So in the spirit of Valentine’s Day I decided to so a styling video for a “Date Look”. (I think I might potentially do a second styling option – depending on if I will have time to record and edit in time before V-day).
I am keeping it simple (as always) and quick. The style looks quite “chic” a little edgy and works as a protective style as well so overall I like it! I also kept my product use simple too (once again as always).
It is easier to watch a demonstration rather than read how I did the style:
Tip:for those with shorter hair, you can use braiding hair to do this style by adding it to the middle and bottom section, and twisting your hair together with it. I would recommend either doing a loose flat twist with the pompadour section go backwards or just making three sections, add braiding hair to all three and then make two – two strand twists within each sections. (You will need to watch the video so that this is clearer).
Tip:In case you don’t want to redo the style in the morning my suggestion is to take down the bobby pins (it is never a comfortable night with them in and not necessarily a good idea). Use a scarf to cover your hair, paying attention to your edges and side; for a smooth look in the morning and then just re-pin the twists down. You might need to “touch up” your edges with a soft bristle brush but other than that, it should be fine!
So here is my “final look”. Like I said, if I can I will do another styling option too and hopefully have it up before the 14th!
Whether you have a Valentine or not, are celebrating or not, I hope you manage to have a lovely day Maicurlies!
I am back (finally, I know I have been away) with another DIY. This recipe is for the scalp and is helpful for those of us that suffer from an itchy, dry, irritated, flaky scalp especially when rocking a Protective Style (PS).
While rocking a PS, it can become a little difficult to maintain a healthy scalp while still keeping the integrity of the PS and this mix will hopefully make it easier to keep your scalp clean and healthy while attending to scalp issues. You are of course still going to wash your hair/scalp as normal however whenever you experience itchiness, dryness, irritations etc you can reach for this without having to over wash your scalp to try and sooth the issue.
Note:This mix can be used on your scalp even if you hair is not in a PS but this post was intended to focus on maintaining a healthy scalp care during PS mode.
Ingredients/Tools
1 oz Fresh Aloe Vera Juice
0.2 oz Apple Cider Vinegar (natural/organic)
0.5 oz Plain Water
5 drops Peppermint Essential Oil (EO)*
3 capsules Vitamin E Oil
Spray Bottle
*If you are pregnant please do not use any EO and always consult with your doctor/dermatologist if you are trying something new.
NOTE: This mix is not for medicinal purposes, it is simply for informational purposes. ALWAYS consult with a professional doctor/dermatologist prior to integrating anything new to your routine!
Ingredient Benefits:
Aloe Vera Juice – a natural humectant that attracts moisture in the air to the area applied (the scalp). It is packed with essential vitamins and minerals that helps to reduce dry itchiness on the scalp, stimulates hair growth and is said to help with very mild cases of Alopecia. It balances and conditions both the scalp and roots leaving no traces of “product” build-up, has natural astringent properties to leave you with a clean scalp and aids in moisturizing dry hair.
Apple Cider Vinegar – has natural astringent properties, while diluted (e.g. with water & AVJ) it provides the scalp and hair (roots) with an optimal pH level and is also known for its ability to remove product build up. It helps to not only remove product but also helps to close the pores on the scalp while at the same time closing the cuticle of the hair which provides it with shine.
Peppermint Essential Oil – has astringent properties as well which helps to eliminate product build up and to remove sweat and dirt on the scalp. It helps stimulate blood circulation in the scalp which in turns helps to promote hair growth. The oil is known for combating dry irritated scalps which can help eliminate dandruff. Due to its stimulating properties (it will make your scalp feel fresh and tingly) this can help tackle the issue of itchiness while at the same time cleansing the scalp to eliminate the problem all together.
Vitamin E Oil – in this mix it can help extend the shelf life of the spray (but does not work as a preservative!). The oil is packed with antioxidants that helps to moisturize the scalp, keeps it healthy, less prone to dryness and thus aids in the growth of healthy hair as well. It allows the hair to grow soft, full of shine and suppleness and also can aid in slowing down the onset of premature greying. The oil is known to help generate new skin cells which allows your scalp to remain healthy and thanks to its moisturizing and healing properties this allows for quicker and healthier hair growth.
