L’Oréal executives were forced to deny claims that they had lightened the singer Beyoncé Knowles’s skin for a campaign last year.

The ruling also hinted at widespread prejudice among French shoppers since L’Oréal believed that they were more likely to buy shampoo from white sales staff, the court was told.

The ruling will fuel anger among black and Arab French people, who complain that they face widespread discrimination when seeking employment.
source: http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/industry_sectors/consumer_goods/article6572173.ece

When will women of color — and especially black women — achieve "beauty equality"? Why are we considered less attractive and, in the "beauty" industry, less marketable than other women? This shit really really BOTHERS me!
What do you guys think of all this?

via Black Girl with Long Hair

5 Secrets to a Great Weave: Treat it Like Your Own Hair

2009-06-26T08:46:00.001-04:00

1. Choose the Right Texture

Buying quality hair is absolutely essential, but it's not enough. Selecting a believable texture is critical. "Superstraight hair with nappy roots looks crazy," says celebrity stylist Porsche Waldo of Ebony Design in New York City (Faith Evans, Mya, JoJo). "I've coined the term 'Kunta meets Becky,' " says stylist Nelson Vercher of the Rita Hazan salon in New York City (Tamia, Phylicia Rashad, Britney Spears), who also wove our opening look. If the weave is bone straight and your visible hair is tightly coiled, or if the purchased hair looks like it would never have grown out of your scalp, it's wrong. Most important, the texture should be one that complements your complexion and features. It's not that you shouldn't rock straight styles; just choose hair that looks the way your own hair looks when straightened.

* Do show some scalp or your hairline so the look is more realistic. The weave and your hair should blend together beautifully. Buying human hair by the ounce, as opposed to in a pack, is the preference of top stylists. Eight to ten ounces of human hair can cost from $200 to $600.

2. Buy Human Hair

Most celebrity stylists say no to using synthetic hair. The consensus is that it looks like plastic. It also melts under heat, so forget about curling or straightening. "It just doesn't move like human hair," says Vercher. "Too many people are allergic to it," adds celeb stylist Yusef of Paul Labrecque Salon & Spa in New York City (Solange), who created the weaves on this page and the following two. But stylist to the stars Ursula Stephen (Rihanna, Keisha Cole) has a different point of view. "It really depends on what look you're going after. Sometimes synthetic hair can work, if you know how to flip it," she says. "I have some synthetic Afro-kinky hair that I put in often. I get tons of compliments when I wear it."

* Don't choose a weave that doesn't mesh with your lifestyle. If you work out a lot, try a texture and cut that needs little heat or manipulation.

3. Cut It Into Shape

What you do with your weave after it's in is just as crucial as choosing the right hair texture. Too much hair will look like a wig. "Every weave needs to be shaped according to head size and face shape," says Stephen. Yusef adds, "Razor-cut that weave; you've got to take some of the weight out of it." Natural, thinned ends are also much more believable than blunt, baby-doll ends. "If you don't have the weave shaped correctly, it won't fall naturally," says Vercher. Weavers who can cut are few and far between. Get your weave done by the best, then have it cut and thinned only by a stylist who's a whiz with the scissors.

* Do give your weave a full brush-through daily, in order to prevent tangling and matting.

* Don't flip your head upside down in the shower when washing your weave. This creates tangling.

4. Customize The Weft

Custom-blending the color and texture of each weft, also called a track, ensures a realistic weave. Top stylists swear by customized tracks, like the ones used to create every weave featured in this story. Since a variety of textures can make up a single head of hair, one secret to achieving a look that's close to what nature gave us is to blend wavy and curly or wavy and straight textures. Not only can the texture and color be varied, but the length as well. "By placing various lengths throughout the hair, I reduce bulk," says Vercher. "I still have to cut it, but I prefer to place shorter pieces on the top and longer ones on the bottom."

* Do try an alcohol-free mousse. Apply to wet hair before you blow-dry. This will hold the style in place without weighing the hair down.

5. Handle With Care

Treat your weave like you would your real hair. Don't be afraid of it. Wash it weekly and "Give it a good comb through, daily," says celebrity stylist Lawrence Davis (Tyra), who just won an Emmy for Outstanding Hair for The Tyra Banks Show. If you don't detangle daily, the hair sheds and gets tangled in the braid, causing unnecessary hair loss when you remove the track. Human hair wefts can last almost a year if you take care of them. Deep-condition like you would your own hair. Hot oil treatments and steam treatments maintain manageability. Also make sure your own hair dries properly after you wash and condition. If not, you could encourage mildew-not a healthy or pleasant-smelling scalp condition. Invest in a hooded dryer. Clip varying sections up so that the heat can get to your hair underneath. Once your hair is dry, style as usual.

* Don't forget your brows. Black brows and blond or red hair don't mix. Have your stylist lift your brow color to better coordinate with your hair color.

written by. Pamela Edwards for Essence.com

Your Best Produts Are in the Kitchen

2009-06-26T03:57:00.003-04:00

Did you know that most of the best beauty beauty products... are in your kitchen. Yeah, that's right. I've always heard about the kitchen being one of the best places to get beauty supplies, but I never really considered it- until recently.

1. Olive Oil
2. Eggs
3. Mayo
4. Plastic Bag

Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Yes this Is the same kind that you cook with.
This one of the best things for your hair because it gives it moisture. It's great to put in your hair by itself or to add to your favorite products. If your hair is extra dry and in need of moisture- do a hot oil treatment with olive oil.

Eggs
Your hair needs protein. Most protein treatments have a bit of egg in them. If your hair is brittle and damaged and breaking, crack an egg whip it up and place it throughout your hair- focusing on damage parts. For best results add olive oil, olive oil will make sure that the yolk doesn't make the hair too hard once it dries (its actually important that you add some oil). Leave on hair for 30 minutes or longer.

Mayo
This is a great thing to add to the eggs for moisture.

Plastic Bag
This isn't a product, but you can use these if you don't have a plastic cap to deep condition.

Too Boujee for the Beauty Supply Store

2009-06-26T02:44:00.006-04:00

I was one of those people that was a little "too boujee" for the bss (beauty supply store). I don't mean boujee as in I wouldn't go in there, I mean of course I'd go their to get little stuff- like rubberbands and plastic caps oh and of course hair. But I would sort of toot my nose up at those buying actual hair products from there- shampoos, conditioners, etc. I, only bought my products from salons or specialty stores that were supposed to be for stylist.

But its interesting because most of the chicks I've read about with long pretty hair (went from short broken hair to long hair) use beauty supply store products.... and that's kind of crazy to me.

I remember reading about Elasta- I figured it had to be a salon product. But I called a few salons and they informed me they didn't carry it.... so where did I find it? yeah, you got it... the bss.

So I just say all this to say... all my boujee ladies and gents- who only rock salon products, give the beauty supply store a chance... I did and so far so good (plus the prices are waaaaaaaay better).

Update June 29th: Over the weekend I had to get a few products- some rollers, hair pins, and setting foam- naturally I opted for Nairobi wrap foam, but then I switched it for Mizani mousse. Buying that got me to thinking a bit more... There's usually a reason why certain things cost more- like a Walmart house brand versus a Neiman Marcus house brand... Old Navy vs Versace... the quality of the latter is always better- they use better materials and it will last alot longer. And as I glazed down on my "new crew" the other day I had to sorta shake my head. Though I may have saved alot of money, should I have really changed from my Mizani shampoos (avg 12 bucks a pop, 24 total) to a huge bottle of Creme of Nature (10 bucks) that will last me atleast the whole year? Who knows, I don't regret my buy because alot of the hair bloggers I admire swear by it, buuuut when the years over I think I'll replenish with my beloved Mizani or Nairobi.

And being too boujee for the beauty supply store is actually a good thing on certain levels. Now obviously in these economic times you should try to save money when you can. But at the same time buying these designer products usally mean you're buying them from local salons- and that's good because atleast you're keeping the money in the community. I have to say I absouletly hat ethe hold that Asians have on the black beauty market- its disgusting to me, and many of them are trying hard to keep people of color out by making it hard for us to get certain products at low prices. So for the fact alone I say choose the local salon over the mega beauty supplier even if you have to pay an extra 2 or 3 bucks.

My New Crew: My New Hair Routine

2009-06-26T01:31:00.004-04:00

Check out close-ups of my new hair products, lol....

I seriously have never been so excited to get hair products in my life. Why was I so freaking happy? Because I did research. The best thing about the internet and blogs in particular is that it allows people to connect and get advice from other people- just like them. I web-surfed my bum off the other day figuring out what products to get, what to make my routine. I checked out many blogs and forums and I looked at peoples before and after pictures- I respected/reverenced more the girls who had broken short hair before and long thick full "you must got some indian in you" hair afterwards. And I also kept in mind which products and brands have worked best for me in the past (patene and mizani).

I had my list, yes list and headed to my favorite beauty supply store- the one where the asian owners are nice and have smartly hired amiable black women as staff (there's two chicks, they give advice and have tried alot of the products - weaves and all). Anyway so I go there pick up some things, then I go to another- the really big one that was like product heaven for someone on a mission to find particular products. I that one I found the main ones I was looking for, like the Elasta QPR. Oh, and I stopped at Walgreen in between to pick one product as well (the Neutrogena Triple Moisture).

And this is what I came home with (minus the Patene and Mizani- I already had those). I spent about $40 bucks, but it was cool- I was more than happy to.

1. Shampoo- Creme of Nature Ultra Moisturizing Shampoo
They say shampoo strips our hair (people of color) from its much needed moisture, so a moisturizing shampoo is a MUST, some people don't even use shampoos, instead they use a cheap conditioner as their shampoo (like Suave). I think I had planned on getting the detangling shampoo, but just ended up with this one instead.

2. Conditioner- AtOne Reconstructer Conditioner

3. Deep Conditioner- Elasta QP DPR-11 Deep Penetrating Reconstructor
Everyone swears by this stuff, so I HAD to get it--- it works so WELL, my hair was left SO soft after using it.

