Thinking of {GO}ing Natural?

When transitioning to fully natural so many questions & issues arise. How will I be perceived on the job or if going for a new position? Are men attracted to natural hair? What will my friends & family think? Will it look good on me? Do I want to do the "BIG CHOP"?

The truth is we are all influenced by society & those around us. Just about every kinky & curly head has asked themselves these same questions. And we all have different experiences with the results... but what I have found is that most are excited & have renewed confidence by the switch. They are embraced by a whole community that supports their decision & opened to a whole new world of wellness & education.

Stay tuned as we explore some of these issues in future post! Talk to us & tell us what questions or issues have arised for you while transitioning!

Click on the following link for some very helpful tips...SHOUT OUT to one of my fave youtubers: Rustic Beauty! This is her opinion & tips on transitioning:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JZFEvBtPZGQ&feature=email

Stay encouraged {GO} family!

To Color or Not to Color

If your anything like me, you change your hair every three seconds. So in considering something new, I'm sure hair color has crossed your mind.

So what affect do hair dyes have on our tresses and our health?

There are different kinds of hair dyes: Permanent, Demi-Permanent, Semi-Permanent, Gradual/Rinses & Temporary Dyes.

So what's the difference?

Chemical Ingredients...

Ammonia and hydrogen peroxide are the main ingredients that keeps the color bonded to the hair. They are able to seep inside the hair follicles, taking the color with them. That is how the color stays on the hair for longer periods of time. So depending on the "level" of dye used determines the amount of these chemical ingredients.

There has been some research to suggest that certain chemicals in hair dye can lead to certain cancers.

Temporary Dyes are the only dyes where there is no bonding of molecules. As a result it can be very messy.

Natural Alternative?

Henna is a great natural alternative! It comes from ground henna plants. Henna will condition and color the hair. As a conditioner, henna strengthens the hair, slightly loosens the curl pattern, helps to detangle and make hair more manageable and provides a natural and healthy sheen and shine to hair. Henna does not color hair like chemical dyes. It coats the hair shaft with a transparent red coloring. Not a cherry, bright red but a deep mahogany type red. As applications of henna are repeated, the color deepens. Henna does not and cannot lighten hair. On black and dark brown hair it will eventually become dark auburn to burgundy/black with red highlights in sunlight. A benefit to using this natural "dye" is that it will both condition and color your hair in a way that is both natural and safe.

WARNING: Be sure you have the real thing, some companies add chemicals to deepen the color. Most Indian stores carry the real, natural Henna. Always do a strand test before proceeding with your entire head!