Water – need I say more? H2o is a naturals best friend since it is a vital source of moisture for both the scalp and hair!
Additional Options/Ratio Alternatives:
The purpose of this mix is to help keep a clean and healthy scalp therefore it is advisable to use ingredients that have cleansing and moisturizing properties while not clogging up the pores of your scalp. Along with the ingredients above you could also add some Rose Water to this mix e.g 0.2 oz of Rose Water for additional moisturizing elements, soothing effects and a wonderful scent! Tea Tree Essential Oil is an alternative EO that can be used in place of Peppermint.
Mixing Method:
Combine all the ingredients together in your spray bottle and make sure to shake well before applying.
Application:
There are two methods that I highly recommend when applying the mix instead of simply spraying onto your roots/scalp. Either spray some clean ear cleaners (unused!) and run them along your partings. The other option is cotton pads/buds which is my favorite.
Storage:
It is highly recommended to store this mix in the fridge for no more than 1 – 1.5 months maximum but constantly check to make sure there is no nasty fungus growing (you will be able to tell especially if you use a see through spray bottle). Keeping it in the fridge also means that it will have a soothing effect on the scalp and will help close the cuticles of your roots and the pores on your scalp!
I would love to hear what you think! If you use a scalp spray (or try this one) please do let me know, I love hearing from you!
Today’s post is all about my love for Argan Oil (Argania Spinosa) also known as Liquid Gold.
What is Argan Oil:
Argan oil native to Morocco, is an organic product that is extracted from the kernels (nuts) of argan trees. Due to its nourishing and nutritional benefits it was/is an extremely popular ingredient in many cosmetic products and nothing is better than using it in its natural pure form!
Where Can I Get it?:
You can pick argan oil from Pharmacies, some grocery stores, Vitamin Stores and of course Online. (My sister brought me two bottles of Liquid Gold directly from the source). From what my sister told me she picked up the bottle from a local women’s group who work argan tree farms to help supplement their household. When I heard that I loved the oil a little more (thank you sis)!
I have seen a number of hair care manufacturers that produce argan Oil however, I tend to say buy 100% natural pure oil versus something that claims to be argan oil but contains other ingredients as well (always check your labels). 9 times out of 10 a Brand Oil that is labeled with argan Oil but contains other oils usually means you are not really getting your monies worth! Having other oils in the bottle is not necessarily a bad thing but since it usually costs a bit of money to purchase anything with argan Oil on its label you want to know you are getting something out of the product. Many times companies that include a mix of oils also include other ingredients that you might not be aware of e.g. silicons (cones) and perhaps even the dreaded mineral oil/paraffinum liquidum. For some of us, cones are not a “bad” thing either however you need to keep in mind that cons are water insoluble which means, that you will need some kind of cleansing agent (e.g. shampoo) to get rid of them when you wash your hair in order to really remove product build up from products with cones in them. Cones do not penetrate the hair strands and do not contain any independent health benifits for the hair but what they are able to do is to provide shine, the feeling of softness and work as barriers- closing the cutilce of our hair which gives your hair a feeling of softness. It is the barrier effect that can sometimes cause issues for some of us. When it comes to paraffinum liquidum, I need to stress that I always suggest to stay away from products that includes paraffinum liquidum.
Benefits of Argan Oil For Hair:
Argan oil is known to make the hair soft, smooth and shiny. Thanks to the antioxidants and essential fatty acids present in the oil It also has the ability to condition the hair, reduce frizz and improve the overall health of the hair. The oil is not only ideal to lock in moisture (apply after you have moisturized your hair) but since it is able to penetrate the hair strands to its core, it is able to provide the hair with nourishing properties from the inside out. Those with a dry, itchy or irritated scalp can benefit from using argan oil since it is known to help sooth the scalp. This is also beneficial for those that suffer from dandruff as it is easily absorbed into the scalps pores, providing moisturizing elements to the skin (scalp) and boost new skin cell growth.