4. Deep Conditioner- Creme of Nature Nurturing and Strengthening Treatment
This came free with the Creme of Nature shampoo, yes that BIG jar came free, so it was a fluke that I purchased, but I later found out that one of the girl bloggers with great hair uses it, she actually replaced the Elasta DPR with this one....

5. Deep Conditioner- Patene Pro-V Relaxed and Natural Deep Conditioning Mask
I just so happened to see this when I was contemplating on whether or not to by more patene pro-v. It was so pretty-looking (the jar was) and most of them were gone, so went 'what the heck' and picked it up.

6. Leave-In Conditioner- Elasta QP Leave-In H2

7. Leave-In Conditioner- Neutrogena Triple Moisture Silk-Touch Leave-In Creme

8. Oil- Kemi Oyl

This one chick on a hair forum, with a bunch of pictures of her hair says this is the one oil she couldn't leave without. So I decided to buy it... first I couldn't find it, but it ended up being on the check-out counter.... 3 bucks for a tiny bottle of oil, its a bit pricey, but I've used it on my hair the past two days and it seems (only seems) to help my hair grow a bit and it keeps the hair nicely quenched.

My Shampoos and Conditioners:

My Deep Conditioners and Leave-Ins:

UPDATE: I am no longer using creme of nature. It is still a good product, but patene pro-v and mizani have the best shampoos. Also, shampoos are not that good for colored-american (black) hair, so its best to use a really good moisturizing shampoo when you do decide to shampoo.

Product Reviews: SoftSheen Carson Roots of Nature Remedies and Dr.Miracles Temple & Nape Gro Balm

2009-06-26T01:06:00.005-04:00

SoftSheen Carson Roots of Nature Remedies:
Shea Butter Green Tea Stimulating Scalp Oil

This product is the replacement Dr.Miracles Stimulating Scalp Oil for some people. Though I like the smell many people feel like Dr.Miracles Gro Oil is TOO strong (my ex boyfriend was one of them). Well I feel that the Nature of Remedies Stimulating Oil will give you the same affect (smell free). It's light, easy to handle, and made my hair soft.

SoftSheen Carson Roots of Nature Remedies:
Shea Butter Green Tea Triple Repair Hairdress

This product made my mom really happy. Before I could even open it she decided to use it and the next day she couldn't stop talking about how it made her edges so flat. What she would do is put some on at night then put on her satin scarf. The next morning her edges were really flat. I decided to give the product a whirl and low and behold- she was right. This may sound crazy, but I sorta feel like this product makes my edges flat without me putting a scarf on. Either way it goes this is a solid product-- light, smells pretty good, and my mom loves it.

SoftSheen Carson Roots of Nature Remedies:
Shea Butter Green Tea Reconstructing Deep Treatment

This product I tried a few weeks ago... and the results were a bit fickle. At the time I didn't know the big differences between moisturizing and protein treatments and when and how to use them. So I used this after washing my hair I applied it through the scalp and on the edges then I mixed in a little of my Mizani treatment. I sat under the dryer and ended up sorta falling asleep... a few hours later, I woke up and rinsed it out. Then I put a little oil on my hair and let it air dry. My hair ended up feeling kind of dry. But I realized that its because this product is essentially a protein and its very important to condition or deep condition after a protein treatment, otherwise your hair will feel a bit dry and hard. Also I don't think I applied a leave-in afterward which is VERY important. So, I'll try this product again later and tell you what I think .

Dr.Miracles Temple & Nape Gro Balm

Hmmm.... I think it works. The key is to be consistent, apply everyday and take a picture before, then a week after and a week after til its all gone. I didn't do that, but I wish I would have. Like always, the product Felt like it was working....

Product Review: My Mizani Army- The Story: Shampoos and Conditioners

2009-06-26T00:33:00.008-04:00

PURIPHYING Intense Cleansing Shampoo
BOTANIFYING Conditioning Shampoo (with botanicals)
FUFYL Conditioning Treatment
MOISTURFUSE Moisturizing Conditioner

I call the my Mizani Army because when I first began to grow my hair in high school, these are the products I chose to help me. My routine was washing every two weeks, wrap every night, apply Mizani overnight treatment every other night, and use Mizani Rose H2O and Organic Root Stimulator Carrot Oil Cream. I wasn't extra educated at the time about hair care products, but I had learned that the best was Mizani or Keracare and because Mizani seemed and smelled less chemical like I went with that. My hairdresser at the time was great with styling, but maybe not the best with actual hair care... I guess someone told her Design Essentials was the best, but I just didn't think so- so I brought my own stuff.

I decided to switch hair dressers because I just felt like the one I had wasn't growing my hair. So I took a risk, jumped shipped and began going to a man that had grew my aunts hair ridiculously long and thick. I won't go through all the details, but long story shirt- he was scissor happy and was cutting my hair waaaaaaay to much. Also he used Kercare Dry and Itchy Scalp.... which ended up.... wait for it.... wait for it.... effing up my hair. Yeah it did, it worked wonders for my aunt and sister, but it was my worst enemy.

Fast forward to college. I decided I want to grow my hair back out, so I went back to "my Mizani army"... and I wore weaves at times in between and went natural underneath (the weave). My hair GREW alot... I wore weaves almost full time for two years. You could say my hair went from
neck length to a little over shoulder length.... then I decided to perm and cut it for the whole Rihanna thing and, well that's a whole other story, that I'll share later (I wish I would have stayed natural though)

Anyway, I say all that to say even though I'm currently choosing to switch it up products. These 4 products did work for me, when I used them consistently.

When I first picked them, my thought process was- well I need 2 shampoos and 2 conditioners because that's what they used at the beautician. Then I figured I needed one shampoo to clean my hair and another one to restore moisture that the other shampoo may have stripped. Then I needed two good conditioners- one regular and one treatment.

More Info from the bottles:

Puriphying Shampoo- pH balanced shampoo that removes residue. Has hydrolyzed wheat protein.

Botanifying Shampoo- gentle shampoo with botanicals

Moisturfuse Conditioner- has moisturizers and proteins. Polyquatermium-37 and hydrolyzed wheat protein.

Fulfyl Treatment- has protein and moisturizers as well

My Notebook: Random Hair Advice (hair products, advice for hair care after swimming, and more).

2009-06-21T01:13:00.005-04:00

Sometimes when I'm searching for some specific advice I'll end up finding ALOT of advice that'll probably be beneficial down the road... so I end up saving links. I do this alot and I figured I'll start sharing them with you all. I'll call it "My Notebook: Random Hair Advice" and it'll be a post full of links.

http://keepitsimplesista.blogspot.com/2009/06/after-swimming.html

http://www.longhaircareforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=292029&page=6

http://www.answerbag.com/q_view/73979

http://members.fotki.com/ashleyhair/about/

http://www.sallybeauty.com/repair-creme/SBS-373740,default,pd.html

http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20080208210431AAYbR9i

ORS Olive Oil Lye Normal Strength

Mane Chic hair blog

http://www.buzzillions.com/4294966827_nz_hair_styling_product_reviews
mizani butters

On My Radar: Products to Use- Elasta QP DPR-11 & Neutrogena Triple Moisture

2009-06-09T21:51:00.003-04:00

I just happened to be perusing through some youtube hair videos today and I've been inspired. I'm not sure if "inspired" is the word (somewhat dramatic), but you get my drift. This one chicks video and hair journey is great, I suggest all to check it out.

Then from hers I checked out others, then kept going and ended up googling certain products and etc etc... I just really wanted to organize my thoughts and what I have been finding so I decided to write a post. Here I go:

1. Elasta QP DPR-11
The women go wild- they worship it. Its supposedly a deep conditioner that many women swear by... it keeps the hair ultra moisturized, tangle free, etc etc. I decided I'm adding it to my hair routine... I heard its like $5- so I plan to go to JCPennys salon or the local beauty supply store and buy it tomorrow

2. Neutrogena Triple Moisture
This is an entire line of products and it seems most people have atleast one product from the line that they like

Okay, I think that's it for now... I'm about to wash my hair using Patene Pro-V and I'm going to deep condition or treat my hair with a new product I recently obtained: Roots of Nature Shea Butter Green Tea Reconstructing Deep Treatment... I'll tell you more about it later.

CHRIS ROCK: Black America and Good Hair-- BAD MOVIE.

2009-05-27T12:01:00.003-04:00

UPDATE- THIS IS A HORRIBLE MOVIE THAT DEGRADES BLACK WOMEN. DO NOT SUPPORT THIS IN ANY WAY.

I saw this article on ematastemaker.com and HAD to repost... check it out:

Funny man & social commentator Chris Rock tackles the topic of hair in the soon to be released documentary Good Hair.

The film, which won a Special Jury Award for US Documentary at the 2009 Sundance Film Festival, mixes the wisecrack humor of Rock with the hard-hitting reality that exist around hair in the Black community by “raising serious questions about identity and equality among black women who feel they need long, straight, silky hair to fit into white society” (Source).

Rock was inspired to make the documentary after his daughter Lola came to him crying, and asked, “Daddy how come I don’t have good hair.” This deeply emotional question prompted him “to search the ends of the earth and the depths of black culture to find out who had put that question into his little girl’s head” (Source)

Sundance describes the film as

An exposé of comic proportions that only Chris Rock could pull off, Good Hair visits hair salons and styling battles, scientific laboratories, and Indian temples to explore the way black hairstyles impact the activities, pocketbooks, sexual relationships, and self-esteem of black people. Celebrities such as Ice-T, Kerry Washington, Nia Long, Paul Mooney, Raven Symone, Maya Angelou, and Reverend Al Sharpton all candidly offer their stories and observations to Rock while he struggles with the task of figuring out how to respond to his daughter’s question (Source).

But the film offers more than just a surface level look at the tradition of hair in the Black community.

It takes a look into the politics of hair and raises “serious questions about identity and equality among black women who feel they need long, straight, silky hair to fit into white society” (Source).

Executive Producer, Nelson George adds “It’s this whole thing about approval. That approval is not simply, ‘I want white people to love me.’ It’s like, ‘I need a job. I want to move forward, and if I have a hairstyle that is somewhat intimidating, that’s going to stop me from moving forward” (Source).

