How To Become Your Own Hairstylist – Global Couture

Final Thoughts & Results of 6 weeks of Protective Styles & Castor Oil Challenge

Hey Maicurlies,

As you (probably) know, I was doing weekly updates of how my hair was feeling, looking and styled over the last few weeks during my Protective Style & Castor Oil challenge. You can find the updates here: Week 1, Week 2, Week 3, Week 4, Week 5, Week 6.

I just wanted to share a final summary of how I feel about the challenge as a whole, my results and future plans. I also have a video explaining how it all went on my YouTube Channel:

Castor Oil challenge results:

Hair remained moisturized throughout the week
My hair was super smooth, soft & shiny
I feel like my hair got a little thicker (I NEED every fiber I can get!)
My scalp was not itchy

Protective style challenge:

Less tangles
Less single strand knots
Less hand in hair syndrome
Less detangling time needed

Overall I am super happy with the results I got after 6 weeks.

Growth

I measured my hair before and after the challenge and while getting length was not my primary goal it was welcomed. I got some growth according to my rubbish measuring skills (I really suck at trying to measure my hair with a tape!)

Measurements

Hair Growth Measurements

On average I got 3/4 inches of growth overall, with my crown getting the least amount (1/2 an inch) and the back more growth (1 inch). So I wouldn’t say it was anything “major” but it is still growth nonetheless and I am happy.

Points for the next time:

I think I will do an 8 week challenge next time.
Will probably try doing just one style per week (hopefully I will not “get bored”)
Will use my Castor Oil Blend a little more on my hairline since it is so fragile and can do with a boost in thickness.

Future plans:

Do more protective styles during my normal routine to keep my ends protected and knots away.
Continue to use my castor oil blend on my scalp and hairline with a tiny bit on the ends of my hair. (Using it on my hairline every other day maybe everyday if I can get away with it.)
I will occasionally add some of my castor oil blend to my DIY Deep Conditioners
Add a little castor oil blend with other others as a pre-poo before cleansing with Shikakai.

If you are doing any sort of challenge for your hair be it a heat-free, colour-free, protective style challenge etc. let me know how it is going, I would love to hear from you!

Thanks

Maicurls

Protective Style & Castor Oil Week 6 Update

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Hey Maicurlies,

Week 6

So I have come to the end of my Protective Style and Castor Oil Challenge and have to admit I am a little sad. Figured B&W pictures would show “sadness” but to be honest I just love the look of B&W photos!

Anyways, I will have a separate overview of the challenge as a whole, along with a video shortly but I just wanted to share how my last week went in this post.

For a recap of my previous weeks check below:

How did my last week go?

Not to sound like a broken record but it went well. I did two protective styles over six days and of course also massaged my Castor Oil Mix on my scalp, hairline and ends four times in the week. My two styles were as always super simple. For the first three days I did a really quick & loose pinned back up-do using only bobby pins. On the last three days I did a roll and tuck with 3 two-strand twists & accessorized the style with my DIY Floral hairband.

What Did I do?

I did my wash day routine on Sunday, moisturized and sealed before twisting my hair at night.

Day 1 – After taking down the twists in the morning I massaged my Castor Oil Mix on my scalp, hairline, ends and did one of the simplest styles since starting the challenge for the next 3 days.

Literally all I did was very loosely take my hair back fold it over and pin it down. The style was so loose that you could see a little frizz I call this being “carefree” ( it doesn’t bother me but I could be done the style with a little of my DIY Flaxseed gel for a “neater” look.)

Day 3 – I reapplied the Castor Oil mix to my scalp, hairline and ends at night.
Day 4 – In the morning I moisturized my hair with my DIY Creamy Leave-In Conditioner and sealed with my whipped butter mix then put my hair into a rolled back up-do accessorized with a DIY floral headband. (I had my DIY shell earrings on that day and it get a beach feeling when I wear them) 😀

I left two sections on the sides and one at the front to make two-strand twists. The rest of my hair was pulled back and rolled up. I pinned my hair at the top instead of under (by my neck). I took the twists to the back to give my hair a little texture and pinned the twist at the top as well.

Day 5 – At night I took my hair down, massaged my scalp, hairline and ends with the Castor Oil Mix and pineappled to sleep.
Day 6 – Redid the style and at night I repeated the night method of day 5.
Day 7 – Was supposed to wash my hair but got caught up with house work

Castor Oil Challenge:

As mentioned, I used the castor blend 4 times during the week. My hair felt a little limp by day 7 because I might have used a little too much whipped butter after re-moisturizing but I was still left with smooth, moisturized, shiny and soft hair.

So that was my first attempt at 6 weeks of protective styling and castor oil massages. Like I mentioned I will have a recap post of my final results along with a video explaining my experiences and plans but I can tell you now I enjoyed the whole challenge and it shall be repeated!