Benefits of Argan Oil For Skin:
The oil is packed with vitamin A & vitamin E which are known for their healing abilities along with a high fatty acid content. It also has anti-oxidants properties, filled with Omega-6 fatty acids and linoleic acid all of which help with inflammation and moisturizing the skin. The vitamin E in the oil helps to boost the regeneration of new skin cells which helps to provide you with a youthful skin that “glows”. Those suffering with acne might benefit from using the oil to help sooth the skin and heal blemishes. Argan oil can be used on your whole body (including your face) and since it is a non-greasy oil it quickly is absorbed into the skin. The application of the oil on your skin can help reduce the appearance of fine lines, light stretch marks, razor burns/bumps and can even be used to help soften dry and cracked heals, dry hands and brittle nails. Those that suffer from dry cracked lips (e.g. yours truly) can apply a drop of oil on your lips to help heal cracks, keep your lips soft, smooth, moisturized and conditioned.
How I Use Argan Oil:
Since the oil is not particularly cheap (and the two I got where gifts from Morocco) I use them sparingly and choose not to experiment with the oil or blend it in with some of my DIY mixes. Instead, I like to use it as a scalp massage oil in the morning or as part of the L.O.C method (liquid/leave-in, Oil, Cream) when I moisturize my hair. (I have details on the L.O.C methodhere). I am also using it for my skin as well as my super dry lips!
Do you use argan oil? If so, do you use it for your hair and/or skin? I would love to hear from you!
Today I wanted to share something that has become a “hair saver” (for me). My Hard Protein/Moisture Balancing Treatment.
This recipe has become part of my routine however, it is not something I do every week or even every month because as the name suggests it is a HARD protein treatment. Before I delve into the details of what I use, how I mix, how I apply etc. it is important to point out a few things.
This is an extremely hard protein treatment that should only be done once every 2 – 3 months (some might only want to do this 2 times a year).
I have been told that this feels/acts like the 2 step ApHogee Protein Treatment therefore if you have tired that before, keep in mind how often you have used it/how you hair felt afterwards. Do not do both this and ApHogee treatments since they work similarly and you might end up with protein overload!
It is vital to do a Moisturizing Deep Condition (DC) after. VITAL! Your hair will feel hard, brittle and almost straw-like (this is normal) however, it should not feel like that after you have done the Moisturizing DC. Without the moisturizing DC you will not have a protein/moisture balance and that will just result in breakage (not good)!
If your hair does still feel hard after your Moisturizing DC, do another DC again!
Ensure you have fully and properly detangled your hair before you apply the protein mix. Protein makes the hair hard (and this one does so extremely well) and if you haven’t detangled your hair beforehand you will only end up breaking hair in the spots where you have knots as you try to distribute the mix.
Work with freshly washed, clean and damp hair to remove any product buildup which will allow the protein to latch on and penetrate the hair strands (this is when you would detangled your hair).
Once the mix is on your hair DO NOT TOUCH YOUR HAIR!
Leave the mix on for no more than 15 minutes!
Some people like to use a drier/hooded drier after applying the protein to help dry the hair however, since I do not use any form on heat I do not suggest this step in my demonstration. (If you do decide to use heat, please ensure it is not set to high because you can cause damage).
Once the time is up use your shower head/faucet (warm water) to rinse your hair going in a downwards motion. After you let water run over your hair slowly use your finger tips to help ensure all of the protein has been rinsed out (gently). You can use conditioner after you rinse to make sure the protein is out.
ALWAYS DO A MOISTURIZING DC!!!!! (Sorry but I have to stress this part).
Ingredients/Tools Used:
7 oz Hot Water (I used bottled water)
0.24 oz Gelatine
0.5 oz Pure Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)
Applicator bottle
Bowl/container (to mix)
Spoon
Essential Oil (optional if you can’t stand the smell of ACV but the ACV smell will go away anyways after you rinse and DC your hair).
Mixing:
Sprinkle the gelatine over the water (while it is still hot) and stir to dissolve the gelatine. Add the ACV, stir again and pour into your applicator bottle. Allow the mix to completely cool down (if you plan to add EO add it after the mix has cooled down).