Stay tuned for official release dates of the film on HBO, DVD, and in theaters.

For more information on this film, check out the following sites:

My Epiphany: Chrisette Michele, I NEED Your Hair

2009-05-27T11:56:00.004-04:00

Check out my beloved Chrisette Michele on her Ephinany cover. LOVVVE the hair.

Naturally Gorgeous: Beautiful Hair-Dos for Braids, Dreads, and Natural Hair

2009-05-26T12:00:00.004-04:00

I love these....

Video of the Day: The Basic Black Male Haircuts: Fade - Ceaser

2009-05-26T11:50:00.002-04:00

You may have to slow the video down, but this video has had alot of hits on youtube and you can see why- the man is a beast with the razor....

I'm going to start doing more videos- always searching for the best of course, but if you have or can recommend some good ones don't hesitate to send them my way!

The Breakdown of the Hair Types: 1, 2A 2B, 3A 3B 3C, 4A 4B

2009-05-26T04:52:00.003-04:00

Soooo if you're familiar with the hair circuit then you may know what those numbers mean, but most likely- like most warm blooded Americans you don't. But basically I've been seeing "I'm 3b" "Whats you're type? I'm 2a" etc etc everywhere... so I googled it. And basically these number/letter combos describe the hair type ranging from "straight" to "kinky". And this is the part that makes me laugh straight is 1 and kinky is 4... cleaaaaaarly this description was created by whites or should I say European Americans or should I say Caucasians... well you get my point. Orrrr it could have been made-up by an uncle-tomish person of color, hmmm.... well, either way it goes its a bit stupid, but whatev. I personally would have figured that "kinky" or the most natural hair type would be 1, in fact, when I heard people discussing it I was under the impression that extremely curly/kinky hair would be 1 since it is seemingly the most natural... right? wouldn't you think that too?

Anyway, I found a break down on a website (blackwebform.wordpress.com), Check it out...

____________________________________________

So you may have seen ppl referring to their 4a or 3b hair and thought what in the world are they talking about. The classification comes from hair stylist and guru Andre Walker. Here some information regarding the hair types that I found at www.naturallycurly.com

Break down of Hair Types 1-4b

Type 1: Straight hair

Type 2: Wavy hair

Type 2 hair falls into the great divide between Type 1, straight hair, and Type 3, curly hair. A relatively unusual type, wavy hair tends to be coarse, with a definite “S” pattern to it. By that I mean the wave forms throughout the hair in the shape of the letter “S”. Your hair is wavy, or Type 2, if it curves in the “S” shape while laying flat against the scalp, instead of standing away from the head the way curly hair does. Supermodel Yasmeen Ghauri, actress/model Isabella Rosellini and actress Jennifer Aniston of Friends (the one who sparked a craze for the ubiquitous “Friends haircut” of the mid-1990s) are all Type 2s. Type 2s are often confused with Type 3s because it is easy to get curly hair to lay flat and look wavy. But don’t be fooled: you can’t get Type 2 hair to look like Type 3 without a lot of work. Why? The hallmark of wavy hair is that it sticks close to the head: even if you cut it in layers, it won’t bounce up. There are three Type 2 subtypes: A, fine and thin; B, medium-textured; and C, thick and coarse. Type 2A is very easy to handle, pliantly blowing out into a straighter style or taking on curlier looks with relative ease. Types 2B and 2C are a little more resistant to styling and have a tendency to frizz

Examples

Tips: This hair type needs lighter products that enhance curls. Let hair air dry or use a diffuser. Use duckbill clips on the crown of your head to lift top curls as needed. Once your curls are dry, rub a little pomade into the palm of your hands and smooth over your hair. Please do not use a brush or comb on your dry curls. Sleeping on a satin pillowcase is recommended to reduce tangles.

Type 3: Curly hair

With curly hair, there is a definite loopy “S” pattern. Pluck out a hair, stretch it out. Notice the curvy lines. Looks like s stretched-out Slinky, doesn’t it? Most people think curly hair is coarse, but actually it is usually baby soft and very fine in texture – there’s just a lot of it. Because the cuticle layers don’t like as flat, curly hair isn’t as shiny as straight or wavy hair. The hair doesn’t have a very smooth surface, so light doesn’t reflect off of it as much. When curly hair is wet, is usually straightens out. As it dries, it absorbs the water and contracts to its curliest state. Those of you with Type 3 hair know all too well that humidity makes curly hair even curlier, or even frizzier.

If you’re a Type 3, your hair has a lot of body and is easily styled in its natural state, or it can be easily straightened with a blow-dryer into a smoother style. Healthy Type 3 hair is shiny, with soft, smooth curls and strong elasticity. The curls are well-defined and springy: pull out a strand of hair and stretch it; it won’t snap in two. Damaged Type 3 hair is usually frizzy, dull, hard and dry to the touch, with fuzzy, ill-defined curls.

There are two subtypes of curly hair. Type 3A, hair that is very loosely curled like Julia Robert’s or Susan Sarandon’s is usually very shiny with big curls. The shorter the hair, the straighter it gets. The longer the hair the more defined the curl. Type 3B, on the other hand, is hair with a medium amount of curl, ranging from bouncy ringlets – think of Shirley Temple – to tight corkscrews – think of actress Cree Summer of television’s Sweet Justice of jazz singer Cleo Laine. It’s not unusual to find both subtypes coexisting on the same head. In fact, curly hair usually consists of a combination of textures, with the crown being the curliest part.

Examples

Tips for 3a hair: This hair type needs light moisture and products that define the curls. Let hair air dry or use a diffuser. Use duckbill clips at the crown of your head to lift top curls as needed. Once curls are dry, rub a little pomade into the palm of your hands and smooth over your hair. Please do not use a brush or comb on your dry curls. Sleeping on a satin pillowcase is recommended to reduce tangles.

Tips for 3b hair : This hair type needs extra moisture and products that define curls and fight frizz. Let hair air dry or use a diffuser. Use duckbill clips at the crown of your head to lift top curls as needed. Once curls are dry, rub a little pomade into the palm of your hands and smooth over your hair. Please do not brush or comb your dry curls. Sleeping on a satin pillowcase is recommended to reduce tangles.

Naturallycurly.com readers have suggested a third Type 3 subtype: 3c.
Type 3C, is hair with tight curls in corkscrews. The curls can be either kinky, or very tightly curled, with lots and lots of strands densely packed together. Some people refer to this as “big hair.” Getting this type of hair to blowdry straight is more challenging than for 3A or 3B, but it usually can be done. This includes those with very tight curls but finer hair, as well as coarser hair. 3C has really really tight curls, like pencil or straw circumference. 3B is like sidewalk chalk or salt shaker circumference, and 4A is like coffee stirrer circumference.

Tips: This hair type needs extra moisture and tender-loving care because it can be fragile. Let the hair air dry and do not use a brush or comb. To refresh bed head or fight fuzzy hair line, use a moisturizing hairdress like Miss Jessie’s Curly Buttercreme or Jane Carter Solution Nourish & Shine.

Type 4: Kinky hair

If your hair falls into the Type 4 category, then it is kinky, or very tightly curled. Generally, Type 4 hair is very wiry, very tightly coiled and very, very fragile. Like Type 3 hair, Type 4 hair appears to be coarse, but it is actually quite fine, with lots and lots of this strands densely packed together. Healthy Type 4 hair won’t shine, but it will have sheen. It will be soft to the touch and will pass the strand test with ease. It will feel more silky than it will look shiny. Oprah, Whoopi Goldberg and the actress Angela Bassett are all Type 4s.

Type 4 hairs looks tough and durable, but looks can be deceiving. If you have Type 4 hair, you already know that it is the most fragile hair around. Why? Type 4 hair has fewer cuticle layers than any other hair type, which means that it has less natural protection from the damage you inflict by combing, brushing, curling, blow-drying and straightening it. The more cuticle layers in a single strand of hair, the more protection it has from damage. Each time you damage your hair — fire up the curling iron, fry it with chemicals – you break down a cuticle layer, robbing your hair of much-needed moisture. I cannot emphasize this enough. It’s like taking a wire and bending it again and again. Eventually, it’s going to snap and break.

Many women with Type 4 hair rely on chemical relaxers to make hair easier to control. In its natural states, sometimes Type 4 hair doesn’t grow very long because every time you comb it, it breaks. (Of course, if you have dreadlocks and never comb them or keep them braided, your hair can and does grow quite long.)

There are two subtypes of Type 4 hair: Type 4A, tightly coiled hair that, when stretched, has an “S” pattern, much like curly hair; and Type 4B, which has a “Z” pattern, less of a defined curl pattern (instead of curling or coiling, the hair bends in sharp angles like the letter “Z”). Type 4A tends to have more moisture than Type 4B, which will have a wiry texture. But what if your hair has been chemically straightened? How can you tell which subtype you belong to if your hair is relaxed? You’ll need at least one inch of new growth to tell. Pull at the roots. If you can see a definite curl pattern, then it’s an A, if not, then it’s a B.

Addendum:

NaturallyCurly.com type 4 readers have found the above description limiting, and somewhat misleading. We offer the following addendum:

Type 4 hair can range from fine/thin to wiry/coarse strand texture. Generally, this hair is densely packed to give the appearance of very thick but fragile hair. 4a hair has a clearly visible curl and wave pattern that ranges from pen size curls to pen spring size coils. 4b hair has a tighter wave pattern and kinks of various size. This texture does not exhibit the shine or silkiness of looser type curls, but instead has sheen, and a soft, almost cotton-like feel. As with other types of curly hair, showing the true length can be an extra challenge, as the hair may grow “up” or “out” before starting to hang down. In its unlocked/unbraided state, type 4 hair is known to shrink up to 75% of the actual hair length. With the proper care and technique, type 4 hair is indeed resilient, manageable, durable, growable and easy to control.

Examples

Tips: This hair type needs extra moisture and tender care to prevent breakage. Let the hair air dry and do not brush or comb. To refresh bed head or fight fuzzy hair line, use a moisturizing hairdress like Miss Jessie’s Curly Buttercreme or Oyin Handmade Burnt Sugar Pomade.