Thanks

Maicurls

30 Day Green Smoothie Challenge Week 4 Update Final Week

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Hey Maicurlies,

Smoothies Week 4

And now, the end is near, and so I face the final curtain. My friends, I’ll say it clear; I’ll state my case of which I’m certain…I LOVE SMOOTHIIIIESS! OK sorry, got carried away but it is true! 🙂

I finished the Green Smoothie Challenge and must say I couldn’t be happier that I participated. P.S. For those of you who might might have skipped my previous updates please check the links below:

The final week ended with a bang! I incorporated a few new fruits and got my hands on new greens (I was hunting for Kale, I will eventually get my hands on it but found something else to keep me going). In my last post I mentioned that I kept forgetting to add flaxseed so I made a point of always adding them this time. I even ended up with a “green” smoothie that wasn’t green (it was purple see below)! It was delicious and did include 2 cups of spinach so it counts, at least in my book recipe below on day 7.

Smoothies week 4

I loved this challenge so much that I plan on continuing with them. My aim is to keep having a smoothie a day but might have to do one every other day, we shall see. If you haven’t tried making smoothies and are worried that it is too time consuming or expensive I have provided a few tips that might help.

Buy a mix of fresh and store bough frozen fruits (especially those that are off season) – this way you have access to different types of fruits all year round.
Slice fruits and freeze them – place slices on a tray covered with aluminum in the freezer and then store the frozen fruits in resealable sandwich bags. It becomes so much easier to make the smoothies and measure out quantities.
Prepare bags of the fruits you plan to use – you can prepackage the bags with an assortment of fresh (frozen) fruits so that all you need to do is add liquids and any fresh ingredients you need when you are ready to make and drink the smoothie.

I can only say I saw positive results: happy skin, feeling good about myself and perhaps even a little more energy in the morning (this only happened a few weeks into the challenge for me.) So like I said this is to be continued 🙂

Would love to hear if you drink smoothies on a regular basis and if so what kind?

Thanks

Maicurls

DIY Amla Infused Grapeseed Oil (Recipe 4)

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Hello Maicurlies,

I promise we are close to the end of my DIY Infused Oil obsession just two more to go after this (I will probably make more for myself but don’t want to push it by making you guys hear about EVERYTHING I make) 😀

I will be sharing how I make my DIY Amla Infused Grapeseed Oil.

DIY Amla Infused Grapeseed Oil

I have already mentioned the benefits of using Amla infused oil which you can read over here and in case you’re new to my blog (Hi there!) or perhaps missed my previous oil Infusion posts you can find links to them below:

DIY Rose Infused Grapeseed Oil

DIY Hibiscus infused Almond Oil

Before I go any further I want to mention I was not requested or compensated for anything used in this DIY recipe. All products used were paid for with my own money. Amla oil is said to help darken the hair so if you do not want this attribute then this recipe might not be the one for you.

With that out the way – I have a video demonstrating how I make my Amla Infused oil on my YouTube Channel:

I also wanted to provide a write-up so here we go Maicurlies!

Ingredients/tools:

Spoon
Measuring cups
Container
Coffee filter
String (to close the coffee filter)
1/4 cup of Amla powder (Hesh)
1.5 cups cup of Grapeseed Oil (you can use any oil of choice)
15 drops Grapefruit essential oil (optional – you can use any oil of choice)

*NOTE: I am not a dermatologist nor a doctor. I provide this for informational purposes only so please consult with a professional before you apply anything new to your skin or hair. Should you be taking medication or creams from a medical professional please do not replace that with my DIY recipe – consult your medical professional first! If you are allergic to any of the ingredients I use do not use them. Do a small patch test on the inside of your arm when trying anything new before applying it all over your hair/skin. Always ensure to dilute the Essential Oils (EO) in a carrier oil as they can cause skin irritations if used undiluted. If you are pregnant you should NOT use any EO.

: I add 1/4 cup of Amla powder to my coffee filter paper

: Close the filter with string

: Pouring 1.5 cups of Grapeseed oil over Amla bag

: Let the Oil infuse for 2 weeks

: (left) before oil has infused (right) 2 weeks later after the oil infusion

: I take out the filter and squeeze out excess oil. (You can run the oil through a filter or cheese cloth afterwards).

: I add 15 drops of Grapefruit essential Oil (optional) and that is it!

Here are some of the ways you can use the oil:

To seal in moisture
Part of you deep condition mix
A pre-poo
In your whipped butter mix
For a scalp massage

I would love to hear if you have or will use Amla Infused Oil . I would also love to hear how you use the oil!

Thanks

Maicurls

Protective Style & Castor Oil Week 5 Update

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Hey Maicurlies,

First I want to apologize for being late with this post I once again got caught up with work and personal stuff but I am here with an update!

