Getting right for the new year



It's a new year, and many people have chosen to make new year resolutions such as; a better body, clothes, a better car, but what about better hair? You hair is a part of one's appearance, so why not make a resolution to have better hair? Here are a few tips to get you into gear.



1. Start off with a fresh trim

Dry and split ends can hinder the health of your hair. Getting rid of dry, split and ragged ends will not only make your hair look better, but it will rejuvenate the overall heath of your hair. It also makes detangling and styling easier.



2. Evaluate your beauty products.

Get rid of any hair products that contain the following; sulfates, parabens, petroleum oil, and mineral oil. Although some people claim that these products do not hurt the hair, they certainly don't help your hair! Getting rid of products such as these can save you from hair difficulties.



3. Invest in natural/organic and quality hair products.

Organic/Natural hair products can work wonders on the hair, this is natural/organic products focus upon nourishing the hair, not just styling it.

Quality products, such as professional salon brands are also help your hair become more manageable and achieve better results when styling your hair. Take the time and do some research to find out which products are best for you.

If you are on a budget, you can make your on home made products, there are many websites and books that contain recipes which can get you started.



4. Maintain the proper moisture and protein balance for your hair.

This takes practice and observation of your hair. Hair that does contain the proper balance can lead to breakage. Remember that hair that's too dry needs moisture, and hair that's too mushy, or easy to break needs moisture. Look for products that are specifically labeled "moisture" or "protein" to assist you in making and keeping this balance. Alternate between both moisture and protein is a good start.



5. Deep condition at least once a week.

This can make a world of difference in regards to hair health an style. Deep conditioning adds strength, suppleness, and overall beauty to the hair.



6. Take a multi vitamin.

Taking a multi vitamin will give your hair a much needed boost in the health of your hair. Taking a vitamin specifically for the growth and nourishment of your hair is recommended.

Adding Oil to your conditioner



If your hair has issues with dryness, dullness and tangles? A basic two-step procedure can help you nurse your hair back to health. How to do this you ask? Adding oil to your conditioner! Many conditioners contain small amounts of oil in their list of ingredients, but sometimes it's best to add your oil yourself in order to achieve the full benefits and effects that the natural oil has to offer such as these;

* adding strength
* detangle curls and knots
* adding shine
* locking in moisture
* adds softness

Quick Tip: Don't have time to deep condition? Adding oil to your rinse out conditioner uprgrades your conditioning session.

The simple steps are the following:

On wet hair:

1) After you have shampooed your hair, section your hair down the middle, (four sections for long and/or thick hair) and apply your conditioner as you do normally.

2) Then apply a layer of oil upon each condtioned section.

3) Comb through with either a detangling comb, or you fingers, let it sit for at least 2 minutes and rinse.

Note: To avoid greasy hair, use this conditioner/oil ratio :

If your hair is in 2 sections, start with  a quarter sized amount of oil to your hair.

If your hair is in 4 sections, start with a nickel sized amount of oil to your hair.


I do not recommend adding oil to the entire bottle of conditioner, because overtime, oil can go bad.


These simple steps will give your hair added strength and shine.

The tools you need to succeed

Curly hair is like no other hair type, for your to thrive they need the proper tools to lessen matting, tangles, and the like.  To achieve the best style and manageability, you must be equipped to build a proper foundation for your curls.  Would you try to build a building without the proper tools? Of course not ! So lets start from scratch and examine the tools you will need to mold the beautiful sculpture that is your curls!  Before you touch your hair, decide what tools you will use to on your hair.

Description from left to right:
The purple comb is a Conair shower comb, it's seamless meaning it contains no ridges which increases curl protection by preventing snags or split ends. This comb is best used when distributing conditioner throughout the hair. These combs are also budget-friendly, ranging between $2 -$3 dollars.

The brown comb is also a shower comb, and is designed especially for tangles. This comb works best for extreme tangles, knots, and matted hair. Accompanied with patience, care, and a ample amount of conditioner, this comb will assist you with your most stubborn tangles. It is also a budget-friendly choice starting at $3 dollars.

The black and red comb is called a Denman D3 styling brush. I am usually one to "just say no" to any brush of any kind, but the Denman is the ONLY and a repeat ONLY exception. This brush is a good detangling tool if used properly. Note: I only use this when my hair is SOAKING WET, due to prevent hair breakage. The price range of this brush starts at $10 or more depending where you purchase it.