Please note that the products are the recommendation of naturallycurly.com and not myself.

Also if you wandering what happened to hair type 1, its straight. They felt that, was pretty much all the info you would need, mind you they do specialize in products for those with curly hair, so I understand the lack of info and product recommendations.

Ursula Stephen CHANGED Your Life: New Image Beauty Expert

2009-05-26T02:48:00.010-04:00

Rihanna and Ursula Stephen

So you may ask... who's the mastermind behind these Rhianna cuts and hair dos, whoever it is she has single-handly changed fashion and style worldwide.... her name is Ursula Stephen! And she is THEEEEEEEE New Image Beauty Expert.

Oh my goodness there are so many things I can say, but I will just keep it short- Ursula is an icon! Ohhhhhhh my goodness Rihanna is nothing without those cuts dahling.... (well not in a mean way I adore Rihanna, but I'm just trying to make a point).

_________________________________________________

Check out this interview I snagged from Ursula's website via Clutch Magazine.

Q: When did you begin your craft of hairstyling?

Well my high school was a beauty school- - so technically and officially I started doing hair my freshman year. It was called “Sarah J. Hale”, located in Brooklyn. It saved my life and open many doors for me.

Q: How did you get into doing hair for celebrities?

It was definitely a word of mouth situation. I had a couple of clients that worked at record labels or were in the business in some way. They basically put me on.

Q: You’re the stylist behind Rihanna’s infamous bob. Why did you decide to do something that drastic with her hair?

Because I’m drastic! LOL. Rihanna wanted a new look. And I was tired of all these artist looking the same, that’s so boring. I feel that back in the day artist took more chances with their look and I missed that. So, I decided to do the opposite. Everyone was doing long and brown, so I did short and black. I’m always changing my look so that also inspired her. Basically giving her that confidence.

Q: There have been debates about who rocked the bob first. Was there anyone in particular whose hairstyle inspired the look you gave Rihanna?

Debates?? I inspired her Bob. I’m all about a great cut and that’s been my trademark for as long as I can remember.

Q: Summer is fast and coming. What advice would you give to Clutch readers looking for a shorter look for the season? Can shorter styles look good on anyone?

Shorter styles can look great on everyone. My advice is don’t necessarily follow the trend. Find the look thats right for you. It’s like jeans low-rise… it’s not for everyone!!

Q: You’re known for your expertise in “new image” hair makeovers. Do you have to do something completely daring to someone’s hair to create a new image?

How subtle can a new look be? Well you really don’t have to do something daring, it can be as subtle as cutting a bang or changing the side that you usually part your hair. Doing something opposite than what you usually do is a makeover in itself.

Q: What products would you recommend for us ladies whom have become attached to our flat irons?

(I carry mine in a holster at the hip!) Well one of my favorite products is FHI Hot Sauce. It’s a great product that restores moisture and protects hair against damaging effects of heat without weighing the hair down and smells really good too!

Q: My hair looks like a dried-out lion’s mane when I wear it naturally curly. Is there anything I could do or use in my hair to tame the beast on my head?

The trick to taming curly hair is applying product to the hair when it is still wet. And the best products are leave - in conditioners. One of my favorite products are TIGI Bedhead leave - in conditioner (for curls) and another is Atone with Nature. I like leave - in’s that cling to the hair without weighing it down. And these two are great for that — just the right amount of muscle.

Someone should tell our beloved Ri-Ri,
"Without Ursula, you are nothing!"
(squint their eyes, smirk, and sloooowly walk away)

Q: What hairstyles can we expect to see for Spring/Summer? Are bangs still popular, can we anticipate seeing more sleek middle parts?

Short hair will still be popular this summer. With combinations of heavy blunt bangs (old school), sexy side swept bangs. I also see middle parts coming back in a big way, but shoulder length nothing too long.

Q: Where else can we see your hairstyling finesse? Who are you currently styling?

Well as you know Rihanna is one of my main clients, Michelle Williams — we just shot her music video. I also do lots of beauty stories with Essence and makeovers.

Q: What’s the most rewarding and challenging aspect of your career as a celebrity hairstylist?

As its always been making people feel good about themselves. Seeing that smile as though a miracle has just happened!! And also having my work broadcasted for the world to see:)

Q: Lastly, what tricks do you live by? What are your personal trade secrets?

Well I can’t tell u everything, [LOL] but heres a good one. Lipgloss on fly aways!

Where does Ri Ri find these people? She has the best wardrobe stylist, best hairstylist... I mean c'mon how lucky can you get (as far as imaging goes).

http://www.ursulastephen.com/home.html
http://www.ursulastephen.com/home.html
http://www.ursulastephen.com/home.html

I looooooove this woman. visit her site. adore her. worship her, lol!

Yesss Found It: Natural Product to Make Permed Hair- Curly. Miss Jessie's Quick Curls

2009-05-26T02:31:00.004-04:00

Now THIS is what I'm talking about. After further going through Miss Jessies products I found this:

And its SOLD OUT. SMH! Not cool Miss Jessie, NOT cool at all. Lol, I'm about to send an email inquiring about when they will have more because this is what I was looking for. And at $9? I'm not mad... that is if it will make my hair curly. I really really hope they replenish within the week, if so, I will purchase and let you all know how it goes.... if you have used it, please let me know how it is. I'm sorta anxious about this product.... hurry Miss Jessie! Get in that kitchen and whip up another batch!

PRODUCT REVIEW: Update June 29, 2009:

This product is an EPIC FAILURE. I tried it twice on a section of my permed hair- once with it airdrying, another using the blowdryer... both times- no curls. My hair type (what they call 4a/b, what I call 1a/b) I think this product is for girls with straight hair like asians, some european-americans, some hispanics, and women with 3 a/b hair or lower.

Hair Creams to Create Curls, From Kinky to Curly within Minutes: Miss Jessie's Hair Cream and Kinky-Curly

2009-05-25T23:52:00.005-04:00

I've always indirectly searched for a cream to make my hair curly... you know more curly. Why? You may ask, well two main reasons:

1. sometimes I just feel like having really easy immediately cute hairstyle that I pretty much have to do NOTHING to- you know just get up and go. Braids are cool, but sometimes I want something a bit looser and I feel if I could make my hair very curly I could have this look.

2. because I've wanted to try the sorta curly weave and I want it to blend in perfectly. So I figure it wold blend best if I made my hair the same texture as the weave naturally instead of curling it every morning

I don't know how well this product works, perse, but many many women SWEAR by it--- Miss Jessie's Original Hair Cream. She has an array of products that seem to almost instantly make your hair curly... the only problem is, is that I don't know how well it works on permed hair. But it works WONDERS on natural hair.... I personally feel EVERY girl with natural hair should go into one of Miss Jessies locations and get her treatment. It seems to make the hair grow while looking fabuously healthy and beautiful.

Check out some of these before/after pictures. After seeing them I'm a little upset I permed my natural hair... longstory short I wore weave for about 2 years and wore my hair natural underneath... it grew sooooo much, "my afro" was huge- when pulled straight my hair was about mid back. Though my hair prefers a natural state I permed it because it was too much to deal with, buuuut I really sorta regret it after seeing these pictures....

It looks like her hair grew 5 inches huh? Its amazing.

This is about how my hair looked after I took my weave out (after abotu two years of wearing it... I would wear it for about 2 months, take it out, get cornrolls for about a week or so, then put it back in) My hair thrives in its natural state, but it was too much for me to deal with, so I had to perm it, but I wouldn't have if I would have known about this product.

This has to be one of the best "before after"

She has hair like Oprah :-)

Is it just me or does it really feel like someone is playing a trick on us? Lol, no but seriously, thats EXACTLY how I feel after viewing this. I keep thinking--- this can't really be real. Check out the gallery of transitions of women undergoing the curly process here. And the women above are before/after, check them out here.

I absolutely adore the packaging. Classic and timeless.

And I love Miss Jessie's FAQs page, I've been reading it for the past few minutes and was tickled when I got to this:

"ITS HARD TO BELIEVE THOSE 'NATURAL' BEFORE & AFTER PHOTOS ARE REAL. ARE YOU SURE YOU'RE NOT USING SILKENERS™ ON EVERYONE TO ACHIEVE THOSE CURLY LOOKS?

YES WE'RE SURE. WE ARE ABLE TO ACHIEVE CURL VIA CHEMICAL OR NON CHEMICAL METHODS. PLEASE GO ON THE BEFORE AND AFTER PAGE. THERE ARE DETAILED DESCRIPTIONS OF THE SERVICES THAT INDIVIDUAL RECEIVED.

I'VE BEEN ON YOUR BEFORE AND AFTER PAGE. ARE THOSE CURLY AFTER PICTURES WEAVES?

NO. WE DO VERY LITTLE WEAVE WORK."

Talk about taking the words or the question rather, right out of my mouth, lol! I was thinking some of these pictures MUST be weave. Let me just go on the record saying "I love you Miss Jessie, and I can't wait until your products make it to salons and chinese-owned beauty supply stores everywhere".

To PURCHASE these Miss Jessie's products visit the online store OR simply visit a retailer near you. Oh and if you do purchase pleeeeeeeeeease come back and tell me how you liked it.

Now I've heard from people like Miss Afrobella that Miss Jessie's products are just too much (too expensive)... I can understand. So another equally as great, but less expensive product is Kinky-Curly. I sort of see these two as rivals, I haven't used either of them, but I want to! Purchase Kinky-Curly here. This line has supposedly been used by The Real Housewives of Atlanta-- which is pretty cool. I sent them a message on their myspace asking which product is best for permed/straight/relaxed hair, so we'll see what type of response I get.

Hair Product for Weaves: SoftSheen Carson Professional Weave Care Detangler.

2009-05-25T23:34:00.006-04:00

Nowadays, alot of women wear weaves... all types (every ethnicity), but TOO many women don't take proper care of their weave. Well, slowly but surely many of the top hair care companies are creating products exclusively for weaves.