Protective Style Challenge Week 5

There is just one week left of my Protective Style and Castor Oil challenge and I can proudly say that I am glad I did it and look forward to incorporating more protective styles into my routine from now on.

For a recap of my previous weeks click below:

How did my fifth week go?

Similar to the previous weeks, everything followed together really well. I had my hair tucked away for 6 days of the week, used my Castor Oil Mix 4 times and then washed my hair. I noticed that I tend to do a really quick style at the start of the week and then try to do a little more for the second part (probably because I subconsciously want a little more “oomph” on the weekend). I will admit that when I took my twists down on the first day I really really wanted to rock a twist-out…the definition was AMAZING but I was strong.

The first style I did was a SUPER quick and simple tuck and pin and then finished with a big puff bun with a deep side-bang (I really liked this one)!

What Did I do?

I did my wash day routine on Sunday which included a new and improved Protein Deep Condition (DC) followed by my Moisturizing DC. (The Protein DC involved egg yolks, hibiscus tea, gelatin, coffee infused oil and a little conditioner. I will eventually have a write-up and how to video). I moisturized my hair with my creamy leave-in conditioner, lightly sealed with a tiny bit of oil and then added some of my whipped butter before putting my hair into 12 twists.
Day 1 – After taking the twists down I massaged my Castor Oil Mix on my scalp, hairline, ends and randomly pinned my hair back. There was no real strategy to the method I lightly rolled my hair at the front, tucked it and used bobby pins to hold it in place. For the hair at the back I loosely rolled my hair under and then pinned it (repeating this every morning gave me slight variations in the look).

Loose pin and tuck

Loose pin and tuck right

Loose pin and tuck back

Loose pin and tuck left

Day 3 – I reapplied my Castor Oil mix to my scalp, hairline and ends.
Day 4 – I moisturized my hair with my DIY Creamy Leave-In Conditioner and sealed with Almond Oil. I then put my hair into a big puff bun with a side-bang.

Puff bun with deep side-bang front

Puff bun with deep side-bang right

Puff bun with deep side-bang left

Side-Bang of Puff bun

Puff bun with deep side-bang back

Day 5 – I took down my hair at night, massaged my scalp, hairline and ends with my Castor Oil Mix then pineappled for the night.
Day 6 – I repeated what I did the night before.
Day 7 – Wash day routine and then got my hair ready for the final week.

Castor Oil Challenge:

I still am amazed at the fact that although I have fine hair, I can still get away with using a thick oil like castor without ending up with greasy limp hair. Since I thoroughly enjoyed incorporating my whipped butter into my routine last week I used it again and yes this addition is a winner! I ended the week with hair that wasn’t thirsty, dull or knotty. I will say that I started the week with hair that felt different…stronger, I think my hair was in need of a really strong Protein DC. I will just end this with: I was working with hair that retained moisture, had less tangles and less frizz = happy Mai.

So digging this challenge experience and experiment!

On the last home stretch!

Maicurls

Benefits of DIY Amla Infused Grapeseed Oil

1 Reply

Hey Maicurlies,

I just fished editing my DIY Amla Infused Grapeseed oil and wanted to explain why I personally like using it. I have already mentioned how and why I like using Amla powder as part of my Henna/Amla Treatment and have a video of my process but also wanted to touch upon the benefits of the oil.

photo credit: Henna Sooq via photopin cc

What is Amla?

Amal (Gooseberry) is a green fruit renowned in Asia – mainly in India. It is rich in Vitamin-C and minerals and is considered a powerful antioxidant agent that has several uses (not just for the hair and skin.) The fruit itself tastes extremely taut and bitter but can be made into a juice or eaten as a fruit. Due to is high Vitamin-C content, it is known to be used against coughs and colds, can help boost the body’s immune system and is refereed to as a detoxifier that can help cleanse the liver and kidney. Amla juice has been said to be effective in lowering the fat content in the body which can help in weight loss and is even said to be beneficial for your eyes due to the presence of antioxidants.

Now looking at it as an oil: it can be used for both your hair and skin – I love multipurpose products!

Skin

Amla infused oil can be used to trap in moisture (after you have showered), provide a glow to your skin and delay the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles (with frequent use). Its antiseptic properties makes it a good skin cleanser and is known to help reduce blemishes & dark circles under the eyes.

Hair

Amla infused oil can help darken the hair (with frequent use*), promote growth, strengthen the hair from roots to ends, enhance luster and shine, reduce shedding, thicken the hair and help promote its overall condition.

*If you have light or bleached hair and do not want it darkened then this oil might not be for you. The oil will not make make grey/white hair black but it can gradually darken its appearance.

