Straightening Your Natural Hair the Right Way

   So many naturals are afraid to straighten their hair with thermal irons.  I know it can be extremely challenging and intimidating.  For most the fear comes from believing their hair cannot be reverted back to their natural curl/kinky pattern.  When that occurs it is because the hair has been heat damaged.  There is no way to revive that hair than to cut it off.  The bonds are broken down in the hair shaft causing it to appear as if you have chemically relaxed your hair even when you wet it.  Here are some key points that you need to consider when straightening your natural mane.

1. Always use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner.  Clean moisture-balanced hair is the key to healthy hair.       

   

   "Motions" for natural hair. Shampoo,
   Conditioner, Hair masque (deep treatment)

2. Use a deep conditioning and protein treatment to strengthen and moisturize your hair strands before getting it straightened. 
3. Always use a heat protectant and leave-in conditioner on your wet strands prior to blow drying.
4. When blowdrying try to use to warmest setting on the blowdryer.  That will make your shaft's cuticles lay down and it will be easier to flatiron.
5. Take the blowdryer and dry your roots first, it makes the process easier.
6. Purchase a ceramic flatiron, I use the BabyBliss and I love it!
7. Use a heat protectant prior to flat ironing or curling your natural mane.
8. Section your hair off in four parts.
9. Do not flat iron your hair everyday. You will damage your hair.
10. Seek a licensed professional who is proficient in natural haircare.        

    

    It's a 10!
    (leave-in product that
    cuts down on drying time, heat protectant,
    gives a healthy shine, and more)

*About 97% of my clients are naturalistas. Here are some before and after pictures of them.  LIKE me on Facebook for more The Glamour BOX

Hair by me, Raina
All natural silk press!

Hair by me,  RaiNa
Deep conditioner, precision cut, wrap & curled with marcels.

Hair by me, Deep conditioner,  trim and silk press.

New Year, New Beauty Care Commandments: 2014

    Hi everyone and happy new year.  I am so excited about what 2014 has in store for The Glamour BOX.  This is the year that you promise yourself and work on taking better care of your overall health, skin, hair and nails. Up the volume on all things beauty.  Remember that it starts from the inside.  Here is a list that I compiled before the end of 2013 to guide you along the way.  Feel free to add to it as you please.

Beauty Routine Commandments:

• Thou shalt commit to a skincare regimen 7 days a week and incorporate a skincare system into it.
• Thou shalt not pick thine blemishes (acne, blackheads, etc).  Consult a dermatologist for severe cases of them.
• Thou shalt use essential oils to moisturize your skin. Do not forget to apply it directly to damp skin after a shower for better absorption.
• Thou shalt commit to a nail salon at least once a month or a spa treatment (body massage, facial) at least every 3 months. Treat yourself, you deserve it.
• Thou shalt NOT use box color , perms or box relaxers and apply them at home.
• Thou shalt commit to a haircare regimen and seek professional counsel via a licensed cosmetologist with whom you are comfortable with. (trims/deep conditioning, etc)
• Thou shalt NOT purchase $10 hair to be installed.  You spend good money on the installment and purchasing cheap hair will be a waste of your money. Hair extensions are an INVESTMENT. You do want your hair to look right.
• Thou shalt consume salts and sugars sparingly as they have a direct effect on your skin and hair.  Too much can age you significantly.
• Thou shalt drink 8 glasses of 8 ounces of water daily.  Try lemon water, your skin and hair will be grateful.
• Thou shalt find time for SELF.  Workout, read a good book, turn off the electronics and unwind.        
  

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