One in product that I've been hearing about, SoftSheen Carson Professional Weave Care Detangler. It supposedly works well.... and any weave-wearing gal knows how easy it can get tangled, especially after the first week and a half. I suggest trying this and reporting back.

After a small search I found their website and Softsheen actually has an entire line of products, check it out here. I can't wait til Mizani creates a line!

Oprah's Hair: This is Not a Weave

2009-04-27T16:22:00.007-04:00

Oprah's hair unstraightened

Oprah's hair straightened

It's everywhere I figured it might as well be here... Oprah, got tired of people saying "Girrrl, I like your weave", and I don't blame her. People, that's really ghetto to tell someone you like their weave- wtf?! lol... I could soooooo see how that could be annoying.

Oprah's hair is NOT a weave- and I knew that from the jump. She's Oprah Winfrey! C'mon now... she's literally the "queen of the world"... so I'm she probably has the best hair stylist in the world, and so therefore that is NOT a weave because she can afford to grow it out and keep her hair in tip top shape. Also, to me its very obvious that it wouldn't be because we have literally seen her hair grow over the years from a short nice cut, to a bob, to shoulder length, to right past the shoulder, to now... the entire time her hair was very thick.

I just feel it's very ignorant for people to assume it is and of course its black people-- listen, all because you or no one in your family doesn't have long thick hair doesn't mean others can't... The only reason I feel like people who thought it was hers before suddenly thought it was a weave when straight is because of the 2 short pieces a the front of her hair, I think that's a usual "tell-tell" sign someone is wearing a weave... but Oprah's hair has been cut in layers for awhile, she's had bangs, and there have probably been times in which she had weave... but that hair- it's all hers-- duuuuuh!

Check Oprah's Hair Evolution: From short & chic to long & layered.
With the right products, patience, and a great hair routine
you can have beautiful hair like Oprah too!

(click to enlarge)

Best Products for Natural Hair: Biosilk and Carol's Daughter

2009-04-27T15:48:00.005-04:00

From what I hear, these are some of the best products for natural hair... especially for those newly relaxed to natural ladies.

1. Biosilk Hydrating Shampoo and Silk Therapy

2. Carol's Daughter Tui Hair Oil and Khoret Amen Hair Smoothie

via essence.com

Bye-Bye Stretch Marks: Tips on How to Get Rid of Stretch Marks Forever, Tips on How to Get Smooth Skin

2009-04-27T10:15:00.013-04:00

They annoy us... they come they go... we prefer them to stay way--- S T R E T C H M A R K S. Many women have struggled with them since the age of 12, others after they gained the freshmen 15, others after giving birth. And guys struggle with them as well... when they finally gain the extra pounds to form those sexy muscles or when they trim down to get cut.

Well, Let's cut the small talk and get down to the nitty gritty... how to get rid of stretch marks.

1. The number 1 way to get rid of stretch marks? I don't think you're going to want to hear this, but... Eat healthy (lots of fruits and veggies), exercise almost daily, and drink lots of water. For most women struggling with stretch marks its because you are fluctuating too much in weight-- up and down and up and down (that's the story of my life)... if you adapt a healthy lifestyle (not a diet) then you are waaaay less likely to have stretch marks. Your body loves and need stability, all the yo-yo dieting and sweet binges are not what's up... yessss, we're emotional creatures and we tend to binge when we aren't doing too well with the beau or if we're stressed, but you MUST fight it as much as possible :-) Instead of opting for a dairy queen blizzard get a smoothie king smoothie.

Okay and so now, what you want to hear... the products.

2. Typical answer yet usually reliable- cocoa butter... I personally feel like cocoa butter doesn't RID stretch marks, but it PREVENTS them. With daily use you shouldn't have any new stretch marks and the others will get alot smoother and some will fade. If you're going to use cocoa butter, I feel like you should adapt my "cocoa-butter duo" treatment. You purchase cocoa butter oil and cocoa butter in a jar. After washing your body in the shower rub cocoa butter oil all over your body, then gently rinse it off. After getting out of the shower dab yourself dry with the towel and apply cocoa butter onto your body, particularly rubbing it into areas with stretch marks. This certainly will help your skin to become more one-toned, soft, and smooth. If you're really good you'll do what I did back in the day: I used cocoa butter soap, oil, lotion/creme, and serum to boot... again it didn't per se rid my stretch marks, but it made them and all my skin very smooth and more even-toned. (Some people say the natural cocoa butter works best, but be careful because its not as easy to use, you'll have to heat it to apply it).

3. Two words: BIO OIL... I haven't personally used it, but I have heard ALOT about this oil. and out of all the at-home products and treatments this seems to be the best. Women and men say that with daily use they have seen obvious changes, some women say they've seen it work over night... (I'm not sure if these women are black though)... Soooo, long story short I'm going to order some today and I'll use it and I'll report back. The best thing about Bio Oil is that it can be found almost anywhere- walmart, walgreens, ebay, amazon. I just praaaay it works because I have a few stretch marks on the back of my leg (behind my knee) that I MUST rid asap.

4. Natural ingredients. Some people say the only way their stretch marks go away is with natural ingredients... check out this routine a woman swear's by:

"Everyday I shower, and use an exfoliant on my marks. This exfoliant is very gentle and takes away any dead skin cells. It is made out of:

-Plain Oatmeal

-Honey

-Pure Ginger Root (ground into a paste)

(Keep in the fridge)

Then I will put 100% Vitamin E oil, with 40,000 IUS.

After it is rubbed in completely, put 100% Coco Butter on the marks.

At night, repeat the steps but this time with the Vitamin E oil, rub it in and put a thin towel over the marks. Then get a hot water bottle, or heating pad and put it over the marks for 10 min or so. This penetrates the oil deeper into the skin.

I also drink 2 L of water a day, and have a very healthy diet, with lots of exercise. I also found that tanning, only naturally, helps the marks..because we receive vitamins from sunlight"

Her routine sounds pretty solid, huh? I say if you have a routine that hasn't been working- try this... its 100% natural so you won't hurt your skin.

5. Jojoba Oil. Many people haven't heard of this one, but they say its one of the best- certainly better than cocoa butter. Jojoba oil is rich in Essential Fatty Acids will help to repair and regenerate your new skin cells. It's 100% natural and non-allergic.

6. Skin peel, laser treatment, and/or cosmetic surgery. If you have the funds, I say cut the bullsh*t, lol, and just go get them removed- that's what all the stars do... you know our beloved Beyonce or J.Lo has stretch marks, but they pay to get them removed. Matter of fact, I think I remember Beyonce or one of her assistants talking about it a few years ago... Anyway, the fact of the matter is, the treatments are often expensive but you can save up for it, do research on the best doctors in your area who specialize in removing stretch marks on women of color (specifically black women) and make an appointment. After your stretch marks are removed you can now work to prevent them, with the oils and treatments above. I say if you can splurge on a brand-new coach bag with matching boots or on a new plasma screen, why not on a treatment that is likely to boost your self-esteem or atleast give you some extra confidence. (But don't hastily get one of these treatments, consult your doctor, and do alot of research and thinking).

__________________________________________________

Stretch marks are on most people- thick, thin, short, tall, fat, skinny, old, young, black, white, female, male... don't feel alone. Women, believe it or not but most men surprisingly don't even care, they'll still think you're sexy... and men if you have bulging biceps who cares about a few stretch marks... but if you want to treat them, the above methods will work.

Stretch mark cremes? Yeah, these usually don't work and if they do it's usually for new stretch marks, not for old one's that you've had for a year or longer. Generally speaking do NOT waste your money on these cremes, unless you have extra money to spend and you have new stretch marks and you have fair skin.

How long will this take me? Be patient! Give yourself a month... stop your complaining, time flies. If you've been living with stretch make for years, whats a few weeks to see progress and a few months to see them vanish away.

Get in a routine, oil your skin and massage the oil into your stretch marks TWICE a day for atleast 4 weeks... drink lots of water, eat healthier portions, more green veggies, more juicy fruits, and lean proteins... exercise daily (atleast jog in place for 5 minutes, do a 25 situps, a few lunges/squats, and 5 push-ups), lol... stay positive and you'll see perfection.

FEEL FREE TO GIVE YOUR STRETCH MARK REMOVAL ADVICE BELOW.

Dominican Republic Salon In Your Area : Salon Reviews

2009-03-17T04:05:00.008-04:00

These are some of the reviews I've found about Dominican Salons. At the end of the post there's a link to a site that will find dominican salons in your area.

Dominican supermodel, Arlenis Sosa Peña

SALON REVIEWS

You mentioned you were looking for a Dominican shop in the Atlanta area. My daughter goes to Charisma Hair Salon in Gwinnett County. The number is 678-924-7660. She comes home from college just to get her hair done there. She had tried a shop where it was a little closer to home and cheaper but her hair began to fall out and she returned to Charisma. She has thick hair that comes down to the middle of her back. I don't like going to sit all day in a hair dresser and do mine myself. However if you hear of a Dominican shop close to the Decatur area please let me know.

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If you're in manhattan, go up to washington heights and inwood. the dominicans are everywhere there.

If you're in brooklyn, there's a few spots on flatbush ave right below empire (b or q train to prospect park).

If you're not near either of those places, try your nearest spanish neighborhood.

Also, the shops in brooklyn are in the 15-20 range, cheaper if you go early in the week.

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I saw your post and I live in Charlotte (North Carolina) too. I found that there are 3 Dominican Salons in Charlotte. One on Independence Blvd and two on North Tryon. There's Kiri's Unisex Salon at 4401 E Independence Blvd, Mercedes Dominican Hair Salon at 4409 N Tryon, and Carmens Dominican Hair Salon at 3720 N Tryon. I hope this helps you out. I'm moving to NYC could you tell me of some shops in the city that I can try. A good nail salon too. I'll even drive to a different borrough! lol You, know how we women are about our "look"...lol.

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Hey I live in Savannah, GA there is a good one in Jacksonville, FL if you dont mind the drive. Personally I dont mind because I'm there every other weekend anyway cuz my boyfriend goes to UNF. its called Chisam and the prices are reasonable.