Application
While you are letting the mix cool wash and detangle your hair so it is free from products, this will allow the protein to attach and absorb into the hair strands easier. Section your hair into parts to make it easier to work with and pour the mix from root to tip, paying particualr attention to the ends since this is where breakge occurs most frequently. Distribute the mix by finger combing/wide tooth comb but be VERY CAREFUL since the protein will make your hair feel hard and can cause breakage if you are rough. (This is why it is important to make sure you have fully detangled your hair prior to application)! After you are done with one section LEAVE THAT PART ALONE, do not touch it anymore and move onto the next. Once you are done allow the mix to sit for no more than 15 minutes. Typically people like to use a drier/hooded drier while waiting for the 15 minutes however, I do not use heat and therefore do not take this step. If you do, please make sure that you do not bake your hair, you will see damage if you do!
After the 15 minutes using your shower head/facet let warm water run over your hair going in a downwards motion (do not use your fingers to manipulate) unitl you feel your have rinsed out the protein. Once you have rinsed with water alone then you can gently use your fingers to run over your hair to make sure it is protein free, you can use a little conditioner to help ensure all the protein is out. Follow up with a Moisturizing DC for no less than 1.5 hours and proceed with your styling. If you feel your hair still feels rough, dry, brittle you need to do another moisturizing DC to restore the protein/moisture balance!
This is my demonstration video:
If you try this mix I would love to hear what you think and if you have used ApHogee before I would love to hear if you think these two work similarly or not.
Every morning (practically every morning) I start my hair routine by doing a Scalp Massage.
Scalp Massages
Benefits of Scalp Massages:
In truth it has become one of my morning rituals. I love everything about scalp massages, the main reasons are:
When you massage your scalp you help stimulate hair growth because you are circulating blood flow to your scalp which helps your hair follicles.
Let’s face it massages feel awesome and are really relaxing. I smile throughout my massage and it just makes me start the day off on the right foot.
It helps to bring volume to your roots (my fine haired ladies will understand what I mean about this!)
It helps to bring your hair down after hours of being up and away for the night, especially if you do the pineapple method. I normally do a modified pineapple (cover my hair with a scarf minus the hair bubble if I haven’t re-twisted, Bantu knotted etc).
Since you are massaging your scalp with oil, it can help sooth a flaky scalp.
*You can substitute pure cold pressed Castor Oil with Jamaican Black Castor oil.
Note: some people have found both or either Castor Oil/Jamaican Black Castor Oil to give them skin allergies so please make sure to do a patch test if you have never used the oil before. Essential oils are quite potent especially ones like Peppermint so please make sure you dilute it in enough carrier oil otherwise you will burn your skin and cause irritations! If you are pregnant please DO NOT use any essential oils and always consult with your doctor/dermatologist if you are trying anything new.
Oil for Scalp Massage
The magic of scalp massages is two fold, on the one hand it is the actual scalp massages and the other is the use of oils. You do not have to use the same exact oils I do but I do highly recommend some form of Castor Oil (if you are not allergic). Here are the benefits of the oils I use:
Castor Oil:
I use 70% Castor Oil
Increase hair growth
Promotes healthy hair due to omega-6 essential fatty acids
Thickens thinning hair
Reduces hair damage
Eliminates dry scalps and hair
Helps reduce scalp irritations due to anti-bacterial and fungal properties
Helps retain moisture in the hair and scalp
Excellent sealing oil
Promotes shiny hair
Boost your hair’s overall health
DIY Coffee Bean Infused Almond Oil:
Coffee Bean Infused Almond Oil
Reduces hair shedding and said to reduce excessive hair loss because of the antioxidants present in caffeine.
Increases hair growth since caffeine promotes blood circulation in the scalp which promotes growth.
Known to darken the hair and slowdown the early onset of grey hairs (with frequent and consistent use)*
Adds sine and dimension to the hair due to the darkening effect of the oil
*Should you have bleached/blond or dyed hair you do not want to darken, I suggest not trying this oil.
Peppermint Essential Oil:
Peppermint Essential Oil
Soothing effect to the scalp
Helps combat dandruff and lice
Promotes healthy hair growth
Helps relive scalp irritations due to antiseptic properties
Method:
All I do is put a few pumps of the oil blend on my fingertips and massage my scalp in a circular motion. I am very gentle and focus on one spot then move onto a different part of my scalp till I am done. I then move onto refreshing, moisturizing, styling my hair etc.
So in closing if you haven’t intregrated scalp massages into your routine….what are you waiting for???
I would love to hear if you do scalp massages, how often, what oils do you use?
Maicurls 