Scalp

It is known to help combat mild scalp irritations and dandruff due to its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, anti-fungal, and antioxidant properties (check with your doctor/dermatologist).

Oils for infusion:

Depending on your preference you can use any carrier oil of choice. The additional benefits you will get from the oil will all depend on what you choose to use. I usually use Grapeseed oil due to the fact that it is light and easily absorbed. Click on the link for a list of different carrier oils and their benefits for the hair and skin.

I will have a new post with my video and an explanation of how I make the oil shortly!

Thanks

Maicurls

Ms. Saran – Feature Story on Maicurls

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Hey Maicurlies,

It has been a little while since I’ve been privileged to feature a beautiful natural head on my blog so without further-ado I would like to introduce you to the gorgeous natural-head Ms. Saran, owner of AntiguaBarbudaGirl.

Saran is an “Old timer” Natural who has been natural for pretty much all her life (the things we can learn from her!) She was kind enough to share her story and experiences with me and I am honored to share them with you. (Thank you for sharing Saran !)

You can read all about Saran ‘s journey over here.

Also, if you happen to be on the hunt for hair tutorials, hair care tips, poetry, healthy living ideas and motivation then you will want to visit AntiguaBarbudaGir! The blog is easy to follow with some great information and inspiration.

Once again Thank You Saran for sharing your story with us!

Maicurls

30 Day Green Smoothie Challenge Week 3 Update (15 – 21st October)

1 Reply

Hey Mailoves!

Week 3 of the smoothie challenge went by smoothly (see what I did there… sorry) 😀

Smoothies Week 3

But seriously I enjoyed the last week. I added a few new items to my mixes but still need to get my hand on another type of “green”. I REALLY am starting to feel like Popeye!

Below are the smoothies I did in week 3:

Smoothies week 3

NOTE: I missed one day for the first time since starting the challenge (day 6) and actually felt guilty but it is alright. Things come up from time to time C’est la Vie right?

For the day that I skipped I’ve provided a Green Smoothie Recipe I found through the official challenge page.

I keep forgetting to add Flaxseeds to my smoothies so for week 4 I plan on making sure that EVERY smoothie has Flaxseeds added. (You can replace it with another seed if you want e.g. Chia seeds).

One week left Maicurlies let’s go strong!

Maicurls

Protective Style & Castor Oil Week 4 Update

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Another week done Maicurlies!

Protective Style Challenge Week 4

I am on the last 2 weeks of my Protective Style and Castor Oil challenge and haven’t given up yet! 😀

For a recap of my previous weeks click below:

How did my fourth week go?

It went by well. I was able to protect my hair for 6 days and used my Castor Oil Mix 4 times in the week. I did a REALLY simple updo at the start of the week (I don’t want to call it “boring”) – the “Gibson Tuck” and then finished with what I call the “Chameleon Twist” (I liked this one!)

What Did I do?

I did my wash day routine on Sunday, a Henna Gloss followed by a moisturizing Deep Condition, moisturized and sealed before twisting 9 chunky twists.
Day 1 – After taking down the twists I massaged my Castor Oil Mix on my scalp, hairline, ends and put my hair in the Gibson Tuck with 2 two-strand twists on the side and a chunky two strand twist at the front – pinned as a “side bang”.

Gibson Tuck with two two strand twists on the side and a chunky two strand twist as a side bang.

Day 3 – I reapplied my Castor Oil mix to my scalp, hairline and ends.
Day 4 – I moisturized my hair with my DIY Creamy Leave-In Conditioner and sealed with my whipped butter mix. I then put my hair into my Chameleon Twist. To do the style I first did my “Twisted twist”.

Twisted Twist

– After making one big two strand twist from 7 medium twists held at then center of my head I tucked away the ends of my hair by wrapping it around the base.

Chameleon twist with pompadour

Day 5 – I took the Chameleon Twist down and massaged my scalp (as best I could), hairline and the ends of each of the 7 twists with my Castor Oil Mix then wrapped it back up.
Day 6 – At night took my hair down, massaged my scalp, hairline and ends with the Castor Oil Mix and pineappled to sleep.
Day 7 – Wash day routine and then got my hair ready to be set for week 5.

Castor Oil Challenge:

As mentioned, I used the blend 4 times during the week and my hair was suuuuuper smooth, moisturized, shiny and soft! I think my whipped butter sort of helped with that as well (particularly on my ends). I had been using my DIY Spray Leave-In Conditioner to remoisturize my hair mid week but decided to use the Creamy Leave-in and whipped butter for a change. My hair LOVED the combination of being moisturized and super sealed. I can’t say it enough, castor oil is the truth and when combined with other nourishing ingredients …bye bye dryness!

Looking forward to the last 2 weeks.

What do you think of the styles I did this week?

Maicurls