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If you are in Philly (Philadephia) check out Dominican Beauty Hair Salon at 8th and Lehigh Streets. The owner speaks english and a few of the younger girls speak it as well. Everyone in the Salon does hair well so you won't be disappointed.

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Bronx, NY
I've been natural for almost five years now come December. The name of the Salon is Mirror & Images of Broadway (Ask for Chauney) for an appt. and directions you can call @ 718-601-8378. Their closed on Sunday and Monday.

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For More Salon Locations and Reviews visit:

http://www.dominicanhaircare.com/salons/

The Dominicans: Growing Your Hair One Garlic Treatment at a Time

2009-03-17T02:32:00.011-04:00

There's a growing phenomenon in this country and it's all centered around beauticians that hail from the Dominican Republic. I found myself on this site and before I knew it I was reading all the comments. It seemed that people were having a debate.

American Black Hair Stylist -VS- Dominican Hairstylist.

At first the Dominicans were winning then a few American black hairstylist showed up and they begin to win, then more women sided with the Dominicans and it just kept going back and forth.

Before I give my opinion on the whole thing let's just state this:

1. Many if not all women from the Dominican Republic have african heritage and many of them would be and are technically considered black. Though I hear that "indian" is what blacks are called in the Dominican Republic... long story short like most countries blacks were taught to hate themselves, hate curly hair, hate dark skin... and in this country in particular they began to just call Dominicans of a darker hue "Indian"... quick history lesson, but I digress. I just say all that to say when black Americans want to discredit black women who for patronizing their Dominican hairstylist and call them "sell-outs" you're horribly wrong. They are actually supporting black women... so get off your high horses.

I have heard about this phenomenon many times, first from friends in Atlanta, then when I visited to New York. People would always say, "I'm going to go to the Dominicans", and they would say it in a tone that made it sound like gossip... very interesting. I have never gone to a Dominican Salon before, but after the high praise I hear about them, I think I may (just maybe)

famed actress, Zoe Saldana is of Dominican descent

This is what seems to be going on, Dominican women are:

1. able to grow American black hair at a consistent and speedy rate
2. they have great prices, usually half your average american black salon
3. they have great service- they're polite
4. they are speedy- no waiting around for hours upon end.

This is looking pretty good to me, and the fact that women are SWEARING by them makes me believe the hype. I've read stories of women who have gone to atleast 10 different hairstylist in their life, then around the age of 40 they go to a Dominican and they have the best service and BEST HAIR they've had in their entire lifetime. I mean c'mon, that's pretty special right. (But I've also heard the COMPLETE opposite).

I just feel like to each it's on, if you want to go to those salons- GO and try it firsthand, and don't be fearful of not supporting your own because you are. I'm telling you black people need to stick together worldwide, but especially on this side of the globe- there are are blacks all throughout South America and Latin America and the Caribbean and we all struggled and still struggle the same way- so a black in Brazil is no different than one in The United States except that she speaks a different language.

And If you want to only patronize American black salons that is fine as well. But I feel like we should all just learn from each other and try to just run the best businesses that we can. And don't be fearful about helping a "dominican" business rise because most likely, when they succeed they'll get categorized as "black" anyway.

__________________________________________

Here's a view interesting comments from the unofficial dominican vs american blacks debate:

From: Arielle
For those of you that need a salon and practically an architect for your hair I say cool, do you. for those of us who have "straight hair", try this-- limit how often you get a relaxer this may not be feasible for some, but one of my best friends only gets relaxers 3 times a year. she washes and blows it dry herself, other times she goes to the dominicans. She also eats cucumber like its going out of style. Her hair is thick and beautiful. And all of the dominicans I go to do not "mix up" some crap in the back room-- they use brand name relaxers on my head.Motions, Optimum, etc. The only thing that they may mix up is that garlic treatment, which smells pretty damn good if your're hungry. In Brooklyn, I pay 30$ for a relaxer Mon - Wed, 10$ for a wash and set tose days too. The rest of the week is 12$ for a wash and set,35-40$ for a touch Up. 5$ for a deep or leave in conditioner. Browse the beauty supply stores and get your own stuff. Before I go to get my hair done,whether I get a relaxer or wash& set, I put conditioner on my hair the day before, this works well if Im also low on cash and I can save that 5$ -10 $ on that deep condition. Get the avocado or garlic conditioner from the beauty supply stores. If they dont have it in your beauty supply stores if you ever visit NYC check out ours, especially down town bklyn or the hood-- crown heights, bed-stuy,etc. And also, your hair gets blown to death when YOU request it. Some times you can find the good conditioners even in the 99 cent store. I ain't lyin!! (LOL) when black hair stylists stop putting a freakin bucket of setting lotion on my hair and stop charging a arm and a ass, then maybe Ill go back to them. But until then,I will remain loyal to my Dominican sisters. Lets all join hands and sing the Dominican national anthem, shall we? (LOL LOL)

From: Tanisha
Since I've been going to Dominican salon my hair is growing like grass. In the two years I've been going my hair is down past my bra strap from a very short haircut. I get it deep condition once month and get a dubie twice a month. I get my hair relax every eight weeks. I have nothing but good things to say about Dominican Hair stylist. Plus their prices are much cheaper than a Black owned salon and I don't have to wait all day to get my hair done while the operators are running their mouths about nothing.

From: Alice
I am a 55 years old black female women who have had too many hair stylist. I recently left yet another black hair salon, who only interest is to continue to put a bandaid on the problems that I am having with my hair by weaving. My hair has been falling out in the front for a couple of years. I went to a dermatologist to see what the problem was but none of the test gave any conclusion to my problems. Our hair stylist are clueless as to how to help you in this situation. Their only answer is to braid or weave your hair,they seem only interested in the money being made and not the person. This has been a very difficult situation for me a womens hair is her crown and glory. I met a dominican hair stylist at the clinic where I work. After seeing me she told me about a product that she uses and brought the product to my office. She asked me to come to her salon she felt that she can grow my hair back. My hair is growing. I notice that all the women in the salon hair is very health looking. I have never seen hair that look like that at the black hair salons. The prices at the black salons are too high, and the service is poor. I agree that they keep you waiting too long, they are rude and have bad attitudes. I have not met a one that goes for continue education class for their craft. I will continue to go too the domincan salon for the great hair care and prices. These prices allows me to go for the weekly treatments that I badly need. The only problem with the domincan salons are many of them cannot speak english very well which sometimes can be a problem.

From: Mary
As for the dominican stylists, yes personally i like that look however too much heat will damage the hair over time. I have seen temporary alopecia on someone from the results of visiting the dominican salons.

From: Rod Horton
To start off... I'm a black hairstylist in NYC. I started my career in the south, GA. I can only speak from my experience in dealing with clients. When I worked in ATL... women were very serious about their hair and hair care. I found it to be a challenging when moving to New York working in black hair care. I notice in black women that would come to me alot of breakage around the hairline and strands of hair that looked damaged. After asking them the history of their hair and finding out they frequent the Dominican Salons, it led me to believe through the process of over "frying" the hair with the blowout and roundbrushing...the hair shafts were being stripped of it's layers and breaking. Most clients don't understand the make up of hair. The cuticle layer of the hair becomes damaged with the strong heat that is used in their process which causes the hair to then split. If you pay close attention to clients that frequent those types of salon...the hair tends to be very thin on the ends. Though it's long... it's not that healthy. Dominican salons could work for some but it's not for ALL! Know your hair and choose wisely on what works best for your haircare.

To add... not every black stylist keep clients waiting. My clients are taken on time at their giving appointment and out within 45 to 60min for a quick wash&style.

From: Portia

I don't know about the not being licensed part - BUT I can definitely believe it! Just as I can believe that their products are homemade and re-mixed (in fact one blogger (who was dominican herself) just told us that they have been making their own perm before Revlon even existed (let's ask ourselves what's in it)...

I went to a Dominican salon in Marietta, GA and I can AGREE that in the beginning the results were AMAZING... I went in with all natural below the shoulder hair- that took me 3 years to grow out after cutting my permed hair off and wearing a short natural. The purpose of me going natural was to have FULL hair and to be able to wash and wear in a beautiful natural style AND to be able to press from time to time for a straight look. 2-4 months later my natural hair was a WICKED MESS!!!!! I didn't realize it until I tried to wash it myself and NO CURLS would come back!!!!! It was LIMP and did not do a thing!!!!! I had about 4 stylists try to assess what caused my damage - no one can figure it out- some say they SNUCK a perm in my hair (people say they have liquid perms in the "deep conditioners" to straighten the hair without sitting you in the "perm chair" so that you are still thinking that our hair is natural)... others say its from the EXTREME heat + bristel round brush that the use. All I know is that I am PISSED- that was 3 years of hard work and MANY bad hair days gone to waste!

I have heard other Atlanta women talk about haw much damage their hair has suffered after being with the Dominicans after a couple of months. A girlfriend in NY never has complained about the Dominicans (maybe they are better up there, or maybe since she had a perm, she doesn't notice the damage... I don't know...)

What I do know is that I will NEVER go to a Dominican salon again! I will seek out a stylist who values my time, has reasonable fees and knows haw to do natural hair the HEALTHY way so that the natural curl STAYS for those wash and wear days!!!!!

From: Kacie

THERE IS A WEBSITE CALLED: WWW.IBEAUTYNY.COM. I USED CINAMON AND SOLE OR KUZ THAT'S WHAT A LOT OF DOMINCANS USE..ALSO SALEM 21..

My Conclusion: The dominican hair salons work great for some women and very very bad for others... so you should really think about it when deciding to try one of their salons...

So what do you think about Dominican Salons? What are your experiences? Please share?

Product of the Day: Dr.Miracles Temple & Nape Gro Balm

2009-03-15T16:16:00.005-04:00

The temples and the nape of the hair are the most fragile and tend to break the easiest, according to celebrity hairstylist Eugene Smith. “I like this product ($7.99, walgreens.com) because it specifically targets those areas.

Excellent for relaxed, braided, weaved or natural hair, it has a “feel” formula tingling sensation that stimulates blood flow to the scalp in the temple and nape area that continues to work even after you stop feeling it.

I'm going to the go to the store and purchase this, so I'll let you know how its coming along...

via: Essence

The Natural Weave: Tips on How to Blend Weave into Your Natural Hair

2009-03-15T15:37:00.003-04:00

Don't you hate when you see someone who's obviously wearing a weave. When I see this, I ask myself , "what's the point of wearing a weave if you can tell its a weave." mind-boggling right.

Well here's a few tips you should abide by to make sure your weave has the most natural look:

1.) buy hair that matches your hair texture and color. the average women of color should usually choose "perm yaky" hair- this hair matches your permed hair texture. If you have fine hair, then it's okay to choose "yaky" hair, but perm yaky or a mixture of both is best.

2.) unless your hair is all pulled back (meaning your forehead is showing), it's important to have a bit of scalp showing. Meaning that you should have a part in you hair- it can be down the middle or on the side... either way, having a part in your hair helps it to look natural.

When superstar Rihanna wears a weave it always looks natural. Notice how she has part down the "side/middle", then the hair around the part covers her extensions that help gives her symmetrci bob length.

3. Treat your weave like its you hair, meaning don't forget to wash your hair every week or two. Take care of it. make sure you spray oil sheen in every morning. Especially take care of you natural hair that is left out- moisturize your edges and use a silk scarf. Having a weave doesn't make your hair invincible - you still MUST take care of it!

5. Wear hairstyles that look good on you and compliment your facial structure.

6. Don't wear your weave longer than 2 months. 3 months if its a really good weave. Your natural hair needs to and must breath:-)

7. Don't let people touch your hair and when people ask if its real reply "how rude". Then change the subject... if they're asking it must look real enough... you shouldn't hide it or be ashamed, but it's so stupid for people to ask. If you don't want to say "how rude", then say something like "does is matter, GOSH!"... then look really annoyed, lol.

Feel free to add more tips below.

PRETTY FEET: How To Get Beautiful Soft Feet Over Night

2009-03-15T11:13:00.004-04:00

There's nothing worse than laying with your partner and getting scratched by their feet. It's important for both men and women to have smooth soft pretty feet.

Here's the quickest, most effective, easiest, cheapest way to get soft feet.

What you need:
- old thick socks (with no holes)
- shea butter, cocoa butter, or vaseline

Directions on how to get soft feet: Every night before you go to bed thoroughly moisturize your feet with cocoa butter , shea butter, or vaseline. Put on the socks. Go to sleep and wake up with softer smoother feet.

Why this works? Cocoa butter, shea butter, and vaseline are all products that naturally heal and soften your feet. By placing these products on your feet at night you allow them to soak in and efficiently work.

Black Hair, Skin, Health and More

2009-02-24T05:02:00.002-05:00

The best blog for black hair, skin, health

Moisturizers For Black Men

2009-02-24T04:22:00.003-05:00

I must say- black men do have the perfect online source for grooming... The Urban Gentleman. The discovery of this blog will make my postings for black male products alot easier. I'll pull from there often and I'll also have many of my own. The first article I'm pulling is on moisturizers. It's very important for men to moisturize, check this list of top male moisturizing products:

1. California North Action Moisturizer
Award winning and can be used for your face and body. Official world triathlon skin care product.
buy: californianorth.com

2. Double Duty Face Moisturizer
Designed to hydrate the skin without leaving the skin oily. Suncreen and moisturizer in one.
buy: sephora.com

3. Men-U Ultra Concentrate Facial Moisturizer Lift
Skin refresher that will give your face a noticeable lift (you'll feel it).
buy: amazon.com

4. African Male Ikhala Moisturizer
Dual-purpose facial moisturizer and post-shave balm.
buy: treasuredlocks.com

What are your favorite moisturizers?

Palmers Products Prove to be the BEST for Brown Skin

2009-02-24T03:45:00.006-05:00

This post doesn't have to be long... simply put Palmers is the best. Whenever someone wants to know what product to use to have silky smooth skin- I say Palmers.

Palmers has a complete range of products- lotions, oils, soaps, and more. Feel free to purchase them all, but I would suggest atleast owning these Palmers Products:

1. Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula Jar
(This should be used nightly- moisturize your body from head to toe with this each night before you go to bed.

2. Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula Moisturizing Body Oil
(This is vital for an extremely smooth, silky body. Use this in the shower after you use your bodywash. Basically do everything you usually do in the shower, then use this at the end. Rub it in all over your body and barely wash it off in the shower. Then once you get out the shower pat yourself dry).

3. Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula Lotion
(This should be your daily lotion)

4. Palmer's Shea Butter Formula Jar
(Shea butter is what one should use if they want soft skin- shea butter promotes softness and gives you almost baby like skin).

I definitely recommend using Palmers Cooca Butter and Shea Butter Formulas.

*The American Parlor, does NOT however, recommend any Palmers Skin "Success" products... we do not recommend any products that would take away or dehance or un-enhance the beauty of dark skin. Dark brown skin is beauty at its purest form- we must protect it.

What are your favorite Palmers Products?

Secrets To Growing Black Hair

2009-02-24T02:24:00.014-05:00

The key to growing black hair is not a secret... it's more so common sense. It takes patience and routine.

Here are the basics when wanting to grow long hair:

1. Less Heat
(or no heat, put the curling irons down, and wrap your hair more)

2. Less Chemicals
(completely loose the gels and spritz or only use in moderation)

3. Silk Scarf and Pillows (avoid your hair drying out, you must use silk scarves)

4. Nightly Moisturizing Routine
(it's important to moisturize your hair every night, so that your hair will be nurtured as you sleep)

5. Nutrients/Vitamins- Eating Healthy
(what you eat affects yours hair, eat alot foods with Vitamin E or consider a hair and nail vitamin)

6. No Stress
(stress is a big factor in hair loss, avoid stress and relax as much as possible, exercise is also a good way to combat stress. At the least try the Dr. Oz/Oprah daily deep-breathing exercises- simply close your eyes and slowly breath in and out, do about 3 sets of 10).

7. Water
(you MUST drink water... this is very important when on the quest for naturally long hair).

8. Weekly to bi-monthly shampoos and conditioning
(daily will dry out your hair and going for over a 2 weeks may cause your hair damage because of the dirt and chemicals in the air that will get in your hair).

Those are all the must- dos for everyone... no matter your hair texture. Now, you have to figure out what product is best for you- here's a LIST of the best products. Check out the list and make your decision. For some, finding the right product is trial and error and for others it will be easy. I would suggest finding out what hair products that people in your family with long hair use. I would also just ask around.

I must be honest and say that unfortunately your average african-american hairstylist is not going to particularly know what is the best product for you to use. I say that because many simply just use what they hear is the best products overall- and usually those are products that are designed for whites/european-americans. And others simply don't educate themselves (this is true for many average stylist in general-black or white), they worry more about the end result than the complete process.

I say all that to say don't particularly expect to receive the best advice, I suggest doing your own research and put thought into choosing products. If you still have no idea I would personally suggest starting with: patene pro-v relaxed and natural shampoos, mizani moisturizers, and dr.miracles foams and oils. But really you should check the products from this list out.

I must stress that this takes time- hair does NOT grow 5 inches over night... I know that you're anxious. But just relax- you may have to go through a few months with your hair in simple hairstyles (hanging down and pulled back), but its worth it if you want that long hair. The modern way to grow out your hair includes getting a weave.... I'll talk about that in the next article. And the less you think about your hair growing, the sooner you'll see the results. Meaning that you should set your mind on it, but don't stress over it- time flies! So you've been living with short hair for years, what's a few months... your hair will and CAN grow- you just have to take the necessary steps and make sure your hair is HEALTHY over all else... before you know it your barely shoulder length hair will be down your back:-)

Please share your tips to growing long hair...

UPDATE (6/21/2009):
It seems that african-american women with the strongest and longest hair- wash their hair every week. And many do it it twice a week... and some, even 3x a week (when they're 6 weeks post perm). Your hair must be clean to grow and it must be healthy.

More tips: Its important to deep condition- with a protein conditioner and a moisturizing conditioner. Switch between the two each week. Also a good leave-in conditioner is a must, as is air-drying your hair.

The Long Black Hair: Why Some Women Want it SOOOOO Bad

2009-02-23T18:15:00.004-05:00

Let's be totally honest about it, a fair amount of black women have desired long hair (especially /mainly in the past)... why?

1. Slavery- many blacks were taught to hate themselves and that they should want to be as white as possible meaning to have very light skin and very long hair.

2. Black Men- black men still suffer from alot of the self-hate slavery imposed. Many men are OBSESSED with their woman having long hair and many insist that it be "real". Videos and rappers have only poisoned our african-american children more- all the southern rappers- T.I, Ludacris, Jeezy, Lil Wayne, Young Juc, and even our beloved Outkast insist that long hair is the answer (judging by their lyrics, videos, and girlfriends). And the rap moguls- Diddy and Russell Simmons also further impose this on black women.... at the end of the day its sad.... very sad.

These are the two main reasons. Thank God that this has changed a good amount- thanks to India Arie and "I am not my hair"- she REVOLUTIONIZED the world with that song, she is truly a blessing--- with her the natural hair movement began :-) (Especially to many women of all races and backgrounds suffering from cancer ) And also thanks to fashion-forward celebrities like Kelis and Rihanna. These two women have made black men realize that short hair is sexy even if you aren't Halle Berry, lol.

And now, naturally long hair isn't the top priority for all black men- thank God! But many black women still desire it (as a personal preference) and that's okay... all styles are beautiful.

*please note that many many people of color (black women) have naturally long hair, and no I'm not talking about African-Americans who have been mixed because of slavery. Many Africans have long hair, examples include Ethiopians and Eritreans just to name a few. And these people have had long hair since the beginning of time. You will also find many women from islands like the Dominican Republic with long hair (often dark skin with long black hair)... so people of color do naturally have black hair, but it just depends on your ancestors country of origin (NOT continent of origin).

List of the Best Products for African American Hair

2009-02-23T17:18:00.009-05:00

My sisters and I have used a lot of different products over the years, we've had a few different hair beauticians and they were all good at what they did. I also have a whole host of friends who have great hair and they use great products (not that this matterspersay, but they come from well to do families and are able to spend alot getting their hair done every week or 2).So with my experience I feel like I am accurately able to name the best products for women of color:

This list is in NO particular order. The best product for you totally depends on your hair type. After I name the best, then I 'll give you my general preferences and recommendations.

1. Mizani

2. Patene Pro-V Relaxed and Natural

3. Nairobi

4. KeraCare

5. Dr. Miracles

6. Organic Root Stimulator

7. Design Essentials

9. Essations

10. Jane Carter Solutions

11. Elasta QP

12. Nexus

Others: Straight Request (Silky Milk), Redken, Designer Touch, Dudley's, Bronner Brothers, Nioxin

If you check with any great hairstylist, they will agree that these are the best mainstream hair products hands down.

My personal recommendation is to use the products that are infused with more natural minerals oppose to the products that are chemical heavy--- but again it just depends on your hair.

For example, I swear by Mizani because it had truly nurtured my hair, but my sister and aunt use Keracare. I personally don't recommend Keracare as a whole because it had done more damage to my hair than good... but that's just because alot of their products are just so strong. There perm is too strong and the fact that they have shampoos and conditioners that are the color blue makes me realize that I should have never used them (in retrospect). Because a light blue opaque shampoo is completely unnatural... its reminiscent of a perscription shampoo and I beleive should only be used if you have severely dry and itchy scalp. But with that said Keracare does have great products- their glossifier and leave-in conditioner are really good!

I also believe every woman of color should implement Patene Pro-V Relaxed and Natural into their hair maintenance routines. Though seemingly too mainstream and perhaps not as high-end, Patene Pro-V is one of the best haircare systems for every woman (white, black, or and mix) and almost every celebrity hair stylist will recommend patene as an alternative to their self-named brands... it really is that good.

Nairobi is a product that I have not personally used, but want to. Why, you may ask.... well because during college every once in a while I would meet a woman whose hair was just so pretty and healthy looking and black that I would have to ask them what they use... and Nairobi was always the answer. So I feel like they have a good product- I've seen and touched the hair of Nairobi product users and I'll have to give them two thumbs up.

At a certain point during high school, I was adamant about my hair growing. So I stopped using gels, spritz, and alot of heat and I began to wrap my hair each night and nurture it. During my "nurturing" I would lightly "grease" my hair each night with my product of choice- at first Keracare, but I felt the clear Glossifier was lacking nutrients and the clearish pink Dry and Itchy Scalp moisturizer was too strong. Then I began to use Mizani's Rose H20 in conjunction with their Overnight Treatment- this worked well. But I felt like my hair became the most thick and was the strongest when I used Organic Root Stimulator Carrot Oil in conjunction with the Mizani products every now and again.

The Dr. Miracles commercials are funny and entertaining, but in my opinion that made the brand seem like a gimmik... I never desired to use it because I simply didn't belive the hype. But, my mother proved me wrong. She cut her hair to right below her ears (mid-neck) and a few months later her hair was to her back... her secret- using Dr. Miracles Stimulating Moisterizing Gro Oil every or every other night (and tying her hair with a silk scarf). Now the Gro Oil does have a strong smell and it's very liquidy, so not all people may be moved to use it.... but it works. I use it every time I get cornrolls and it keeps my edges straight and my hair looking and feeling healthy. Because this is an oil, if you are wearing your hair straight you should NOT saturate your scalp with it, just very lightly dab a little on parts of your scalp and edges (only do this a few times a week).

Each of us have our own experiences with hair products, feel free to share yours- and be as specific as you can:-) What are your top hair care products and why?

Black Men's Hair Cut Pictures

2009-02-22T18:36:00.004-05:00

It's hard to find pictures of male black hairstyles and haircuts... its really hard. But... NOT anymore, lol. This is the most organized and most comprehensive post/list and pictures of black men's hair cuts. So enjoy and feel free to email me more pictures of haircuts, just make sure they're clear.

These pictures include a variety of black men hair styles...

courtesy of menshairstyles.net

What are your favorite hairstyles for black men?

Get Waves and Crimps for Black Women

2009-02-22T17:07:00.004-05:00

If you want to spice things up, why not add waves to your natural? Roller-set hair with medium and small rollers using a setting lotion such as Jane Carter Solution Wrap & Roll ($9, janecartersolution.com). Once dry, release curls, brush them out and comb front portion of hair up and over to either side to create waves. Stephen keeps this look funky by using a middle part.

Get big romantic hair with Ellin Lavar Textures Therm Mist Hot-Tool Styling with Maximum Heat Protection to avoid damage

Small, soft crimps are the perfect alternative. For this look, Stephen crimped small sections of hair from root to tips with a small crimping iron like Bed Head Professional Tourmaline Nano-Ceramic Dual Waver ($50, target.com). When creating this style at home, Stephen suggests you stay away from using any hard holding sprays. Whether your hair is long or short, this is a style that needs to move and have body, she says. Anything too stiff will look hard, and that’s the look you definitely don’t want.

For this look:

Motions At Home Shine Enhancing Pomade for hold.

essence.com

Fashionable and Trendy Celebrity Hair Cuts: Rihanna, Victoria Beckham, Estelle, and More.

2009-02-22T16:09:00.005-05:00

I searched the web far and wide and I have created the best, most comprehensive collection of chic, trendy, and fashionable hairstyles.

Featuring all the chicest celebrities: Rihanna, Victoria Beckham, Katie Holmes Cruise, Keri Hilson, Cheri Dennis, Paris Hilton, Santogold, Naomi Campbell, Eva Longoria, Estelle, Iman, Jennifer Hudson, and Ciara.

This is the perfect hairstyle collection to peruse through if you're thinking about cutting your hair or if you really want a chic new hairstyle.

And the best thing about these 60 pictures is that they feature women of different backgrounds, with different complexions, different face shapes, different eye colors, and hair colors. So almost any woman should be able to get an idea of how a chic cut will look on her. These are also the perfect hairstyles to print out and bring in to your hairstylist to mimic. To enlarge the pictures just click on them. Have Fun!

-The American Parlor Staff

This is the original Vidal Sassoon bob created in the 1960s.
This is the cut that started it all.

SO which are your favorites?

Beautiful Wrapped Hair & Buns

2009-02-22T15:19:00.002-05:00

Check out these beautiful hair styles, just downright gorgeous buns.
These would be great hairstyles for special occasions. Simply perfect.
(from Essence and Miki Taylor)

Airy fringes have their place, but nothing is more stunning than a brow-grazing bang, especially when paired with an asymmetrical wrap. Here Yusef placed a shortie fall (with a comb attachment) at an angle and secured it with hairpins. The model�s own hair was parted at the crown and swept over the fall. He tucked the ends under and secured them, then bumped the bang with a large iron, curving it toward the wrap.

BEAUTY BONUS:
Make eyes shine by night with upper and lower lashes. To try: shu uemura Partial Soft Cross ($15) and Smoky Layers lashes ($25, shuuemura-usa.com).

When night falls, swap a simple knot for a grown and sexy bun. To create this look, hairstylist Yusef of the Paul Labrecque Salon & Spa in New York City used human hair over a filler (available at beauty supply stores) to create this dramatic swirled do. He pulled the model’s own hair into a ponytail and wrapped it into a knot. Then, attaching the add-on hair, he wrapped hair over and around the knot and pinned it into place.

This double-knotted do plays on volume and proportion. The topknot is rolled and then wrapped horizontally, while the nape knot is coiled and wrapped vertically. To achieve, Yusef parted the hair ear to ear and used add-ons to form two ponytails. The knots were then formed and pinned into place.

BEAUTY BONUS:
Contrasting a smoky eye with a nude semimatte lip is the most modern approach to evening chic. To try: MAC Cosmetics Mattene Lipstick in Cafe Matte ($14.50, MAC locations nationwide)

The classic beehive goes airborne with double-wrapped braids. To achieve, pull hair into a ponytail, fan out to form a large bun, then roll hair under and secure with pins. Next create two individual braids, using synthetic or human hair extensions, wrapping each around the base of the bun and pinning into place.

BEAUTY BONUS:
Nail your look with OPI Nail Lacquer in Give Me the Moon! ($7.50, JCPenney stores), a cool gray iridescent reminiscent of the swinging sixties.

Fast-forward the classic French roll by wrapping it off-center. For a glam-slam effect, top it off with a directional side part and a pompadour, as Yusef did here.

BEAUTY BONUS:
Shorter, thicker brows are in, in, in. Create the look with MK Signature Brow Definer Pencil in Soft Black ($10, marykay.com).

Natural Hair Styles For Black Women

2009-02-22T15:05:00.002-05:00

What are your favorite natural hair styles?

Short Hair Styles For Black Women

2009-02-22T14:34:00.002-05:00

These are cute short hair styles- classic and modern, what do you think?

2009 Black Hair Style Trends

2009-02-22T14:05:00.003-05:00

These are some of the trendy black hairstyles for 2009. What do you think?

Introducing The American Parlor: Black Skincare, Haircare, and more.

2009-02-22T13:27:00.004-05:00

But seriously though what's up with the lack of comprehensive resources for people of color- as far as hair and skin care go. Yeah we have a few magazines, but they don't have matching websites... so we're left surfing the net and ending up at dead end sites -OR- we have to trifle through a ton of Caucasian/European-American sites to find limited information on the best products for brown skin and curly hair. BUT no more- The American Parlor is the answer to your prayers. And hopefully this will become your go to website... more than anything I just want to build a community here for us to share our stories so that we can be an even more beautiful people.

I am one of a family of ten and we definitely had our trials and tribulations when it came to hair and skin care- 4 men and 6 women.... so I feel like an unofficial expert on this topic. I'll share some of my stories and stories of friends and families.

Welcome to The American Parlor, kick off your shoes, relax, and enjoy yourself!

A New Blog

2009-02-21T13:20:00.000-05:00

Testing Testing